american bulldog puppies for sale in delaware
Thanks for stopping by! If you are a first time visitor, then congratulations on your decision to adopt a dog! Your are about to improve and potentially save! Every state page here on Local Dog Rescues contains a complete list of all the local rescue organizations that we have identified in each state. You will be able to see all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can check and see what dogs they currently have available for adoption. We provide all this information to help you identify ALL the available dogs for rescue near you, so you can find your perfect pup. It is jam packed with awesome info that will help you on your adoption journey! If you are considering getting a Labradoodle, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Labradoodles". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Labradoodle from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, or click here to grab one on Amazon. A cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle, the Labradoodle is an intelligent and friendly breed. They love nothing more than to be around their family. The Labradoodle combines the energy of the Labrador Retriever with the strong work ethic and intelligence of the Poodle. They do have a desire to please so training is not overly difficult but early training is necessary. The Labradoodle gets along well with everyone, from other dogs and pets to children — though their size may be a bit problematic for smaller children. They enjoy hanging out with you on the couch but can easily transition to playful and energetic. Though they will bark when a stranger is near, they will not make a good guard dog due to their friendly nature. Overall, the Labradoodle is a great pet for first-time owners thanks to their friendly nature and easy trainability. We are so grateful that we are able to help you rescue the dog of your dreams. In addition to coming back here, you can also check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for additional info on rescue groups near you, current posts, and pictures! DRC is a volunteer foster based rescue comprised of a "collective" of over registered volunteers nationwide. Through our programs, DRC provides refuge, safe haven, vet care, rehabilitation, transport, and quality forever homes for doodle dogs in need. DRC is also dedicated to providing support services and re-home assistance for those needing to find new forever homes for their family pets. We are proud to work collaboratively and cooperatively with other responsible and reputable rescue organizations, shelters, animal control facilities, veterinarians and animal care providers. Our outstanding reputation and willingness to work together with other organizations further facilitates our doodle dog rescue efforts, ensuring the safety, health and well-being of homeless doodles throughout North America and the world. Through and with our programs, services, outreach and educational resources, DRC inspires and encourages humane volunteerism, responsible companion animal care and ownership, advocates for responsible breeding practices and promotes public awareness of the plight of the doodle dog, the horrors of puppy mills and the commercial pet trade industry. Be certain that your home environment and lifestyle are both compatible with, and appropriate for, rescue doodles, in accordance with our policies and requirements. Adopt a Pet: Adopt a Pet. They are a team of animal lovers who are dedicated to finding loving homes for homeless pets. It is a completely free service that connects potential pet owners with adoptable animals from thousands of shelters and rescue organizations across the US. The mission of this organization is to make pet adoption easier, faster, and more enjoyable. They work with over 21, animal shelters and rescues across the U. The goal of this organization is to place every homeless pet in a loving and responsible home. They believe that every pet deserves a second chance at happiness and that every person can benefit from the companionship and joy of a furry friend. Where they also provide valuable resources and tips for pet adopters and rehomers, such as: How to find the perfect pet for your lifestyle and personality How to prepare for bringing home a new pet How to deal with common pet issues and challenges How to rehome a pet safely and responsible Labradoodle Rescue Info: 3. They have been saving and rehoming dogs since , and they have a special place in their hearts for Labradoodles. They are always looking for loving families to give these adorable dogs a second chance at happiness. This rescue operates solely through the efforts of volunteers who want to make a difference for dogs in need. They rescue and re-home dogs who are at risk of euthanasia at high-kill shelters in the vicinity. They provide all dogs with the necessary medical and behavioral care before they are ready for adoption. All rescued dogs are placed in a foster homes, where they can receive the individual attention and care they deserve. In their foster homes, they learn how to enjoy life with a family and how to handle different situations and challenges that they might face with their future owners. This way, they are prepared for their new life and can bond easily with their forever family. These adorable dogs are a mix of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. They have many wonderful qualities, such as sociability, cleverness, and low-shedding. However, like any other pet adoption, bringing a Labradoodle into your home requires careful consideration and preparation. So we will discuss some essential tips for a successful Labradoodle adoption to ensure a smooth transition: 1. Labradoodles are not one-size-fits-all dog; they come in different sizes, coat types, colors, and personalities. They also have different health and grooming requirements depending on their genetics. Some Labradoodles may be more prone to allergies, ear infections, hip dysplasia, or eye problems than others. Some may need more brushing, clipping, or bathing than others. Some may be more energetic, playful, or vocal than others. They also provide support and guidance for the adopters before and after the adoption process 3. Prepare Your Home: Before bringing your Labradoodle home, make sure your living space is safe and suitable for them. Labradoodles are curious and energetic, so take precautions by puppy-proofing your home. Remove hazardous items, secure electrical cords, and consider using baby gates to restrict access to certain areas. Set up a comfortable sleeping area, provide appropriate toys, and ensure you have food and water bowls ready. By following these steps, you will not only give your Labradoodle a loving and comfortable home but also make your adoption experience a breeze. You will feel happy and proud to welcome your new furry family member and share many wonderful moments together. Any Recommendation for Labradoodle Rescue in New Jersey: If you have any personal experience with one of the rescues listed or know of any reputable rescue organization that you trust that is not included in our list, please share them in the comments section. We would be happy to add them to our list. If you know of anyone who may be interested in adopting a Labradoodle, please share this post with them and help support these dedicated rescue organizations! This video will give you all the information you need to know about a Labradoodle, from what to expect, how to prepare, and what are the benefits of adopting a Labradoodle. Goldendoodle Overview Goldendoodle Puppies For Sale Goldendoodles are sweet-tempered and loving animals that love people and other animals. They make excellent family pets and love bouncing around in the yard as much as snuggling up for a cuddle. As a cross between a golden retriever and a poodle, these dogs are athletic, loyal and very smart. Colors also vary, with golden and apricot being the most popular. Goldendoodles also come in a range of coat patterns, including brindle, merle and phantom. Labradoodle Overview Labradoodle Puppies For Sale Labradoodles came into prominence in the s as the ideal puppy for an individual who required a hypoallergenic service dog. A savvy breeder decided to cross a low-shedding poodle with a Labrador retriever, and the rest is history. Fully grown labradoodles weigh around 88 pounds and come in a range of different colors, including white, cream, apricot, chocolate and black. Their coat comes in three types: straight, wavy and curly. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stop them from getting bored, and early socialization as pups are essential to healthy, happy adulthood. Their willingness to please and low prey drive make them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Cockapoo Overview Cockapoo Puppies For Sale Cockapoos were one of the original designer dogs, with the birth of the dog breed taking place sometime in the s. Fully grown toy cockapoos weigh less than 12 pounds, mini cockapoos weigh between 13 and 18 pounds as adult dogs and maxi cockapoos reach a maximum weight over 19 pounds. They have adorable soulful eyes, a compact, sturdy body and a shaggy, wavy coat. When your pup graduates, the trainer will personally deliver them to your door and walk you through basic obedience commands in person. This helps keep them safe from incidents involving strangers, such as jumping up on adults or children. It makes going out for walks infinitely more fun and enjoyable for you and your pet. On-leash training helps your dog understand how to behave while out for walks with you. Dogs love going for walks, and reconnecting with nature is a major benefit of dog ownership, so it should be a highlight of both your days.
Margaret O. I could not be happier. A mentally healthy dog is so important. Our little guy came to us in an unexpected unique way. After a previous family was unable to take him, Jeff called us and asked if we were interested in coming out to meet the puppy that same day! They are willing to sit and talk through any questions you have, they give you a lot of information about the breed, and what to expect when you bring your puppy home. Another big plus for us was seeing that the kennels were clean and all the dogs that we saw looked very healthy. Our puppy was the sweetest when he first met us! He ran up to us, showered us in puppy kisses, and was just overall a happy chill little dude. He just had his first vet appointment and was given a clean bill of health! He is sweet, gentle, and such a fast learner! I have never met any dog with this level of intelligence and at such a young age! We have only had him for 6 days and he has settled in so quick and has already learned basic commands. Thank you so much Jeff and Rhonda for our new little addition to our family! When we first went to meet with them and take a peek at Adrian and Barus litter, we liked that they had all the dogs in the home and the home was clean!!! Adrian had a calm temperament as well as the rest of the dogs. Caught on extremely quick w the training and is extremely good with our young grandchildren. We definitely chose the right breeders. Good communication and great canine genetics are obvious! Response from the owner Thank you so much April for the kind words. Rhonda and I try very hard to make things special for our puppy families. Pride and integrity means everything to us. Rhonda takes care of pupies like her own kids! We have 3 of their dogs one male that is the puppy of untox and panja. H gets to play fight likes that and playing with his ball. Rhonda was spectacular to work with, detailed and friendly. She is one of the most intelligent, healthy puppies we have ever owned and her temperament with our family is world class. When we were looking for a puppy we met with Rhonda and could not of been happier. There dogs were so well behaved, stunningly gorgeous and just wanted to be loved. Exactly what my wife and I were looking for. We all no there is never any guarantees in life when it comes to purchasing a puppy, but I can say we have a true champion in our little Bella. She has been a total blessing since we got her. Thanks Rhonda and Jeff!! Response from the owner. Our goal is to be the best and that means breeding the best German Shepherds in the country. People travel from as far as Alaska, and even from across the Atlantic, to see and purchase our pups. We also take German Shepherd pups from all over the world to professionally train in basic or advanced obedience training as well as personal protection and protection work training. But, no matter where our new pups go or where people come from to have their pups trained, Vom Ragnar is proud to be a part of the Chicago community and will always consider Chicago to be our home base. We are equally committed to maintaining a healthy business relationship with the city of Chicago and the surrounding communities. Or you can email us at vomragnar gmail. Our German Shepherd litters of Puppies for sale are excellent with kids and other pets and of course, perfect for the families. Our puppies have super temperament character. The rich black and red color and of course is pure breed, German Shepherd. We specialize in German Shepherd litters of Puppies for sale for Family, companionship show dogs or working dogs. We are now can ship our German shepherd litters of puppies, young dogs or adult dogs for sale worldwide. For easy to locate and drive to our Kenny, please use the Google Map below: For more information about seeing our puppies at kennel facility, please complete the form to make an appointment or simply call us at .Your Name required. We specialize in family companion dogs, and our dogs are used for children with Autism and Aspergers. We also provide dogs for epileptic and diabetic detection, as well the hearing impaired. Our dogs also serve as companions to veterans , and we work closely with VA hospitals to provide dogs who assist with PTSD and anxiety. A large number of our dogs are also competitors and working schutzhund dogs. We make use of a private courier service to pick up and deliver our dogs. We're very mindful to ensure the dogs are completely happy throughout the delivery! If we think you're the right match for one of our dogs we can deliver them to you wherever you are based in the US. All of our dogs come with a lifetime guarantee on health contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract. Our dogs are gentle and attentive and have dispositions perfect for family companionship or special needs. Puppies come with comprehensive training included, along with a full year of shots. A list of individual dogs accomplishments include Va Winnie, Va Ollie, V1 Saint and many dogs involved in the 6xwinner of the progeny group competition. Regis Regal German Shepherds have also worked in many different areas of public service, such as patrol dogs, search and rescue dogs, avalanche rescue dogs, bomb detection, narcotic detection, and even arson dogs. As featured in Puppy Rental for Special Events Looking for a memorable experience at your next event? Rent one of our German Shepherd dogs for a limited time at your next special event. Our team is perfect for birthdays, conferences, conventions, company retreats, and special events all over the country! Get in touch with our AKC German Shepherd breeders to learn more about our puppy rental services and event guidelines. Contact our team to learn more. Client Testimonials "I purchased my German Shepard from them when she was a puppy and she is now a beautiful, sweet tempered 4-year-old dog. We took home our pup and have had only good thoughts and things to say since we left. Cindy shared so much time and knowledge with us before we left. Axle just turned two years old and will be an important part of my kids lives as they grow up. We work closely with them in order to train our dogs to assist veterans with PTSD, anxiety, and more. Cindy's Latest Articles Cindy Kelly loves to share her expertise on breeding, training and raising world class German Shepherds. When she has time she publishes articles on the Regis Regal blog - you can find some of her most recent ones listed below. If you would like to hear Cindy's thoughts on any particular element of owning or raising German Shepherds then feel free to get in touch. Learn here! Read More Trending States Based on their Interest in our World-Class German Shepherds We make use of a high quality, private courier service to deliver our dogs where a customer is unable to come to our premises in Illinois. Best temperament, easy to train and an absolute sweetheart. However, I have an extraordinary story to share about my young pup. Mila our female puppy has a sense of medical issues. At .I typically experience these attacks once every year or two. At first, I thought maybe I spilled so food or something on my shirt, so I changed my shirt, but she continued. Then a little over an hour later, I had an attack. Mila did not leave my side for the entire time. No matter what way I tried to lay in bed to get comfortable she would move her body to press up against my gallbladder. Normally she is crated at night and does great, no whining or anything.Having her warm body and the slight pressure of her body next to me really actually helped. The next day I was back to normal, and Mila went to her crate for bed no problem. We are a breeder of top, world-class quality German Shepherd puppies of West German bloodlines with impeccable Temperaments and type. If you are looking for a German Shepherd puppy or an adult dog suitable for confirmation, obedience, therapy, assistance dog, search and rescue, K-9 training, schutzhund or for the ever present loyal companion.Occasionally, we do have long coat German Shepherd puppies available as well. All litters are raised in our home, well socialized and each held and cuddled several times a day. The result is a pup that is comfortable around people, children, vehicles and other animals. It is not uncommon for our puppies to be housebroken by the time they leave our house. I have been actively showing and breeding since , and have always had West German lines. I use the pronoun "I", but could not do this without backup from my family. I breed because I love German Shepherds. Quality German Shepherd breeders follow the German rules. With my puppies, I strive to improve this wonderful breed. This is not how I make my living, but how I choose to spend my time. Vollmond's Laro Our German Shepherd puppies are all wormed, given the appropriate shots, and Vet checked before leaving to go to their new families. We also offer puppy foundation training in obedience and Shutzhund training, ring training and show support. Please call for details. Vollmond's Laro is a Karo son out of our own breeding to Vollmond's Eika. We are Proud to say he is a 2nd generation Vollmond dog!! Vollmond's Kai - First Time Swimming For therapy or just exercise, swimming is great for german shepherds. Kai has been swimming to supplement his regular exercise at a terrific new place with an indoor, heated, resistance pool specifically designed for canine therapy and exercise. You can order yours today at or Use order code number Quick Links.
When looking to purchase a merle make sure you are insuring the Australian Labradoodle breeder is having responsible husbandry practices regarding the merle gene. Any breeder of merle multigenerational Australian Labradoodles should be willing and able to discuss all the facts regarding this genome. Click HERE to learn more from our geneticists. Single carrier merles will live a healthy productive life just like any other dog. To ensure that we only breed single copy merles we verify testing of all outside studs or dams used with our breeding dogs since some dogs carry a hidden merle gene, called phantom merle. They are just as strong, silly, and full of adventure or snuggles, and capable of being a service dog as any other Australian Labradoodle! The problem comes down to greed or skipping testing. But doing so can come at a risk of causing serious health issues. A "double merle" known as a homozygous merle have significantly higher risk of being born deaf or blind. To set a president that ill managed breeding practice is not allowed, which is respectable. A German study found .Double Merle can also cause Merle ocular issues. Regarding the blue color in the eyes sometime can lead to full blue iris or increased inclusion of the eyes and blindness. Even though the blue eyes are beautiful we prefer to breed black or brown eyed single merle dogs to reduce the tendency for any health issues. As a merle breeder it is our responsibility to create health happy animals through preventive DNA tests and yearly OFA eye exams. Which, looks like someone had fun painting your dog and no two dogs have the same exact pattern. This rather exotic wild pattern comes in multiple color variations. Merles labradoodles can come in various color pallets; chocolate merle, blue merle, red merle and can be paired with parti, white mis-marks and phantom. Red or cream dogs in a merle litter have a higher rate of phantom merle. Every puppy from our merle litters are dna tested for merle before going home. Our girl Tiffany is considered a "classic" merle where Ranger is a "Tweed" merle. We only know this from extensive genetic testing from Paw Prints Genetics other companies such as Embark don't go as detailed with Merle testing. So all Merle related testing is done with Paw Prints. Read this page, then check out our Current Labradoodle Puppies for Sale Allocation Process It's important for each family to remember, the more specific you are about what you want, the longer it may take to find the perfect puppy. Since temperament is our priority, we will always look at that first. You may want to be flexible. Puppies temperament is given priority in placement with you We promise you that we will do our best to provide you with the puppy of your dreams. We understand that it is very easy to fall in love with a picture of a puppy, but it is extremely important for families to understand that it is the temperament and personality of the dog that is most critical when determining which puppies and families will be best suited to each other. Our years of experience give us the knowledge and insight to understand this balance, and we will not place puppies solely based on looks. The most important factors for you and flexibility If you allow temperament to be the most important factor when looking for your Labradoodle puppy and can be flexible in the other areas, we will be able to identify the perfect puppy for you much more quickly. Two part allocation process Our allocation process is two part. First I ask each family to give me their top choice for sex and color. I post these on the website so that other families have an idea of what pups may be selected before them. This is not a final choice and can be changed during the selection visit. Family visits at 8 weeks At 8 weeks of age, I schedule each family who is able, to come and visit the litter. This will allow you to come to Great Day Labradoodles and meet the litter from which you are purchasing a puppy. I realize that some families will have the ability to come and some may not have that option. The visits are scheduled in the order the deposits are received. During your individual visit you will meet all available puppies and we will talk about your lifestyle and how the puppies each best fit. In general, families do a great job on selection using the insight I provide and the individual time with the pups. At the conclusion of your visit your selection is final and you will take your puppy home with you. Be open minded We ask families to be open minded when it comes to the many varied specifics such as gender and color. The more open minded you are in the allocation process, the more likely we will be to place a Labradoodle puppy in your home as soon as possible. Puppies go home between 8- 9 weeks. Go to our Labradoodle Puppies for sale application to register or click here to send us a message. Puppies are ready for their new homes starting at eight weeks old. We do have fall and winter reservations for and available. Older puppies are priced by their age and level of training. There is no deposit due until your application has been approved. We do not like to accept deposits before speaking with and approving our adopting families. If you would like to be considered for a puppy, please fill out our application located on this website. All puppies have a full 3 yrs health guarantee and lifetime support. Puppies are ready for their new homes starting at eight weeks, if we ship your puppy, they will be prepared to travel at nine weeks in the USA only. All other international destinations vary. We will hold your eight-week-old puppy free of charge for seven days and start potty training crate training , after that date, there will be a .We also offer customized puppy training packages. All deposits are transferable to other litters. We work very hard to find the best fit for our puppies and your family. Occasionally you find the timing unsuitable to receive your new puppy; you will be moved to the next available litter Each Australian Labradoodle puppy is sent home with the following: three-year health guarantee. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption.
