australian labradoodle puppies bay area

Breeder Referral Among companion animals, boxers are unmatched in their devotion, loyalty and friendship to humankind. Anyone who has ever loved a boxer can attest to its hundred-fold return. The excitement your boxer shows when you come home, the wagging tail at the sound of the leash being taken from its hook, the delight in the tossing of a tennis ball, and the head nestled in your lap-those are only some of the rewards of being a boxer owner. Owning a boxer is not just a privilege, it's a responsibility. These animals depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. If you are considering taking a boxer into your life, you need to think seriously about the commitment that boxer ownership entails. If you already have a boxer, you need to consider if you are fulfilling all your obligations as its owner. The ABC does not recommend, guarantee, endorse, nor rate breeders, their kennels, or their stock. We also do not examine individual dogs. Buyers beware in all instances. For more information on puppies available in your area, contact our Breeder Referral Chairman: Fran Illuzzi Email: illuzzifran gmail. Find a Responsible Breeder To find a responsible breeder, go to a dog show or visit the breed's Parent Club for additional resources and contact information. Don't be put off if a breeder isn't immediately responsive. Hobby breeders often have full-time jobs and they don't always have available puppies. Be selective. Find a breeder who is knowledgeable and make sure you're comfortable with them. Visit the breeder's home or kennel and ask to see at least one of the puppy's parents. Get an idea of what the future holds for your dog in terms of temperament and appearance. Observe the premises. Dogs and puppies should be clean, well fed, lively and friendly. Pay attention to how the dogs and puppies interact with their breeder. Does the breeder appear to genuinely care for the puppies and their adult dogs? Both dogs and puppies should not shy away from the breeder and should be outgoing with strangers. Find out about the health of your puppy and its parents. Breeders should be honest about the breed's strengths and weaknesses and knowledgeable about the genetic diseases that can affect their breed - including what's being done to avoid them. Establish a good rapport with the breeder. You should be encouraged to call the breeder if your dog has a crisis at any stage of its life. Don't expect to bring home the puppy until its eight to 12 weeks of age. Puppies need ample time to mature and socialize with its mother and littermates. Breeders should be willing to answer any questions you have and should ask many of you as well. Breeders will want to make sure their puppies are going to good homes, with people who know what to expect and have made all the necessary preparations. Don't leave the premises without the appropriate documentation of the dog's pedigree, a. You'll need to send in this application form to register your dog with the AKC. Females: pounds. Height Males: inches. Females: inches. These dogs were renowned for their size, power, strength, and tenacity, and their modern-day descendants Mastiffs and Bulldogs continue in that tradition. Eventually, the reputation of the Molossian dogs preceded the breed. Hopner, Elard Konig, and Friedrich Robert—decided to develop these dogs into their own separate breed. In , the first Boxer exhibition dog show was held in Munich, and the following year, the first Boxer breed club was established: the Deutscher Boxer Club, which later established the original breed standard. Since the end of World War II, the Boxer has been recognized and celebrated as a popular, capable, and loyal companion and working dog. He has served in many capacities, from war dogs to farm dogs. Today, he can often be seen strutting around the show ring or working as a therapy dog, but many simply know the Boxer as a faithful and beloved family companion. Breed Characteristics Head: Somewhat brachycephalic skull-type, having a fairly short muzzle and slight upturn to the lower jaw. However, it should never appear as an extremely brachycephalic skull, as seen in dogs that are completely lacking the length of the muzzle or with an extremely upturned lower jaw. The head is moderate in size and in proportion to the rest of the body. When viewed from the front or profile, the skull is slightly arched and never prominently rounded or flat, with a median furrow that starts at the stop and progresses toward the back of the skull. The occiput is visible but not distinct or pronounced. The head may be chiseled or slightly padded with smooth never bulky muscle to denote strength. The head is free of wrinkles and excess skin, although some folds on the forehead and topskull may appear when the dog is alerted. Eyes: The eyes are large, lemon-shaped, or open almond, dark brown in color, and set somewhat wide apart. The eyes should never appear almond, oblique, narrow, overly round, too deeply set, or bulging. The eye rims are well-fitted and well-pigmented. Inner eyelid membranes are preferred to be darkly pigmented and not pink. Exposure of whites or haws, drooping of the eyelids, or rolling of the eyelids either inwards or outwards is incorrect. The eyes are never bulging. There should be sufficient bone in the surrounding orbital sockets to protect the eyes. Ears: The ears are set high on the skull and wide apart at the outer edge of the skull. They may be naturally dropped or cropped long. Natural ears are moderate in size, v-shaped, broad at the base, and somewhat short, with the inner edge and tip falling close to the head in repose. Tips will come forward when alert. Cropped ears should be cropped long and tapering. Improperly cropped ears are not to be penalized. Upper and lower jaws have good bone substance, appearing strong and well-developed, never appearing snipey or weak. The muzzle plane must be level from the stop to the point of the nose. It may not be excessively pushed-in, long, dished up concaved , or downfaced convex. The tip of the nose should be level on the skull or may be just slightly higher than the muzzle at the stop. In profile, the end of the muzzle protrudes, or rounds, just beyond the point of the nose, giving the end of the muzzle a somewhat rounded profile. The lower jaw is only slightly turned up and must never protrude beyond the break of the lips. Nose: The nose is large, well-pigmented, and black or self-colored according to the coat. The nostrils are well-opened, never appearing narrowed or closed. The nose is never excessively pushed into the stop but sits at the end of the muzzle or just before the rounding of the end of the muzzle. Neck: Moderate length to allow for proud head carriage, strongly-muscled and distinctively arched. The neck tapers smoothly from the deeper and broader body toward the head. The neck is clean-cut, without excess skin, throatiness, or dewlap. Chest: Deep and broad but never wider than deep. The brisket extends to the point of the elbows. The forechest is well defined, yet not overly prominent. Body: Compact, solid, deep, and of good substance. The body is never racy or refined. The width at the forequarters is approximately equal to the width at the hindquarters. Feet: Oval to round, compact, with well-arched toes and tough pads. Tail: Set high on the croup, thick at the base and tapering toward the tip. The tail may be left natural or docked short. Natural tails preferred are of a medium length, with the tip of the last vertebrae extending to the hock joints when held down. They may be straight or gently curved. Docked tails should never be completely removed, leaving at minimum three vertebrae. The tail should never be kinked or screwed. The characteristics of a healthy structure are evident. When moving away, the forelegs and rear pasterns should remain parallel to one another. When viewing movement from the front, the forelegs should remain parallel, with elbows and paws moving neither in nor out. From the rear, the back pads should be visible when the rear legs are extended. As speed increases, the forelimbs and hindlimbs will converge to the center line of gravity. From the side, the topline should remain firm and level. Good reach of movement in the front allows the forepaw to extend out in line with the nose. When extended, the width between the forefeet should be approximately equal to the width between the hindfeet when extended, indicating balance, good reach, and good drive. Dogs that exhibit any sign of breathing or locomotive difficulty shall be disqualified from the show ring. They are confident, devoted, eager, and watchful. Any unprovoked aggressive or fearful behavior toward people is incorrect for this breed. The ideal body height-to-length ratio is between and .Females may be slightly longer. The body is well-put-together, with sturdy substance and medium bone. Males should appear masculine, being more substantial in size and mass, while females should appear more feminine and slightly less substantial. Neither should lack overall type. The weight of a male or female is always in proportion to height. Head General Appearance: Somewhat brachycephalic skull-type, having a fairly short muzzle and slight upturn to the lower jaw. Expression: Alert, intelligent, confident, and capable. Stop: The stop is definite, preferably forming a degree angle between the topskull and muzzle. Skull: The ideal muzzle-to-skull ratio is between to , with the topskull being longer than the muzzle. The ideal muzzle-to-skull axis is somewhat convergent. Lips or Flews: The lips are thick, broad, somewhat padded, and slightly loose. They are never overly droopy or pendulous. They fit snugly over the teeth and cover the jaws well. The upper and lower lip edges meet in front of the incisors, never covering the chin or lower lip. Cheeks: Cheeks may appear smooth or with slight padding of muscle to denote strength. The cheeks should not appear bulky or coarse. Dentition and Bite: Forty-two strong, clean, and white teeth. Reverse-scissor bite or slightly undershot bite preferred. Body and Tail General Description: Compact, solid, deep, and of good substance. Topline: Straight yet gently sloped from prominent withers to croup. The back is short, broad, strongly muscled, and straight, yet supple. The loin is taut and may be flat, level, or just slightly almost imperceptibly arched, yet supportive. The back is never level when standing, swayed, or roached. The topline may level out as the dog moves. Croup: Gently sloped and in line with the rest of the topline. It is strong, straight, and muscular. The croup and pelvis may be slightly longer and wider in females. Underline: The underline is short and tight, with a slight tuck up. The underline is taut and firm, without any indication of sagging or excess weight. Ribs: Long, well-sprung, well-laid-back, oval-shaped, never barrel-chested or slab-sided. Forequarters and Hindquarters Forequarters: The forequarters are always balanced with the hindquarters and well-angulated with well-laid-back shoulder blades. Shoulder blades are approximately equal in length to the upper arm and forearm. Elbows: The elbows are close to the body. Forelegs: Frontal View: Straight, of good muscle and bone, and parallel to one another. Side View: The forelimbs appear straight with strong pasterns. Pasterns: Never weak or broken. Hindquarters: The upper and lower thighs are equal in length, strong, sturdy, of good bone, and well-muscled. Rear View: When viewed from the rear, the rear pasterns are parallel to one another. Side View: Good angulation will allow the rear toes to align with the point of the rump or within one to two paw lengths behind the point of the rump, with the rear pasterns remaining perpendicular to the ground and parallel to one another. Stifle Joint: Well-angulated with a good bend to well-let-down rear pasterns. Angulations: The angulation of the hindquarters is always in balance with the angulation of the forequarters. Coat Skin: Well-fitted, yet supple. The skin should never obstruct the outline of the dog. Coat Type: The coat is short, smooth, close, and fitting to the body throughout. The texture is hard and glossy. No fringe or feather is permissible. Standard color variety: Various shades of fawn light tan to mahogany, always with black mask , light brindle fawn with black mask , all with or without white tuxedo markings. From the root of the nose, folds are always indicated, running in a downward direction on both sides. Note: All standard-colored Boxers should have a clearly distinguished mask confined to the muzzle to contrast sharply with the rest of the coat. Non-standard color variety: Solid white, black, reverse-brindle, or seal, all with or without white markings, or primarily white with markings in the previously listed colors and patterns. Faults All dogs should be in proper healthy condition, free from disease or defect. Any departure from this description is considered a fault. Unless altered, all male dogs should have two fully descended testicles.

