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Black and White Boxer puppies There are quite a number of myths about the color of the black and white boxer puppies. The genetic combination of a black boxer puppy will play a huge role in determining its overall color. White boxer puppies lack melanin, the hormone responsible for the black pigmentation that ideally black boxer puppies ought to have. Mostly, white boxer puppies are associated with some deformities like deafness and are more prone to sunburns due to the lack of melanin. Black Boxer puppies Many dog lovers search for the pure black boxer puppy. It can be a bit hard to judge from photos of dogs that breeders claim to be pure black boxer puppies. Black boxer puppies have a very dark coat naturally that is also very thick. In the case of getting pure black boxer puppies, you need to look very carefully because the color can deceive your eyes. Never judge the color of the boxer in the first look. There are some black boxer puppies who are black in color and some just have a dark brindle. Image Source 3. Health of the black boxer dog Just like any other dog breed, the black boxer dog breed is also prone to some health issues. Some of the leading health issues that affect this breed is that they are likely to suffer from cancer, heart conditions like boxer cardiomyopathy, hyperthyroidism, hip dysplasia and even epilepsy. The main cause of death being stillbirth and infection. Remember, the original black boxer puppy was a hybrid of the English bulldog and the Bullenbeisser , which is now an extinct breed. The sole cause of infections among the current black boxer dog is as a result of inbreeding with other dog breeds. About .The lifespan of the black boxer dogs was therefore estimated to be an average of 10 years. Before you make your purchase from any breeder, make sure that you screen the black boxer dog to find out if he is likely to have any of these health conditions. This will greatly determine the lifespan of the black boxer puppy. Diet and nutrition of the black boxer dog The black boxer dog is a very energetic breed. This essentially means that you have to be very keen on the quality of dog food that you feed your furry friend. High quality wet dog food is recommended for the black boxer dog. Their diet should generally contain high amounts of calories because of their energy expenditure. You should mostly feed your black boxer dog meals which contain lean animal protein like lean chicken or fish which is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. You also need to be aware of the fact that black boxers may be vulnerable to dental issues hence have a high likelihood of developing bad breath. This is one of the reasons why you need to avoid dry dog food, especially cheap and low quality food. Always give your dog plenty of clean and fresh water to help maintain good oral hygiene and to keep him well hydrated. Weight and height of the black boxer dog The black boxer dog is generally a medium-sized dog. The male dog weighs approximately between kgs and the female counterpart too. The only difference between the male and female black boxer dogs is the height. The male can grow to a height of between cm and the female between cm. Image Source 7. The black boxer dog is quite a harmless one when it comes to family and has a very warm and social personality. However, this dog can be distrustful to strangers. The black boxer dog is the perfect family dog because of their patience and protective nature, especially around children. This dog breed is a very playful and energetic one hence a favorite of many children. Boxers can also be quite headstrong so you need to take them through thorough obedience training. Naturally, boxers are not an aggressive breed and they have natural guardian instincts too. Socialization The black boxer is a very friendly dog, which makes it easy for you to socialize your puppy. The dog gets along well with both humans and other animals. They generally love companionship and will immediately get along fine with strangers once their natural instinct assures them it is okay to do so. However, you need to know that black boxer dogs may not be very patient when it comes to larger adult dogs, especially those of the same sex. Boxers are generally patient with smaller dog breeds. In case you take your boxer out the dog park, one that is frequented by smaller dog breeds will be a good place to begin socialization. Recommended: Check the brain training for dogs program here 9. What is the price of a black boxer puppy? The price of the black boxer puppy is expected to be relatively higher than the price of other dog breeds. This is because of the fact that the black boxer is a rare breed and they are not very easy to get. Breeders who sell black boxer puppies sell them a bit expensive because this dog has a really beautiful black coat that is very thick and dark hence making him a very attractive breed. You need to be prepared to dig deep in your pockets to get one of these lavish black