They thrive on human interaction and love to be involved in everything their family is doing. Miniature Poodles are quick learners and excel at obedience training. Very eager to please their people, they are a great choice for first-time dog owners. Mini Poodles are usually good with other dogs and children, but they can be a little bit reserved around strangers. With proper socialization from a young age, your Mini Poodle puppy will learn to interact well with people outside of their immediate family. Expect your new for-ever family member to have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise. They need an outdoor walk every day to keep calm and centered. Check out this best-selling dog leash with a comfortable handle! While walks are a must, the Mini Poodle is not suited to be an outdoor dog. This breed has a long history as a circus dog, so this dog is a favorite choice for owners who want an athletic puppy who is open to learning tricks. Some Mini Poodles are territorial and highly excitable, but patient and consistent training can usually modify this behavior. For all of these reasons, finding homes for our Mini Poodle Puppies for sale is never challenging. Minatare Poodle Health Considerations The average life span of the miniature poodle is 13 — 15 years. Use ear cleaner wipes and eye wipes regularly to remove crust or discharge. All breeds of dogs should be brought in for regular vet checkups. Miniature Poodle Coat The Mini Poodle has a hypoallergenic coat which is excellent for allergy sufferers. Matting eventually causes skin irritation. If your Poodle has a long coat, you should brush out your Poodle every day. Check out this popular dog slicker brush and detangling comb that is perfect for your Mini Poodle. While Miniature Poodles are a fairly low-shedding dog breed, they still need coat care. Many Poodle owners opt for a short cut or trim to minimize grooming needs. When a shorter cut, you can reduce brush outs to a few times a week and get the coat trimmed up every weeks. Mini Poodles Puppies For Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The Poodle is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally developed in Germany to hunt waterfowl. The Poodle may have originated in Germany, but they are much-loved by the French. So much so that the Poodle is the national dog of France. The Miniature Poodle is slightly more recent. This Mini version likely originated in France. The Mini Poodle has all of the same characteristics as a Standard Poodle; they just come in a smaller package. The Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. On top of their intelligence, they are also known to have a cheerful disposition and a sensitive nature. They get along great with children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental falls that can happen with younger children. Because of this, they may be better suited to a home with older children. Younger children should be fine as long as they are taught how to properly interact with a small dog and interactions between young kids and puppies are closely supervised. Although they are considered part of the Non-Sporting Group, some facts about Miniature Poodles are that they are versatile and athletic dogs that are also quite playful. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with other dogs and tend to do well with strangers. They do tend to be protective of their home and can be suspicious of strangers coming up on the property. They are known to bark to alert you of strangers coming to the house. This makes them a good watchdog, but overall, they are more interested in making friends. This dog breed is highly adaptable. The Miniature Poodle does well in any type of home, including apartments, and fits in with just about any family type. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Mini Poodles are people-oriented, they do not like being left alone and will not handle being left alone for long periods of time very well. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level and one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are a people-oriented breed and are sensitive to moods and tones of voice. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or harsh tones as they take it personally, get their feelings hurt, and lose respect for you. A Mini Poodle tends to respond best to consistent training that is fun and focused on positive rewards. A Mini Poodle is one of the fluffiest dog breeds and will have a curly or corded coat that can come in just about any color. Although this dog breed has a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, their coat still needs a lot of grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. They should also be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy. Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise each day. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activities are usually enough for them. When puppies finish growing and developing, they often enjoy games of fetch and other activities like swimming, hiking, or jogging with their favorite human. Mini Poodles also tend to be great candidates for several dog sports, like agility, tracking, obedience, retriever hunt tests, and more. Just make sure to visit the vet and get your dog cleared for these activities before you jump in. Fully-grown Miniature Poodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Poodles generally live for years on average. The Miniature Poodle was very popular among the French nobility. Featured Miniature Poodle Article.
NET I am no longer able to log in or send out from the epix. I apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you. With many years of experience in ethical, responsible breeding as members of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America - we adhere to the standards they provide. Our AKC registered dogs are deeply rooted in select German lines, and select American lines with a careful breeding plan we produce puppies, 4 to 6 annual litters, that excel as cherished family pets, working and show dogs. We are also expanding what we train or introduce our pups to, we have plans to bring in canine agility training and conformation. We remain active with our dogs and take great pride in ensuring that our pups are raised in a healthy, well socialized and loving environment. We talk below about some of the specialty areas that our pups have been and will continue to be successful in. You'll find our pups grow to be great protectors, wonderful pets, excellent in the fields of search and rescue, remarkable therapy dogs - it all begins with our puppy training. Ursus De Parayas We are eagerly expecting puppies from Gracie and Drogo the first week of November, with puppies ready to go to their new home in January! Gracie is AKC reg. Drogo is our most recent German import! Please fill out the application on our website or inquire for information. Most of our litters are spoken for before they are born. Families choose their puppies at 6 weeks and choose in the order which we receive deposits. Puppies have gone to police departments, fire departments, and as service dogs across the country. Puppies come with their first round of shots, are de-wormed at 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 weeks, and raised with our family. They are accustomed to loud noises, environmental stimuli, water, spend most of their time outdoors and are given weekly baths. We stand behind our puppies-they truly are superb! So kind and sweet. We are blessed to have found Amanda. They are excellent protection, work and family dogs. They are happiest when exercised and given a job daily. Like all dogs, German Shepherds crave physical and mental stimulation. A good home is our utmost priority! Puppy Breeds The German Shepherd Dog is hailed as the worlds leading police, guard and military dog, however, this dependable breed is more than its 9-to-5 job. Consistently one of the United States most popular breeds according toAKC Registration Statistics, the German Shepherd Dog is also a loving family companion, herder and show competitor. The breed is approachable, direct and fearless, with a strong, muscular body. Derived from the old breeds of herding and farm dogs, the first German Shepherd Dog exhibited in America was in .The fame associated with Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart, two members of the breed whose movies played on variations of the boy and his dog theme, shot the popularity of the breed sky-high. Temperament Energetic and fun-loving, the breed is very fond of children once a relationship is established. He is a loyal family pet and a good guard dog, the ideal choice for many families. He requires regular exercise and grooming. The German Shepherd Dog is extremely intelligent. They are very easy to train with a firm hand and keep that training well. Herding Group; AKC recognized in .Ranging in size from 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Herding, police work.
The largest type of Poodle weighing between 40 to 60 lbs. Energetic, intelligent, and active dogs that require plenty of exercise. Will not do well in small spaces. Get on well with children. How Old Do Poodles Live? You can expect to spend many happy years with your fur buddy with the right care. However, before you bring one home, here are some facts about Poodles that you ought to know. They also have a single coat that is hypoallergenic. Poodle coats can change color by the time they are 2 years old. Poodle puppies born with dark coats can lighten, and those with lighter coats can darken. Poodles And Hot Weather Poodles have one coat of hair, which means they do not have an undercoat to protect them from temperature extremes, making them vulnerable to hot weather. Leaving your Poodle in the hot sun can lead to heatstroke and even be fatal in extreme cases. Never leave your Poodle out in hot weather for extended periods. Image from Instagram: hu. If you want your Poodle to live a healthy and happy life, here are the key things you need to keep in mind. Diet A healthy diet is a prerequisite for a healthy and happy dog. Ensuring that your Poodle gets a nutrient-rich, balanced diet would be best. For energetic breeds such as the Poodle, high-quality protein-rich meals are essential. Formulas like Pet Plate provide a nutritionally balanced recipe to ensure that your Poodle gets sufficient healthy nutrients from their diet. Poodles are an energetic and athletic breed that requires nutrient-dense meals to keep them healthy. Take a look here! Exercise Poodles may look like lap dogs, but this energetic breed is built for an active lifestyle. Ensuring that your poodle gets sufficient daily exercise is essential for their well-being. Toy Poodles and Miniature Poodles can get by on moderate exercise. However, Standard Poodles need plenty of daily exercises and will not do well in small spaces. Standard Poodles are ideal if you have a yard with lots of running room for your pooch. Ensure that your Poodle gets at least an hour of exercise each day. It will keep them healthy and stave off destructive behavior that can be caused by too much pent-up energy. Can Poodles Be Left Alone? Temperament Of Poodles Image from Instagram: lovely. Here is some information about the temperament of a Poodle. Affectionate And Devoted Poodles are affectionate companions that thrive on attention. These pups should not be left alone for extended periods as they can be prone to separation anxiety. Standard Poodles are typically more amiable than Toy and Miniature Poodles. Standard Poodles are even-tempered and will get on well with children and other pets. Toy Poodles and Miniature Poodles can be temperamental. Toy Poodles are especially prone to aggressive tendencies and are not recommended for homes with small children. Intelligent Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are easy to train and pick up tricks very quickly. However, bored Poodles can get up to lots of mischief, so keeping your pup stimulated mentally is important. Training programs like the brain training program can help eliminate problem behaviors such as excessive barking. Poodles are a very vocal breed, and excessive barking can become a nuisance if left unchecked. Professional training will save you the hustle of having to buy a dog silencer or putting up with constant barking from your pooch. Excellent Watchdogs Poodles tend to be wary of strangers. They are also very alert, and these two qualities make them excellent watchdogs. Lively And Active Poodles are lively and active dogs that require plenty of exercise and physical activity. These energetic dogs will not do well cooped up in small spaces for extended periods. Coat Care Poodles have a dense, curly coat that needs to be kept clean and matt-free. It will require daily brushing to prevent their hair from matting. Poodles have a single coat with no undercoat for extra protection, so their skin can be prone to infections. Bathing your pup at least twice a month will ensure their skin stays healthy. Always clip your Poodle after bathing it. Extra-long hair gets dirty faster and increases the probability of skin infections. Dental Care Poodles tend to be prone to dental problems and require lots of dental care to prevent health problems. Regular veterinary dental cleanings are also recommended for Poodles to prevent dental illnesses. Yes, Red Toy Poodles are rare. They carry a unique gene referred to as the Rufus gene. This gene changes the appearance of the Apricot and Brown Poodle coats to red. Since the Rufus gene is very rare, very few Toy Poodles end up with red coats. What Is A Mini Poodle? A Mini Poodle is a medium-sized Poodle that averages 10 to 15 inches in height and weighs 15 lbs. Mini Poodles live an average of 12 years and are a healthy, energetic, and intelligent breed. A Standard Poodle will be fully grown by the age of 2. Standard Poodles will typically grow to a height of 15 inches or more. A fully grown Standard Poodle will weigh between 40 to 60 lbs for females, while males weigh between 45 to 70 lbs. Dogs Poodle Pete Decker. This huge variation is dependent on a variety of factors that you must understand before adopting a pup. Poodles come in various sizes and temperaments, making them suitable as companions for individuals of all ages and activity levels. Many people equate poodles with money, making them appear out of reach. The following are some factors that affect the price of a mini poodle puppy. Lineage The pedigree of a poodle can make a significant impact on its price. Puppies with well-known parents are usually more costly. Location The location of the breeder is vital for determining the cost of a poodle. For example, the puppies bred in some areas of the United States are more expensive than other states. Health Expenses Serious breeders will get their breeding dogs and puppies examined for various medical issues. Furthermore, before selling their puppies, some will take them to the veterinarian for an examination. They may also take care of the vaccinations and microchip implantation. Specifications Some colors of poodles are more popular than others and will cost more money. Puppies become more expensive when the interest in a specific coat color increases. This is because an increased demand leads to a higher market price. Similarly, poodles with unusual hues are usually on the expensive side. They get their breeding dogs and puppies registered, which would increase their payments. Age Most people want their puppy as soon as possible. Hence, the cost of a mini poodle puppy drops if they are not adopted immediately. For example, a 6-month-old dog will cost less than an 8-week-old puppy. Adoption fee is just one of them as you need to plan for veterinarian fees, training, grooming, food, and other supplies. Some of the major expenses that you will need to bear in the first year are as follows. Dog Crate You must train your poodle, and the best method is to use a box. This will allow you to help another dog owner who is on a tight budget. Beds and Leashes An excellent bed is something that will last your dog for a long time. If you want to save money, try to get a bed of reasonable size so that it could last several years. It will allow your dog to grow into it over time. You will also need to invest in a leash for training your poodle. It can also prove helpful in talking your canine friend on a walk. You need to check before adopting whether your dog has been micro-chipped and neutered or not. However, it depends on the vaccinations that have been managed before adoption. The price can also increase a little if you live in an expensive neighborhood. If your poodle is a frisbee fan, you should invest in a dog-specific frisbee because it is more durable. Dog toys are very important if you want to leave your dog alone for an extended amount of time. They will keep your pooch occupied while you are away. It is vital to keep them from engaging in negative behavior. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you want to get a show dog from champion bloodlines, expect to spend more. Purchasing the purebred Miniature or Toy type of Poodle is pricier than buying other dog breeds from a backyard dog breeder. The Standard Poodles are typically less expensive than Toy Poodles since they deliver more purebred puppies per litter. The price of a Standard Poodle, as well as Miniature and Toy Poodles, does not often change between male and female dogs, but larger dogs are associated with a higher maintenance cost compared to smaller Poodles. A premium price tag also usually means you have a high-quality Poodle puppy from purebred breeders which could save you a lot of money in the long run. Female Poodle: Which Is Better? Factors Affecting the Cost of a Poodle Puppy Many people find Poodles expensive, but what is it about Poodles that makes them so costly? Well, there are many reasons why these fluffy dogs cost thousands of dollars. The size, age, health, lineage, and AKC registration of a Poodle puppy are essential considerations when determining puppy prices. Here are other factors affecting the price of a purebred Poodle: Age: Younger purebred Poodle puppies are far more costly than older puppies on average. This is due to the high demand for young pups. Meanwhile, purchasing an adult Poodle could save you at the very least a few hundred dollars. Appearance: Purebred Poodles that sport rare Poodles coats color are priced higher than others. Purebred Poodle breeders dedicate years to learning how to breed high-quality puppies. Those that gained recognition for their hard work often put higher price tags on their Poodles than others. Bloodline: Since they are bred for exhibition, champion Poodles will be the priciest. These are the canines that compete in athletics and breed representation. Health Screenings: Purebred Poodles are at risk of health issues, such as seizures. This means Poodle breeders must take measures to ensure the health of their pups. As a result, they will have to invest additional money to nurture proper Poodle health. Registration Papers: Your Poodle must have the required registration papers to be registered with a kennel club. This list contains the significant factors that influence the price of a Poodle. When purchasing a Standard Poodle puppy, keep them in mind and any additional fees that may be associated with it. A purebred backyard breeder might ask you for things like reservation charges, pet delivery, vaccines, and pup accessories that are not included in the Standard Poodle price range. Poodle costs of adoption will vary depending on where you get your dog. If you choose a senior or special needs adult Standard Poodle, the fee is significantly reduced or even free entirely in these cases. Poodle puppies can be found in abundance in local shelters. If you decide to adopt a Poodle, you can be assured that you will get a dog that has been well-cared for, unlike the ones found in a puppy mill. Here is the list of the essential things that people who love Poodles must prepare for: Food and Treats: Poodles can be picky eaters. Hence, it is important to invest in the right kind of high-quality food upfront. Poodles will need a diet high in fats and proteins. Bed: Because the Poodles are active dogs, it will require a nice bed. The size of your Poodle will determine which mattress is appropriate. Crate: A crate is a must-have for required vet visits or crate-training your Poodle properly. This is a must-have item for Poodles that enjoy running and playing. Toys: Teething is unavoidable for young pups, and restlessness can lead to destructive behavior. These toys are a great approach to alleviating these concerns while keeping your dog happy. A slick brush to clear unkempt hair and knots, a metallic greyhound comb to remove tangles and separate hair strands, a blow dryer, grooming clippers, nail clippers, and a toothbrush to maintain proper oral hygiene are all you need. Furthermore, deworming is a crucial step in keeping healthy pups. Initial Vaccine Shots: If you opt to purchase an unvaccinated Poodle puppy, you will be responsible for the expense of their first round of vaccinations. This is also another way of keeping your Poodle healthy. Neutering and Spaying: If you purchase Standard Poodle puppies, most likely, it is still intact. It is suggested that the puppy be spayed or neutered between six and nine months. Microchip: A microchip, about the size of a rice grain, should be implanted on your Poodle. This can be scanned by vets or other canine specialists for your contact info, health records, and health problems. Miscellaneous Supplies: Useful goods such as poop scoopers, cleaning materials, and urine pads could make Poodle care much more manageable. By Chris The striking Poodle needs no introduction. Even people unfamiliar with dog breeds can easily identify one. But aside from their striking good looks, Poodles have many desirable traits, like their loyalty, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat. The typical cost of a purebred Poodle ranges from USD. Smaller Toy and Mini Poodles typically cost towards the higher range. Papered show Poodles or genetically strong breeding dogs can fetch far higher prices. A Tan Poodle sitting on an outdoor lounge. How Much Are Poodles? First things first: Poodles are expensive dogs. The reason? Poodles cost a lot to breed and maintain. A reputable breeder puts a lot of blood, sweat, and tears—and money—to ensure that their dogs are healthy and well-maintained. Where you get your Poodle also affects how much you pay for it. There are three types, which differ based on size: Standard: the largest of the three types Miniature: a medium-size Poodle Toy: the smallest of the three types A guilty looking two color Poodle Reputable Poodle Breeder Anyone who wants a purebred Poodle should find a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder is someone with a specific breeding business whose job is to produce the best dogs. As I mentioned above, the cost varies depending on the Poodle type you choose. Accidental Breeder An accidental breeder is exactly what it sounds like—someone who is not in the business of breeding but has a pregnant dog. In most cases, people who run puppy mills do not prioritize the health and safety of their pups. They have lots of dogs, usually more than they can take care of, to make the greatest profit possible. Getting a dog from a puppy mill is risky; you may get a dog with long-term health problems, a shorter life span, or genetic issues. So how do you avoid puppy mills? Online forums are an excellent place to look, especially ones specific to your area. Be sure to also check out breeder reviews. Rescue Finally, you have rescue shelters, which are excellent places to obtain a Poodle for cheap. The big downside in going this route is that finding the dog you want is a matter of luck. The main advantage of shelter dogs is the price. Additionally, most of the time, the shelter ensures that the dog already has all its shots before it goes home with you, saving you some of the healthcare costs. However, if knowing that is not important to you, you can find a fantastic dog for cheap. In addition to the initial fee to take the dog home, you should be aware of the other many Poodle costs. Some are one-time, while others are recurring. You already know that you have to feed the dog throughout its life. Choosing between a Cockapoo vs Poodle can be tricky — they are both super cute, hypoallergenic , and can be non-shedding! Vaccinations Vaccinations are essential to keep dogs healthy. Some are free, while others are not. Health Care Just as you would take a child to the pediatrician for regular checkups, you should take your Poodle to the Vet for an six monthly visit. Your vet may also advise certain medications to keep your dog healthy, like deworming meds. A super cute Poodle sitting on its owners lap Training Training is critical to ensure that your dog is well-behaved. You may feel confident training your dog yourself, but most people choose to send their Poodles to puppy school. You can start Poodle training with potty training at home. There are milestones that Poodles should meet at different ages. Grooming All dogs need to be groomed to some degree to keep their fur and skin healthy. Poodles are no exception, but if you compare them to other breeds, their grooming requirements are much higher. Depending on your preferences, your dog should visit the groomer every month or two. While this breed makes a loving and intelligent family dog , the high cost of having a Poodle—both to purchase it and to maintain it—is not for everyone. Adopting a Poodle? My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Other sources of entertainment for your dog may include activities, such as agility. You can also purchase items to create brain games for your dog, like puzzles and Kong toys. Different diets, toys, supplies, and groomers all can vary significantly in cost. Additional Costs to Factor In Other costs you should be prepared for include pet sitters, trainers, and emergency expenses. Trainers usually charge by the session, but some offer packages to help limit expense. Setting money aside every month for any emergency or unexpected expenses will help you be prepared if anything comes up. You can also rotate through toys and supplies to keep things interesting and prevent items from wearing out quickly. Even on a budget, you should plan for the monthly expenses associated with food and medical care. These are expenses that cannot be skipped, regardless of budget. Coming up with creative ways to budget and stretch the use of items longer can go a long way in helping you to save money. Image Credit: susanne, Pixabay Saving Money on Poodle Care You can save money on a professional groomer if you take time to brush your dog well every day to ensure they are not getting mats and to monitor their skin health. You can also save money on grooming expenses if you are comfortable shaving or grooming your Poodle yourself. Another great way to save money on the care and maintenance of your Poodle is to watch online and brick-and-mortar shops for sales and coupons. These can be used to save a significant amount on foods, toys, treats, cleaning supplies, grooming supplies, and more. Conclusion: Poodle Price Owning a Poodle can be attainable, regardless of your budget. Poodles of all sizes and types are fantastic dogs with fun personalities. They are not low-maintenance dogs, though. This means you may experience higher costs associated with grooming and basic care than you would with a lower-maintenance dog. Set aside money every month as a backup option in case unexpected expenses arise or you find yourself in an emergency situation. Less - The Standard Poodle is a medium-sized , squarely built dog with a distinctive harsh curly coat that may be presented in any of several traditional Poodle clips or corded. The ears are long, drop, and densely feathered. The tail is normally docked, set high, and carried erect. The length of body sternum to point of buttocks is equal to the height withers to ground. The Standard Poodle carries himself with an air of dignity and pride. Another essential characteristic is proper temperament. The breed is noted for its high intelligence, trainability and sense of humor. Poodles are highly social and require human companionship and regular, close interaction with family members. Because of their great intelligence and the joy they take in human companionship, Poodles excel in performance events of all sorts. They are extremely affectionate with children. In 18th and 19th century Europe, the Poodle served a wide variety of purposes, including duck hunting, guiding, and later circus performing, from whence the modern grooming style likely arose. The Poodle became a popular pet for the French aristocracy, and in time was officially adopted as the national dog. Poodles were imported to America in the 20th century. The origins of the poodles are still discussed with a dispute over whether the poodle descends from the old French Barbet breed or from Germany as a type of water dog. The Poodle is a regal purebred dog breed that is so instantly recognizable that he rarely needs any introduction! Standard Poodles , Miniature Poodles , and Toy Poodles are amazing athletes, loyal friends, alert watchdogs, and intelligent service dogs. Expensive Puppies Vs Low Price Puppies If this will be your first-ever puppy, or your first Poodle puppy, you may genuinely not be aware there are several different types of Poodle breeders. Here are the three main types of Poodle dog breeders: Purebred dog breeder. Backyard dog breeder. You may also choose to find a Poodle puppy or adult at a local rescue shelter or Poodle rescue organization. The former will often compete in dog shows or canine athletics and some puppies that are show quality may also be bred. The latter will be placed in high quality homes with families who have been thoroughly interviewed and vetted. Often, they will have paid an initial deposit and waited for a period of time before a puppy became available. Purebred dog breeders place Poodle health and breed longevity before profit. They pre-test their breeding dogs for genetic health issues. Parent dogs and puppies are fed high quality food, receive ongoing veterinary care, and are well-socialized for placement. But what is a backyard breeder? A backyard breeder generally gets into dog breeding for two reasons: their unfixed dog got knocked up by the intact daddy dog down the block, or they want to make some extra cash. They also are unlikely to know much, if anything, about canine genetics or breed health. They may not even be purebred Poodles even if the puppies look the part and the breeder tells you they are purebred. There are many unknown variables involved in purchasing a Poodle from this type of casual or accidental dog breeder. Backyard dog breeders often operate out of their car, hawking puppies at local flea markets or grocery stores. They may also work with local pet stores, although this is typically more the purview of puppy mills. One research authority states there may be as many as 10, puppy mills up and running in the U. Puppy mills are in it for one reason and only one reason — to make money. To this end, their business model is simple: spend as little as possible to make as much as possible, while flying under the local radar to avoid being brought up on animal cruelty charges. Some puppy mills are now importing puppies bred in other countries to keep a lower profile. These puppies may cost less than either a purebred dog breeder or even a backyard breeder will charge, but the profit margin on each Poodle puppy is likely to be far higher. This valuable article offers 41 tips to spot a puppy mill-type breeder and steer clear. Rescue Shelter Not everyone will have the financial means to purchase a purebred Poodle puppy from a reputable breeder. For some people, it is also important for other reasons to adopt rather than shop. Here, you are more likely to find an adult Poodle of any size rather than a Poodle puppy, but this can also offer its own advantages, including being able to skip teething and house training! Always look for a rescue organization that is a registered c 3 charity and re-invests adoption fees back into the organization. This puppy may lack the ideal coat color or conformation appearance to compete in the show ring. But they will be a great example of a purebred Poodle dog in all other ways temperament, athleticism, et al. Miniature and Toy Poodles average three puppies per litter. If you plan to add a Poodle puppy to your family, remember that the price tag on that precious bundle of fur is just one aspect of puppy budget! In addition to the price of your puppy, you need to purchase additional supplies to get ready to welcome your new fur baby home.