When is a Golden Retriever Full Grown? Goldens are a large breed, and like other such breeds, Golden Retrievers grow until they reach their full height and weight. This process typically occurs between the ages of one to two years old, or 18 to 24 months; however, there is some variation in how fast each dog grows during this period due to both genetic factors and environmental ones, like diet or exercise level. Use our weight chart to help keep an eye on how your Golden puppy develops as she grows. Is Your Golden Retriever Healthy? Golden Retrievers are beautiful, friendly dogs that will steal your heart with their cute antics. That said, many disorders that adult Golden Retrievers have are treatable or preventable through regular vet care. Preventative care, along with a pet insurance policy, is an ideal combination to give your Golden a long, happy life. Some of the most common medical conditions that Golden Retrievers are susceptible to developing are: Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia Golden Retrievers are prone to develop hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which are common orthopedic issues seen in many other large dog breeds. The canine hip and elbow rotate smoothly within its socket joint, which holds them together with powerful ligaments. When these areas degrade due to wear and tear caused by poor alignment or injury, excessive stress and uneven bone wear are placed on the attached ligaments, leading to lameness, stiffness, arthritis, and pain. When your dog suffers from dysplasia, simple tasks like jumping into the car or climbing stairs can be difficult. A vet can assess the severity with imaging technology and prescribe relief for any present symptoms, allowing the dog to return to activities as usual. Skin allergies and conditions Golden Retrievers are at risk for various skin problems, including allergic reactions and parasites. They also require more care than other breeds to keep their coats clean due to the deep undercoat that insulates against cold weather. Keep an eye out for any allergies your pup might have towards certain items in their environment, as well as molds and dust, which could trigger reactions on contact-sensitive areas like ears or paws. This breed is also prone to various skin conditions, including granulomas a type of non-cancerous tumor , sebaceous cysts, and lipomas. Cancer The cancer rate among Golden Retrievers is sadly all too common. Golden Retrievers are also often diagnosed with other cancers, including lymphosarcoma, osteosarcoma, and mastocytoma. Heart disease and respiratory issues Golden Retrievers are at risk for various conditions that affect the heart, lungs, and circulation. This disease has severe effects, including death if not treated immediately. If you notice any signs like lethargy or weakness along with difficulty breathing, then see a veterinarian right away as your dog might be suffering from issues caused by SAS. Protect your Golden retriever puppy with pet insurance. You might not be able to control the genes passed down to your Golden Retriever puppy from generation to generation. What if your dog develops cancer or heart issues? The veterinary costs can add up pretty quickly without proper pet insurance coverage. A quality policy will cover a significant portion of all emergency procedures and medication costs. Get Quotes for Your Cat Charitable Giving With every pet insurance policy we generate, we do our bit to help less fortunate animals across Canada and the U. Popular Articles. The first vaccination for your Golden takes place between 6 to 8 weeks. Since everything is new to your pup, he might be timid and get easily scared. Golden puppies just left their source of security and are away from their littermates and mother for the first time. Bring your pup out to relieve him after every meal. Divide it into four small meals throughout the day. This is also the recommended age to start training. Housebreaking is especially important to avoid bad habits from developing. If you want him to be friendly to all, socialization at this age is also essential. This will help him grow familiar with strange sights, smells, and sounds. For the diet, stick to feeding him four small meals a day with the same amount mentioned for 7-week Goldens. After the vaccines, keep your Golden pup away from other pets for at least two weeks. Golden Retriever at 3 months This allows them to have full immunity, especially against the fatal parvovirus. They are becoming more curious, and you might have a problem with biting. Stay calm and teach him gently but firmly that he is not allowed to chew on you or anything else, except his chew toy. You can also acclimate him to grooming. Get him used to being combed and his paws handled. Introduce him to the blowdryer and praise him when he stays calm. You can start to be more serious about training. Spread 2 cups of kibble over the day, and cut one meal out by the end of the week. He should also be picking up basic commands. If your pup is quick to learn, kick it up a notch by teaching him a few tricks. Golden Retriever at 5 months Offer some chew toys that you can cool in the fridge to alleviate him discomfort. You may also start exercising him for 20 minutes a day, as this is the stage where he should show excitement for the outdoors. Swimming, fetch, and walking are great to start things off. Some Goldens are potty-trained around the 4-month mark, although accidents might still occur. He will have the body of an adult, but the legs and tail of a puppy. Golden Retriever at 6 months Also, his nose and ears will grow faster, so you end up with a goofy-looking pup. You need to be careful with him for the next six months because this is when they are most vulnerable to developing hip dysplasia. Avoid long walks, going down the stairs, and stopping suddenly while running. The pressure from those activities might cause joints to deform. Your Golden may also start to display signs of sexual maturity in the next few months, if not neutered or spayed. Some of them never grow out of it and will stay young at heart into their old age. To be sure he is free from hip dysplasia, have him checked by the vet when he is two years old. When do Golden Retrievers stop growing? Golden Retrievers grow the fastest between 3 to 6 months of age. Around the six-month mark, their growth starts to taper off. This will prevent him from reaching his full potential. If left untreated, it can cause lasting damage to their bones, muscles, immune system, skin, and digestive system. Being ill for an extended period might also affect his development. Your puppy may be stunted due to malnutrition. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth Some people prefer bigger Goldens, but some like them small, like Mini Golden Retrievers. This might lead to under or over-feeding, neither of which is ideal. Accelerated growth can cause hip or elbow dysplasia. It can also be responsible for bone disease and arthritis. Stunted Golden puppies, whether by illness or under-feeding, are generally weaker, and make them susceptible to falling sick. What is the best age to spay or neuter your pup? You can spay Golden Retriever puppies as early as 8 weeks old, but any time before they reach sexual maturity is preferred, which is around one year old. This will prevent undesirable behaviors such as marking, territorial behavior, or a fixation with toys. All of which are hard to correct when they manifest. For breeds that are predisposed to hip dysplasia, vets recommend spaying around the 6-month mark. Will neutering or spaying your Golden pup affect his or her growth? Yes, fixing a Golden before they reach sexual maturity generally causes your dog to grow bigger. This is because sex hormones suppress growth hormones. Without growth inhibition, your Golden will continue to grow. Aside from joint problems, there are also a few issues connected to spaying or neutering. They can become more prone to some forms of cancer. Some dogs also experience a change in behavior after the operation. The lack of estrogen can make female dogs more aggressive. Male dogs may also experience an increase in fearfulness. Sexual maturity usually occurs in Golden around 8 to 12 months. This gives you ample time to decide whether to sterilize or not. How heavy is a newborn Golden Retriever puppy? But, puppies as small as 10 oz at birth have been recorded. They usually leave their mom at 10 lbs. Also, bigger litters generally have smaller puppies, but they should all catch up by their 8th week. How to identify an overweight Golden Retriever? Use your eyes and hands to assess if your Golden is overweight or not. A survey in showed that .While it might look cute or funny, overweight dogs actually have shorter lifespans. Being excessively chubby shaves off two years and causes health issues. Do Golden Retriever types have different growth rates? Show dogs are often heavier than working dogs. Aside from other factors we mentioned, a nutritious diet and an active lifestyle will help keep your Golden healthy and happy. Remember, their final size will vary from one another, depending on variation and pedigree. At this stage, nipping bad behaviors in the bud is more important than imprinting positive ones. Instead, just redirect them to positive behavior and reward them accordingly. By this point, your puppy should have already been given their distemper and parvovirus vaccinations. By this point, they should be fully housetrained or close to it. Your dog will be likely to gnaw and bite on anything they can get their chompers on—including you. Stay calm and redirect their attention to appropriate objects like chew toys. Your Golden should be fully accustomed to their new kibble at this point, and you should feed them three to four times per day. A 3-month-old dog should also get a DHHP booster, which protects them from parvo, distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. You can play with your pup as much as you like, but take care not to put too much stress on their joints. Avoid a bunch of running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces. Your dog can transition from four meals per day down to three at this point, but the meals should probably be larger. This can cause digestive issues until your dog gets accustomed to it, so be prepared to clean up a few messes. Training should continue, although your primary focus will likely be convincing your pup to chew on something besides your shoes. Your dog will need another DHPP booster at this point, as well as a rabies vaccination. Other optional vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme disease, coronavirus, and leptospirosis. This could cause a brief burst of intense biting and chewing, so power through it. Make sure your pup has plenty of chew toys available to them. Stairs in particular should be avoided. Your pup is likely to start asserting itself at this stage and may start to mature sexually if not spayed or neutered. There are no vaccinations required at this point. Everyone knows how much fun it is to raise teenagers, right? This can lead to undesirable behaviors like aggressiveness, increased tendency to roam, and destructiveness. As a result, you may think that your dog is too skinny, but resist the urge to increase their rations. While most breeds have a puppy coat that they eventually grow out of, Goldens do not. Instead, their puppy coat becomes their undercoat, so you may notice your dog becoming increasingly fuzzy. The teenage rebelliousness should be wearing off by this point, and your dog is ready to begin training in earnest. You should still be feeding them twice daily, and they should stay on puppy kibble for at least another 6 months. Goldens reach their full height between 9 and 12 months old. Females tend to get there faster, but males will be taller in the end. You may also need to cut back on the amount that you feed them. It depends on the individual dog, but females generally reach maturity first. Spaying or neutering your dog has its pros and cons. The pros are fairly obvious: less marking, reduced misbehavior, and zero chance of getting an unexpected litter of puppies. Spaying and neutering can also protect against certain cancers. You may want to wait until your dog is at least 12 months old before getting them fixed. This also leaves the window open longer in which they can suffer skeletal damage, though, so be careful about how active you allow them to be. However, stunted growth and growing too quickly can cause serious health problems, so you should check with your vet to make sure your dog is growing on schedule. Stunted growth is usually caused by malnourishment or a medical problem. You should have your pup tested for parasites like hookworm or ringworm, and consider switching them to a higher-quality, calorie-dense food. If left untreated, malnourishment can lead to weak bones, muscles, and immune system. As you might expect, growing too quickly is often caused by feeding your dog too much. American and British Goldens are similar. However, American Goldens tend to be less stocky and muscular, instead having a leaner appearance. They may weigh a bit less as well. They tend to be taller as well, often standing an inch or two higher than their counterparts. Conclusion Golden Retrievers make excellent pets, and we understand how hard it is to resist the temptation to bring a puppy home. If you do, though, you should understand what to expect from your new dog. Steady growth is what you want to see, without too many peaks or valleys. This sets your dog up for a long, healthy lifespan. Every dog develops at their own pace, so as long as you feed your pup an appropriate amount of high-quality puppy kibble and get them vaccinated regularly, you should be fine. See also:. At what age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? As larger dogs, Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to reach their full weight. Most Golden Retrievers will be close to their adult height and weight around a year of age but may need one more year to fill out their chest fully. A six-month-old male Golden Retriever will weigh between 35 to 45 pounds, while their female counterpart will weigh around 30 to 35 pounds at the same age. As for their height, most Golden Retrievers will still need another three to six months to reach their adult height. At this age, they will likely be a few inches away from their adult height, which ranges from .Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on bonding with your pet, puppy-proofing your home, training, microchips, and more! How much bigger will my Golden Retriever get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much bigger your Golden Retriever will get. If they are less than a year old, they still need more time to reach their full adult size. Many Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to completely fill out, though their weight at one year old is usually close to their full adult weight. A puppy is rarely larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you a general idea of their maximum weight. If their paws still look large or oversized next to their body and legs, they are probably still filling out and have some growing left to do, as this is a classic sign of adolescence in canines. What is the size of a full-grown Golden Retriever? As adults, Golden Retrievers will appear overall symmetrical and have a powerful body hidden beneath beautiful, golden fur. Golden Retrievers are stunning, sunny dogs that easily steal our hearts. Unfortunately, as a purebred dog breed, they are more susceptible to genetic diseases, which can compromise their lifespan and quality of life. However, many genetic disorders can be treated or prevented with regular veterinary care. Remember that prevention is almost always easier and less expensive than treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend a large-breed growth food to your Golden Retriever puppy to support their growth rate which can help prevent or decrease the severity of hip dysplasia in adulthood. According to the Veterinary Centers of America , Golden Retrievers are also more prone to gaining excess weight. Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to various genetic health disorders, such as oral tumors and aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is most commonly found in large, purebred dogs, including Golden Retrievers, and occurs when the aortic valves to the heart narrow. Aortic stenosis causes the body to struggle to pump blood through the valve, creating additional stress on the body. If untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to muscle failure and even fatality. However, veterinarians can treat many genetic diseases like aortic stenosis and oral tumors through surgery and medication. Even with proper prevention and wellness care, necessary veterinary visits can be expensive, with many treatments costing thousands of dollars. Out of over 20, pet parents surveyed , only .The last thing you should be focused on when the worst happens is how to finance a needed surgery or treatment for your beloved pet. This is where pet insurance comes in. Just like people, dogs are living longer lives and will need additional veterinary care to maintain a happy quality of life. Let pet insurance help you with these costs should the worst happen to your dog. Wellness plans are also available as an add-on to help with the ongoing costs of regular veterinary care , like x-rays and exams. Act now and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your Golden Retriever is covered should anything happen. Compare top Golden Retriever pet insurance plans side-by-side with Pawlicy Advisor today! Key Takeaways On average, male Golden Retrievers weigh pounds and females weigh pounds. At full height, Goldens stand between .Although puppies groww extremely fast, the Golden Retriever breed can take as long as 2 years to reach full maturity. Owners should keep an eye on their Golden Retriever's diet because they are very prone to obesity. Pet insurance helps cover the cost of care necessary to give your Goldie a happy, healthy life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! Golden Retriever Male Puppy Growth Chart lb and kg Keep in mind that minor differences are not a cause for alarm: it is not compulsory for your pup to weigh the listed amount. However, if your puppy has a very low weight, you will know that you should check with your veterinarian. As a new owner of Golden Retriever Puppy, you will be surprised to know that handling of puppies can boost their growth. Not only does it promote proper weight gain, but it can also affect development in other areas. Introduction In Comparing the puppies who were handled with those who did not show that the puppies that were being held opened their eyes and ears and had their hair grow faster and they even had better motor development. You may want to know how your puppy compares to another Golden Retriever. Or are you worried that your dog growth is not on the right path? In studying Golden Retriever growth charts, it is clear that most pups gain weight between 5 and 10 percent per week. Keep in mind that a lot of factors can affect the growth rate of a puppy. One size doesn't fit all Not all puppies will follow the growth chart at an exact speed. There can be a lot of diverse reasons for this. The growth chart can alert you should there be significant differences. However, even good owners can have skinny dogs. The Golden Retriever growth charts can alert you to the common causes of slow growth. Occasionally it comes down to a change in the dog diet. Ensure your dog likes his food and that he eats frequently. Request your veterinarian to rule out worms or any other condition. In the meantime, rest assured knowing that most puppies do well when they are raised by a loving and caring owner who has a good relationship with a trusted veterinarian and spends a lot of pleasant time with the puppy. To ascertain if your puppy is large, small, or average-sized for his or her age, you will first find the correct chart based on the sex of your puppy. Scroll down until you locate your puppy's age on the left side of the table. Then compare your dog weight with each column subsequently to that age. To predict the future heights and weights of your dog growth for a period of time. If your dog weight is always in the average range, you can scroll down the average column to estimate how large your puppies maybe as an adult. The same applies to other columns too. Remember, this is just an estimate. By Tom Massey Mar 02, Adopting a golden retriever is one of the best decisions you can make. These loving dogs are constantly praised for their gentle and calm, yet playful nature, making them perfect dogs for all walks of life and types of families. So when you do finally bring your Golden Retriever puppy home, you want to do everything you can to give them a long and healthy life for years to come. This is a wide range, so keep in mind that the weight of your Retriever will vary depending on genetic factors and sex. For example, female Golden Retrievers will weigh closer to 55 pounds while Golden Retriever males are heavier and will weigh closer to 75 pounds. Females also typically reach their full size by their first birthday, while males may continue growing through their second year. You can usually tell the size males and females will be based on what their parents look like, which is why Snowy Pines encourages meeting the parents or browsing through their photos and biographies online. Then, calculate 1. What to Expect: This age is crucial for mother-puppy bonding since he will depend on his mother for food, cleaning, and socialization. Image Source Weeks months Golden Retriever Male Weight: Between 8 to 12 weeks, your male puppy will average between 10 to 22 pounds. Golden Retriever Female Weight: Although females will grow to be smaller than males, they are typically around the same weight at this age group. The puppies become very playful, curious, and discover their voices little by little. Introductory training like house training is essential. Socialization is also important, which is why Snowy Pines ensures that all puppies stay with their littermates until adoption. For female puppies, 6 months is a little over the halfway point to their full-size, and males are essentially smaller versions of their adult bodies. Remember, at this age, you can multiply by two to determine their adult weight! What to Expect: Socialization is still crucial at this age, and more intense training can also begin. The puppy should also be kept in happy and safe environments, as any exposure to something fearful at this age may impact him long-term. This is entirely normal: Think of your puppy as a teenager who is going through adolescence and waiting for the rest of his body to catch up. They may get territorial and challenge you and other pets for dominance. Most Golden Retrievers will be fully grown by 24 months old, although this varies. Golden Retriever Female Weight: In most cases, females are finished growing before 16 to 24 months. Whatever their nature is like at the to month mark is likely what it will be throughout their adult life. They are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them the perfect companion for small and large families alike. However, Goldens are susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases that are common in bigger breeds that are typically caused by overfeeding, stunted or accelerated growth, and genetic issues. One of the most common diseases that goldens experience is Osteochondritis dissecans OCD. OCD is a developmental disease that affects large-breed dogs because of the accelerated growth they experience. It is an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal cartilage development on the end of a bone in the joint. This can lead to joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia which commonly appears in the elbow, hip, and knee. Image Source The good news is that, although larger breeds like golden retrievers are prone to joint issues like this, you may be able to help prevent it through proper practice. OCD is a specific disease that is more common in dogs that receive too much energy and calcium in their diets. Other common factors are genetics, rapid growth, and hormonal factors. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and all that extra weight can leave your puppy with skeletal abnormalities that put too much weight on joints. Another way to avoid accidentally stunted or accelerated growth is to ensure your golden retriever puppy is getting fed appropriately and receiving the right amount of calories. Image Source Months Between 2 and 4 months old, your puppy should eat 4 times per day with 2 ounces per meal. This will add up to 7 to 9 ounces per day, depending on how much he willingly eats. Keep him on puppy food through his first year before switching to young adult food. They must receive regular exercise every day. However, this depends on their age. As previously covered, the more your puppy grows, the more susceptible to common diseases like joint problems. Breeders with years of experience, like the team at Snowy Pines, work hard to keep pure bloodlines so that all of the parents and their litters are as healthy as they can be, which helps guarantee a lifetime full of happiness without any issue. Share on. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:.