boxer puppies. Are black boxers rare? Getting a pure bred black boxer dog can prove to be quite difficult due to the extinction of one of the parent species, the Bullenbeiser. However, you can get black and white boxer puppies as well as crossbreeds of the black boxer dog. Real black boxers do not exist anymore. The gene that is responsible for the rich dark color is extinct and not available in the existing breeds. Never be misguided by some greedy breeders who claim to have the pure black boxer dog breed. Conclusion In conclusion, the black boxer dog was one of a kind. The current breeds are a crossbreed between the black boxer dog and another breed. This existing breed may have a fur coat that is a mixture of black and white, hence a black and white boxer dog or brown. The boxer is a great family dog and has a warm temperament too. The breed is also a friendly one hence very easy to socialize with both humans and other canines. Always give your boxer plenty of physical exercise because this dog is very energetic and needs the exercise to develop healthy and strong bones. Good nutrition is also very important to lower the risk of your boxer suffering from illnesses that can be avoided. Featured Image Credit: Source. There is a lot of talk about black Boxers dogs; some potential puppy buyers will actively seek out this colored puppy, but their searching is in vain. It may be hard to believe it when you see photos, but black boxers do not exist — the color gene responsible for black coat color does not exist within the breed. Brindle is a pattern of color, it is a striping effect. With most brindle Boxers, the dark stripes are clearly over a fawn background. However, with Boxer dogs that appear to have a black coat, this is due to super heavy reserve brindling. In fact, it can be so dark and so thick, that you cannot see any fawn beneath it. This gives the dog a very dark coat that does indeed appear to be black. Here, we'll go into the facts a bit more to talk about why black cannot exist with the breed and some myths are swirl about regarding this perceived coat color. Why Colors are Misinterpreted It is very easy to see a dog and immediately assume that he is a certain color, based on what your eyes are telling you. However, with some breeds, the Boxer included, you must take a second look. It is sometimes only when you realize how brindle can cause an effect of sorts, that makes a first impression of black, that it starts to make sense. In addition, some Boxers are given the term of black; however, in many cases, this is a shortened term that comes from longer 'black brindle'. The base color of all purebred Boxers is fawn. Brindles are actually fawn with a brindle marking. Those markings are made of a pattern for fur consisting of black striping which covers the fawn… Sometimes just a bit lightly brindled and sometimes a lot a heavily brindled dog. A black Boxer with white flash? Your eyes are playing tricks on you. This pup is super dark reverse brindle with white markings. Cassandra, 5 months old Photo couresty of Christopher Many wonder if perhaps there were black Boxers that were mostly bred out of the lines and that perhaps now and again a dog with a black coat shows up somewhere. However, if we look to the record keeping of the past century, we can see that this is not the case. In this year time period, a black Boxer appeared once, however there is a catch to this. In the Germany, in the late 's a Boxer was paired with a mixed dog that was part Bulldog and part Schnauzer. The resulting litter had puppies that had black coats. Since another breed was introduced into the bloodline, they were not purebreds. These dogs were not used for any further breeding and therefore did not have any influence on genetics going forward. Once in a while there will be a breeder that claims to have black Boxers and will point to this one incident long ago as evidence that black does indeed run in the bloodline. However, since those mixed dogs with black coats were never used for any sort of develop program this simply does not hold true. Another element that shows that this coloring does not exist in the Boxer line is the rule that the Munich Boxer Club created in .This group had stringent control over breeding and development of Boxers in Germany and set the guidelines for the standard, conformation and all elements regarding appearance including coloring. This group did not wish for any experimenting to be done that would introduce the color black and for this reason they made a clear rule that black Boxers would not be accepted. Some make the argument that programs may have ignored this ruling and still attempted to breed black Boxers. However it would have not been in their best interest to do so and additionally, any resulting dogs would have not been part of the Munich Boxer Club since they couldn't have been registered there. This means that any such hypothetical dogs could not have genetically been included in the Boxer's bloodline since they would have been barred from any programs