Dogs in the Gundog group were originally trained to find live game and retrieve game that had been shot and wounded. Labradors are devoted, affectionate, loving dogs that will happily get along with everyone. For more information on training your Labrador using reward-based techniques, take a look at our dog behaviour page where you can pick up plenty of tips to help you and your canine companion better understand each other. Labradors make perfect family pets, given the right socialisation, as with all breeds. They bond well with the whole family and are affectionate and loving. Their patient nature makes them ideal for children. Grooming is very simple, with a weekly brush usually enough to keep the coat in tip-top condition. Breed-related health problems: Owners are, understandably, upset when their dog develops a health problem linked to its breed. The potential health problems that Labrador Retrievers are prone to include: Hip dysplasia — hip joint laxity as a result of poor development, which will eventually lead to arthritis. Elbow dysplasia - elbow joint laxity as a result of poor development, which will eventually lead to arthritis. Prone to obesity Progressive retinal atrophy — gradual deterioration of the retina of the eye. Symptoms can start with night blindness and progress to total blindness. Exercise requirements: Full of energy, Labradors need over two hours of exercise per day to keep them physically and mentally fit. Estimated lifetime cost: The likely lifetime costs for a Labrador Retriever are based on estimates calculated using current market prices and include: Initial costs of the purchase of the pet. Where it was known as the Small Water Dog and worked with the fishermen off the Newfoundland coast. They would swim the fishing nets to shore so the fishermen could haul them in. Trade in salted cod brought the breed to Dorset, England where local landowners started to refine the breed for use as gun dogs and today, the Labrador is still a very valuable working gun dog and also in other occupations as an assistance dog, sniffer dog, search and rescue and of course guide dog. In fact the Labrador is so adaptable, it can be put to work and play at most things on land and water! Labrador Types The Labrador is a muscular, athletic dog, deep chested with well boned forelegs. They have gentle brown eyes and a short haired coat in colours, yellow, chocolate, black and fox red. It is also a very intelligent breed and responds well to training. However, it loves food and can become obese if food intake is not monitored and is not given plenty of exercise. Marley was played by a lab named Jonah who totally stole the show from his co-stars Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson. Such is the charm and cuteness of Labrador puppies who have been so sought after by photographers over the years. Training Labrador Puppies Balls are a great way to start introducing retrieving. Puppies love chasing balls and you can start this in the early weeks with rolling balls for them to bring back to you. At this age, it is instinctive for them to come back to you at the sound of your voice. You can then move on to hiding the ball so he has to use his nose to scent it out. Hiding lots of balls in one go is a good scent training game. These simple games are a good basis for more serious training as he gets older. Labrador Dogs Temperament Labs are very people orientated and most become much loved family pets. The breed is also a traditional gun dog for retrieving. It is important to develop a good bond between puppy and owner and spend lots of time together. It is not always best to take two puppies from the same litter. To help with the bonding, it is a good idea to have the same person feed the puppy even in a family environment. Make him sit before you put the food down so he soon gets to know that he has to work for his food and that if he sits he will get fed or a treat. Where Should Labradors Sleep Many gun dogs are kennelled outside. Although puppies should be indoors initially for at least a few weeks. The decision to keep indoors or out is purely personal. It is perfectly possible to have a well trained gun dog living with a family. Especially as a gun dog will probably only work for 5 months of the year during the shooting season. For a kennelled dog it is important to keep his bed off the ground away from the damp so a raised dog bed is a good investment. There are two key types of labrador and the english bred Labrador is a favourite chosen Gun Dog for more information on Labradors click here. If you would like help in choosing a Labrador or working dogs please do not hesitate to contact us. Number of meals per day 4 2 What is the best puppy food for a Labrador Retriever? When looking for the most suitable puppy food for your Labrador Retriever puppy, 3 factors need to be considered. First, it should be specifically designed for medium-to-large dog breed puppies. Ideally, it must be loaded with proteins and have low preservatives and additives content. Third, think about your budget. Expensive brands of puppy food are often seen as the healthiest choices. It is often used to justify the high price of puppy food. So, avoid dwelling on whether you should get a pricey premium brand of puppy food or not. Keeping these factors in mind, you can start finding the best puppy food for your Labrador Retriever puppy. Working with the vet is a good idea to narrow down your choices efficiently. However, there are many crucial things that you have to keep in mind to ensure that your pup has a healthy and balanced diet. Follow a fixed feeding portion in every meal. A growing Labrador pup needs supplements and adequate nutrition. This is why young ones should be provided with more meals per day than a regular mature dog. Feed a small Labrador Retriever puppy at least 4 meals a day before reaching 4 months of age. He should be 6 months or older before he can take two meals a day. Having a strict feeding schedule is believed to increase appetite and promote digestion in dogs. Apart from that, it encourages them to develop good eating habits. Avoid free-feeding your Labrador Retriever puppy. Free-feeding your Labrador pup is arguably the easiest feeding method. However, making food available at all times puts him at a higher risk of obesity. Research shows that when Lab pups gain too much weight, they are more likely to experience bone and joint problems. Allowing your Lab puppy to gorge on food any time of the day also makes him very vulnerable to dog bloat. It is a fatal condition that commonly affects large dog breeds such as the Labrador Retriever. Bloat in the Labrador breed causes the stomach to twist and accumulate food, liquid, or gas , making it distended. It can kill a dog within an hour if left untreated. Keep your Labrador puppy safe from these health problems by sticking to a fixed feeding schedule. Provide Lab puppies with cooked meat rather than raw during puppyhood. A Labrador Retriever puppy can eat meat products as long as they are cooked properly. Experts warn dog owners that raw meat, especially those that are not fresh, is likely to contain dangerous bacteria. These include E. Since his immune system has not completely developed yet, it cannot protect him from these bacteria. For this reason, feeding raw meat to Lab pups is extremely discouraged. A Labrador Retriever can be fed raw meat during adulthood. However, remember to introduce the new food gradually to avoid stomach problems. However, during summer, pups are encouraged to eat frozen treats. For the rest of the time, the best dog food is served warm. Fresh water should be accessible at all times. Always provide your Labrador puppy with fresh water. The water bowl should not be too full that it could be easily knocked over. Giving tap water to your Labrador is not advisable, according to several experts. A good rule of thumb is that if you do not feel safe drinking the tap water yourself, do not give it to your little dog. Chose a heavy-based water bowl to avoid having it knocked over by your clumsy pup. Lab puppies from 2—6 months should get enough calcium supplements. The Labrador Retriever is a medium-to-large dog when fully grown. His growth rate tends to be faster, which then results in a higher requirement for calcium. That being said, Lab owners have to pay attention to calcium intake, especially at the ages of 2—6 months. Nutrition helps pups develop healthy skin and coat. Ensure that your Labrador is getting enough nutrients to support his growing body. Experts suggest feeding him fresh vegetables such as carrots every week. This helps him keep his hair soft and glossy. Prioritise making vet appointments for vaccinations and deworming. Puppies of any breed, including the Labrador, should be vaccinated and dewormed at the right age, which is about one week after weaning. These procedures will help build physical resistance against parasites. It is important to establish discipline in the early stages. Obesity in dogs is one of the common diseases amongst domestic dogs. Lab puppies eat more when they eat together with their siblings, according to research. If your new Labrador Retriever puppy has a low appetite, this might be because it is his first time feeding without his brother and sisters. That said, call the vet for advice if your Labrador puppy refuses to eat for more than 4 hours. You may need to contact them sooner if he shows symptoms of illness such as vomiting , restlessness, lethargy, or diarrhoea. He possesses the willingness to please his owners as well. These are excellent traits that make the breed easy to train. Below are a few useful pointers to make training easier and stress-free for you and your Labrador Retriever puppy. Train a calm Labrador Retriever puppy. The beautiful Labrador Retriever is generally active and upbeat. A Lab puppy is no different. He is brimming with energy, which can hinder him from focusing during training. Allow your Labrador puppy to run around your backyard or play with him for at least 5 minutes. However, avoid overexercising him. Or else, he will be too tired and would rather sleep than participate in training. Find a quiet place to train your Labrador Retriever puppy. A Lab puppy has a short attention span. He gets easily distracted by noises, smells, and moving objects. When training him for the first time, it is best to do so in a quiet room. This way, his focus is solely fixed on you. As your Labrador Retriever puppy learns how to focus more during training, you can change to a room with a little more noise. Once he can successfully obey your vocal and visual training commands, you start training him outside. It can be in your back garden or a quiet park. Keep training sessions short. As mentioned, the Labrador Retriever puppy has a low attention span. It is not a good idea to train him for long periods. This will only cause stress for both you and your pup. Train him for about 2—3 minutes. Some Labrador owners recommend training a puppy during commercial breaks. Implementing harsh punishments are a big no-no. Training a Labrador Retriever puppy also involves discipline. However, it is not an excuse to use forceful or painful punishments. Understand that a Lab puppy is normally full of curiosity and is bound to get easily distracted. Never hit your Labrador puppy as it can cause him to be fearful of you and weaken your bond with him. Shouting and yelling is not recommended too, because a Lab puppy has sensitive hearing. Then proceed to correct his behaviour. Use positive reinforcement and rewards-based training. The Labrador Retriever is a very food-motivated dog, just like the Golden Retriever. He loves receiving love and attention from his owners as well. You can use these traits to your advantage by incorporating positive reinforcement dog training. You may also like: Breed Comparison: Labrador vs Golden Retriever If your Labrador Retriever puppy successfully carries out a command, reward him with a delicious treat. Giving him praises and cuddles work too. Soon enough, your pup will be even more motivated to take part in the training. Train your Labrador Retriever puppy before mealtime. This will encourage him to work hard to earn more tasty treats. However, keep in mind that the treats should be given in small quantities as a Lab puppy easily becomes overweight. Reduce the amount of food during mealtimes after giving treats. Set proper expectations. A Labrador Retriever puppy takes time to learn a command. So, avoid giving him hard tasks as it will only make it difficult and time-consuming for him to carry out. This also takes the fun out of training and may discourage you and your Labrador pup from trying harder. So, give your Lab puppy easy commands instead and train him consistently. Training a Labrador is a slow process but a fulfilling one if executed properly. There will be times when your Labrador Retriever puppy is disinterested, no matter how you motivate him. Then you can try training him again after a few hours. Who knows, after successful basic training, your pup can also be trained for field trials. Please leave this field empty. Owning a Labrador can be lots of fun An introduction to Labradors If you are considering buying or adopting this popular dog breed, our guide to owning a Labrador is just for you! We will answer all the most frequently asked questions below, to help you determine if living with a Labrador would be ideal for your family. Originally bred to retrieve nets for fishermen and later to retrieve fowl and game for hunters, the Labrador Retriever is now one of the most popular pets in the UK. The breed benefits from the positive character traits of being reliable, trustworthy, good natured and dependable, leading to their reputation as great family pets. Labradors are very sociable by nature, forming strong bonds with their owners. They do however, need lots of exercise and mental stimulation and can be inclined to being over enthusiastic and bouncy. They are renowned for their huge appetite for food and tendency to chew as puppies. What size are Labradors? Labradors are a strongly built medium — large breed of dog. When purchasing one as a puppy, it is important to consider this. You should ensure that your home and garden have plenty of space to accommodate a large and lively doggy resident. Fully grown males typically weigh KG and measure around cm to the withers. Females weigh KG and measure around cm to the withers. Do Labradors make good family pets? Labradors generally have an easy going temperament with playful and intelligent character traits. Their affectionate and loyal nature means that they can be ideally suited to becoming a family pet, with the vast majority enjoying the company of children. Labradors are known to thrive in a family home environment with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, attention and training. However, please note that young children should always be supervised around any breed of dogs and appropriate care should be taken. What colours are Labradors? Labradors come in three colour varieties, which are black, chocolate and yellow. Yellows range from light cream to red fox. What is the average life span of a Labrador? Labradors live for approximately years on average, when cared for correctly and fed appropriately. How much does owning a Labrador cost? This is just the purchase price of course, there are also ongoing costs. These include equipment such as collar, lead, toys, bedding and a dog guard or car harness. You should also budget for the cost of food, pet insurance and regular vaccinations, flea and worming treatments. There may also be additional costs, such as training classes. Are Labradors easy to train? Labradors are generally always very eager to please, with kind and willing natures. This means that they are relatively easy to train. They also have a very high food drive meaning that they learn very quickly when there is a food reward at the end of a training session. They are particularly suited to training for assistance dog roles, genuinely enjoying this kind of activity. At Barking Mad Dog Care, we are proud to be official charity partners of Dogs for Good , a life-transforming charity, which creates partnerships between people living with disability and specially trained assistance dogs. We are proud to sponsor Prince, pictured below. He is just about to be matched with a family after completing initial training. Labradors like Prince are often selected to be assistance dogs 7. How much exercise do Labradors need? Labradors need to be given the right amount of exercise to stay fit and healthy. An ideal amount of exercise for this active breed is roughly two hours a day. This relates to fully grown adult Labradors. Puppies should be walked following the rule of five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. It is important to include activities other than just walking, as Labradors require lots of mental stimulation. They love to retrieve, as their name suggests, and are generally sociable when playing with other dogs, if well socialised. If Labradors become bored, they are far more likely to become destructive and display unwanted behaviour. How much grooming do Labradors need? Labradors are fairly low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Like all breeds though, regular grooming on a weekly basis will keep their coats and skin in good condition. Frequent grooming can also help with their tendency to excessively shed fur. Feeding a Labrador 9. Feeding a Labrador Labradors are notorious for their love of food and are prone to putting on weight if fed an inappropriate diet or quantity. It is important to feed your Labrador a good quality food with all the right nutrients, right through from puppyhood to old age. Do Labradors like water? Labradors were originally bred for retrieving objects from the water. They generally love swimming and splashing around in water courses and lakes. Remember to take care when walking them near to water which is unsafe for them to swim in. Many Labradors will decide to jump in of their own accord. Conclusion: owning a Labrador should be determined by your lifestyle When making the decision to own any kind of dog or puppy, it is important to give real consideration to whether or not they are suitable for your lifestyle. However, it is natural to worry about what will happen if you have to leave your new best friend to go away on holiday, for work or for a non dog-friendly occasion such as a family wedding. Established in , we have many years of experience of offering home-from-home care for Labradors and the many other breeds of dog. Why not find your local branch today and get in contact to discuss care for your Labrador? Please note, our information about Labradors is a brief description for the benefit of our website visitors. The points we make are a generalisation of breed characteristics. Every dog is an individual and will have different needs. We would advise carrying out lots of research, both online and in person such as with your local vet before making a decision to purchase or adopt a Labrador puppy or adult dog. Share This Article:. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on.