Tru-Fit Harness with Seatbelt from Kurgo Yes, you should prefer a harness as it is better than a collar for your Lab puppy. This is because they are safer and offer much more control. A harness can also reduce strains compared to the collar which can cause tension around the delicate neck of your Lab puppy. The following are some of the biggest advantages of using a harness on your Lab puppy. Injuries Can be Prevented Harness always takes pressure away from the neck of your Labrador puppy. So you can pull the leash without hurting the dog. More importantly, this will help Labs to pull the lead without getting any injuries by themselves. Despite this, you should still teach your dog to not pull on the leash. But with harnesses, there is enhanced space for your dog to grow and it will not put any pressure on the neck of your Lab puppy. Provide Control without Cruelty This is the reverse of the final disadvantage of dog collars. It can be used if you are losing control of your pup. In this situation, you can use sheer force to hold back your Lab without causing undue pain and discomfort. In the case of collar, when you try to stop a fleeing Labrador by applying force, it can cause serious pain. Although Labs may respond quicker when you use collar, it is a very unkind act for pups. When can a Labrador Puppy Climb Stairs? Click here to find out. First thing first, it is important to purchase a proper size harness for your Lab puppy. You should start with a small-sized harness, depending upon the age and size of your puppy. The best way to find out whether the dog harness is too small for your Lab puppy is to put the harness properly on your dog. Start with fairly loose so that your dog can easily slip into the harness. Then, tighten it and check whether the harness fits properly by fitting two fingers between your dog and the harness at any point. Harnesses are a great choice for Lab puppies. However, owners need to choose the one in which their dog remains comfortable. You should start with the small one and move to the bigger sizes depending upon the size of your puppy. A harness should be tight enough so that your dog will stop slipping from it, especially if he suddenly reverses on you. However, if there is still gap after the fitting of two fingers, then the harness is too loose or big for your Labrador puppy. Want to make a good homemade meal for your Labrador Puppy? The Lab puppies can wear a harness when they are 8 weeks old. Owners should make sure that the harness is not too heavy or uncomfortable for their dogs. The following table shows the size of Labrador puppies in comparison to their age so that the owners can choose the best size. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Labradors are filled with excitement and energy, which means most of them need to be leashed with a collar or harness. Whether you're using these devices to add tags for their name and home address or to keep them running alongside you on your morning jog, it's important to find out which one is more comfortable, safer, and reliable. When it comes to a Labrador harness vs. Collars are better on a hot day or if your dog feels uncomfortable with a harness. Some dogs have anxiety when they wear harnesses, so make sure you monitor their behavior. In this article, we'll discuss the pros and cons of harnesses and collars for your Labrador. We'll also show you how to use them for the safest and most effective results while providing a couple of product examples. In this article Are Harnesses Good for Labradors? Harnesses are good for Labradors because they provide comfortable handling, inescapability for small Labs, and they reduce the strain on your dog's neck. They also prevent them from feeling like they're being pulled around because a harness distributes the pressure evenly. Here's a list of reasons you should use a harness for your Labrador: Harnesses provide optimal control for larger Labradors. According to the American Kennel Club , harnesses are some of the best restraining tools for large dog breeds. You can handle your big Labrador, preventing them from running away with curiosity. It's much more manageable, bringing joy back into your walks. Most dogs can't wiggle out of a harness, so they're better for walking outdoors. Dogs love to escape their collars and sniff the roses, meet new people, or play with other pets. Some Labs will chase birds away, so a high-quality harness can be a top-notch replacement for a loose collar. A harness takes most of the strain off of your dog's neck. Collars are notorious for putting excess weight on a dog's neck and spine when they're being walked on a leash. Fortunately, harnesses push the pressure on their arms and chest, both of which have strong muscles to handle the weight. Harnesses prevent puppies from accidentally dropping out of a leash, unlike loose, removable collars. Puppies don't always want to escape their collars, but their tiny heads often wiggle out of them. Using a harness won't let them accidentally drop the collar or leash, protecting them from running away. As you can see, there are many reasons to use a harness. This padded strap comes in all sorts of sizes and colors, so you're bound to find the perfect fit for your dog. The padding prevents chafing while the snug fit keeps them on the leash. You should use a collar for your Labrador if harnesses make them anxious or you want a permanent solution with dog tags. Collars have excellent dog tag placement because people can read them without having to touch the dog's harness if they were wearing one. Review these examples of why you might consider using a collar for a Lab: Collars are easy to use and won't cause a big event with your Labrador. If you have an energetic pup, they'll be confused by a harness. They might get their legs caught or run away when you pull it out. Instead, a collar is nice and simple for those seeking the quickest solution. Some dogs are afraid of harnesses, so a collar could be a better solution. As mentioned above, harnesses aren't always the best choice for nervous Labs. They can feel confined, so a collar removes that stress and keeps them feeling happy about the walk or playtime. Collars can be worn around the clock and have your Lab's tags if they escape. The tags sit right upfront, so there's no need for people to lean down and get close to your dog. Most people are cautious of animals they don't know, which could prevent them from checking the tags on your dog and calling you regarding their whereabouts. A collar can keep your dog cooled down since there's less material touching their fur. Labradors shouldn't get too hot , so using a collar on a hot summer day could be an excellent alternative. Some harnesses provide decent airflow, but nothing beats the open air of only wearing a collar. If a dog collar seems most appropriate for your dog, then try the Collar Direct Reflective Dog Collar. It comes in multiple colors and sizes, just like the harness we mentioned. However, this collar reflects light back at other people. If you're walking your dog at night, everyone will be able to see where they are. There's also a carbon-played D-ring for their dog tags. How to Use a Dog Harness Safely To use a dog harness safely, follow these step-by-step instructions: Ensure you have the correct harness size for your Labrador. The whole process starts with choosing the right harness. It's easy to underestimate the size because most people think that a dog can handle a little bit of pressure. However, a small harness can hurt their muscles and joints, but a loose harness is still difficult to escape. Take off their harness once they're inside and done being walked. Harnesses aren't designed to be worn around the clock; They're made for outdoor activities. Wearing a harness too much can lead to chafing and discomfort, not to mention the fact that your Lab could get stuck on random objects all over the place. Always take their harness off before they go to bed. Chewy explains how dangerous wearing a harness at night can be for your dog. If they're always strapped up, there's no way for them to tell you if it wraps around their neck, bends their arm in an awkward way, or causes a multitude of other injuries. They might roll around when they're sleeping, too. Best Tips for Using a Collar for a Labrador If you're looking for safety tips to keep your Labrador comfortable while wearing a collar, you're in the right place. Try these suggestions: Never pull your dog by its collar. The most important thing to avoid while walking a dog with a collar is to be gentle but firm. Stand your ground or continue walking, but never tug on their neck; It can cause strains, cramps, muscle tension, spinal issues, and other health problems. Make sure you can fit two fingers under their collar to prevent them from feeling choked or uncomfortable. This measurement keeps them restrained without stressing them out. It also lets you know if it's time to upgrade their collar or if they're gaining too much weight. Don't use a retractable leash with a collar; It can cause severe problems if your dog leaps over a fence and the leash locks. Retractable leashes provide convenience for some people, but they're not worth the potential downsides. Instead, use a short leash while walking your dog so they can't wander off in the street or a neighbor's yard. Conclusion Now that you know the difference between using a harness or collar on your Labrador, you can decide which is best for your pup. Remember, small dogs can escape collars easily, while large dogs are more maintainable when wearing a harness. That being said, collars are easier to use, can be permanently worn, and more. The critical difference is the degree of dressing up required. This is a moment of personal reflection: do you have a tough time getting out of the house to take your Labrador for a walk? Minimizing the effort required to take your dog walking will ensure that you actually take him out. If your Labrador pulls on his lead, the pressure can quickly start producing irreversible damage. Can Trouble Dogs Even the most humane collars can bother some Labradors. Most new puppies might have trouble accepting a heavy collar. Starting with a light collar at an early age can offset this disadvantage. Some dog trainers can lead-train dogs with collars by building on a foundation of familiarity set by owners who get their dogs to accept light collars early on. This means both products need to be able to cater to different sizes. Most harnesses can house a range of body sizes. But when it comes to collars, your Labrador might start choking on the collar without you realizing it. Adjustable collars can offset this problem. In my opinion, even if you have compassionately trained your Labrador to accept his collar and even go on long walks with the lead attached to the said collar, what happens when your dog gets over-excited? It is quite literally impossible to hold him in position without choking him. Verdict on Dog Collars Dog collars are great to indicate ownership and protect your Labrador from being assumed and treated as a stray. Apart from that, I see no advantage in collars, especially when walking on a lead. So a nuanced approach would be to use a light collar and use a harness whenever you use a lead so that you can sidestep the dangers of lead walking a puppy with a collar. More importantly, your Labrador can pull the lead without hurting himself. More Room for Error If your Labrador puppy wears a collar, you need to follow his growth closely lest the collar begins choking him. Above all, it is more noticeable when your puppy outgrows his harness compared to when he outgrows his collar. In the worst-case scenario, you get to hold back your Lab with sheer force without hurting him as much. Tugging on a collar when your Labrador is trying his best to get away is heartless. That said, you should note that dogs give in more easily when their collar is tugged compared to holding back a harness. The ease, however, is mutually exclusive with kindness in this instance as a submission comes through the pain with a collar. In other words, a harness is something you would want on your pup only on walks. Most well-trained Labradors can go without a harness for short walks, and the harness is left for lead walks. Your Dog Will Take Time to Get Used to It This is a size-driven disadvantage that seems like a logical tradeoff when compared to the burden it offsets. I believe removing cruelty from the equation is well worth the relatively long waiting period. Starting with a light harness with a young Lab puppy is a perfect way to normalize it. Both collars and harnesses are uncomfortable initially, and in the long run, your dog can get used to both. While some trainers make arguments for collars, they are almost exclusively positioned as okay for larger dogs with stronger necks. This makes a harness your only option when out walking. Should a Labrador Wear a Harness? We have already established that harnesses are gentler than collars on Labradors. So, this may have you wondering, should Labradors wear a harness? A Labrador should wear a harness so that you can control him when he gets over-excited on a walk. A harness also allows your dog to keeps his neck safe when you have him on a tight leash. Doing the same with a collar could cause choking, damage to the trachea, or nerve damage. Harness vs. Collar For a Labrador Puppy Harness Advantages Prevents injuries to the neck Allows a lost dog to be identified from a tag Allows more control Easier to wear for tracking Allows room for growth. Conventionally, dogs wear collars. Why does your Labrador puppy need any other equipment? In this article we are going to look at why your Labrador puppy needs a harness. And how this piece of equipment differs in its use. When I first got a dog, I assumed that dog necks must be different to human necks. I figured that must be why dogs could wear collars, but the idea of having something around my own throat sounded so unbearable. In fact, dogs and humans have very similar anatomy in their necks. They have thyroid glands, lymph nodes, the trachea, the oesophagus and of course, the spinal cord — along with a host of other veins and arteries. Just the same as it would, for a human. There is some research which suggests that eye-pressure increases in dogs wearing collars, when they pull. Eye pressure does not increase in dogs wearing harnesses. You might have noticed the collar almost cutting into her throat, as she pulls into it. Perhaps your Labrador puppy stands up on her back legs, when she wants to greet another puppy — bearing her full weight on her throat. She might cough afterwards. When puppies used to wear collars to my training classes, I would often see them waiting for class, rearing on their back legs to reach other puppies. You want your Labrador puppy to calm down, perhaps to sit and greet a person, or at least stop pulling. Doing all of that, involves thought, for a dog. So, we need to put your Labrador puppy into a frame of mind where they are able to think about how to earn your rewards. A harness means that your Labrador puppy is restrained, but also able to concentrate and problem-solve. Yes and no. The permanent and most effective solution to pulling on the lead, is training — regardless of whatever device or piece of equipment you use. Loose-lead training can be an ongoing process. Some Labradors have higher energy levels than others, and these might be especially challenging and rewarding! You should not feel like a failure or give up, if you are finding it difficult. Instead, get in touch with a force-free trainer who will be able to help you. During the time you are training your Labrador puppy to walk beside you, and even once you have trained your Labrador to walk on a loose-lead most of the time, sometimes you are going to come across things which interest her. It could be some food which someone has dropped in the street. Or another dog she wants to greet. Or a cat which runs out in front of you. It is almost impossible to imagine a Labrador — even a well-trained and responsive Labrador — which is healthy and which never attempts to reach something, when on the lead! And at those times, the leash is going to go tight. And all these points, will come into play. So: Yes, the solution is training. So we need to choose a piece of equipment which is the most humane and which can help our training, under those circumstances. When pulling towards something on a collar, they can easily tow you a few steps behind them. There are safety issues, here, as they could tow you into a road. But also the few steps they managed to pull you, will reward the pulling a good deal. They got closer to what they wanted, by pulling. Pulling worked. And so they will continue trying to pull, next time they see something they want. So, we need to reduce their power so we can stop even a large, strong dog, immediately. Does a harness reduce their power in this way? Not all harnesses… Back-attaching harnesses Many years ago, I first tried a harness on one of my dogs. I found that this harness gave her much more power. If she suddenly lunged, she could tow me more with a harness than she could with a collar! With the back-attaching harness, when the lead was tight because there was something in front of her which she found interesting , her face and neck was orientated away from me and was at a distance from me. I found it difficult to get her attention, using treats or my voice, because that front part of her body was so far away and I was behind her. I saw dogs jumping up on their back legs and flailing their front legs around. So, the back-attaching harness solved all of the physical health concerns which collars had held, for me. My dog was no longer choking herself on the odd occasion she wanted to reach something. For the owners of small or toy breeds, the back-attaching harness seemed perfect. But it was not viable for me, because of the decreased control I had over large and strong dogs and the difficulties in training which this caused. But at the time there was nothing else available, so I reluctantly returned to a flat collar. Front-attaching harnesses Fast-forward many years, and I began to hear about a different sort of harness available in the US. At the time, there were only two brands of front-attaching harness available. Now there are many different brands, and I hope to review them for you in another article. The front-attaching harness solved all the control and feeling-in-connection problems experienced with the back-attaching harnesses. I began to recommend these harnesses to clients attending my training classes. I stopped seeing dogs choking themselves, and my clients had much more control than with a collar. Front and Back Attaching Harness There are now some great harnesses available with attachments at both the front and back. You can take a look at our favourites in this article.