that were developing and perfecting the breed. So, now that we know: This color does not exist in the line The only record of any black Boxer in the last century was a mixed dog and not a purebred Guidelines and strict rules of of the club in Munich that was the foundation of today's Boxers clearly excluded black Boxers.And it is also fair to say: The chance of there being some odd, rare gene mutation that brings black into the coat is extraordinarily rare; mathematically the odds are so low that this can be ruled out Black Boxer puppies cannot be born due to a hidden gene; this is because black is dominant over all other colors. It cannot be recessive, it always comes out over others Why are some people still adamant that this coloring exists? Diesel, at 2 years old Photo courtesy of Brittany Calvert This leads us to the conclusion of only two possibilities in this regard: A 'true' black Boxer simply cannot be a purebred. It is assumed that in this case, it would be done to sell the pups at a higher cost. Some elements to ponder.Their registration papers do not have that color code as an option. Therefore, even if someone verbally dubs a Boxer to have a black coat, the dog - if registered with a recognized club - would officially be another color; and that would most likely be brindle. Since the pup would be handed over to new owners with papers stating he was not black, how can they simultaneously claim to have black Boxer dogs? And this of course, is very unethical. In Summary Every being whether it is a mammal, like a dog, human, etc. These genes determine everything about the being, from skin color to the number legs to where the eyes are.Genes control coat color in dogs, too. In order for a dog to be black, that breed of dog must contain the gene for having a black coat. Boxer dogs do not have that gene. So, there cannot be any black Boxer dogs. It is genetically impossible. A Boxer that is black, or true black with brown points, for example, MUST be a mixed breed or a heavily brindled dog. Conclusion There is a lot of talk about black boxer dogs; some potential puppy buyers will actively seek out this colorful puppy, but their search is in vain. It may be hard to believe when you see pictures, but black Boxers do not exist! The color gene responsible for the black coat color does not exist within the breed. If you "see" a black Boxer, if he is a purebred Boxer, he must be a very dark tiger. In this case, what happens is that the animal is tiger - yes, with the same stripes that the tiger has. In the "black" boxer these stripes are so dark that it is almost impossible to see them with the naked eye. Because of this, many believe that this breed has black dogs, but genetically, they are tiger boxers. This gives the dog a very dark coat that, in fact, appears to be black. Here, we'll get into the facts a little more to talk about why black cannot exist with the breed and some myths regarding this perceived coat color. Why Colors are Misinterpreted It is very easy to see a dog and immediately assume it is a certain color based on what its eyes are telling you. However, with some breeds, the Boxer included, you should take a second look. Sometimes it's only when you realize how tigerish can cause an effect, that it makes a first impression of black, that it starts to make sense. Also, some boxers are given the term black; however, in many cases, this is a shorthand term that comes from "tiger black". Boxer Puppy Black Brindle The base color of all purebred Boxers is fawn a coloration between brown and yellow. Brindles are actually fawns with a brindle marking. These markings are made of a coat pattern consisting of black stripes covering the fawn.Black Boxer Coloring History Many wonder if perhaps there were black boxers who were largely bred off the lines and that maybe once in a while a dog in a black coat would show up somewhere. However, if we look at the record keeping of the last century, you can see that this is not the case. In this year period, a black Boxer has appeared once, but there is a problem with that. The resulting litter had puppies that had black coats. Once another breed was introduced into the lineage, they were not purebreds. These dogs were not used for any further breeding and therefore had no influence on the genetics hereafter. Once in a while there will be a breeder who claims to have black Boxers and will point to this long ago incident as evidence that black really does run in the bloodline. However, since these mixed dogs with black coats have never been used for any kind of development program, this is simply not true. Another element that shows that this coloration does not exist in the Boxer line is the rule that the Munich Boxer Club created in .This group had a strict control over the breeding and development of Boxers in Germany and established the guidelines for the standard, conformation and all appearance-related elements, including coloration. Some argue that the shows may have ignored this decision and still attempted to breed black