The vast majority of pigeon-chested dogs have perfectly normal, happy lives. The dogs starring in this article are Pepper and Ginger. Their bones grew abnormally in the womb. Frenchies are one of the breeds with a greater risk of having this deformity. Most often, when Pepper or Ginger have this problem, other dogs in their family line have it as well. This is the more complex of the two. In this case, the breastbone looks like a Z with the top of the Z pushing outward. The other letter condition is Chrondrogladiolar prominence. This is far more common. If Ginger has this, it looks as if the lower breastbone is pushing outward. Pectus carinatum is a disfigurement of the rib. It looks like the chest bows outward instead of having the normal curve. The manubrium the front of the breastbone comes to a point. Your vet can feel this bone even when your puppy is young. Females like Ginger can count themselves lucky as they are less likely to develop this problem. A pigeon-chested French Bulldog may have other physical abnormalities. One is having short ribs. He may have a very thin waist as well. Now for some good news. As they grow, you and your vet can watch to make sure things stay as they are. If the condition is more pronounced, your vet may suggest physical therapy for your Frenchie. What about Surgery? It is only in the worst cases that Ginger might undergo surgery to fix the problem. This entails removing the affected bone and swapping it out with a fiberglass cast. Hey, they can rebuild dogs much like some human parts. If Ginger was having difficulty breathing before, she should show improvement. When you bring Ginger home, she will be sore. Take her out briefly for a potty stop, but then return her to her cave. During recovery, Ginger may receive painkillers and antibiotics. See also Does Jif Have Xylitol? Inbreeding worsens the risk factors. Talk to your vet about the problem and recommended treatments to make them feel good and live full lives. If, however, the condition was noticed afterward, you should notify that breeder. Someone should never breed a dog with a pigeon chest. At this juncture, you should have a conversation with your breeder as to why this happened, and what steps they are taking to rectify matters. If you plan to keep the pooch, you may be able to get some type of refund. There appears to be a general correlation between pectus carinatum and brachycephalic dogs flat-faced canines. Pepper and Ginger reach maturity between months. So, whatever their condition at this time remains lifelong. As a dog ages, they may have other conditions that, when coupled with Pigeon Chest, could affect the quality of life for your pooch. Pepper and Ginger will get along fine so long as you remain aware of their limitations. Unlike other French Bulldogs, they will not be going on long walks. Shorten them and stop when the pup seems tired. If need be, pick Ginger up and carry her home. Love them like you would any new fur baby in your home. Post Views: 1, Early detection and intervention can help minimize complications and improve the overall quality of life for dogs with pigeon chest. Spine Curvature and Scoliosis Spine curvature in French Bulldogs with pigeon chest may be caused by thoracic congenital vertebral body malformations, such as hemivertebra with kyphosis and scoliosis. Hemivertebrae form when the right and left halves of the developing vertebral body do not fuse, resulting in a body resembling a butterfly. Additionally, dwarfism may cause the vertebrae to become abnormally shaped, leading to hemivertebrae. Scoliosis, a symptom associated with spine curvature in French Bulldogs with pigeon chest, can further exacerbate the condition and lead to discomfort and pain. Seeking professional advice from a veterinarian is crucial for managing spine curvature and scoliosis in affected dogs. Causes of Chest Bone Deformities in Dogs As mentioned earlier, the primary cause of chest bone deformities in dogs is abnormal bone growth during development, which is believed to be due to genetic factors that are hereditary in certain breeds. The two main types of chest bone deformities in dogs are pectus carinatum pigeon chest and pectus excavatum sunken chest. Both conditions are present at birth, but the severity of the deformity may not be evident until the puppy starts exhibiting symptoms such as difficulty breathing and failure to thrive. The prognosis for chest bone deformities in dogs varies depending on the severity of the condition. Pectus excavatum generally has a favorable prognosis in young animals, with even severe cases responding well to surgical correction. Similarly, dogs with pectus carinatum often display mild or no symptoms, leading to an encouraging prognosis. Radiographs X-rays may be utilized to evaluate the severity of the deformity and to rule out other potential sources of chest deformity. An echocardiogram , which assesses the heart and lungs for any abnormalities related to the pigeon chest deformity, may also be performed. Early diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate course of treatment and managing the condition effectively. If you suspect your French Bulldog may have a pigeon chest, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible to ensure the best care for your beloved pet. Treatment Options for Pigeon Chest in French Bulldogs The treatment options for pigeon chest in French Bulldogs depend on the severity of the deformity and the presence of any associated symptoms. In some cases, physical therapy and manual compression may be sufficient to manage the condition. However, in more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the deformity and alleviate symptoms such as difficulty breathing. It is important to discuss the available treatment options with a veterinarian, who will take into account various factors, including the severity of the abnormality and the manifestation of symptoms, before recommending the most suitable course of action. Physical Therapy Physical therapy is a recommended treatment option for French Bulldogs with pigeon chest, which may be employed in combination with other treatments or as a single modality. Physical therapy can also help strengthen the muscles and ligaments surrounding the chest, potentially reducing the severity of the abnormality. However, physical therapy can be an uncomfortable experience for the dog and may lead to further pain and discomfort if not executed properly. It is imperative to ensure that the physical therapist is adequately experienced and knowledgeable in treating dogs with pigeon chest and that the exercises are conducted correctly. External Splints and Compression External splinting and compression are conservative treatment options for pigeon chest in French Bulldogs, particularly in younger dogs with more flexible thoraxes. Corrective splinting may also be utilized if the malformation is not severe enough to warrant surgery. These treatments involve the use of braces or casts to help rectify the deformity. Surgical Intervention In severe cases of pigeon chest deformity in French Bulldogs, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the affected bone and alleviate symptoms. The surgical procedure involves removing the pertinent bone and substituting it with a fiberglass cast. This treatment option is typically reserved for dogs experiencing significant respiratory distress or other complications as a result of the deformity. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, such as infection, pain, and scarring. However, the potential benefits include improved breathing and a more normal appearance. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with a veterinarian to determine if this is the best course of action for your French Bulldog. Preventing Pigeon Chest in French Bulldogs Preventing pigeon chest in French Bulldogs can be challenging, as the condition is primarily a result of genetic factors. However, there are certain steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of developing the condition, such as avoiding inbreeding and consulting a veterinarian if the deformity is present at birth. If you are considering getting a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to choose a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding dogs and refrains from breeding dogs with known chest deformities. This can help reduce the likelihood of acquiring a puppy with pigeon chest and ensure the overall health of future generations of French Bulldogs. Living with a Pigeon Chest French Bulldog Living with a pigeon chest French Bulldog can be a rewarding experience, as these dogs are known for their affectionate nature and charming personalities. However, it is essential to consistently monitor the health of your dog and provide the necessary care and support to ensure their well-being. It is also important to notify the breeder if you discover that your French Bulldog has a pigeon chest, as this information can help them make informed decisions about their breeding program. Summary In conclusion, pigeon chest is a chest bone deformity that affects French Bulldogs and other brachycephalic dog breeds. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this condition is essential for providing the best care for your beloved pet. As a responsible French Bulldog owner, educating yourself about the pigeon chest and working closely with your veterinarian will enable you to provide the best possible care for your pet. Together, you and your pigeon chest French Bulldog can overcome the challenges of this condition and enjoy a loving, fulfilling life together. References Komsta, R. Prevalence of pectus excavatum PE , pectus carinatum PC , tracheal hypoplasia, thoracic spine deformities and lateral heart displacement in thoracic radiographs of screw-tailed brachycephalic dogs. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. Cjcarol said: Hi we have a new puppy. We have had her for a month. She is now 12 weeks. She was very lethargic so we took her to the vet. She was ok but the vet thought her chest was concerning so he took some xrays. Found she has pectus excavating my research not vets diagnosis. Her heart is more vertical and seems to be sitting at the bottom and her trachea is dropped because of the heart. We have an appt. We did get her from a breeder and had an intention of possibly breeding her. That is out of the question now as it is congenital. We are heartbroken at the thought of having to return her. In my research I never came across this condition. Is it common? Should the breeder have noticed it? She was taken to the vet for 1st shots and I thought an exam. There is a guarantee. We will contact her after we get the second opinion I am not looking to fault anyone just looking for more information. Click to expand.I was wondering if there was any update on this? Did you return her to her breeder after all? We are currently dealing with the same thing. We have our first vet appointment in a few days and we will hopefully get our answers there. But if it turns out that he does have this deformity we are not sure what to do. We signed a contract with the breeder and in that contract it states that we could return the puppy if it turns out to have a congenital disease which if the vet diagnoses him with this then it falls under that clause. I also read that there are some complications with this deformity as their chest is too narrow for their heart and lungs as they mature and sometimes their life span is cut short. We are already attached to the pup and are hoping to reach a good conclusion. Please, any advice would be appreciated thank you! Recurrent upper respiratory tract infections Difficulty sustaining physical activity Heart murmur or abnormal heart sounds Cyanosis a blue or grey cast to the skin In addition to the above-noted signs of pectus anomaly, a condition known as swimmer syndrome may sometimes be present in puppies with PE. Puppies with this condition have their back legs, and sometimes front legs, placed in a more lateral or abducted position. While chest bone deformities in dogs may result in either mild symptoms or a lack of symptoms altogether, it is also possible for severe cases to lead to debilitating abnormalities of the heart and lungs. In canines affected by PE, respiratory distress, or difficulty breathing is the symptom noted most frequently by owners. This may be due to the displacement of organs within the chest cavity, or impaired ventilation secondary to the inward protrusion of the chest wall. Additionally, life-threatening compression of the heart and twisting or crimping of the blood vessels surrounding the heart may occur secondary to this deformity. The aforementioned dangers are primarily discussed in the veterinary literature as secondary to PE, as opposed to PC. However, self-limiting difficulty breathing during exercise has been documented with the latter condition. Pectus anomaly may be diagnosed by your veterinarian during a physical exam. Chest radiographs may be recommended to better evaluate the severity of the condition, and to determine whether any other abnormalities of the heart or lungs are present. An echocardiogram, or ultrasound of the heart, can also be considered to more accurately identify any concurrent cardiac abnormalities. What are treatment options for canine chest bone deformities? Treatment may be pursued for canine chest bone deformities depending on several factors, including the severity of the abnormality, and the presence of symptoms. For dogs with mild PE, treatment may not be needed, as the condition may resolve on its own. When treatment is indicated, the specific procedure used is often dependent on the age of the animal. Younger dogs will typically have a more flexible chest, and an external splint may be used for a period of 3—4 weeks to correct the abnormality. Older animals may require more invasive surgery, which involves the removal of part of the costal cartilage cartilage that connects the sternum to the ribs , and placement of an internal splint along the sternum. With regards to PC, the use of an external, compressive splint for the correction of the deformity has been documented in one canine patient ; however, this resulted in cyanosis and difficulty breathing, and was promptly removed. The prognosis for chest bone deformities in canines may vary depending on the severity of the abnormality. Overall, PE is considered to have a good prognosis in young animals , and even severe cases can do well with surgical correction. In humans, PC prognosis is considered to be excellent, with many affected individuals remaining asymptomatic. Similarly, symptoms in affected dogs tend to be mild, if noted at all. As such, a good prognosis is expected. Conclusion In summary, while uncommon in canines, chest bone deformities can occur and may be noted with higher frequency in brachycephalic dogs, such as pugs and bulldogs. If you are concerned that your dog may have a pectus anomaly, a consult with your veterinarian is recommended for further evaluation. While a diagnosis of PE or PC may be startling, as a whole, these conditions have a good long-term prognosis and most affected canines will be able to live a long, happy, and healthy life. Bad limb angulations with ambulation difficulties Absence of testicles in the scrotum You should know that these are exceedingly rare, especially if you got your dog from a reputable breeder. What should you do? What do you do with a dog chest bone sticking out? If you discover that your Frenchie has an abnormal-looking chest, you should take the following actions: Wait and observe The fact is that pigeon chest is an extremely rare condition in French bulldogs, and even if it were present, they are able to live normal lives. If they do not seem to have any problems aside from the common ones , there is really nothing much you need to do about it except shower it with love and be the best dog parent you can be. Reduce exercise intensity On a similar note, you do not want to overload your Frenchie with too much exercise if you do notice that it has a pigeon chest. Since the structure of the chest bone is compromised, it might not do well when it comes to physical activities. Instead of going for minute walks, start with minute walks and slowly increase the amount of time. Keep a close eye on your dog and stop immediately if you notice breathlessness or signs that it is struggling. If your dog has a pigeon chest, you should inform your breeder so that it can stop breeding the ones affected. You should also expect an explanation from them about why this has happened, why they failed to inform you, and discuss a resolution. Most breeders have it in their contract that they will take responsibility if an incident like this comes up, so be sure to talk this through with them. Bring it to your vet for diagnosis The only way to be sure is to visit your vet. They have the right equipment and imaging machines to determine if indeed your puppy is suffering from pigeon chest or similar deformities. They are also able to advise you on the next best course of action. Only if you notice any issues that might cause major problems should you need to visit the vet. Know someone who might benefit from this information? Please share this article with them. And do consider joining our community of responsible pet parents too! Share this post! Right now, I am still heavily involved in dog parenting duties, and it is my desire to share all our knowledge with fellow dog owners out there! Popular Posts. It is most commonly seen in French bulldogs, although it can also occur in other breeds. Some studies have suggested that the condition may be hereditary, as it tends to occur more frequently in certain bloodlines of French bulldogs. The chest may appear sunken in, or it may have a bulging appearance. This can lead to difficulty breathing and an increased risk of respiratory problems. Another common symptom of pigeon chest in French bulldogs is a high-pitched, wheezing sound when the dog breathes. This can be a sign of breathing difficulties and should be taken seriously. Other symptoms may include coughing, exercise intolerance, and a blueish tint to the skin or mucous membranes, which can indicate inadequate oxygenation. In severe cases of pigeon chest, French bulldogs may also experience decreased appetite and weight loss. They may also have a swollen abdomen, a sign of internal organ damage. Pigeon chest can lead to serious health problems and even death if left untreated. If you suspect your French bulldog has a pigeon chest, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can diagnose the condition through a physical examination and may also order x-rays or other diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves surgery to correct the deformity of the rib cage, but this can be a complex and risky procedure. Pigeon chest is a common condition in French bulldogs that affects the development of the rib cage. The main symptoms include a distorted rib cage, breathing difficulties, and a high-pitched wheezing sound when breathing. Other symptoms may include coughing, exercise intolerance, decreased appetite, and weight loss. X-rays are typically the most useful diagnostic tool for pigeon chest in French bulldogs. They can show the shape and size of the rib cage and any abnormalities or deformities. In some cases, your veterinarian may want to do a CT scan or MRI to get a more detailed view of the chest and rib cage. Once the diagnosis of the pigeon chest has been confirmed, treatment typically involves surgery to correct the deformity of the rib cage. This can be a complex and risky procedure, and working with a veterinarian with experience treating this condition is important. The surgery may involve removing part of the rib cage and reshaping it or implanting a metal rod or other device to support the rib cage. This may include providing your dog pain medication, limiting their activity, and providing them with additional oxygen if necessary. Sometimes, your dog may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the surgery to recover. In conclusion, pigeon chest is a common condition in French bulldogs that affects the development of the rib cage. If you suspect your dog has a pigeon chest, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Diagnosis typically involves x-rays or other imaging tests, and treatment typically involves surgery to correct the deformity of the rib cage. Working with a veterinarian with experience in treating this condition is vital. Preventing Pigeon Chest In French Bulldogs One of the best ways to prevent pigeon chest in French bulldogs is to feed them a balanced and nutritious diet. High-quality dog food that is specifically designed for their breed can help to ensure that they are getting all of the nutrients that they need. Another way to prevent pigeon chest is to provide your French bulldog with regular exercise. French bulldogs are not known for being particularly active, but they still need some form of daily physical activity to stay healthy. This can include walking, playing in the backyard, or engaging in low-impact exercise. Overweight dogs are more likely to develop pigeon chests, so they must keep an eye on their weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine as needed. In some cases, the condition may be corrected with medications or surgeries. However, the earlier it is caught, the better the chances of successful treatment. Conclusion To prevent pigeon chests in French bulldogs, owners need to feed their dogs a balanced diet and avoid overbreeding. Addressing and preventing pigeon chest is crucial for the health and well-being of this popular breed. Post navigation. Pigeon chest, or pectus carinatum, is a deformity of the chest wall in dogs. It is characterized by a protrusion of the sternum and ribs. Pigeon chest can be caused by genetic factors or nutritional deficiencies during development. Treatment options include surgery, bracing, and physical therapy. Consultation with a veterinarian is recommended to determine the best course of action for your dog. Preventing pigeon chest in puppies involves providing a balanced diet and avoiding overfeeding or rapid growth. Understanding Pigeon Chest in Dogs Pigeon chest is characterized by a chest bone and rib disfigurement that causes the chest to bow outwards into a point instead of a curve. This can be caused by a malformation of the ribs and sternum, which results in the chest appearing sunken in or having a narrow chest. The condition can also occur due to a separation of the sternum and cartilage, thorax narrowing, and unusually shaped ribs causing a flat or sunken chest, which is known as pectus excavatum. The chest bone of a dog is made up of several components, including the manubrium, xiphoid process, keel, and posternum. The sternum, or breastbone, is the bone that runs down the center of the chest and is connected to the ribs. The thorax is the area of the body that contains the chest, ribs, and thoracic vertebrae. The forechest is the area of the chest that protrudes in front of the shoulders, and the floating ribs are the last two pairs of ribs that are not connected to the sternum. Pigeon chest in dogs can cause serious health problems, as the lungs and heart can be compressed by either of these disfigurements. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the condition. However, in many cases, it may not cause any health problems, but it can be unsightly and may make your dog uncomfortable. Breeds Prone to Pigeon Chest Pigeon chest is a condition that can occur in various breeds of dogs, but some are more prone to it than others. Here are some of the breeds that are known to be more susceptible to developing pigeon chest: Brachycephalic Breeds Breeds with short, flat faces, such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Boston Terriers, are more prone to developing pigeon chest. This is because their shortened skulls often lead to a compressed ribcage, which can cause deformities in the chest. English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are also prone to developing pigeon chest due to their short, stocky build. This breed is also known to have a high incidence of other health issues, such as breathing problems, which can exacerbate the effects of pigeon chest. Pekingese Pekingese are another breed that is prone to developing pigeon chest. This breed has a relatively broad, flat chest, which can make it more susceptible to deformities. Beagles Beagles are more often afflicted with pectus carinatum than other breeds. This deformity can result from inbreeding, which is more common in this breed. Great Dane Great Danes are also prone to developing pigeon chest, but this is more often due to a genetic predisposition rather than inbreeding. Overall, pigeon chest is a condition that can affect any breed of dog, but some are more prone to it than others. Identifying Pigeon Chest in Dogs Symptoms of pigeon chest in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the deformity. In mild cases, the chest may appear slightly protruded, while in severe cases, the bone may be jutting out, resulting in a flat or sunken chest. In some cases, the curvature of the spine, also known as scoliosis, may also be present. If you suspect that your dog may have pigeon chest, it is important to consult with a professional veterinarian. A physical examination, x-rays, and an echocardiogram may be necessary to properly diagnose the condition. Treatment for pigeon chest in dogs may vary depending on the severity of the deformity. In mild cases, an external splint or brace may be used to help correct the chest wall deformity. In more severe cases, chest-wall bracing may be necessary to help reshape the chest wall and improve breathing. It is important to note that pigeon chest in dogs is a rare condition, and not all dogs with a protruding chest have this deformity. If you suspect that your dog may have pigeon chest, it is best to consult with a professional veterinarian to properly diagnose and treat the condition. Health Implications of Pigeon Chest in Dogs Pigeon chest in dogs is a condition that can lead to several health implications. Due to the lack of room for the heart and lungs, a pigeon-chested dog may experience breathing difficulties, exercise intolerance, and reduced endurance. In some cases, a pigeon-chested dog may develop a heart murmur, which can lead to heart problems. The lack of oxygen due to insufficient room for the lungs can cause a blue tint to the skin and mucus membranes cyanosis. Additionally, a pigeon-chested dog may experience difficulty walking, which can be caused by disfigured limbs or an umbilical hernia. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian. Treatment options may include surgery, medication, or a change in diet and exercise routine. It is crucial to address the health implications of pigeon chest in dogs to ensure that your furry friend can live a happy and healthy life. Treatment and Management of Pigeon Chest in Dogs If your dog has been diagnosed with pigeon chest, it is important to understand that treatment options will vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, treatment may not be necessary, and the dog can live a normal life. One treatment option for pigeon chest is external splinting. This can be an effective treatment option for mild to moderate cases of pigeon chest. For more severe cases of pigeon chest, surgery may be necessary. Surgery can involve the use of a fiberglass cast to replace the affected bone, or it may involve the use of physical therapy to help the dog regain strength and mobility in their chest area. It is important to note that surgery can be a risky and expensive treatment option, and it should only be considered after consulting with a veterinarian. The veterinarian will be able to assess the severity of the condition and provide guidance on the best treatment options for your dog. In addition to treatment options, it is important to ensure that your dog is comfortable and pain-free. Overall, the prognosis for dogs with pigeon chest will depend on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper care and management, many dogs with pigeon chest can live happy and healthy lives. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your furry friend remains healthy and free from aesthetic and health issues associated with pigeon chest. Frequently Asked Questions What causes chest bone deformity in dogs? The exact cause of this condition is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Which dog breeds are prone to chest bone deformity? Although any dog breed can develop pigeon chest, some breeds are more prone to this condition than others. Is pigeon chest in dogs a hereditary condition? Yes, pigeon chest in dogs is believed to be a hereditary condition. It is passed down from one generation to another through genes, and dogs that have a family history of this condition are more likely to develop it. What are the potential health risks associated with pigeon chest in dogs? Pigeon chest in dogs can cause a variety of health problems, including difficulty breathing, heart and lung problems, digestive issues, and joint pain. Dogs with severe cases of pigeon chest may also experience difficulty walking and running. Can pigeon chest in dogs be corrected through surgery? In some cases, surgery may be recommended to correct severe cases of pigeon chest in dogs. However, this is usually only done as a last resort, as surgery can be risky and expensive. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog. How can pigeon chest in dogs be managed or treated? While there is no cure for pigeon chest in dogs, there are several ways to manage and treat this condition. This may include weight management, exercise modification, medication for pain and inflammation, and the use of supportive devices such as braces or harnesses. Share this:.