Final Thoughts Congratulations on adding a Golden Retriever to your family. These friendly pups make fantastic pets. Just be sure they receive adequate exercise and stimulation to help positively release their energy. A trained Golden Retriever can do amazing things, like serve as a companion dog. Enjoy your new pet, and good luck finding a name! More Dog Name Ideas Another great place for dog names is our online generator. It lets you pick your favorite name styles or themes and then generates a list of ideas tailored to you and your dog. Style options include cute, funny, tough, elegant, and more. The themes span everything from movies, TVs, books and comics, to history, food, music, and so on. Is the name easy to say? Sure, some names look good on paper, but in real life they could be quite tough to say. Before you lock in on a name, say it a few times to ensure it rolls off the tongue. Is it right for your dog? Say it out loud a few times. Was it easy to say out loud? Can you imagine loudly calling for your furry friend with this name? Trust your gut! Share this post:. Unique Tips For Choosing The Best Name For Your Golden Retriever You are probably wondering what are some good names for a golden retriever and is there any way of narrowing the list of several names to a manageable few. Here are some quick tips on how to choose the best name for your golden retriever: Use Personal Names: Naming your dog is important since this is the name you will have to live with for a long time. Hence, it is a good idea to consider names you have heard and already like. Instead, take some time to research different names and meanings; you will know when you find the right one. Ask For Advice: Talk with your family and friends and see what name they would give to your dog. You may get inspired or end up liking the names they have suggested. So, spend more time with your new puppy and get to know them better. Listen To Yourself: The right name will feel the best right from the start. Most golden retriever names are short and sweet, mainly because shorter names are easier to pronounce and for a dog to learn and remember. While not impossible, it can be a bit tricky for dogs to learn long names with a lot of syllables. A good name for a male golden retriever is short and easy to pronounce so your dog can learn quickly. Nevertheless, it is up to you to pick and decide which name is best suited for your dog based on your preferences. There are many cool dog names you can give to your golden retriever, just make sure that both you and your pooch are fans of a particular name. If you have a hard time picking just one of several names, say them one at a time to your pup and see which one gets their attention. There is no shortage of cute golden retriever names that can be a perfect moniker for your adorable pooch. Whichever name you decide to choose, make sure you can pronounce it easily and that you can call it out quickly. There is a wide selection of male and female golden retriever names to choose from, so I broke them up for you into: The top names for this year Brave and loyal golden retriever names Hunting and tracking inspired names Cute names for golden retrievers Take your time to read through all the names; you will know when you find the best one for your golden retriever. You May Also Like.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Oregon Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Oregon? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Oregon? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Ready for forever homes October 5th. Puppies will mature to weigh around 25 pounds full grown, they will come with shots and deworming up to date, star.Tails docked, dewclaws removed, 3 shots. Parents onsite. Dewclaws removed, tails docked. Call .Come with full AKC papers, first shots, wormed, and a health guarantee. Born July 25, - Color is.Available to go home now and in the beginning of August. Trained pups and young Adult Wheaten and Whoodles avai.Call or Text: 7 weeks old they come from a good home Parents on site 3 males 6 females Shots are scheduled next w.Ready to meet their new families! Health and DNA tested. Have begun: potty, crate, recall training. They need a loving home togo to. These puppies are 6 months old. These hypoallergenic and non shedding sweet pups are raised in our home with our 5 children. They will come with vet check record.Well-loved and hand-raised. Pups available from two litters born Decem.They are currently six weeks old and have received their first shots with deworming. The puppies are very.Will be puppy play yard trained and learning puppy pad training when.They will come with first shots, dewormed, a puppy package and health check by a v.Both parents are our family dogs and our beaut.Ready to go to their new homes on October 28th, Colors.We have 1 male and 2 females left in our F1B litter. Here at Home Grown Puppy we understand that bringing a n.Black, chocolate, and yellow. They are 4 weeks old and can go to their forever homes September 8th at 8 weeks old.

They tend to be all-around well-balanced dogs with friendly dispositions and playful personalities. This makes them a great family dog. Here are a few more facts about Bernedoodles: 1. These puppies grow into a dog that stands 22 inches or taller and weighs 50 or more pounds. These puppies will grow into a dog that is inches tall and weighs pounds. Bernedoodles Can do Well in Apartments Although they are energetic dogs and can be large if they are Standard size, Bernedoodles can adapt well to apartment living. Like their Standard Poodle parent, a Bernedoodle is one of the great large dog breeds for small homes. They Make Good Therapy Dogs Due to their well-balanced temperament and high trainability, Bernedoodles can often be trained as therapy dogs and have become a popular choice for service dogs as well. They tend to be a good fit for the training regimen and also love having a job to do. As a therapy dog, they get tons of human interaction and attention, which they love. Plus, it is a job that allows their cuddly and affectionate personality to shine. These traits paired with the size of a Standard Bernedoodle can make them a great fit as a service dog that needs to assist with mobility. Bernedoodles Have Various Coat Colors Common coat colors in a Bernedoodle can be a combination of both of the parents or any Poodle coat color. Sometimes, Bernedoodles are tricolor with black, white, and brown, especially when they maintain the Bernese Mountain Dog coat. They can also come in any combination of white, black, and, brown, or full colors of each. The tricolor coat is a less common variation and is generally the most sought after. The various coat colors also come with varying coat types. Most of the time, the Bernedoodle coat is long and wavy with minimal or no shedding. A curly Poodle -type coat is also common and sheds very little or not at all. Sometimes, a Bernedoodle will have a straight coat. Although it is less common, this coat type will likely shed a little, which is more than the wavy or curly coat types. They Are a True Companion Dog One of the reasons Bernedoodles tend to do so well as therapy dogs is that they are true companion dogs. They are intelligent and are often described as having a happy-go-lucky, goofy, and charming temperament. This designer dog breed is happiest when they are spending time with their families. They crave human interaction, affection, and attention and enjoy playtime and cuddle-time equally. They are a dog who simply wants to love and be loved in return, which makes them a fantastic companion for single owners and for families. These are just a few facts about Bernedoodles. If this dog breed sounds like the right fit for you, learn more about them, and then check out the available Bernedoodle puppies. You could end up finding your new best friend! Kind, sweet, a true family dog. We have had 3 very loyal, lovable dogs and we are without a dog right now. And we miss having a dog. Rating: Bernedoodle Breed Review by Yes, many were very loved by us. Agile, intelligent, cuddly, protective. If you train them right. You must be firm. They have a great sense of humor and can be silly. My experience has been that once they grow out of their puppy stage, they really pay attention to you. I would have a dozen if I could. Super smart and deeply loving, cuddle bunnies! I would have if I could. They are easy to train and easy to groom. Mine like the water. Very easy-going. I have two. Very easy to train but is a huge baby. A once stocky and hyepractive knucklehead is now a more trainable and lazy house dog. Very good around kids, and obedient beyond belief after months of training. Makes me want to adopt more of these cute little guys and raise a happy Bernedoodle pack. She was 8 weeks old and her mother was a bernedoodle and father was a berner. I've now had her 6 weeks and she is perfect! She is healthy, playful, very affectionate, always voids when taken out and now have 4 accident free days under our belt. I recommend Sam King as he does not run a puppy mill which I as well as most folks worry about , his prices are reasonable, pups are healthy and were even flea-free- in my 30 years of having dogs, I've never picked up a pup that didn't have fleas. He is a 5 star breeder in my book. His goofy antics have us laughing all the time! He's a lot of energy but very food-motivated and easy to train. He's a great sleeper and was easy to crate train. He does have a sensitive stomach, so no people food. He's the best dog we've ever owned! I live alone and he is the joy of my life. Retired and have all the time to have a dog now! Very smart and loving. Training is essential for any dog and this breed learns quickly. Love this amazing breed. Warning - they are "show stoppers" and will attract much attention, petting from strangers and questions and they will love it! Our neighbors had Bernese mountain dogs and loved them. He was very easy to potty train and crate train. He has such a personality and has been such a calm puppy. This is our first Bernedoodle and certainly not our last!! This breed is awesome. The perfect companion and family breed. Her name was Bella then. Breslin is seven months old now and is doing sow well. She house broke quickly and she is really a member of the family. Loves the car and just really wants to be with us all the time. She is funny and loving and is a very good fit. He was house trained within days, never chewed the furniture or anything that wasn't his toy, and is the most affectionate and social dogs I've ever encountered and I've had dogs my entire life. All though personalities may vary I've known a few others with bernedoodles that have nothing but good things to say. Rating: Bernedoodle Breed Review by Adrian Bond Absolutely stunning breed with great temperament and very intelligent. I had a Bernese mountain dog and a poddle and both of them were super sweet and smart. So keep breeding because families need to get one of these. She is the most amazing puppy! Eli and his family were so kind when we picked her out and all of the puppies were so gorgeous. We have renamed her Sierra - and she is kind and gentle and wonderful! He's been very easy to train. He's smart, goofy and is a wonderful addition to our family. He has his moments of energy, but overall a very calm lazy puppy. He's a tri-color bernedoodle, with a wavy coat. His coloring and coat are beautiful with no shedding. If you are considering one, I highly recommend this breed. Love her!! What a good dog. So smart. Easy to train. Fluffy soft coat. She loves kids and is real gentle with them. Definitely plays differently with the children than with the adults. So glad she knows the difference!! Rating: Bernedoodle Breed Review by William Hoop We currently have 2 Bernedoodles not related to each other they are super loving and loyal. Very fast learners and they love routine to the point if we forget they remind us, we say bedtime and they get on their beds and stay there till morning when we holler good morning. Gentle and playful, not hyper as some people think just because they are half poodle. Smart, calm, affectionate, playful and absolutely the most adorable dog. Everyone loves him and several neighbors want to get a bernedoodle now! Highly recommend this breed. And thus far little to no shedding 5 stars?? So easy to train and good with all others animals, including cats and guinea pigs! Playful and loves the pool and to go every where we go. Intelligent, friendly, playful, goofy dog. Great with my kids, and even helped my younger daughter get over her "dog anxiety". Took to training very well. Needed emergency surgery due to a blockage from a corn cob that he grabbed out of the trash, Ate socks, underwear, trash - grew out of it, but still will eat paper towels, and will "counter surf" for anything edible when your back is turned. Great family dog - likes to "talk" bark to you. Strong chewer. Grew to be about 80 lbs with a head almost 3 ft off the ground. Life Span Did You Know? These large, fluffy dogs are known for their non-shedding coats and lovable personalities. Bernedoodles tend to be a great addition to any family! Although the Bernedoodle is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other dog registries. As long as they are properly socialized, they tend to be open and friendly dogs that get along well with just about anyone. These dogs tend to do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they can be initially wary and watchful at first, they even tend to warm up quickly to strangers once introduced. Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. Despite their size and energy, they can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise and attention. These dogs tend to handle the cold better than the heat; you may even have some trouble getting them to come back inside after some playtime in the snow. Because Bernedoodles bond so closely with their families and enjoy nothing more than being around them, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to skin issues like sensitive skin, allergies, and hot spots. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, the Standard Bernedoodle is also at risk for bloat like both parent breeds. The Bernedoodle is a highly intelligent and easily trained dog breed. Some facts about Bernedoodles are that they are a good fit for owners of any experience level and tend to pick up commands easily. Although they tend to grow out of this initial stubbornness with age, puppy training classes will certainly help with training and socialization early on. Bernedoodles tend to have a longer coat that ranges from curly to wavy. Although they tend to be non-shedding, they still need a lot of maintenance to keep their coat looking great. Daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats along with grooming every weeks are recommended. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing daily along and cleanings at the vet as needed are an ideal start to a good dental care routine for your Bernedoodle. Standard Bernedoodles can range from moderate to high energy. They tend to sit in a more moderate activity range and have bursts of higher energy when they play. These dogs are known to play hard and energetically until they are tired, but are not usually considered high-energy dogs. Daily walks plus playtime and some time to run should be enough for a Bernedoodle. But, these dogs will likely be up for more activity if you are. They will love the opportunity to spend more time being active with you. A fully-grown Standard Bernedoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Standard Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. A Bernedoodle is also sometimes called a Bernese Mountain Poo. Featured Bernedoodle Article. I got my first one last October and she was the best addition to my home. She loves her yorkie siblings and is so gentle. I have noticed that this breed is smart, easily trainable and is so gentle and lovable to any and all other animals and people. Our pup, at 10 mos. So happy. He's social with other dogs, adults and children. He had a tendency at first of being very 1-person attached to me, his source of food and training , but I worked to get him comfortable in many, many different situations where he was not always at my side only. Lots of energy, so exercise that pupply daily! We are so happy to have him as part of our family. She is an adorable mini bernidoodle, 11 weeks less then 7 lbs. I had been scammed before so Anita was very sweet and patient with me. Zoya, or now Lucy is wonderful! Great disposition, sweet and sooo cute!! Would recommend these breeders for sure! His temperment is stubborn like refuses to get in the wet grass- doesn't mind water like at the beach but won't go in to swim for fun, yet will go in to cool off if the family is in, super affectionate, loving to any person - would love to be pet by any person, great with dogs of all sizes, he is very treat motivated, eager to learn and always up for a belly rub. He is not a hunter, but loves to dig. He doesn't need grooming very often, and is great with kids and cats - he was raised with both - so it was a perfect fit for us. Highly recommend! Very trainable. Sweet disposition. Very family oriented. Also loves my Westie. I have to admit I am much more familiar with a purebred Bernese. One of the persons I worked with had two and she would bring them to work all the time and I really wanted one except I had my little dachshund and one dog and one cat is perfect for us. The are great dogs to walk with and they were so lovely. One of the dog came right in and curled up under my desk. They jump around with each other, they play and they are great fun with kids and, with some training, are very obedient. He was potty trained by ringing a bell withing 4 days of us bringing him home!! He is loving, adorable, gets along with my grandchildren, smart and magnetic. I purchased him as a 72 birthday present for myself. He was the only puppy left in the litter and he is all black. I love my Bailey so much I wrote to the breeder and asked if she was going to have another litter. She will let me know. She is thirty months now and she is just the best dog ever. By our sides every minute. Very friendly and outgoing. Great coat, love the fact that he looks like a Bernese, and love his short haired face. Great temperament too, such a smart dog. Great dog, not one bad thing to say about him. We go back and forth from Kansas to California. They do not smell and they are so loveable and affectionant but the best part is they don't even shed and all they want is to love you! Very smart and great company! She has separation anxiety which is a problem. I love her very very much! Anyone would be Lucky to have one! He is very playful and super smart. I have a toy puddle that weighs 5 lbs. Max recently died just before 6 years old. We are devastated. After getting him we found out that breed has a very short life span. How could they mate these dogs for sale? Now I am older now I am interested in looking a smaller kind of Berner The breeds are. So sweet and doesn't need a lot of exercise. He is the sweetest most lovable dog. He just turned 6 years old and in dying of lung cancer. My kids and are are so heart broken. He got this cancer out of the blue he started coughing and clearing his throat one day. I took him to the vet right away and they kept him for nine days testing him. After that I took him home so he could be happy with his family for whatever time he has left. I pray for a miracles. These dogs have a very short life span. They have the best temperament and are non shedding and absolutely adorable there is nothing bad that I could say about this breed I think it is beyond awesome breed and you should get this type of dog because they are the BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She is the sweetest, most loving puppy and on top of that she is smart too! She wants to be touching us at all times and is drawn to laughter. I would highly recommend a mini Bernedoodle if you want to feel loved by your pup! She house broke very quickly and acclimated to our home life very quickly. She is by my side at all times and she is a very good friend. She does well in the car or in the Motorhome. It is the world's perfect dog. She weighs 27 lbs, doesn't shed, listens well, has a fun, happy personality. I can't imagine owning a better dog. I will purchase another one within the next years. Loves to cuddle. Very obedient. They're incredibly sweet and lovable, they enjoy to play, and they LOVE attention. The intelligence of the poodle mixed with the relaxed nature of the Bernese. No shedding.So easy to train. Loving, playful energetic and just loves everyone. We would get another mini bernedoodle. Absolute joy. She loves to chew everything though. Make sure you have lots of different chew toys a ailable so she chews the right things. The puppy has a wonderful disposition , and in just one day has adjusted beautifully into our home. We are extremely happy with our new family member, and highly recommend this breeder and breed! Looking for a new puppy and came across this newer breed. We have had poodles and Labradors and Beardies. She is brilliant. She learned to ring a bell to go outside in the first 3 days. She loves all other animals and rarely barks unless someone comes into the yard. She dances and she loves to wrap her paws around your neck and get picked up. She is a hugger! Have wnervlsbs and golden retrievers also various mixed breeds fro the shelter. Life Span Did You Know? They tend to be affectionate and loving dogs that make great family pets. They are even known to make great therapy dogs! Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other canine registries. One of the facts about Bernedoodles is that they are true companion dogs. They are cuddly companions that love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, Mini Bernedoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Miniature Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in larger homes as well as apartments. They are sensitive to heat and extreme cold, but do well in most climates. Because they bond so closely with their families and thrive on attention, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can develop separation anxiety if you do not work with them early on. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can ask about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Mini Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. This makes them a highly trainable dog that is a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They can become stubborn if training is not consistent or clear. Although their coat tends to be low-shedding and will range from straight to wavy or curly, the Mini Bernedoodle coat requires some maintenance. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Professional grooming is recommended every weeks. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed help to prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, Mini Bernedoodles are more prone to developing gum disease. Good dental care for dogs early and consistently throughout their life can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Daily tooth brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal. Although Mini Bernedoodles will be playful and have bursts of energy while playing, they are not high-energy dogs. They tend to sit in a more moderate range. Daily walks plus some playtime throughout the day are usually enough for them. But, they love spending time with you and will likely be up for more activity if you are. They may be smaller dogs, but they also tend to be relatively athletic. When puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like running, hiking, training for dog sports, and more. Fully-grown Mini Bernedoodles usually stand inches tall. They can range from pounds. F1B and F2 Mini Bernedoodles usually weigh pounds and are on the shorter side of the range. Mini Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Bernedoodle Article. On their acre farm, the entire family is involved with socializing and raising the puppies. One of their favorites is the West Highland Terrier, which her husband had seen on the job and really liked their temperament and found them easy to train. They branched out to standard Bernedoodles and found they had a great personality but were not as feisty as the purebred poodles. Another favorite is the Cavapoo, because of the look with their big eyes and friendly personalities. All of their favorite breeds make great family dogs. The children start working with the puppies at around 4 weeks old to socialize them and get them used to kids. Puppies are also exposed to other animals such as chickens, goats and horses on the farm. They also groom their adult dogs and do puppy cuts for the puppies so they do not get shaggy. Nancy and her family provide a health guarantee for all of their puppies, and their Miniature Poodle has been genetically tested for color genes. They provide each new owner with a record of shots and deworming as well as a health certificate since every puppy gets vet checked. Something they have really enjoyed over the years is seeing what they can do to raise healthy, happy puppies for their customers. For more information, please give the breeder a call today! Share The breeder is responsible for the content of this advertisement. Let Us Know! Issue Description.