The Standard Irish Doodle is the largest of the Irish Doodle breed, weighing between 45 to 75 pounds 20 to 34 kg and standing between 22 to 27 inches 56 to 69 cm tall at the shoulder. The Mini Irish Setterdoodle weighs between 20 to 30 9 to 13 kg pounds and stands between 14 to 18 inches 30 to 43 cm tall at the shoulder. How big does the Toy Irish Doodle Get? The Toy Irish Doodle is a smaller version of the Irish Doodle breed, weighing between 12 to 20 pounds 5 to 9 kg and standing between 10 to 15 inches 25 to 38 cm tall at the shoulder. Irish Doodle Temperament and Intelligence Irish Setters are known for being friendly, outgoing, and affectionate, intelligent, energetic dogs. They are generally good-natured, love to be around people, and enjoy being the center of attention. They are known to have their goofy moments thanks to their playful Poodle side. Poodles are highly intelligent and versatile dogs. They are typically considered highly trainable and excel in various activities such as obedience, agility, and even therapy work. Their empathy can also make them successful service dogs. Brushing Grooming an Irish Doodle is essential to keep their coat healthy and clean. They have a wavy or curly coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. It is recommended to brush their coat at least twice a week to keep it clean and tangle-free A slicker brush or a comb can be used to remove loose hair and prevent matting. A professional groomer can also help maintain their coat and keep it trimmed. Check out this Irish Doodle being professionally groomed 2. Baths Irish Doodles also require regular bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy. It is recommended to bathe them every 3 to 4 weeks using a mild shampoo. Avoid using human shampoo or harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation and itching after grooming. Other Grooming Be sure to trim their nails and clean their ears and eyes monthly or bi-weekly with quality clippers , ear wipes , and eye wipes , respectively. What Should an Irish Setterdoodle Eat? Irish Doodles have a high energy level and require a balanced diet to maintain their health. It is important to feed them high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Avoid feeding them table scraps or human food that can cause digestive issues. Exercise Requirements It is recommended to provide them with at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily. Regular exercise can also help prevent obesity and other health issues. These are active and energetic dogs that need a lot of daily activity. Both parents are hunting breeds, so they really love to chase. Irish Doodles are an active breed and require regular exercise to maintain their health and energy level. They enjoy activities such as walking, running, and playing fetch. Research has shown that Poodles are at a higher risk of developing this condition. Autoimmune thyroiditis where thyroid cells are destroyed by immune responses Epilepsy Arthritis Canine leucocyte deficiency Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV : A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, commonly referred to as bloat. Other common health issues like allergies, skin and ear infections, obesity, and dental issues How long does the Irish Doodle Live? Mini vs. Standard life expectancy On average, Irish Doodles have a lifespan of years. However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, such as diet, exercise, and genetics. Miniature Irish Doodles tend to have a slightly longer lifespan than standard-sized Irish Doodles. Behavioral training is essential for any dog, and the Irish Doodle is no exception. It is important to start training your Irish Doodle early and be consistent with your training methods. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your Irish Doodle, as they respond well to praise and rewards. Socialization is also an essential aspect of training your Irish Doodle. Socializing your dog helps them become comfortable with new people, animals, and environments, reducing the risk of fear-based aggression or anxiety. Choosing a Breeder Choosing a responsible breeder is crucial when looking for a healthy and happy Irish Doodle puppy. Here are some things to consider when selecting a breeder: Health testing: A reputable breeder will conduct health testing on their breeding dogs to ensure that their puppies are healthy and free from genetic diseases. Socialization: A good breeder will socialize their puppies from a young age to ensure they are well-adjusted and comfortable with people. Contract: A responsible breeder will provide a contract outlining their responsibilities and expectations and your responsibilities as a puppy owner. Adoption Options Adopting an Irish Doodle is a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need. Here are some adoption options to consider: Rescue organizations: There are many rescue organizations that specialize in Irish Doodles and other doodle breeds. These organizations rescue dogs from shelters or take in dogs from owners who can no longer care for them. Shelters: Check with your local animal shelter to see if they have any Irish Doodle puppies available for adoption. Online adoption sites: There are many online adoption sites that list Irish Doodle puppies available for adoption. However, be sure to research the site and the breeder before committing to adoption. By following these tips, you can find a healthy and happy Irish Doodle puppy that will make a great addition to your family. The cost of a mini Irish Doodle puppy for sale can vary depending on the breeder and location. How much does a standard Irish Doodle puppy cost? The cost of a standard Irish Doodle puppy can also vary depending on the breeder and location. Do Irish Doodles shed? Irish Doodles have a wavy or curly coat that sheds minimally. However, regular grooming is required to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. Are Irish Doodles Hypoallergenic? Irish Doodles are more hypoallergenic than most dogs, but no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Are Irish Doodles good with kids? Irish Doodles are known for their friendly and social nature, making them great companions for kids. However, as with any dog, it is essential to supervise interactions between children and dogs to ensure safety. Are Irish Doodles good with other pets? Irish Doodles can get along well with other pets if they are properly socialized from a young age. However, it is important to introduce them slowly and supervise their interactions to ensure they get along well. Final Thoughts Irish Doodles are a unique and charming breed that combines the intelligence and loyalty of a Poodle with the friendly and outgoing personality of an Irish Setter. They are highly adaptable to different living situations and make great family pets. While they are a relatively new breed, Irish Doodles have already gained a loyal following thanks to their friendly and affectionate nature. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Photo by tony. They may have darker tones on some parts of their body, similar to cream-colored Poodles. Irish Doodles are medium to large dogs. Female Irish Doodles are 22 to 26 inches tall and will weigh 40 to 60 pounds. This is, of course, different from the size of mini Irish Doodles. Similar to their parent breeds, they are expected to be fully grown at 18 months. Of course, since there are no standards that breeders can follow, their full-grown height and weight can still vary. To better estimate how big your Irish Doodle will be, simply take a look at the parents and previous litters, if there are any. This breed combines the intelligence of Poodles and the happy-go-lucky nature of Irish Setters. As such, Irish Doodles make great family dogs. Irish Doodles are known to be gentle and very friendly, so they would be good playmates to children. However, let me emphasize that it is still important to supervise children when they are with your dog. Their gentle and sociable disposition also makes them good with other family pets. But like all canines, early socialization is essential. So start introducing your Irish Doodle pup to other dogs and pets as early as possible, and keep an eye on their interaction to prevent any incident. Like their parent breeds, Irish Doodles are intelligent and active. They would need lots of exercise and interaction. Activities like taking a walk in the park or playing games like fetch would stimulate them mentally and physically. Exercise sessions can also be a good way for them to be socialized with other people. Irish Doodles are friendly, so you should not have problems with strangers. But like all canines, it will take some training to get them accustomed to interacting with people outside your family. All in all, if you are looking for a light-hearted dog that likes to hang out with your family all the time, an Irish Doodle will be a good choice. Their temperaments make them fantastic with pets and other people, but you have to do your part and socialize them early on. On the same note, do not leave them for long periods of time because they may develop separation anxiety. Irish Doodles are generally considered healthy. Like other designer breeds, they may benefit from hybrid vigor. However, because this Doodle breed is still developing, you have to look out for diseases common to both parents. Below are some diseases that Irish Doodles may be susceptible to: Bloat: Also known as gastric dilation , this condition occurs when the stomach dilates and food or gas cannot be expelled. It can cause the stomach wall to rupture, and in extreme cases, the stomach will rotate in the abdomen. Bloat can be fatal when not corrected immediately. Hip Dysplasia: This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop correctly and eventually weakens and deteriorates. Hip dysplasia is common in large and giant dog breeds. Eye Problems: Unfortunately, Irish Doodles may inherit eye problems common to their parents. Optic nerve hypoplasia, cataracts, and entropion corneal dystrophy are known eye problems for Poodles. Progressive retinal atrophy is also common in both Poodles and Irish Setters. This condition occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough adrenal hormones. Since these are essential hormones, the insufficiency will affect normal bodily functions. This protein is required for normal platelet binding or clotting. This disease can lead to excessive bleeding if your dog gets injured. Since they are mixed breeds, it is difficult to predict what diseases they may exactly inherit. As a paw parent to an Irish Doodle, what you can do is help your dog live a healthy lifestyle and take them to your vet regularly for preventive care. These are some of the reasons why Irish Doodles and other mixed breeds are appealing to a lot of people. Lower risk for some genetic diseases: The main idea of hybrid vigor is that mixing two breeds would produce healthier puppies. According to PetMD, combining two genetically different dogs lowers the risk of diseases that may come from two recessive alleles. Unique temperament: Different Doodle mixes cater to varying needs and preferences. In the case of the Irish Doodle, breeders focused on combining the personality and intelligence needed for great companions or family dogs. Because they have a hunting and working heritage, Irish Doodles can also become good service dogs. The result of the Irish Setter Poodle mix is a cute and cuddly dog that you can also count on for serious tasks. Minimal shedding: This is a common reason why Poodle mixes are very popular. Not everyone can tolerate shedding and hair all around their household, and some people are simply allergic. For some people, these can be overlooked. But for others, these can be a real cause of concern. Unpredictable diseases: Although studies show that mixed breeds have a reduced risk for some diseases, there is still a chance that your Irish Doodle pup will inherit some from its parents. The bad news is that you will never know which one, so you have to be on the lookout for all the diseases common to Poodles and Irish Setters. Risk of losing desirable traits: When breeds are mixed, it is uncertain which parent they will take after more or what traits they will inherit. It is never guaranteed that you will only get good genes. This concern is worsened by puppy mills or irresponsible breeders whose concern is only to profit from the popular Poodle mixes. Varying sizes and looks: Irish Doodle puppies have similar looks, but their overall appearance and build can still vary from litter to litter. They do not have standard heights and weights yet, so you might get a smaller or larger dog than you expected. Before purchasing an Irish Doodle puppy, make sure that you have weighed these pros and cons carefully. Do your research on both parent breeds, and talk with other owners of mixed breed dogs about their experience. If you have your heart set on an Irish Doodle, then you must do all you can to prepare yourself for life with your new canine companion. Here are some basic tips on how you can take care of your Irish Doodle: Feeding and Diet Your Irish Doodle would need a high-quality diet. Ask your breeder about the sizes of the previous litters so you can evaluate what kind of food you should buy. Remember that different sizes have different nutritional requirements. As puppies, they would usually need three to four meals a day because of their energy level. You can reduce this to two meals when they reach adulthood. Freshwater should also be available to your Irish Setter Poodle mix at any time. If you can, you may also choose a treat to feed your pup in between meal times. Cleaning and Grooming It is not difficult to maintain and groom an Irish Doodle because of its non-shedding coat. Their fur would only need brushing twice or thrice a week. Watch out for the ear hairs as they may cause dirt to build up. Like all breeds, you would need to clean their ears and brush their teeth regularly. To make your routine easier, introduce grooming at a young age. Make sure that it is a positive experience for your Irish Doodle puppy. Training and Exercise Standard Irish Doodles are intelligent dogs. However, this does not mean that you should spend less time training them. Training and socialization should start as early as possible. It will take some effort, but training them would make things a lot easier for you wherever you go. But if your pup is more like the Irish Setter, then it would need a strong leader. This is because Irish Setters tend to get bored or distracted easily, and they have a high activity level. Because this breed comes from dogs with a hunting heritage, they may inherit the need for activity. Standard Irish Doodles would be happy with walks and playing games, but they could also do well in activities like swimming and trekking. In general, designer breeds can be more expensive than purebred dogs because they are not as common. Irish Doodles are a bit rarer than other Poodle mixes. Mini Irish Doodles would be a bit more expensive than standard ones. All in all, owning an Irish Doodle would not come cheap. Your Irish Doodle will live with you for at least ten years, so consider these expenses carefully. Finding a reliable breeder near you might take a while. However, getting a healthy and well-raised Irish Doodle pup will be worth all your effort. Most breeders sell F1 puppies that come from an Irish Setter and Poodle. Some may also sell F1b puppies. These are Irish Doodles mixed with a Poodle, so they are more Poodle-like. You might encounter this during your search. Here is a list of Irish Doodle breeders you can get in touch with if you want this cross to be your family dog: Irish-Doodles Crockett Doodles — Irish-Doodles belongs to a network of Doodle breeders called Crockett Doodles. They breed standard red and apricot Irish Doodles, as well as miniature Irish Doodles. Crockett Doodles handles all applications. You have the option of placing a deposit once your application is accepted. This will allow you to pick an Irish Doodle from upcoming litters. They breed standard and miniature Irish Doodles, and they also produce medium-sized Irish Doodles from a Moyen Poodle parent. Purchasing a puppy from them comes with a two-year health warranty, a puppy care package, day pet insurance, and lifetime breeder support. They post their scheduled litters well in advance, and you have to send them an email to express your interest. If you are lucky enough to get on the list on time, they will require a deposit. If you find yourself on very long waitlists, you can also consider adopting. Irish Doodles may be a bit more difficult to find in rescues, but there are also a lot of similar Doodle dogs in need of new homes. All the dogs in their care spend a minimum of three weeks in their foster homes to ensure that their needs are addressed first. Doodle dogs available for adoption are posted on their website. Their organization is run by volunteers in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Their application process starts with submitting an application form. Subsequent steps will include a telephone interview, reference checks, and a home visit. Petfinder — This website lists dogs of all breeds in need of adoption, including Doodle dogs. As of writing, there are no Irish Doodles on their site yet, but there are other Doodle mixes you can choose from. You can contact the organization handling the dog on their individual information pages. Adoption fees will vary per organization, but usually, it is only up to a few hundred dollars. Getting and raising an Irish Doodle would take time, commitment, and money. Take time to learn more about this Doodle mix and carefully evaluate if an Irish Doodle is right for you. If you do not want dog hair all over your house, this breed would be good for you. Despite their long, wavy hair, Irish Doodles shed minimally. If you want to keep their coats long, regular brushing and grooming would be essential to keep the shedding at a minimum. Are Irish Doodles Hypoallergenic? According to PetMD , no dog is truly hypoallergenic. The allergens dogs produce are also on their skin and salivary glands. However, because Irish Doodles almost have a non-shedding coat, they would be a good choice for people with mild allergies. Do Irish Doodles Bark a Lot? One remarkable trait of Irish Doodles is that they are relatively quiet dogs. They rarely bark and would probably only do so when something is wrong. This is also a reason why they are said to be good for apartment living. Because Irish Doodles are intelligent and friendly dogs, they might be good for first-time owners. If you are a novice owner, the key is to prepare well and get your Irish Doodle puppy from a reputable breeder. Aside from being good family dogs, their intelligence and strength can also make them do well as service or therapy dogs. Your Irish Doodle will be quite unique because they are still a breed in development. Therefore, their looks and temperament can vary, but of course, their personalities will also be affected by their environment and human families. If you are looking for a fun and easygoing family dog and you think you can meet their need for activity, it would be hard to go wrong with an Irish Setter Poodle mix. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. They are eager to please and have significant native intelligence inherited from their parents. It is their intelligent mind and careful disposition that have made them equally good with kids and other family pets. This makes them an excellent family dog ideal for apartment life. Not do they just love the members of their families, but they are also comfortable meeting strangers. Though, it is alert and attentive. If it happens to come across anything suspicious, it would immediately alert its family. Care Exercise Not much exercise is required for this breed. Only a moderate amount of daily walk is recommended in for a happy mind and a healthy body. You can also take them out on leash for a small jogging session every day either on foot or with your bicycle. Allow them to play freely every day. It is best if you have an enclosed yard for it to play around. Grooming As discussed, the Irish doodles practically do not shed. Hence, it is pretty much easy to groom them. Simply brush their coat with a solid bristle brush at least twice a week. Bathing and dry-shampooing is advisable when your dog is dirty, or in need for one. These long-eared dogs need your attention to maintain their ear hygiene. Clean their ears when dirty. Health Problems Normally these dogs are very hardy and healthy. No breed-specific issues have been reported. However, watch out for general health problems like hip dysplasia, deafness, or blindness, common to dogs in general. Training The trainability of the Irish doodle is unpredictable. The standard poodle is a happy-go-lucky and easily trainable dog. But the Irish setters are not always so, but would rather get bored easily. Those Irish doodles that take after their setter parents sometimes demand commitment and patience from their trainers. But once the training process is successfully over, your Irish doodle will be the best trained dog in the neighborhood. Begin obedience and pack leader trainings from an early age. Train them to socialize and get accustomed to meeting new faces. Like their parents, the Irish doodles are naturally clean, and hence, are easy to be housetrained. The quantity may vary from dog to dog, depending upon the individual energy level and everyday activity. Interesting Facts Researchers have studied that, when poodle is bred with some long-haired, soft-coated breed like the Irish Setter , the offspring is almost invariably a dense, wavy-coated, non-shedding breed. The Irish doodle too is no exception. Poodles are often used as circus dogs, and probably this explains the reason as to how the Irish doddle ended up inheriting the quality of being an amusing, clownish dog with funny instincts, as also, a good sporting dog. Lifespan Sociability Irish Doodle puppy prices vary depending on a wide variety of circumstances such as where and how the puppies are bred, the color of the pups, and how well they are cared for. Vaccinations, lineage papers, and included accessories are also considered when pricing Irish Doodle pups. In general, Irish Doodles are an expensive breed and will tend to be more expensive than other dog mixes. Lesser quality breeders may charge a lower price than others, but this could mean a low quality of care that results in health issues as time goes on. And thoroughly inspect the health documentation and lineage papers before making any commitments 3 Little-Known Facts About the Irish Doodle 1. Your Irish Doodle pup may turn out to be even tempered and good-willed, or it might be a bit mischievous and unruly. Therefore, training should be a priority before your Irish Setter pup grows into an adult. New names are invented regularly, so expect this list of nicknames to grow as time goes on. Irish Poodles can sit and stay on command and learn how to retrieve your morning newspaper after some poignant training. Because Irish Doodles love to learn, they require lots of stimulation throughout the day. You will need to put aside some time for daily training and practice in addition to regular walks. The Irish Doodle is excellent with children and can put up with little ones climbing all over them. After plenty of exercise, an Irish Doodle will do well in a family setting between walls. Expect your Irish Doodle to snuggle up with the kids at bedtime but be ready for a long walk first thing in the morning. This breed also gets along well with other dogs, so they do well at dog parks and in multi-dog homes. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Irish Doodles thrive on the active nature of a busy family dynamic. So, if you tend to watch a lot of television or host indoor dinner parties instead of adventure outside or hang out in the yard, an Irish Doodle will yearn for some action and may start to exhibit behaviors that are undesirable to you. Irish Doodles like being spoken to, pet, cuddled, and played with consistently. An Irish Doodle needs at least 90 minutes of exercise daily, which is something kids can be a big part of. Helping to train and care for an Irish Doodle can teach kids some compassion and responsibility too. They also inhibit hunting characteristics as their Irish Setter parents. So, while Irish Doodles are good with other dogs, they should be supervised when interacting with other pets and animals. If an Irish Doodle becomes anxious or bored due to inactivity, they could turn that energy into aggression and revert to their hunting and retrieving instincts. This could mean bad news for pets that might be considered prey such as birds, mice, and cats. Dry and wet food is acceptable, as is a combination of the two. An open feeding plan could lead to obesity and all the healthy problems that come along with it as age progresses and activity levels decline. But this amount should be separated into two or three different meals each day. Otherwise, a growling belly and a penchant for begging may become a daily occurrence. Multiple daily feedings will also help ensure that an Irish Doodle is properly fueled as they release their energy throughout the day. Plenty of toys and stimulating activities should be taking place inside the home. Owners can expect to spend time daily on training tasks, even after their Irish Doodles have learned specific tricks and commands. We recommend working with a professional dog trainer that has experience with Irish Doodles when bringing one home. The trainer will establish basic training measures and then prescribe training techniques that can be used at home to maintain and enhance the obedience and skills the dog learns. This dog breed requires daily brushing or combing to maintain a soft and tangle-free coat. Ear hair tends to get long quickly, so the ear hair should be washed and trimmed regularly to prevent dirt buildup within the ear canal. Minor Conditions. This is a rough introduction guide to cover the basics and help you understand the difference between the Irish Doodle generations. If two F2 Irish Doodles are bred together, the offspring will be F3. This is the simplest explanation, however in reality, it is a little more complicated. Just think of the resemblances between parents and their children as a good example. Irish Doodle breeders often want dogs with particular types of characteristics. Irish Doodles have lots of energy and need plenty of space to run around. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock For this reason, breeders often opt to breed F1 Irish Doodles with a purebred Poodle to increase the likelihood that the coat type and perhaps other characteristics bear a closer resemblance to a Poodle than to an Irish Setter. The Irish Setter breed sheds and is not hypoallergenic. It is not really possible to predict if a dog from this generation will be a low shedder or be suitable for people with allergies. It is only possible to really determine what the coat will be like when the Irish Doodle is fully mature. Many breeders claim that this is the healthiest generation of Irish Doodles, because they do not suffer from genetic conditions connected with the recessive genes of each parent breed. As they are usually more widespread, they are frequently less expensive than the other Irish Doodle generations. While their coats generally need more care, they shed very little and are more similar to that of a Poodle. This makes this generation of Irish Doodle more appealing for people who have mild allergy symptoms. This short guide just covers the basics of Irish Doodle generations. These are beyond the scope of this article. If you want to delve deeper into the genetics and the principles of inheritance behind Irish Doodle generations, then this article may be worth reading. An Irish Doodle wearing a harness at the beach. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Standard Irish Doodles are medium sized dogs roughly cm inches in height when fully grown ca. These dogs are the result of crossing an Irish Setter with a Standard Poodle. How tall is a Mini Irish Doodle? The size of a full grown Irish Doodle depends on its genetics that it inherited from its parents. When a mini Poodle rather than a standard Poodle is crossed with an Irish Setter the resulting Mini Irish Doodles are typically cm inches in height when fully mature at around months. How much does an Irish Doodle weigh? A Standard Irish Doodle adult weighs in at around kg pounds , while a smaller Mini Irish Doodle adult weighs between kg pounds. What does an Irish Doodle look like? An Irish Doodle can have a wavy or curly coat, depending on the traits that the Irish Doodle inherits from its parents. Some dogs can have long hair that will need to be trimmed every so often to keep it in shape. The coat of an Irish Doodle can come in a variety of different colors. Apricot, red and black are the most common Irish Doodle colors. Some dogs also have white patches, these are often slightly more desirable and therefore expensive. While some Irish Doodles have broader faces, similar to Irish Setters, others tend to look more like Poodles with narrower features. Their eyes are usually oval or almond shaped and are a medium to kard brown color. Irish Doodle Maintenance Irish Doodles require the same general maintenance as other similar dog breeds. Nail clipping should be carried out regularly. It is best to file or clip small parts of the nails away at a time to prevent any discomfort of injury to the animal. It is important to regularly check their ears to make sure that they are clean and free of dirt and moisture which could increase the risk of ear infections. Occasionally the hair around the ears may need to be trimmed. Good dental hygiene is also essential and regular teeth brushing with a specially formulated toothpaste for dogs is advised. Do Irish Doodles need much grooming? A relaxed Irish Doodle with long wavy hair. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock The amount of grooming that an Irish Doodle requires depends a lot on the type of coat that they inherited from their parents. However they still require regular brushing multiple times a week to eliminate tangles and matted hair. Coats that are wavy and sleek like that of an Irish Setter, tend to shed more and also require frequent brushing. Based on the length of the hair, it may also need to be trimmed by a groomer every weeks to keep it in good shape. How often should you bathe an Irish Doodle? Frequent bathing can irritate the skin of an Irish Doodle so try to bathe your Irish Doodle just a few times each year. Roughly once every months is ideal, but occasionally they may need to be bathed more frequently. Are Irish Doodles hypoallergenic? Irish Doodle puppies can be exceptionally cute and almost teaddy bear like! Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Irish Doodles are typically medium to low shedders and are suitable for some people with mild allergies. However, the type of coat that the individual dog has is inherited from its parents and just how hypoallergenic it is can be difficult to determine until the dog is fully grown. Generally speaking, the F1B Irish Doodles have coats that are more similar to Poodles, which means they shed considerably less and are more suitable for people with allergies. Irish Doodles from first generation mixes F1 Irish Doodles may have coats that resemble that of the hypoallergenic single layer Poodle parent or the non-hypoallergenic double coat of an Irish Setter parent. It is always a good idea to consult medical, as well as veterinary professionals about hypoallergenic dog breeds, before you purchase a four legged friend. These professionals can usually point you in the right direction of a suitable breed for your specific allergies. Do Irish Doodles shed a lot? Irish Doodles typically have medium to low shedding levels. Depending on the generation, the degree of shedding dogs experience can vary. Generally F1 Irish Doodles shed more than F1B Irish Doodles for example, which is why the latter is favored by people with mild allergies. How long do Irish Doodles live for? Irish Doodles come in a variety of different colors. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock Irish Doodle life expectancy generally ranges between years, depending on the dog. This is pretty typical life expectancy for medium sized dogs. The Irish Doodle mini form may tend to live longer with a typical life expectancy closer to 15 years. While Irish Doodles are generally a healthy breed, particularly the F1 generation, they do tend to suffer from some health problems. Are Irish Doodles healthy? Irish Doodles sometimes suffer from hip dysplasia and bloat. Other Irish Doodle health concerns induce eye and skin diseases, as well as epilepsy. Regular vet check ups and necessary tests are essential to make sure your Irish Doodle stays healthy. What do Irish Doodles eat? Irish Doodles require good quality dog food to ensure that all of their nutritional needs are being fulfilled. As the size, as well as gender, age and activity level of the dog determines the amount of food a dog should be given, it is important that you discuss food portions with your vet. Irish Doodles will eat more than Mini Irish Doodles so it is important to make sure that your dog is getting the right amounts of food and not being put at risk of becoming overweight. How much exercise do Irish Doodles need? An Irish Doodle running at top speed. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock As energetic dogs, Irish Doodles need hours a day of exercise to stay balanced and healthy. They enjoy a wide range of sporting activities and will gladly accompany their owners on walks, jogs, hikes, swims and cycling trips. These smart dogs also enjoy exercises and activities that stimulate their mental capacity and therefore perform well in canine sports such as agility, obedience and rally trials. Dogs that do not get sufficient exercise on a daily basis are likely to become depressed and destructive, as well as obese. It is essential that Irish Doodle owners realize the considerable amount of time that needs to be devoted to Irish Doodles in terms of exercise and maintenance on a daily basis before committing to getting one. Do Irish Doodles like to swim? Many Irish Doodles really enjoy swimming, which is not surprising given their ancestry. The Poodle is a type of water dog and is usually an excellent swimmer. Irish Setters were generally bred with Irish physical traits required for varied terrain in Ireland. Some of the upland hunting areas are quite boggy and marsh, so the Irish Setter would also need to get its feet wet from time to time. If you would like to introduce your Irish Doodle to water, it is best to do so gradually to ensure that it is a positive experience for the dog. Always keep an eye out to make sure that the water and weather conditions are safe for swimming. Is an Irish Doodle a smart dog? Irish Doodles are very intelligent dogs that are quick to learn and also quick to get bored if the task does not stimulate or entertain them enough. Like the Irish Setter, the Irish Doodle tends not to forget the things and tricks that it has learned, regardless of whether they are good behaviors or not so desirable ones. Be sure to start early with training to avoid as many training mishaps as possible! Is it easy to train an Irish Doodle? Irish Doodles are very playful, but can be stubborn and difficult to train. They pick up good and bad habits quickly and constantly require new input to avoid getting bored. Irish Setters show many of the same traits, while generally Poodles are easier to train. Starting to train an Irish Doodle at an early age will help set clear boundaries for the dog for life. It is also a good idea to get them socialized with strangers, children and other dogs and pets from an early age to ensure they can be confident in a wide range of different circumstances. Irish Doodles need a calm and consistent trainer that offers them plenty of stimulating ways to learn how to behave and be disciplined. Lots of patience is required and this is not a task for everyone. Positive reinforcement helps to reaffirm desired behaviors and should be preferred to harsh criticism, which tends to have a more detrimental effect on this sensitive dog breed. They thoroughly enjoy being included in activities and family life and thrive on company with people. As highly intelligent dogs, they love to learn new things and are open to trying new things. Is an Irish Doodle a good first dog? It is important to weigh up the Irish Doodle pros and cons, especially if you are not experienced with owning and handling a dog. Irish Doodles are friendly and lovable, but they can be challenging to train. If you are someone with lots of patience and can invest the time and energy to calming and consistently train your Irish Doodle, then it may be a dog for you. Other serious considerations that you should keep in mind before opting for an Irish Doodle is whether you have sufficient time to cover the exercise and maintenance requirements of an Irish Doodle. Are Irish Doodles good family dogs? Active families are the perfect fit for an Irish Doodle. They enjoy lots of exercise, as well as company and in a family they are likely to get both. The friendly character of the Irish Doodle, in addition to its ability to get along with other pets helps to cement the family friendly characteristics of this type of dog even more. Are Irish Doodles good with kids? An Irish Doodle puppy in the shade of a chair. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Irish Doodles are generally better suited to families with older kids, rather than young ones. First of all, the size of a standard Irish Doodle may overwhelm younger kids and as they are quite energetic and playful, there is definitely likely to be some level of wild play, the rough and tumble might be too much for little ones. Can an Irish Doodle be left alone? It is not generally advised to leave Irish Doodles alone for long amounts of time. Without company, Irish Doodles tend to get loney and may suffer from separation anxiety. The symptoms of this may show as excessive barking or other destructive tendencies. Do Irish Doodles bark a lot? Are Irish Doodles cuddly? A sleeping Irish Doodle puppy. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Yes, Irish Doodles are very cuddly and enjoy social contact so plenty of rubs and tickles are usually very welcome. The coat type of the Irish Doodle will either be wavy, shaggy or curly depending on what the dog inherited. While it is sometimes silky, like an Irish Setter, it is definitely fuller in volume and typically soft. Are Irish Doodles aggressive? No, a well balanced Irish Doodle is not usually aggressive. Irish Doodles are generally good natured and friendly, which is just one of the reasons why they are not good guard dogs. Are Irish Doodles good watch dogs? While Irish Doodles are not ideal dogs if you need a guard dog, their alert and attentive nature is well suited to being watch dogs. You can rely on these dogs to announce the arrival of a stranger to the home. Friend or foe are usually greeted in the same friendly manner, which is typical of the temperament of Irish Doodles. Are Irish Doodles good with other dogs? Exposing Irish Doodles to other dogs and pets at an early age will help the socialization process. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock In general, Irish Doodles get on well with other dogs, so at least in theory it is possible to have more than one dog in the home. Exposure to other dogs from an early age helps with the socialization process and can help to ensure a higher level of success. Are Irish Doodles good with cats? While many Irish Doodles get on well with cats, it does tend to depend a little on the individual dog. Irish Doodles that grow up with cats from a young age and are well socialized are less likely to cause problems with cats. It is worth remembering that the ancestors of the Irish Doodle, the Irish Setter and the Poodle, were used as hunting dogs especially for wild fowl so there is probably some instinctive prey drive still within the Irish Doodle. It is probably not a good idea to have an Irish Doodle and a pet bird… Irish Doodle Breeders Reputable dog breeders are extremely important. If you are looking for a specific breed of dog, you need to do your homework as there are many breeders out there that do a suboptimal job and unfortunately there are also a lot of scams. There are a few good rules to go by that are the same for Irish Doodles as for all other dog breeds. The Kennel Club has a good list of general questions to prepare to ask the breeder and examples of the types of questions to ask during the visit. Tip: Why not contact some veterinary clinics to see if they are aware of good Irish Doodle Breeders, they can sometimes help put you in contact with the right people. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock When it comes to looking into ads for Irish Doodle puppies or Mini Irish Doodle puppies for sale, there are several things that you should keep in mind. You want to be able to visit the dog breeder and see the puppies, their mother and the conditions that they were raised in before purchasing the dog. As well as having the opportunity to ask the breeder a lot of important questions, the breed will also be able to ask you questions and if it is a good breeder, determine your suitability for this dog breed and an individual puppy. An experienced, knowledgeable breeder will be able to find a suitable home to fit the character type of the dog and not just hurry through with a sale. There are many websites available online that offer good deals that sound too good to be true. Please be wary. You want to make sure that the breeder is a reputable one. It is important to make sure to do your research and make sure that the Irish Doodle breeder you opt for is one that has the welfare of their animals as their top priority and wants to ensure that they get the best homes. This same advice can also be applied when purchasing other dog breeds. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock The price of an Irish Doodle can vary considerably depending on several factors. The coloring of the dog is likely to determine some of the price. The red Irish Doodles being more expensive ca. Special white markings up the price even more. It is not uncommon for the Irish Doodle for sale price to be considerably higher ca. As Mini Irish Doodles typically come in smaller litter, their cost is typically even higher minimum of ca. It is thought that the Irish Doodle was developed as one of the recent designer dogs in the last two decades or so in the United States. History of the Irish Setter The Irish Setter is a medium-sized, solid red chestnut or mahogany colored dog that was developed in Ireland as a gun dog for hunting wild fowl. They are thought to have first developed around the 17th century, although records are difficult to come by. Originally, the setter dogs in Ireland were a mix of white with red patches. Over time, certain wealthy families of dog breeders in Ireland who kept these dogs in large numbers tended to focus on particular traits in the dogs. An Irish Setter dog has a silky, solid red coat. Around the s and s, the popularity of the solid red setter began to rise rapidly. In the American Kennel Club also recognized the breed. As the breeders for the Irish Setter focused largely on the appearance of the dog, the hunting traits that the dog were bred for for generations, became less relevant. In contrast, the largely forgotten Irish Red and White Setter was threatened with extinction during the rapid rise to fame of its cousin. The breeders who fought hard to preserve this breed, focused their efforts not on the aesthetic, but on the hunting ability of this dog. It was only as recently as that this breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club. Ironically, almost a century after its descendant, the Irish Setter was recognized. The Irish Setter is now the most popular of all native Irish dog breeds world wide. Miniature Irish Setters are a smaller variation and not that common. History of Poodles Poodles are a type of water dog that are thought to have developed in Germany, although some people argue that the dog originated in France. One strong reason to believe that the Poodle has German origins stems from its name. As a water dog, the main task of the Poodle would have been to retrieve wild fowl from that water like other breeds such as the Golden Retriever and Labrador. Poodles are energetic and typically have a coat that does not shed all that much or at all. Photo: slowmotiongli via Depositphotos Intelligent, easy to train and eager to please, Poodles are a very popular dog breed that come in various different sizes. It is thought that the origin of the Miniature Poodle developed through their use in circuses in France during the 19th century. The Toy Poodle is even smaller than the Miniature Poodle. Regardless of the size of the Poodle they are all considered the same breed by the American Kennel Club and have the same breed standard. While extravagant Poodle hairstyles are what commonly comes to mind when one thinks of this dog breed, what few people know is that the original unusual hair styles were functional. Poodles have a single layer coat that is typically a non-shedding coat and is considered to be hypoallergenic. These are genetically more similar to Poodles, less likely to shed and are generally more suitable for people with allergies. Take your pick, whichever you prefer! They enjoy the company of their owners, whether it is being active and out and about or cuddling up with them on the sofa after a busy day. Their need for company makes them more sensitive and affected by separation though so it is important to ensure that they do not get lonely and get the required level of input every day. Each one of these unique breeds has its own characteristics, Irish traits, charm and interesting history. From the legendary tales of the Irish Wolfhound in Irish mythology to the war efforts of the Irish Terrier in World War I, there is lots to discover about these dog breeds. If you would like to find out more about native Irish dog breeds, then you can check out the Guide to Irish Dog Breeds. For more in depth information, please check the individual dog posts. They are a popular mixed breed dog among hybrid dog lovers. Choosing the right name for your puppy can be tricky, so why not let us help you find the perfect fit for your Poodle or Poodle mix! However, in purebred circles, there is some opposition to such hybrid dogs. This is because they believe breeding two purebred genetic lines together dilutes each gene pool. You can read more about the debate of purebred vs. The Irish Poodle inherits interesting hunting and working dog lineages. And the Irish Setter is a gundog extraordinaire. They were bred for their stamina and agility, and because they could maneuver over different kinds of terrain. However, they were not the type of hunting dog that chased down their quarry. Instead, they used their powerful sense of smell. And they rhythmically wagged their tails to indicate to hunters they had tracked their prey. A call to revive the working Irish Setter began in the s. And today, they are bred mostly as a working dog or for conformation. Origins Of The Poodle The Poodle has a long and noble lineage going back at least to the 15th-century. However, there is some debate about whether they originated from a German water retriever or the French Barbet dog. They were experts in duck hunting and water retrieval. And people believe their backsides were specifically clipped to make it easier for them to swim, and bands of hair left at their ankles to keep them warm in the water. The poodle was first recognized by the AKC in .These days you will likely watch a Poodle at an extravagant dog show. And there, you will see a keenly intelligent and athletic dog appear like a prima ballerina on a football field. The specially-trained mix dog was given by a charity to provide assistance to an autistic boy. Your best bet is to learn as much as you can about each parent dog to determine how large your Irish Setter Poodle mix may grow! Being a cross between two attractive and athletic working dog breeds, the Irish Setter Doodle is guaranteed to showcase at least a few of their wonderful qualities. Irish Setter Appearance Irish Setters have eye-catching, long, and flowing hair. And they are best known for their fire-engine-red coats. Poodle Appearance The Poodle has a thick, wiry, water-repellent coat. And the Poodle is bred in standard, miniature, and toy sizes. Typically, standard purebred Poodles weigh around 40 to 70 pounds. Miniature Poodles weigh around 10 to 15 pounds. And toy Poodles weighs around 4 to 6 pounds. Therefore, you may get a standard, tiny, or mini Irish Setter Poodle mix! For example, an Irish Setter Mini Poodle mix will likely stand between 15 and 25 inches and weigh between 20 and 35 pounds. Whereas, a standard Irish Setter Doodle adult will likely stand anywhere from 15 to 27 inches tall and weigh between 35 to 55 pounds. The Poodle also exhibits a sense of calmness and sensitivity. But they can also like to bark. In contrast, the Irish Setter is a blend of energy, mischievousness, stubbornness. While loving and sociable, they too can bark and have some issues around chewing things. In the end, the Irish Doodle temperament can balance out and consist of natural intelligence and a strong drive to please. Their personality makes these dogs easy to train and capable service and therapy dog work. You can consult our training guides here. Both parent breeds are athletic and intelligent dogs that possess naturally-high energy levels. Therefore, they enjoy lots of daily exercises and playtime. You should provide daily, enriching training sessions. It will help build a strong bond with your new dog. And you will also ensure your pup quickly learns how to be a sociable, productive member of your family and the community. If your time and schedule permits, you will also find your Irish Doodle to be an eager and excellent participant in an assortment of dog activities. You can have them go to agility, dock diving, rally, and retrieving. And you can consider K-9, service dog, and dog therapy training. It is safe to say that any shared health issues are a concern. You should also ensure the breeder you work with has screened and cleared parent dogs of preventable health concerns. However, they are susceptible to a life-threatening condition called bloat, which requires immediate treatment by a vet. You can learn more about this condition in our article on canine bloat. Research indicates a varied diet, smaller portions, and more frequent meals can reduce the risk of bloat. However, they share the same risk for bloat, like the Irish Setter. Toy and Miniature Poodles are more likely to see orthopedic issues like Legg-Calve-Perthes and luxating patellas. CHIC recommends testing purebred standard Poodles for hip dysplasia and eye issues. Optional tests include cardiac exams, skin tests, and thyroid evaluations. They recommend miniature Poodles should be tested for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye issues , while toy Poodles should be tested for patellar luxation and eye issues. Irish Doodle Grooming The Irish Setter parent needs brushing and grooming at least every other day to keep the coat and the ears healthy. For working Irish Setters, daily brushing and grooming is vital to keep the coat tangle-free and the ears free from infection. This makes the likelihood of ear infection more common. Therefore, for the Irish Doodle hybrid, you will need to commit to regular brushing and grooming. This means t least every other day. You want your Irish Setter Poodle mix to keep their skin and coat healthy and clean. Opting for a short coat clip can help with the daily grooming and brushing duties. But you still need to pay close attention to regular ear cleaning to avoid infection. But remember, there is technically no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. Do Irish Doodles Make Good Family Pets Since the Irish Doodle will likely inherit the high prey drive of both working dog parents, this may not be the best pet dog if you have other vulnerable family pets! However, the Irish Setter Doodle personality lends itself very well to life with a family. With appropriate socialization and training, both the standard or mini Irish Doodle can make an amazing family dog. They can even be good with young children. Overall, Irish Doodles are smart and sociable. They come from a long history of partnering very closely with people at work and at home. There are many options and we have a list of rescues below where you may find an Irish Doodle. A good rescue center will support you through the process and answer your questions to the best of their ability. Unfortnuately, you may or may not know the whole history of the dog you are rescuing. But you get the benefit of having an adult dog that is probably already house trained. They may be one reason why mixed dogs have steadily been growing in popularity. When you are looking for Irish Doodle puppies, the most important detail is to find a reputable and responsible Irish Doodle breeders. You should find one that will do all of the required and recommended health tests for the parent dogs to breed healthy puppies. These places are usually more interested in making a buck than the care of their dogs and often have poor living conditions for pups. You can consult our puppy guide as you search for Irish Doodle puppies. And taking care of Irish Doodle puppies is a big responsibility. Luckily, we have some great guides to help you with all of the important questions in training and taking care of your puppy:. Families and singles, apartment and house settings, multi-animal households Temperament: Friendly, active, intelligent, good with kids This mixed breed does not need tons of exercise and does not mind spending time at home alone, making them a great pet option for households with busy schedules. However, these are dogs that do love spending time with humans, so they expect to get plenty of attention from their household members every day. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Irish Doodle Puppies Image Credit: Joca de Jong, Shutterstock It is important to learn all that you can about the Irish Doodle before deciding whether to adopt one, as this may not be the right breed for your household when all is said and done. The Irish Doodle is an energetic and loving dog that loves to spend time playing with people, especially with kids. Irish Doodles are generally healthy, but keep in mind that they can be susceptible to a couple of health problems. With good care, a healthy diet, and exercise, your Irish Doodle should be a healthy and happy dog. Bringing an Irish Doodle home will be a fun and playful experience. These dogs have a sensitive side that makes them crave the attention and approval of their human counterparts. Once a new skill, task, trick, or habit is learned, it is tough to get this mixed breed to unlearn it. Therefore, it is important to offer positive reinforcement when they do the right things and redirection when unwanted actions take place. They thrive with obedience training in place, and they have no problem hanging out with other dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? With a curious nature and penchant to play, the Irish Doodle typically accepts dog friends of all types, small and large, as time goes on. However, if this breed grows up isolated from other dogs, they may feel threatened when confronted with another dog during adulthood. Therefore, it is pertinent to introduce obedience training and ensure socialization with other dogs during puppyhood. These dogs can also get along with cats and other pets if they are introduced early on and trained not to chase or hunt at a young age. Find out everything from food and water requirements to exercise preferences and training abilities and more here. Most owners find that 2 to 3 meals a day are best for digestion and performance. Commercial dog food should include real protein in the form of chicken, beef, turkey, or fish as the first ingredient. Whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and oats should also be included, as should fresh fruits and veggies, including berries, bananas, cranberries, greens, squash, corn, and sprouts. Any wet or homemade food should include all the features laid out here for commercial dry food. However, they do not require hours of work or physical interaction every day to stay healthy as they age. What each Irish Doodle does require is a brisk, 5—minute walk around the neighborhood or apartment community each day. They will never turn down a game of fetch in the yard, and they will not hesitate to play a game of tug-of-war with another dog or a child companion in the house during evening hours. On the other hand, owners can expect their Irish Doodle to spend a great deal of time cuddling, hanging around, and lying near laps whenever possible. These dogs are chill when everyone else is and excited when the social situation calls for it, if they get a quick walk and regular interactive attention. These dogs can easily learn the basics including, come, sit, and stay. They can also learn advanced skills, such as fetching the remote control and properly greeting visitors at the door. These dogs can also learn agility training and excel in competitions, thanks to the smarts of their Poodle side and the agility of their Irish Setter side. Hunting training is possible, but owners should not expect this mixed breed to become a superb hunter for commercial reasons. Combing or brushing three to five times a week is necessary to keep shedding under control. Summer months may require up to 5 days of grooming to minimize shedding throughout the house. These dogs may require nail trimming once a month or so if they do not get out to walk on the ground at least five times a week. Ears should be checked and wiped clean with a damp rag or cotton swabs regularly. Some Irish Setters are semi-hypoallergenic if their coats are inherited from their Poodle parents. However, potential owners should assume that their Irish Doodle is not hypoallergenic and should make ownership decisions accordingly. However, there are certain health conditions they can become susceptible to that are worth knowing about. Minor Conditions. Irish Doodles are remarkable designer dogs that make excellent family pets. While the combined genes from the parent breeds impart high energy to the Irish Doodle, they also make this beautiful poodle mix breed highly trainable. What is an Irish Doodle? However, it might have originated in the United States around the late s or s. To understand the origins and the history of the Irish Doodle, let us consider the history of its parent breeds. They were bred to hunt birds and were known for their remarkable ability to sniff out the game from far distances. Irish Setters point or stand in a manner that looks like they are pointing to help hunters flush out the game. Setters are also known for their excellent swimming and retrieving skills. Some believe that the breed originated from the French Water Dogs called Barbets. Poodles also might have been trained as duck hunters. Today, the breed is considered one of the smartest in the world. The cross between Poodles and Irish Setters results in this remarkable hybrid dog. The Irish Doodle or the Setterpoo might be relatively rare today but given its excellent qualities, a day will surely come when more and more people start demanding more of these beautiful dogs. Irish Doodles are medium-sized dogs since most breeders use Standard or Miniature Poodles in their breeding programs. You can expect your fully-grown Irish Doodle to measure between inches .Irish Doodles stop growing between months. The coat of Irish Doodles could be curly, wavy, fleece, long, and dense. Common colours seen in the breed are black, red, apricot, golden, tan, mahogany, brown, black-and-tan, and white. Do Irish Doodles Shed? This means that a first-generation F1 Setterdoodle could inherit the shedding gene from the Setter parent. Due to this additional Poodle breeding, an F1-B puppy is more likely to be hypoallergenic. Do Irish Doodles Need Grooming? Are Irish Doodles High Maintenance? Irish Doodles can be high-maintenance in a couple of ways. Firstly, their coats need regular grooming as they tend to trap dirt and debris easily. They also have sensitive skin and their long and wavy coats also mat and tangle easily. Due to this, your pet will need daily brushing. Some pet parents also take their Irish Doodles to professional groomers for special Poodle cuts. You can always groom an Irish Doodle at home — simply keep the body and legs short and the face and tail long. How often you bathe your Irish Poo depends on how dirty it gets. In general, you can bathe your Doodle once a month. As mentioned earlier, they require a lot of playtime and exercise. This is definitely not a dog that you leave in the yard without it experiencing separation anxiety. You must walk your pet at least times a day for minutes. Like all Doodles, they also love being a part of all family activities and dislike being left alone. Are Irish Doodles Calm? This highly energetic dog has a tireless personality and it is sure to keep you active as well! Due to their exuberant natures, Irish Doodles make excellent companions for kids. Despite their stubborn streaks, they are also willing to please their owners. Irish Doodles also do well with strangers and other pets. This is a great dog for almost every household. Most well- socialised and trained Irish Doodles are even-tempered and have a rollicking personality. Are Irish Doodles Good with Kids? As mentioned earlier, Irish Doodles are excellent companion pets for households with children. This is because, the breed is known for its outgoing nature, gentle demeanour, and sweet-loving personality. In fact, according to PetMD , both the Irish Setter and Poodle breeds also rank in the list of top 10 dog breeds for children. Since they are playful and energetic, children are better suited for giving the Irish Doodle the love, attention, and exercise the dog needs on a daily basis. This is crucial since the breed hates being alone and loves to have company and regular playtime. How Smart are Irish Poos? Irish Poos are extremely smart as both parent breeds are very smart. They have a capacity for learning a wide array of tricks and commands. According to Dr. Stanley Coren — an authority on dog intelligence — Irish Setters rank 35th and the Poodle ranks 2nd in the list of highly intelligent dog breeds. Therefore, there is little doubt that the Irish Poo is incredibly smart as well. Irish Doodles possess a remarkable degree of both obedience and working intelligence. This means that they are not only capable of understanding the commands and tasks assigned to them but also have the mental ability to respond appropriately to situations in an effective manner. Thankfully, these smart dogs are highly-trainable. However, you need to be very consistent with the training. Stick to a strict feeding and potty schedule. Do Irish Doodles Like to Swim? Swimming is an excellent exercise for Irish Doodles. The breed certainly has all the traits that make them excellent swimmers. However, if your Setterdoodle is on the smaller side, it could tire easily while swimming. So always use a doggy vest before letting your pet into the water. Do Irish Doodles Like to Cuddle? Yes, these loving and affectionate dogs love to cuddle. And although they are very energetic, they are always up for a snuggle on the sofa or in your bed! How Much is a Mini Irish Doodle? The price is not standardised and can vary from breeder to breeder. Always research the breeder well before you buy your Doodle. If needed, visit several breeders to see their kennels and meet their dogs. Avoid buying from puppy mills or backyard breeders as their puppies are kept under appalling conditions and tend to have health and behavioural issues. What to Feed an Irish Setter Poo? Do Irish Doodles have Sensitive Stomachs? Some Irish Doodles tend to have sensitive tummies and do well on hypoallergenic food, grain-free food, raw dog food , or special prescription diets. Look for dog food with the first ingredient as real meat — chicken, fish, or turkey are a good choice. Avoid foods with fillers, colours, and preservatives. Your breeder or vet nutritionist can guide you in selecting the best food for your Irish Doodle based on its age, life stage, and activity levels. These healthy dogs live for years. If you purchase your Irish Doodle from a reputable breeder, chances are they have tested their breeding stock for common genetic issues. This can reduce joint problems and eye-related conditions in the breed. Common health issues seen in Irish Doodles are arthritis, epilepsy, and thyroid-related problems. Looking to find an Irish Doodle puppy? The Irish Doodle is a rare poodle mix breed in Australia. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.
american bulldog puppies for sale in delaware - Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Welcome to Mississippi Farm Frenchies! We hope we can help you in finding a well bred, loving French Bulldog puppy. We are a located in the countryside just south of Hattiesburg, MS. We live on a small farm where we raise and care for our babies our five French Bulldogs , and their babies. Momma and puppies live in our home until we can find them their fur-ever homes. Our free range Frenchies are raised in our home no kennels with plenty of love to go around. We don't believe in raising a dog in a kennel or a cage and we don't support puppy mills. If you don't purchase your puppy from us we ask that you consider not purchasing from a puppy mill. Purchasing from puppy mills furthers the inhumane treatment of dogs. Contact us with questions Four options to contact us pick whichever one works for you 1. Call or text us numbers below 2. Fill out the form below and we'll get back with you as soon as we can 3. Click the FB Messenger icon on the bottom right of the page usually gets a pretty quick response. However, if you don't sign into FB first, it will send your message as a "Guest". And the discussion thread will be deleted by FB after 24 hours. Email us at the below email address. Be mindful of the first few days The next thing would be to prepare yourself for the next few days. Remember, all young dogs form a bond with their family and a previous owner. Thus, separating a two-month-old Frenchie can be stressful not only to you but primarily to your pet. Whatever the breed, they still pack animals, meaning they need their parents to survive in the first few months. The separation from their parents can mean danger. Thus, it would be best to prepare yourself for nights of whining, howling, squealing, and restlessness. The first few nights might be truly tough. Still, try your best to hold on and put the puppy in a place where it will not feel alone. It would also be best if you make a schedule with your family for the first few days. You can decide who among your family will play with the puppy. Giving the pup plenty of attention will relieve the separation anxiety and make the housebreaking process much more efficient. Make the ride home comfy If you took your Frenchie home through a car ride, it would be best to make it as comfortable as possible. In short, it would be best to have someone to accompany your pet instead of leaving it in a crate or alone in the backseat. Getting a health check If possible, it would be best to have your vet examine the puppy while still with the breeder. This way, you can make sure the pup is healthy. For this reason, always make sure you remember and follow all instructions. This way, you can take care of your pet easier. Choosing a Good French Bulldog Seller and Breeder While all French Bulldog pups are excellent pets, you can still go wrong if you choose the wrong breeder. If you want the best care and support for your pup, you also need to find a reputable breeder. In general, you can take these things as your guide in finding the right breeder: A reputable breeder will show all paperwork A reputable breeder would be proud to show all the paperwork it has for your pup. It includes the pedigree and health clearances. Thus, it will ask all kinds of questions. Thus, it breeds pups but not much and lets the parents rest and not mate all the time. A reputable breeder will provide you with feedback from other customers A reputable breeder would be proud to show the feedback and experiences of other customers. In fact, he or she will even show a connection to other breeders and vets. A reputable breeder would show his or her breeding experience. A reputable breeder would show the dogs in recognized confirmation shows. Further, he or she should have strong connections with other breeders. A reputable breeder only breeds a single type A reputable breeder shows its expertise if they focus only on a single breed and not multiple ones. Other states. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Mississippi? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Mississippi work? French Bulldog puppies for sale Mississippi are a really good choice for anyone in need of an easy-to-train, intelligent canine companion. These pups may have their goofy moments now and then, but they know when to get serious and respond well to training. For this reason, a French Bulldog for sale in Mississippi can absolutely be recommended to inexperienced or first-time owners. Are French Bulldogs good family dogs? They sure are! In fact, French Bulldogs for sale Mississippi are some of the very best dogs you can hope to find for typical family life. They're small and portable, great for car rides and outdoor adventures, and they get on well with kids too. They're also very cuddly and loving dogs that will enjoy curling up on your lap and they like to be around people as much as possible. What are some common health issues associated with Frenchies? Unfortunately, just like any other breed, French Bulldogs for sale in Mississippi can suffer from certain health issues, and it's wise for any prospective owners to be aware of these issues in advance. Due to their flat faces, Frenchies can have various breathing problems and tend to snore and wheeze quite a lot. They may also develop spinal disorders later in life and can have joint problems too. Can I only search with local Frenchie sellers? We always recommend looking with local sellers to start off, as this just makes it easier to pick-up your French Bulldog for sale Mississippi, and bring it home. However, the Uptown network includes trusted breeders all over the US and you can buy from any of them, making arrangements with the seller to either collect your dog in person or have it flown over to an airport near you. How do you screen sellers of French Bulldog? The simple truth is that there are some terrific French Bulldog breeders Mississippi, but there are also quite a lot of scammers and lower quality breeders too. This way, you can rely on Uptown to help you find French Bulldog puppies Mississippi from proven, trusted sellers. What makes Uptown Puppies different from other networks with French Bulldogs? Unfortunately, most of those sites put more effort and money into marketing than they do into offering great customer experiences or upholding high standards of animal care. We're different. We only ever work with trusted breeders and ethical businesses, without a single puppy mill insight. What's the deal with puppy mills? If you want to find happy and healthy French Bulldog puppies in Mississippi, you should probably steer clear of puppy mills. They're basically like dog factories, treating pups as products and caring more about making as much money as possible than providing clean, professional facilities for their animals. Many pups bought from mills have health problems and lower life expectancies. Are French Bulldogs suitable for small homes? If you live in an apartment or small home, a Mississippi French Bulldog for sale could be just what you need. Many bigger breeds don't do too well in little homes, but Frenchies are small enough to thrive in an apartment without any issues. Just be sure that you can provide sufficient stimulation to your dog and meet their exercise needs with regular walks and play-time. What sort of dog is a Frenchie? Mississippi French Bulldogs for sale are always easy to spot with their distinctive appearance and stubby legs but don't be fooled by their height. They may be small, but the average French Bulldog Mississippi has plenty of character! These dogs are fun-loving and cuddly too, getting on great with people of all ages and enjoying a range of activities from learning tricks and playing games to snoozing by the fire. Why do Frenchies tend to be so expensive? If you want your own Mississippi French Bulldog puppy for sale, one of the first things to know is that these dogs can be quite expensive. This is all due to the fact that Mississippi French Bulldog breeders have to spend quite a lot of cash when breeding these dogs. They have really narrow hips, so need to have C-sections to deliver their pups safely and require costly artificial insemination too. These costs add up, leading to higher price tags for the pups.
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american bulldog puppies for sale in delaware - Following the Labrador feeding chart by age will give you a rough idea of how much to feed your puppy. Labradors are known for their playfulness, and sweet disposition, and are good at fetch which is why you should provide them with the best nutrition to support their growth. Ensure that the food contains the right amounts of protein, carbs, fat, and vitamins. You should avoid feeding your Labrador puppy too much food as they are prone to joint issues, but also avoid feeding them less food as they will be malnourished and not reach their growth milestones. Continue reading to understand how much to feed a Labrador puppy. The amount of food that your Labrador puppy should eat depends on a combination of certain factors such as activity level, weight, type, and brand of food. Heavier and bigger puppies need to eat more food than smaller puppies, and dogs that have active lives will need more calories than those living sedentary life. Fortunately, all dog food contains a feeding guideline on the packaging to get you started. It is important that you create and maintain a feeding schedule for your puppy so that they can maintain a healthy weight and develop good habits. Consult your pet nutritionist or vet, to learn more about how much food you should give your specific Labrador. Labrador Feeding Chart By Age A Labrador can be fed between one and six cups of food depending on their level of activity, age, and type of food. The amount will differ from one puppy to the other as every puppy has there own requirements. Therefore, you should follow a feeding guideline that is indicated in the dog food brands or the one designed by your vet. As a Labrador owner, it is important to understand that the nutritional requirements of your puppy are different at each stage as they grow. Therefore, adult and puppy dogs should be trained to eat the correct amount at the right schedule. Ensure that you keep a Labrador puppy feeding chart with you. Calculating the Resting Energy Requirement RER of your puppy and doubling it can help you get the right number of calories to feed them. Feed your puppy a little amount, in the beginning, to ensure that they are ready to eat. If they are not ready, do not force the food on them. Be patient with your puppy and they will be on puppy food soon. The puppy will be relying less on the milk. When your puppy starts eating all the food you offer them, you can reduce the amount of water and increase the food amount. The puppy will start becoming active and start exploring away from the mother as they no longer rely on the mother. By the end of the week into week seven, the puppy will be able to eat just puppy food. Ensure that you feed them dry food that is full of healthy protein. They should be eating three to four times per day and need about 2 cups of food. Avoid free feeding the puppy as it may be hard to know exactly how much they are eating. Create a feeding schedule as early as possible and this will help them develop good habits in the future. Put the food out for only 10 to 15 minutes and take the bowl away if they do not finish. This can be tricky if you are working but it is important that you maintain their feeding schedule as this is a developmental stage. Three meals per day will help your growing puppy develop their digestive system and ensure that they are getting their nutrition. This is also the beginning of the teething stage and they will be biting a lot of things including hard dog food and chew toys. They should eat about two cups of food distributed over three meals. But you should still maintain feeding them two cups of food but can reduce the mealtimes to twice per day. Watch out for the amount of food your puppy eats to avoid them gaining weight. Also, ensure that they are getting enough exercise to burn off the food. So, you should transition them to adult food. Ensure that the switching process is done slowly to avoid causing vomiting and diarrhea to your puppy. Your Labrador can be fed once per day now and the amount reduced to about two cups of food. Understanding Labrador Puppy Nutritional Needs If you stick to feeding your Labrador high-quality food, be assured that they are getting all the necessary nutrients. However, it is useful to know the types of nutrients that they need and the ingredients to watch out for. Carbohydrates — healthy carbs are necessary for providing energy for your puppy. Sources like barley, rice, and oatmeal are great. Healthy carbs can also be found in veggies such as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. Fiber — it helps regulate the digestive system of your puppy and helps the stool become healthier and firm. Sources include spinach, chicory root, and beet pulp. Sources include fish oils, fish, canola oils, and fish. Vitamins and Minerals — are needed for improving the immune system which helps in protecting your puppy from diseases. Veggies and real fruits like cranberries and blueberries are great sources. The frequency of feeding your Labrador depends mostly on their age. Puppies need to eat three to four times per day while senior and adult Labradors can eat one to two times per day. Labrador is a breed that is motivated by food, meaning that the chance of them turning down food is low. Given their nature, it can be difficult to figure out whether they are really hungry or just food obsessed. Since they cannot regulate their eating habits, it is important that you develop a feeding schedule to prevent them from gaining weight. Both types of food provide your dog with the best nutrition they need to grow and develop. Also, check the label on the packaging and make sure that it contains the perfect balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Kibble is cheaper than wet foods and stores easily as it does not require refrigeration. It also helps clean the teeth by removing tartar and buildup when your puppy chews it. Wet food also provides balanced and complete nutrition for your Labrador. It provides more hydration to your puppy as it contains high moisture content. However, wet food needs to be put in the fridge once opened otherwise it will go bad. Some dog owners mix wet food and kibble to give their dogs the best of both worlds. Therefore, most premium dog food brands have different specially formulated puppy food. Puppies can be fed with puppy food until they are about 12 to 15 months old then transition to adult dog food. When transitioning your dog from puppy food to adult dog food remember to introduce the feed gradually for about seven to ten days by mixing small amounts of the adult dog food with the puppy food. Decrease the puppy food gradually every day with a simultaneous increase in adult dog food. This will helps the pup o adjust to the new meal easily. Experienced Labrador Retriever owners will tell you that not all puppies eat a lot. Studies also have indicated that puppies eat more when fed with other puppies or in a group. When the puppy gets to a new home, they might go off the food for the first few days. They might eat a few kibbles and then leave it. Your puppy may also prefer to eat from your hand and not the bowl. However, call your vet if your puppy refuses to eat for more than four hours. Call immediately if your puppy looks unwell. There are a few reasons you need to keep an eye on because they indicate serious problems: Your pup neither drink nor eat Diarrhea. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Before adopting a Labrador Retriever puppy, many owners go to great lengths to deduce the optimal food for their pup. From raw feed to canned food from a local pet store, there are plenty of dog food options for owners to consider, but which is the best dog food? Whether you feed your puppy a raw food diet or commercial dog foods, there are lots of ways for your pup to consume a balanced diet. There are plenty of sources that will describe the benefits of one diet over another, but remember that no one knows your puppy better than you. The decision to feed your dog a diet that you think is best is yours to make. There really is no right or wrong answer when it comes to selecting a food for your puppy. Your pooch will likely enjoy eating wet food just as much as they enjoy commercial dog food. So long as you feed your pup an adequate amount of food, they are likely to live a long and healthy life. If you would like specific advice about feeding your individual puppy, you may wish to consult with your veterinarian or other dog food expert. When you first bring your puppy home, it can be alarming if your dog does not touch its puppy food during the first few days at home. Is this cause for concern? Noticing that your precious pup is not eating can be a frightening realization. Prior to being welcomed to its forever home, your Lab puppy was accustomed to living with its mother and siblings. Therefore, being uprooted from this life can initially be a startling experience for a dog. Fortunately, puppies should develop an appetite within a day or two of entering their forever home-they just need a short time to adjust to their new life. If, after a few days, your puppy is still not eating their dog food, it may be a wise idea to have your puppy evaluated by a vet. Feeding A Two-Month-Old Labrador Retriever Two months old is about the earliest point at which a Labrador puppy can be brought home by their new family. When a Labrador puppy begins to eat solid food, it will not be eating a ton of food. So, owners can start their Lab puppy off with somewhere around 0. As your puppy grows older and gets bigger, owners should look to increase the amount of food for their Labrador pup. By the time a puppy is nearing three months old, it should be eating well over 1 cup of food every day. Some puppies may be consuming close to two cups of dog food at this time. This increase in size means that their appetite has also surely grown since bringing them home. By the time a Labrador puppy is around 3 months old, it should be eating close to 1. Large three-month-old Labrador puppies can be away a substantial amount of food as they are near four months old. Some puppies will be able to consume around 3 cups of food daily at this point in their lives, but most will be eating closer to 2 cups of dog food every day. If your pup seems hungry and looks to be a healthy weight, there is no need for owners to be concerned about how much food their three-month-old Lab is consuming. Your precious pooch will start to look more like an adult with each passing day. Therefore, it is essential to feed your dog enough food to promote the weight gain that makes dogs thrive. Four-month-old Labrador Retrievers should be given at least two cups of food daily. The biggest, most ravenous Labs will eat close to 3. However, only dogs on the large end of the puppy spectrum will need to eat this much at this time. Average four to five-month-old Labs should eat anywhere from 2 to 3 cups of food daily. Labrador Retriever teenagers are characterized by disproportionate body parts, distracted behavior, and dispositions that range from silly to ornery. Therefore, getting enough food to support such development is imperative. A six-month-old Labrador will surely be able to eat at least 2. This will ensure proper growth for your pooch. As your puppy reaches the point in which it is 7 to 8 months old, continue to increase the amount of food that your puppy receives. Labrador Retriever puppies that are close to 9 months old can eat more than 4 cups of food daily. However, your furry friend is more likely to consume 2. Instead, your pup is likely nearing its adult size. So, how much food should ten to twelve-month-old Labs be eating? Puppies that consume quantities of food on the low end of the spectrum should be consuming at least 3 cups of food every day during this time. On the other hand, large Lab pups that are between 10 to 12 months old could be eating 4. If your puppy is on the brink of adulthood, it would be wise to consider weaning it off of its puppy food in favor of adult dog food. All Lab puppies should be offered adult dog food when they reach maturity, as such food replaces nutrients that are essential for puppies with ingredients that benefit adults. Whereas puppies should eat food that increases their body weight, adult Labs should eat food that maintains their weight. So, if you think it may be time to switch your Labrador Retriever to an adult dog food diet, consult with your vet and find a food that is best for your adult Lab. Of course, the mature size of your pooch will dictate how much food it can and should be consuming every day. Generally, it is advisable to feed an adult Labrador anywhere from 3 to just over 4 cups of food every day. Gauge the weight and appetite of your pet to determine the perfect amount for your furry friend. Though the above recommendation will be perfect for most adult Labs, there are some instances in which mature Labradors will require more adult food. Pregnant Or Lactating Labs A Labrador who is pregnant or lactating will require substantial amounts of food to nourish herself and her litter of pups. Therefore, owners should be prepared to offer vast quantities of food to their Labrador mothers. While a typical adult Labrador will consume 3 to 4 cups of food every day, Labrador mothers should be offered around 6 cups of food at least to keep up with their enormous energy requirements. If your mother Labrador snarfs this food down and still seems hungry afterward, be prepared to offer her additional food. Especially Active Labs If your Labrador is an athletic specimen, it may need to consume more than a typical adult Lab to fuel the exercise regime that such a dog is accustomed to. Dogs that receive more than one hour of daily exercise could be considered especially active dogs. Owners can begin by offering these pooches 4. If they still seem hungry, owners can increase the amount of food given to these dogs. Once a dog reaches the golden years of its life, it is once again time to switch up its diet. Senior dogs should consume food that caters to the needs of their aging bodies. These pooches can get away with eating a low-protein diet whereas such food would not be appropriate for puppies or adults. Given that senior dogs are usually not especially active dogs, they do not require as much food compared to adult and large puppies. Therefore, supplying a senior Lab with anywhere from 2 to just over 3 cups of food daily should be plenty for your pooch. Now that you know how much to feed your Labrador, you are likely curious about the number of times that your dog should be fed every day. Some may be looking for a quick answer about how often to feed a Labrador every day, but the truth is nuanced. When it comes to feeding your Lab, it turns out that Labs of different ages should be fed different amounts of food every day. Read on to discover the perfect number of meals for your Lab. An infant Labrador Retriever should have its daily food allotment broken up into at least 4 meals every day. This will help supply these petite pups with the energy that they need to get through the day. Lab puppies that are four to twelve months old do not require as many meals as their younger counterparts. However, these dogs should still receive three meals per day to support their rapid metabolism. Feeding one meal in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one in the evening is optimal. Adult Labs do not need to eat as many meals are puppies due to their slower metabolisms. Supplying an adult Labrador Retriever with two meals every day would be perfect for these dogs. Ideally, adult dogs will be fed one meal in the morning and one in the evening. When your furry friend reaches the point in their life where they are considered to be a senior dog, your pooch will have the slowest metabolism in their life. The slow metabolism for senior Labs means that these dogs do not need to eat as frequently as they did when they were younger. In fact, senior Labrador Retrievers can get by with eating a single meal every day. One to two meals per day is ideal for a senior Labrador Retriever. Owners can see if their senior Lab prefers one or two meals each day by allowing them to try each option. Is this because these dogs are prone to obesity or simply because there are so many Labs out and about? It turns out that Labrador Retrievers are more prone to obesity than many other dog breeds. Labs have evolved to be very active dogs. If owners fail to provide their dogs with proper exercise and feed their furry friends excessive amounts of food, there is a good chance that owners will end up with overweight dogs. Why Is My Labrador Overweight? If you are someone who owns an overweight Labrador, you are not alone. Overweight Labs are still lovable pooches, but they could stand to lose some pounds for their own good. Obviously, feeding your dog less food is likely to be one of the keys to helping your canine companion to lose weight. However, you may be wondering what else you can do to help your Labrador lose weight. Well, if you do not frequently exercise your dog, then this is a good place to start. Try feeding your dog its typical amount of food but increasing its exercise to see if it starts to lose weight. For those that are still struggling to get your pooch to lose weight, be sure to cut out table scraps and dog treats from the diet of your dog. Moreover, be sure that you are not free feeding your Labrador Retriever. Free feeding is acceptable for puppies when they are infants, but Labradors that are any other age should not be free fed, for this can also result in a chunky pooch. If you fear that your dog is consuming its food too quickly, there are plenty of feeding methods to help your pooch slow down. Obesity in dogs is a serious issue. We briefly touched on this subject when discussing the best foods for Lab puppies, and the same advice will apply here. Some owners feed raw to their Labs, while others may feed kibble. Does this mean that those who practice raw feeding are likely to own healthier dogs compared to those feeding kibble to their dogs? Of course not! High-quality dog food may take many different forms. A raw diet could provide your dog with all of the nutrients that it needs, but it is not inherently better for your dog than dry food or homemade food. Ultimately, owners know their Lab better than anyone else, so they should have the final say regarding what to feed their dog. Deciding what to feed your Labrador can be an overwhelming prospect. Consult A Veterinarian Inquiring with a trusted veterinarian about the diet of your Labrador Retriever will help an owner determine the optimal food intake for their precious pooch. They may also recommend certain dog foods that can be purchased to feed a Labrador. A feeding chart will provide information related to how much food to provide a Lab based on its age. A feeding guide may even break down how much food to feed a Labrador based on its weight. There are plenty of Labrador Puppy feeding chart options and feeding guides for adults. Finding a feeding chart that was created by a trusted source like the American Kennel Club can help you make an informed decision about how much to feed your furry friend. Ultimately, a feeding guide is a good place to turn if you find yourself in need of a quick answer about the topic of how much to feed your Lab. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.