Labradors have a great affinity with water and activities like swimming. So at what age can Lab puppies swim? Can Labradors swim naturally? Do Labs like to swim? We have covered all these questions for you in the below article. Have a look. At what age can Lab puppies swim? Some people say 8 weeks, some say 12 weeks and some say 3 months. There are a lot of conflicting opinions regarding the age when your Labrador puppies can start swimming. Anyone would think like this, as these Labradors are historically linked with the fisherman and icy waters of Newfoundland. Many people even think that Lab puppies can swim at any young age and they keep asking me whether their puppies can swim when they are one month old. There are various factors to consider before determining your Labrador puppy swimming age. Where is your puppy going to swim? Is it near a public pool, or a lake or a pond or a beach? For example, it is probably safe to allow a 3-month-old puppy into a small pond, but it is not safe to allow him in the beach waters. Look at the points below and you will understand the age and time to introduce your Lab puppy to swimming waters. Habituate swimming to your Labrador puppy slowly. Initially, it is always better to make the puppy acquainted with water either in your bathtub or your personal pool. You can start this when your puppy reaches 3 months old. You have to remember that your Lab needs certain physical strength in its legs in order to swim effortlessly. Allow your little Lab to grow until 3 months and then you can introduce him to swimming. Some people tell me that their Labrador puppies started swimming when they are just 8 weeks old. Do not take him into public pools until he is fully vaccinated as there is a risk of deadly diseases for your little puppy. Take him into public water bodies only after he finishes his set of vaccinations. Some puppies take time during the exploration of water, hence remember not to force him in any way to get into the water. Forcing your Lab puppy to get into water does not work and your puppy may develop fear and aversion towards the water. One of my dog Simba was very scared of water and he never preferred to play with water during its lifetime. You can take your puppy to larger water bodies like beach waters when it reaches 6 months of age. My little puppy went into the beach waters when he is around 6 months of age and he enjoyed its day fully. Taking him at a younger age might scare him of the waves and it is even difficult for the little puppy to balance himself in the beach water. Labrador swimming- Complete guide Labradors are perfect swimmers which used to retrieve fish and nets from the cold icy waters of the North Atlantic. Have you seen its thick, dense water-resistant coat? It makes them waterproof. Observe their webbed feet, which help them to swim. Let us consider some basic questions to understand Labrador swimming. Labradors have the innate ability to swim, but that does not mean they can swim like fish. This is especially true with respect to puppies. Their body structure and genetics assist them in paddling in the water. Labradors love swimming and are good swimmers but it does not mean they can swim for any duration of time and anywhere. Hence it is important to remember that they are dogs and they have their limitations. So, do Labs like to swim? But not every Labrador likes to swim. As i told you my dog Simba hates water and he is really scared of it. The reason why some Labs are scared of water is that they are introduced to water in an inappropriate way. Their first experience of water might have been scary and disturbing for them. How to teach a Lab to swim? Even though some Lab puppies begin to swim on their own, some Labs who cannot do it on their own, some Labs which are scared of water, and Labs which are small puppies need to be taught to swim. Firstly introduce your Lab puppy to water splashes and small house pools at a young age so that he gets acquainted with water. If your little pup is scared, do not force him. Give him sufficient time to get adjusted to the water. You can buy a mini Labrador swimming pool in your house to habituate swimming for your little one. You can Buy it here. Whenever you take him to a nearby pool for swimming, keep your palm under his belly or his chest and allow him to move its legs to swim. You can help him like this until he becomes a confident swimmer. Give your puppy a life vest if he is not very comfortable with water. It keeps your puppy buoyant and makes him less tense. Go into the water along with your pup. As your puppy feels safer with you, it feels even more comfortable while swimming. Go for a casual walk along the beach with a leash around your puppy and let him feel the waves. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as giving encouragement, treats and rewards while playing in the water. You can play fetch games in the water which your puppy may like. Labrador swimming safety precautions Looking at your Lab puppy swimming can be delightful and exciting, but there are some precautions you need to take while taking out your puppy for swimming. Never leave your dog alone. Even though Labs can swim sometimes it might be difficult to resist against currents in oceans and rivers. Always keep an eye on your dog as a precautionary measure. It is safe to buy him a good safety vest. We cannot expect when your dog might encounter a risky situation that makes him difficult to swim. Do not overexert your dog while swimming. Sometimes he can manage to go out far from the shore but could not come back as he gets tired. Be careful especially when your Labrador is in its puppy stage as puppies get tired more easily. Always get into a swimming pool that has a sloped ground or steps so that your dog can come out easily. Swimming pools without steps and sloped ground can be risky for dogs. Be careful while swimming in unknown waters. Unknown waters have a risk of dangerous snake bites. Attention: Lack of proper training in the initial stages can build up various anxiety issues and fears in your dog. This can make your dog afraid of any new activity including swimming too. When you want your Lab to enjoy swimming, it could be a phobia for him. Take proper steps of training your dog well to avoid these issues. Tweet on Twitter Can Labradors swim naturally or do they need to be taught? But, if your Lab has positive experiences with water from a young age, they will likely love splashing about and swimming. Traits like their double coat, healthy facial conformation, and webbed paws help to make them great swimmers. Can Labradors Swim? If Labs are introduced to swimming gradually as a puppy , they are likely to be happy and confident swimmers. Labs swim, like most other dogs, using the doggy paddle technique! But some Labs might also enjoy diving into the water, and they may love to retrieve things from water. This can be very stressful for them, and can even lead to them avoiding water in the future. The best way to encourage your Lab to swim is to introduce the habit gradually and safely. And the truth is, they were! Originally, Labrador ancestors were bred to work alongside fishermen on the island of Newfoundland, Canada. From these dogs, and other ancestors after British breeders first tried to standardise the Labrador breed, Labs inherited some traits that make them great swimmers. They have a thick, double coat that is water resistant and protects them against the chill of swimming in natural rivers and ponds. They also have a wide otter tail to help them swim, and webbed paws! Do Labradors Like to Swim? The best way to help guarantee that your pup enjoys swimming is to introduce them to water very gradually. Make sure that all of their experiences with water are positive, and that they never feel unsafe in the water. Are All Labs Good Swimmers? Most Labs will be physically able to swim when given the opportunity, or if forced to do so. But, there are a few that may panic and struggle. So, as we said before, you should introduce your Lab to the water very gradually. Some pups will be more enthusiastic than others. All Labradors have traits that can help them be strong swimmers. But, the prominence of these traits varies depending on the type of Labrador you have. When Can Labradors Start Swimming? Firstly, you must wait until your Labrador puppy has all of its necessary vaccinations. This will keep them safe from health problems like parvovirus. This might take longer than you would first think, involving chasing a stick over a small puddle at first. Gradually increase the amount of water your Lab is happy to wade through until it is slightly deeper or slightly wider. When your Labrador is happy, you can increase it again. Never make your Lab jump straight in at the deep end — literally! It may take a few months before your Labrador is happily swimming in deeper water. Can Labradors Swim in Cold Water? There are still risks letting your Lab swim in very cold water. Letting your Lab swim in cold water for extended periods can cause hypothermia, which can be fatal. Waiting for those warmer summer months may be a better idea. Helping your Labrador Swim Safely As well as risks from cold water, there are a few other considerations to make before letting your Labrador swim. If your Lab is swimming in deep water, remember there could be strong undercurrents that could make them lose control. Plus, because lots of Labradors love to swim, they may not stop until they are completely exhausted. Not only does this leave them vulnerable in deep water, but it can cause problems like limber tail , which is very painful for them. This problem usually goes away after a few days, but is still stressful for your pup. Watch out for jellyfish, and worse! Do you have a Labrador at home that loves swimming? We would love to hear about them in the comments! References and Resources. And if you are the parent of a Labrador, you may be wondering do labs like to swim? Swimming could be another way to keep them entertained and change up their exercise routine. Do Labradors like to swim? Yes, Labradors are natural swimmers who enjoy taking a dip in lakes, streams, and even pools. They are genetically designed to adapt well to the water. They have webbed toes to propel them and short but insulating fur to keep them warm, without weighing them down. Your Lab will likely need a little coaxing to go into the water and may even jump in on their own. This means you need to know whether they will enjoy swimming, how to introduce them to it, and how long a good swimming session for them will last. In this article, you will learn exactly why Labradors like to swim and how to get them started with this great form of exercise. I have owned my lab for 14 years, and from the time she was little, we have found ways to introduce her to things she will enjoy, such as the water. Getting my Lab, Bear, into the water, turned out to be one of the best things that we could do for her, especially as she began to age. When her joints became sore, swimming was a way for her to continue to exercise pain-free to help maintain her weight and keep her respiratory and cardiovascular systems healthy. Do Labradors like water? They enjoy the water, which can make it easier to bathe them and also allow them to enjoy activities such as swimming. Labradors were bred to be the perfect water dogs. They are born with a double coat and short fur. The double coat provides them with the extra insulation they need if the water temperature is cooler, and the short fur helps to keep them warm but does not provide extra weight when they are swimming. Labrador dogs can trace their ancestry to the dogs of the North American Indians. The descendants of these dogs were used by the settlers of Newfoundland to hunt and rescue people from cold water. After the Europeans adopted the breed, they began to use them to work with Portuguese anglers due to their familiarity and ease with the water. They could even help corral networks of fish as well as rescue overboard fishermen. Not only are labs physiologically bred to enjoy swimming with their webbed paws, double coat, and short fur, but they have the personality traits that make swimming enjoyable for them. They are considered sport dogs , which means they enjoy being active and getting exercise whenever they can. This can mean they have a lot of energy as well, and as long as that energy is directed towards physical activities, they are less likely to engage in destructive behaviors at home. On top of that, labs love to play and interact, and if they see the family enjoying a dip in the water, they are excited to join in with the festivities. Throwing sticks or balls at the beach for your Lab to retrieve from the water will likely become one of their favorite activities. This can be true especially when it is hot. Like humans, Labs get hot when working out in warm temperatures and the cool water allows them to work out longer without getting overheated. And one of the most compelling reasons that Labs like water is the fact that it is in their genes. They are descended from dogs who loved the water and were used in water rescue situations. This is the reason you will find that even small Lab puppies will try to jump right in when they are around water. Their genetic code draws them to it. Combining fetch with swimming is a great activity for your Lab Want to know where to take your dog swimming? Read this article. You would be hard-pressed to find a lab that does not enjoy swimming. You may not even realize that your lab enjoys the water until they run into it, or in the case of mine, they run off the end of the dock to go fetch a ball. That being said, if your Lab is a rescue dog and has experienced some sort of trauma involving water or swimming, they may develop an aversion to it. If you notice this behavior, there is likely some underlying reason, and it is best not to push it. Are Labradors Good Swimmers? Now that you know labs like to swim, you may want to know how good a swimmer they actually are. Labs are not only good swimmers, but they are also considered fast swimmers. Their webbed toes help them to swim more rapidly. Their short fur also makes them more streamlined in the water. Labradors can swim over three miles an hour. This is extremely impressive when many dogs look like they struggle to simply keep their head above water. But this speed can also cause a problem with a dog that is not trained. They can get out far in the water pretty quickly. This can make it dangerous, especially if they are swimming in a lake that has a lot of boating activity or large lakes where they may not have the energy to return. So until you have them trained to come when they are called, it is best to keep them by you when swimming. Train them to come outside of water first, as shown in the video below. Labs can swim fast and even dive. That makes them the perfect breed for the dog sport of dock diving. Beginning swimmers should only swim for ten-minute sessions, working up until they can tolerate a minute session. As with humans, your dog will reach a point during swimming where they could become fatigued, making it harder for them to swim and possibly too difficult for them to return to shore. Even though they know how to swim without being taught, just like humans, they have to work their stamina up for longer swims. They will simply need to take breaks after each swimming session. Your lab puppy will be ready to swim after approximately eight weeks. By this point, they will have begun developing the physical muscle strength that they need to swim, but you should start them off in shallow water. By about three months old, their strength will be mostly developed, and they can begin venturing out into deeper water. If you want to know if puppies can swim in a pool, read our article here. Important Safety Tips When Taking Your Labs Swimming It is important to remember that when labs are young, just because they have mastered the skill of swimming, it does not mean they are completely aware of all of their surroundings. Exiting pools safely If you have your lab swimming in a pool, you should always make sure that they know where to get out and how to navigate the steps to get out. Otherwise, they can become panicked, trying to climb out on a wall that they can not get up. Clean water If you are taking them swimming in a lake or pond, always make sure that the water is clean. If it is not clean enough for you to swim in, it would not be clean enough for them. Being more visible on a lake Also, if they are swimming in an inland lake, it may not be a bad idea to put a life jacket on them. While they will not need it to stay afloat, the bright colors can alert a boater or jet skier to their presence. Otherwise, they may be too hard to see and can become injured. Even dogs who are strong swimmers will not be able to handle rough currents or high waves. Again if it is not safe for you, it is not safe for them. For peace of mind, we recommend a life jacket see below or a 4-foot long waterproof lead that you attach to yourself. You might also want to buy a waterproof dog collar to go with the lead. Fits any dog with five sizes available. Has handles for you to hold your pup up good for training your pup in water or grab him suddenly. Comes in bright colors so you can see your dog in the water. Check out the price from Amazon here Ruffwear K9 float coat life jacket Less expensive option. Six sizes ensure you will find the best-fitting, comfortable option for your dog. Three colors available. Has one grab handle. Has a reflective edging too for extra visibility. Wearing a life jacket not only makes your Labrador more visible but also provides you with peace of mind about their safety in the water Monitor their energy levels No matter where you have them swimming, you should always monitor them for signs of fatigue or overexertion. If they seem to be struggling, moving slower, or panting more than normal, they may have worked out too much and be in need of assistance. Remember Labradors can swim for a maximum of minute blocks: they need rest breaks in between. Here are some great toys to accompany a swim. All these toys float.

Our stock photo collection includes high-quality images that will help you bring your projects to life. Whether you're creating an advertisement, website design or social media campaign, our collection of photos will definitely come in handy. We've got images of bulldogs in different angles, environments, and contexts. You'll find dogs in action, sleeping, playing, and much more. These formats are easy to use and can be edited in different design software as per your preference. Ideal for Different Projects Our Old English Bulldog images can be used for different projects, and they're perfect for a wide range of designs. These images are suitable for various design projects such as website design, print ads, emails, digital marketing campaigns, social media, and more. Our collection offers a perfect balance of cute, funny, and impressive images that will aid in the design process. You can choose from our collection to add some fun and creativity to your projects. The right image can make or break your designs, so you need to make sure you choose the right photos. When using our Old English Bulldog images, it's important to select images that fit with your branding and messaging. When designing, bear in mind the emotions you want to evoke in your viewers. Don't use photos that deviate from the tone of the rest of your project. Authenticity is key, so choose pictures that look natural and genuine, and that complement the message you're trying to convey. In conclusion, our collection of Old English Bulldog images is the perfect choice to enhance your design projects. With a vast selection of photos captured in different contexts, you will find a picture that fits your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring our photo gallery to find the perfect photos to enhance your project! Video of English Bulldogge Puppies History This is a comparatively new bred and was developed due to the initiatives taken by one Mr. David Leavitt of Pennsylvania who aimed in creating a breed possessing the looks and athletic nature of the dog used for bull baiting but with a lesser degree of aggressiveness. It was decided to include half of the English Bulldog blood, one-sixth of Bull Mastiff and American Bulldog and one-sixth of the other breeds. The outcome of these crosses was the Old English Bulldogge. In Leavitt tried to maintain the authenticity of the dogs which he bred and named them as Leavitt Bulldogges, with the Leavitt Bulldog Association being formed in .The UKC recognized them completely in .Olde English Bulldogge vs. The Old English Bulldogge has a lesser chance of suffering from breathing difficulties in comparison to the English Bulldog because of its broad nostrils and long muzzle. Temperament and Personality Besides making for remarkable family pets because of their docile and friendly nature, they are also fearless protectors fitting the bill of a perfect watchdog. Though they share a good rapport with children of the family, emerging as their perfect playmate, this breed may not be amicable to other dogs, especially if they are not a part of its family. Care Exercise Because of their agile, muscular and athletic nature, they have high exercise needs, requiring daily walks and sufficient playtime in a fenced yard. However, avoid taking them out when the temperatures are too high or low. When indoors give a lot of chewable toys to keep them engaged as they have a tendency to chew up things when bored. Grooming Since they shed moderately, brush their coat once in a week to maintain the shine. Bathe it when needed, and also trim its nails, clean its eyes and ears as well as brush its teeth to maintain proper hygiene. Health Problems They are a healthy breed compared to other bull dog varieties and are not known to suffer from any genetic issues. However, bloating and hip dysplasias as well as insensitivity to heat are the common problems faced by them. Training They are friendly pets but could be stubborn at times, needing firm handling. Give it socialization training since its puppy days so that it may learn to differentiate between the god and the bad, thus accepting a friend and being defensive at the sight of a foe. Obedience training, particularly teaching it commands help it in eliminating its unacceptable behavior like chewing. Feeding Good quality dry dog food coupled with a nutritious homemade meal would keep your English Bulldogge healthy. They are also known by other names like English bulldog or British Bulldog. But whatever you may call them, they are one of the best ever breeds still existing. In ancient times, bulldogs were actually used to drive cattle to the market and used to participate in a game known as bull baiting. But today these bull dogs have became a gentle companion dogs who really love their kids a lot. But remember there are other various amazing information about this breed in the article. Read it full without a miss. Despite its energy or lack thereof , no one can deny that bulldogs have the propensity to have fun! In fact, a bulldog named Otto is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records because of its love for skateboarding. They are very compact in overall shape. They have massive folds all over their body especially on the head. The head is covered with extra skin on both the skull and forehead. The cheeks generally extend to the side of the eyes. The ears are small in appearance and are placed slightly high on the head. The short and flat coat of the bulldog is straight smooth and glossy. They are also found in various coat colors like solid white, red, brindle, fawn, pale yellow and various other combinations. One of the most common problems for English bulldogs is conception. Because of its build and biology, male bulldogs often find it difficult to mate with female bulldogs. As such, most English bulldogs are bred via artificial insemination. The next part of the problem would be giving birth. Combine that with their compact build and huge muscles, and they might quickly sink to the bottom. Therefore, if you have a swimming pool at home or you regularly go to the beach, be sure to keep an eye on your English bulldog. You can get a doggie life vest and build more sea-bound memories with your pup. They can look cute, and they can look fierce. Because of this, the English bulldog is the most popular college mascot of all time. In fact, at least 15 colleges and high schools use the English bulldog as their official mascots. The height of the bulldog is normally inches and the weight is about pounds on an average. Females are slightly of less weight ranging from pounds. Bulldogs are very prone to breathing problems and some are found with small windpipes as well. They have a poor eye sight and can fall into a heart stroke anytime in a house or a car. They are also very prone to weather changes. Skin problems and hip and knee problem are also very common. So it can be said that they are full of diseases from very early age. But if you can keep them in a good care they will obviously survive more. A bulldog is possibly the first-ever dog to ride a car. In , cars were still quite rare. Horatio Nelson Jackson, along with his co-driver Sewall K. With a horsepower car and a pair of goggles for Bud, the three of them proved to the world that cars will pave the way for transportation in the near future. So, maybe you can find a way to use these as motivation for your little one to run and play with you. Bull baiting was banned in the UK in .After that, the English bulldog almost faced extinction. Luckily, many others saw the potential of the breed. Breeders then tried to make them gentler and kinder by mixing them with other breeds that have these characteristics. As a result, they became one of the sweetest and gentlest breeds out there. They are very gentle in nature and they are very affectionate and dependable on their owners. Bulldogs are mainly known for their good courage and guarding abilities. If you are the owner they will need your attention all the time. Even some bulldogs are very dominating in nature. So if you are an owner of strong mentality, you can control them. All of England loves this breed! Since then, it has become one of the most popular breeds in the US, snatching the fourth rank. When bulldogs are young, they are very active and playful but this reduces with time as they grow old. This breed is real family pet and is very suitable for small families. Bulldogs have a habit of drooling which sometimes results in stinky smell. If you can train them in a correct way they will really do everything according to the command. So you can self train them or take them to a dog trainer who can easily train them. Bull dogs are human lovers and they really depend on them. So humans should also be very lovable towards this dig breed. English bulldogs are perhaps the most heavy-eyed dog breed out there. English bulldogs often sleep for 14 hours a day. Maybe they got tired fighting bulls in their early days which is also where they got the name , and they now just want to sit back, relax, and take a nap. English bulldogs are extremely popular among celebrities and important personalities. Some of them have even lived in the White House. Both President William G. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt also took care of a family bulldog called Jaques. David Beckham once received a bulldog named Coco from his wife Victoria as a Christmas present. Even though bulldogs may not like the water or swimming in particular, Michael Phelps has one named Herman. Adam Sandler also has a bulldog named Meatball who served as his best man in his wedding. An English bulldog is best for a small house or an apartment life. Once they grow up they will not be very active in the indoors and bulldog is a real indoor dog. So if you live in a temperate climate, you can bring a puppy today as your pet. You will really get amazed by seeing their loyalty. You have seen some beautiful photos of English bulldog puppies and you can imagine how sweet they are. I'm a blogger who loves to write about pets. I like to try new products, find cute pictures of them and share them with people. Related Posts.

Stages of Puppy Development Birth to 3 weeks The first 20 days of a pups life it is not capable of much learning. The mental capacity is about nil. The pup will react when it is in need of food, sleep, warmth and its mother. During the first 3 weeks it is VERY important to look after the dam as well. She will in turn, look after the puppies. Once or twice a day the puppies should be handled by a human and they should be weighed daily. During the first 3 weeks most dams like to be in a warm secluded area, not in the family living area. Pups remain contently in their whelping box for the first 20 days of their life. Newborn puppies sleep most of the day away. No matter what the breed, this is the time when the dormant senses wake up. From day 21 to 28 puppies are in need of their mom more than any other time as their brains and nervous systems begin to develop and they become aware of their surroundings. As mom jumps out of the box, they suddenly watch her wondering where she went. Pups may start climbing out of the whelping box at this age, so it is time to expand their home. At this stage we add a small potty area beside the whelp box. If a puppy were to loose his mom at this stage it would greatly affect his emotional wellbeing. Emotional growth is just blossoming as the puppy realizes it is alive. It is also at this age that characteristics can develop like shyness and fear. Any negative characteristics that develop at this stage in life are often permanent personality traits. The puppies sleep 20 or more hours a day. They will not go far, but they will begin to explore. At this time we expand their area to add a play and eating area in the daytime. This is the time to move them out to the kitchen and family room area, where life is happening in the home. This is not the age to be in the back bedroom, garage or barn. During this time, a puppy will learn to respond to voices, sounds and recognize different people. The puppies in their group will establish a 'pecking order', some will want to lead and some will want to follow. The dominant ones will eat first and the omega ones will wait. The dominant ones can become bullies and hog all the toys. This is an important stage to watch to learn the temperaments of each puppy and should be used for placing puppies into the proper homes. Some scientific studies prove that if there is a bully in a litter that is making others cower and be shy it can set in traits that are very hard to turn around, but it is also important to leave puppies in a social group long enough to be adventurous and for the puppy to acquire some social competitive skills. On the same note, a puppy should never be allowed to get too pushy. While shyer puppies have to learn to handle themselves in social groups, a dominant puppy needs to learn it is not acceptable to be a bully. Different breeds need to be separated at different ages. Often if the bully is adopted out first the remaining puppies will loose some of their shyness. Puppies at this age sleep 18 to 20 hours a day. By 7 weeks, a pup is considered emotionally developed and ready to learn, but the pup does not possess an adult brain yet. At 7 weeks old the breeder of the pups can start crate training for an hour or two a day with 2 pups in a crate. This helps with separation anxiety. By 8 weeks of age a puppy should be able to go in a crate alone for a nap, and it is almost ready for its new home. A puppy should never be taken away from it's mother before weeks of age. The mother dog teaches the puppies in the litter manners, respect, social skills, and proper etiquette, along with many other valuable lessons. When a puppy misses this stage it can cause the pup to have future behavior issues as most humans do not understand natural dog behavior enough to teach the pup these things. What a puppy learns now will be retained and become part of who the dog becomes and his personality. Most dams stop caring for their pups by 7 weeks, as they have teeth and she pushes them away. If a pup is left with the dam during this period it's emotional development can be altered, as it remains dependent on her. The same can happen if littermates are placed together. They rely on each other instead of the new owner and they often do not find adequate security in their mom or littermate. They need their new owner to take over the role and it is important that the humans understand natural dog behavior in order to fulfill the puppies instincts and needs. First shots should be done at 7. When a puppy stays with his litter after 8 to 9 weeks of age without adequate human contact it doesn't adjust as well to a human social life. The optimum time to take a new puppy is from 8 to 9 weeks of age. It is always best to have a pup do his learning from his new owner and in his new home. Puppies are often adopted out at 8, 9, 10 or 11 weeks. Older puppies can do just fine if the breeder has spent a lot of time socializing them away from their littermates. Ideally 9 weeks seems to be the perfect age for most breeds to go to new homes. What the dog learns from 8 to 12 weeks will be with him forever. At this time the puppy must be introduced to other people and go for walks on the pavement street avoiding dirt or grass until it has had its 2nd shots. If the first shots are done at 8 weeks and second are done at 12 weeks it is a good idea to enroll in puppy kindergarten that starts right at 12 weeks. At this age on up to several months old, puppies will sleep 16 to 20 hours a day, give or take depending on the puppies energy level and the activity around them. Sleeping more during rapid growth sprurts. The sleep is broken up between night time sleep and naps during the day. It is common for a puppy to play hard, running around with bounds of energy, then suddenly crashing into a deep sleep. It is important to keep in mind that all puppies by this time have formed a general personality. Some are natural born leaders, some are middle of the road and could go either way and some are very submissive and really prefer not to lead anything. All puppies have an instinct to have a leader who can provide structure, because in their minds without it the pack cannot survive. Therefore even the most naturally born submissive dog may feel the need to take over as an alpha should they feel everyone else around them is too weak to care for the pack. These dogs are often very stressed out about their role because they really do not want it, but feel the need to lead just the same. After all, to them it's a matter of life or death. One of the biggest questions new owners call about is that the pup is an angel for the first couple weeks and then it starts to nip in an attempt to control things around it. This happens when a puppy does not see the humans as natural born leaders to which it can respect and it attempts to get the pack in order. If this happens it does not necessarily mean you got a bad puppy, but often means you are not being a good canine owner. Owners must be calm but firm and follow through. Set the rules of the home and stick to them. Teach basic obedience and how to heel on a leash. Do not let the puppy bolt out the door. Stay calm and confident and remember that dogs can feel your emotions. If you have emotional problems your dog knows and will see you as a weak being. Always remember to a dog anger is a weakness, so take a deep breath and control yourself. Should the puppy feel it is stronger minded than the humans it will not want to be at the bottom. Puppy owners should be prepared that the pup may attempt to establish itself as the dominant one in the family. This is where you need to understand a dog's natural instincts and learn their language so you can read them. It may see whether it can physically strike out at his owner like some teens and could nip or growl. Should this happen be prepared to stop the behavior immediately. It is kind of like kids wanting dessert before dinner or to stay up later. You just have to say NO. Each dog is different, just as kids are, therefore you need to figure out what works for you and your situation. If it is being aggressive one method is to pin it on its back and hold him there with a firm NO. If a pup is allowed to get away with bad behavior it will lose respect for the owner and learn that rebelling gets him his own way. The key is for the humans to be calm, confident and firm all at the same time. If you find yourself yelling or angry you as the human are out of control and need to learn how to portray yourself as someone your dog can look up to and respect. Dogs do not listen to unstable humans and anything but calm, confident and firm, to them is unstable. There should be zero tolerance for aggressiveness. Heaps of love and understanding will not stop bad behavior. A pup must be shown fast and firmly that you are the one in charge. If you have a good breeder who understands the dog even returning him for a few days can help as the breeder gets the dog back under control and you assess your own behavior and understanding of this animal you are trying to live with. Sending a dog away to be trained without training yourself never works, as the way your dog is acting often has more to do with the humans it is living with. This goes for any dog of any age. Learn how to groom your dog. Teach it to lie still for grooming and nail trimming. If you are having trouble call the breeder or a behaviorist for help. It is best to have earned a dog's respect and trust in regards to grooming by 16 weeks of age. A pups natural instinct will be to periodically try to test the order in the pack. Especially if there are children. If the owner is submissive, quiet and week, thus making the dog feel the need to lead the home, its respect for its owner will weaken and the owner will become inferior in the dogs eyes. In these cases the owner is destined to be owned by the dog and you will surely see behavior problems emerge. A puppy should have a good start on crate training when it leaves a breeder's home. Help your puppy feel secure by giving it its own bed and crate in a place where it can be alone when it needs some quiet time. It should be crated for one or two naps per day, especially when making and eating dinner and crated at night. It should not ever have the run of the house till after 6 months of age or housebreaking and training can become very difficult. A puppy should start formal obedience by 6 months of age, preferably sooner. Remember when you choose to adopt a dog you are choosing to take an animal into your home. The animal is not a human baby and humans are not born with canine instincts. Take some time to learn about the canine and be prepared to change your way of life to accommodate the new member of the family. Are you sure? It can be difficult for an owner to be certain, so it can be wise to take the dam and pups to the vet within about six hours. The vet can also check for cleft palates and inform you of options available see article on cleft palates —these pups are worth saving , but if you are pretty sure and experienced enough to know the pups are all out, it is best to leave the dam at home, as every time you take her out, and to the vet, you risk bringing home a virus. Normally after whelping she will stop shivering and panting, clean her pups and herself and settle down to feed her pups…. If all seems normal, I just call my vet and let him know what has happened. Take the dam out to relieve herself, and give her some fluids. Chicken broth or Mamalac are good. I give chicken broth, chicken and rice for first meal. Freshen her up with a sponge bath and put nice clean bedding down for her and her new family. If you are using a heating pad it is extremely important that it is enclosed securely in padding so a pup cannot get caught down there under the bedding…. Some new moms try to bury their pups. My whelping box has a wooden bottom, and the heating pad goes UNDER the box, under the plywood floor; this makes a nice radiant heated whelping box floor. If it is black call your vet. Discharge lasts for about a week, slowly turning clearer. If it continues, or develops a foul odor, call the vet. Some dams spot blood for a week or two. If the dam is a new mother, and unsure, make her nurse as the nursing will trigger the release of hormones into her bloodstream, which will help encourage her mothering instincts meaning the more the dam nurses, the more loving she becomes Full supervision is recommended until she has accepted the fact that she is a loving mom. For some breeds, like the giant and clumsy breeds, pups cannot go with the dams for a week or two, but must go in an incubator and be put with the dam every two to four hours. Check your breed. I personally sleep next to my dam and puppies for a few nights, to ensure she does not roll on a puppy, or a puppy does not get out of the bunch and get chilled, etc…. They are VERY susceptible to cold. Make sure there are NO drafts. I leave a baby monitor on, and if a puppy is crying more than usual, I go to see why. Sometimes a puppy will latch on so tightly to the dam that he gets dragged out of the box, sometimes he is lost in the blankets. I make large pillow-like cases from sheets to contain the blankets, so that the puppies cannot get lost in the folds. Your whelping box should have guardrails to help protect the puppies that crawl behind the dam from suffocation and squishing. They need and get constant care from the dam; they cannot even relieve themselves without her stimulation…. She will keep the whelping box very clean for the first couple weeks up to three weeks. Then it is your job.It is wise to weigh the pups twice daily for the first week, and once a day after that. My goal is for pups to start gaining right away, and not have that drop. Feed the dam three times daily three times normal amount of food or more. Check her milk glands twice daily for mastitis swollen, hard teats. If you notice an excess of milk, she will become uncomfortable and restless. This can be relieved by squeezing the teat; draining some milk will reduce the pressure. If you fail to relieve pressure, call your vet. Milk fever is serious, and talked about on the whelping page, as it can come before puppies, but is normally more common when milk is being produced. Some dams need extra calcium. Eyes should open on day 8 to 13 never attempt to open the eyes. Ears should open on day 13 to .Change the bedding in the box several times per day, but do not change the paper often keep it smelling like a toilet and keep the bed smelling like a fresh bed… The puppies will be paper trained by 3 weeks…. By 4 weeks, you will need to expand their home again to include a play area. At three weeks, their teeth are developing. Some large breeds are ready to try soft food and toys. They can lap water and Mamalac. Slowly add soaked puppy kibble. For smaller breeds of dogs, they do not need food till 4 or 5 weeks old. Also, all litters are different. A litter of eight puppies will need food sooner than a litter of three puppies, even if just to give the dam a break. If the Dam is feeding the pups, there is no crying and they are content, then do not rush weaning. Now the Fun Begins.The puppies have arrived. They have been weighed and identified; they have nursed and are now sleeping quietly except for the normal twitching. Now what? Your job is not over yet, in fact, it's really just beginning. Nutrition and Feeding The mother will be ready for some food and water. Bring the dishes to the whelping box, as she will not want to leave the newborn puppies. Do not leave the dishes on the floor in the whelping box, as the puppies could crawl into them. Hang the dishes from the side of the whelping box or offer her food and water at least every hours to start. She should be taken outside on a frequent and regular basis to relieve herself. Within days, the mother's appetite will dramatically increase to times her pre-pregnancy intake. She will need a near constant supply of a high quality puppy food do NOT use large breed puppy formulas, which are generally lower in protein, fat, and minerals and water to maintain her weight and health while feeding the puppies. She should not look gaunt or thin if her weight is maintained. Ideally, she should weigh the same at the time of weaning, as she did when she was bred. A healthy puppy is firm, plump, and vigorous. Puppies should nurse every 2 hours or so. If they nurse until their stomachs appear round and they sleep quietly, they are eating enough. If they are crying and moving a lot, they are not eating enough. They may be swallowing air, which makes the stomach appear larger. As they become weaker, they will lay still and not cry. Their weight should double in the first days. Before, during, and after nursing, the mother will lick the stomach and perineal area to stimulate urination and defecation. She will continue to do this for weeks. Weigh the puppy daily for the first 2 weeks, then weigh at least weekly. A food scale typically works well for weighing the puppies. Failure to gain weight is often the first sign of illness in puppies. At about 3 weeks of age, the puppies will begin to imitate the mother's eating and drinking. A secure shallow water dish should now be available at least part of the day. Prepare the puppy mush by placing 2 cups of high quality dry puppy food in a blender with .This should be blended until the consistency of human infant cereal. This feeds puppies of a medium-sized breed. The puppies should receive meals a day of this to start. Once the puppies have checked it out, walked in it, and have eaten some, the mother can be allowed to finish it and clean the puppies off. Each week, increase the amount of food, decrease the amount of the milk replacer and water that is added and the time of blending, so by 7 weeks of age, the puppies are eating dry food. Once they are on dry food, it may be left in with the puppies when the mother is out of the box or the meal times can continue. As the puppies eat more solid food, the mother may be let away from the puppies for an ever longer period of time. If the weaning is not rushed, she will naturally start decreasing milk production, as the puppies increase their intake of solid food. As the puppies begin eating the puppy mush at 4 weeks of age, start changing the mother's diet back to adult food to also help her decrease milk production. Keep increasing the adult food and decreasing the puppy food until by the 7th week postpartum she is eating only adult food. Hopefully she has been fed well during pregnancy and lactation so she weighs the same at weaning as she did before pregnancy. Want to learn how to save on your dog's veterinary care? Click here Sanitation and Housebreaking During and after whelping, the mother should be allowed to go outside to urinate and defecate. Take her out on a leash bring a flashlight if it is dark , and watch her closely, as she could have another puppy. The whelping box needs to be changed at least once a day at this stage, and times a day as the puppies begin eating solids and the mother is not cleaning up after them. A large heavy paper may be laid on the bottom, several layers of newspaper over that, and a tightly stretched blanket over the newspaper. The blanket should be large enough to fit under all 4 sides of the box. If the box was made so the sides set into the floor, the sides are picked up, the blanket stretched, and the sides set down to hold the blanket in place. Puppies can become lost under blankets or under wrinkles in blankets. When cleaning, check the consistency and color of the puppy stool. It should be brown and formed, but not overly firm. Any deviations and the veterinarian should be contacted. To facilitate housebreaking, the puppies should be given definite feeding, playing, sleeping, and elimination areas. Once the puppies are mobile, they will use one area for elimination. Cover this area with a layer of newspapers with cedar or pine shavings on top. The new owners then place a small amount of cedar or pine shavings in the preferred location of their yard to aid in housebreaking. Keep the elimination area clean and dry. Puppies head toward the heat source to nurse so do not have the heat source warmer than the mother. Hanging a household thermometer on the inside of the whelping box will help you know the temperature in the box. Puppies typically lay side by side or on top of each other to share warmth. If the puppies are scattered throughout the whelping box and away from the heat lamp, the temperature is too warm. If they are all piled on top of each other, it may be too cold. Puppies need the extra heat, as they are unable to regulate their body temperature until several weeks old. Health of the Mother Each mammary gland and nipple should be checked at least once a day for redness, hardness, discharge, or streaking color. If mastitis develops, the veterinarian should be notified immediately. If caught early, milking out the affected gland and applying hot compresses will help prevent a spread of the problem. Sometimes, antibiotics are necessary. If she gets multiple glands with mastitis, the puppies will need to be bottle fed. The puppies' nails should be trimmed weekly starting within days of birth. This will help prevent some of the scratches on the mother's mammary glands. The deciduous teeth start coming in around day .Check the mammary glands of the mother daily for bite marks. The mother will have a bloody discharge from her vulva which may be quite heavy for several days. It should decrease in amount and become darker and be almost gone within weeks. The mother's hair may have become very thick and luxurious during the pregnancy. Around the time of weaning, the mother starts to shed. This extreme loss of hair coat is natural and it should be back to normal in about another months. This shedding is more extreme than a normal shed cycle and some mothers become quite bald. This is often called 'blowing a coat. Click here Puppy Healthcare Puppies who are not thriving should be examined as soon as possible by a veterinarian to check for birth defects. Some defects, such as a cleft palate are not compatible with life. These puppies should be humanely euthanized. Dewclaws are removed and tails docked at days of age. Make an appointment with your veterinarian for these procedures to be done. Check your breed's standard, as some breeds need to have dewclaws left intact in order to show. Tail length changes, so again, the current breed standard should be consulted. When the puppies are at the clinic and having these procedures done, the mother should be taken for a walk around the block until the puppies are done. She should not be close enough to the clinic to hear the puppies crying. Once they are put back with the mother, the puppies normally nurse and then sleep. Vaccinations are started at weeks of age. Some breeders give a parvo virus vaccine at 5 weeks of age, if the puppies are at a high-risk. Ask your veterinarian if your puppies should be vaccinated early for parvo virus. They recommend puppy deworming for roundworms and hookworms start at 2 weeks of age and be repeated at 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age. Thereafter, use a heart worm preventive medication that is also effective against hookworms and roundworms. Foster and Smith suggest that owners of newly acquired puppies obtain the deworming history of their new pup and contact their veterinarian to determine if additional deworming is needed. The mother should be dewormed at the same time as the puppies. A health check done by a veterinarian at weeks of age before the puppies head for new homes should include checks for heart murmurs, hernias, cryptorchidism, demodectic mange, other parasites, eye disorders, etc. Normal puppy development The umbilical cord normally falls off within days of birth. Infections of the umbilicus are rare in clean, well-managed kennels. Puppies normally twitch and jerk while sleeping. This helps with the development of their nerves and muscles. The puppies crawl well by days, walk at 16 days, and have a normal gait at 21 days. They need to be on footing that offers traction. By 4 weeks of age, the puppies follow each other and carry toys in their mouths. They will play-fight with each other and learn how to inhibit their bites. If a puppy bites a littermate too hard, the littermate will yelp and stop playing with him. If the puppy is allowed to bite humans, he will not learn to inhibit his bite. It may be cute as a 7-week old, but it will not be as a 7-year old. Puppies are born without teeth. The deciduous baby teeth start to erupt at weeks of age. All of the deciduous teeth are usually present by 8 weeks of age. The puppies' eyes will open around days of age. The retina matures around 21 days of age. Puppies should see clearly by 4 weeks of age. Do not pry open the lids for any reason, as the immature eye is not yet ready to handle light. If the eyes appear swollen before they open, take the puppy to a veterinarian immediately as an eye infection may be present that needs to be treated to prevent loss of vision. Some puppies will take a day to open the eyes while others will take days. The eyes will have a bluish color to them at first and then change to their adult color over time. If the eyes appear white or solid blue, take the puppy to the veterinarian right away. The ears open at days of age. They should hear clearly by 4 weeks of age. Deafness may not be noticeable while the puppies are together and first noticed when the puppy is in her new home. Interactions Between the Mother and Puppies By the time the puppies are weeks old, the mother should have an area near the whelping box, but separate from the puppies to allow her time to rest. At about this time, the puppies will start trying to leave the box to explore. They should be well supervised and have safe toys available. The box at this point should be big enough to be divided between eating, sleeping, playing, and eliminating rooms. At this stage, a crate with the door removed and lined with sheepskin or a dog bed can be given to the puppies for sleeping quarters and to familiarize them with crates. Puppy Socialization Early socialization of the puppies will help them become confident and develop fewer behavior problems. The puppies should be exposed to everything possible from metal food dishes dropping, to vacuums, garage doors opening and closing, thunderstorms, sirens, garbage trucks going past, cats, and other pets, etc. Do not try to keep the area quiet during the day. The puppies need to get used to normal household noises. Children should be allowed to play outside the whelping box supervised so they do not enter the box or drop toys in , as children behave differently than adults. Everything the puppy is exposed to now, will help her become a well-socialized, unafraid adult. The puppies should be handled several times a day. They can be picked up, their teeth looked at, ears checked, toes played with nails will need a weekly trimming , and have anything that may be done as an adult started slowly now. Play helps to develop the puppy's mind, as he needs to find solutions to problems he encounters. If the puppies are not in new homes by 10 weeks of age, they should be separated from each other for a large part of the day and given one-on-one time with humans. They can have play times during the day, but they should eat, sleep, and be handled separately. Being in a kennel group situation beyond weeks of age decreases trainability. Ready to start saving money on pet wellness care? Then take a look at Mint Wellness, the pet wellness plan that provides fast reimbursement on routine pet care. Save on vaccinations, wellness exams, preventatives, dental, and more! For heating the pups in the whelping box particle board construction with adjustable entrance and pig rails , we have a lectro-kennel pad in part of it. There is a window into the rest of the shop from the room; for mama dogs' sake, I wish we had a window to the outside.But it's not a kennel setup, so it's not perfect. The pups stay in this room for weeks.When they are big enough to move outside, they spend the nights in a chain-link fenced kennel about 8 x 13 feet on gravel. If they have to be kenneled while we're home, then we can open that up to an adjacent kennel the same size. Puppy pen- I wouldn't use hogwire. We've had pups almost hang themselves in the stuff really young pups can hang up in diamond chain link too ; albeit I think the hogwire type fence we used had smaller increments than regular hogwire. Anyways, we supervised them closely when they were in this pen. Size-wise I think the largest you can provide, the better, as long as it's safe. We've used 10x10 too but it just seemed too small especially when they were weeks old. The cement blocks should work fine. Our puppy pens are on the grass and then we just move it around the yard when the grass seems to be getting too worn out.