Boxers. However, it would not have been in their interest to do so, and furthermore, the resulting dogs would not have been part of the Munich Club, as they could not have been registered there. This means that any of these hypothetical dogs could not have been genetically included in the Boxer lineage, as they would have been barred from any program that was developing and perfecting the breed. So, now that we know: This color does not exist in the line; The only record of any black Boxer in the last century was a mixed-breed dog, not a purebred; Strict guidelines and rules of the club in Munich, which was the basis of today Boxers clearly excluded black Boxers.And it's also fair to say: The chance that there is some strange and rare genetic mutation that brings black to the coat is extraordinarily rare; mathematically the chances are so low that this can be ruled out; Black Boxer puppies cannot be born due to a hidden gene; this is because black is dominant over all other colors. It cannot be recessive, it always comes out of the others. Why are some people still convinced that this coloration exists? This leads us to the conclusion of only two possibilities in this regard: A 'true' black Boxer simply cannot be a purebred, there must be another breed in the lineage; The Boxer is not black and is actually a very spotted dog or a reverse brindle; What about the breeders who claim to have massive blacks? It is always possible that some very inexperienced breeders who have a litter of dark puppies will simply call them black dogs; An unethical breeder may purposely be misleading to appear to have 'special' dogs that are 'rare'. It is assumed that in this case it would be done to sell the puppies at a higher cost. Some Elements to Consider Any puppy that is sold and verbally deemed to be a black Boxer cannot be registered as such. Here in Brazil there is still no regulation about it, but the international rules say a lot about it. Black Boxer Puppies Their registration documents do not have that color code as an option, so even if someone verbally nominates a Boxer to have a black coat, the dog - if registered with a recognized club - would officially be another color; and that would likely be brindle. Since the puppy would be given to new owners with documents saying he was not black, how can they claim to have black Boxer dogs? Keeping the above in mind, if a Boxer showed up with registration papers that showed he had a black coat, those papers would need to come from some little known club that was not reputable or the papers would have to be forged. And that, of course, is very unethical. Conclusion Every being be it a mammal, a dog, a human being, etc. Those genes determine everything about the being, from skin color to the number of legs to where the eyes are.Genes control coat color in dogs too. For a dog to be black, that breed of dog must contain the gene to have a black coat. Boxer dogs don't have that gene. So there can be no black Boxer dog, it's genetically impossible. A Boxer that is black, or true black with brown dots, for example, must be a mixed breed or a heavily spotted dog.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. About Us We are a family breeder located on a 6 acre hobby farm in the beautiful hills of Western NY. After a mini goldendoodle became part of our lives, we knew we had to be a part of the doodle world. We have searched long and hard for the perfect dogs and are so excited to introduce you to our Bernedoodles. Our dogs are members of our family and we can't wait to help you find a new member for yours. We believe in bringing you the best dogs that are healthy, loving, loyal and family oriented. Specializing In: Currently we are specializing in traditional tri, phantom tri and parti tri colored F1 and F1b Standard and Mini Bernedoodles. Bernedoodles combine the athleticism and intelligence of the Standard Poodle with the calm, laid back and affectionate nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog. With good breeding, the resulting puppies are beautiful, playful, affectionate, loyal, sweet and sometime quite comical. They are low to no shedding and tend to be allergy friendly. Full grown, our Standard Bernedoodles will weigh between between 80 lbs. Our Miniature Pups will weigh between lbs. My Bernedoodles are usually black, brown and white in a vaiety of color patters. I am also looking at adding a blue Merle to my pups. I love all Bernedoodle colors and work hard to breed puppies that are beautiful and have great temperaments. Some can have the taller but more slight build of the poodle, others have the stockier build of the Bernese. Their coats come in a variety of styles as well. Most Bernedoodles have a wavy coat, which are low to no shedding. Some can also have a curlier coat more like the poodle. Generally, the curlier the coat the less likely it is to shed. With little to no shedding, Bernedoodle coats can get matted. They need to be brushed regularly and clipped every few months. The F1 cross is considered the healthiest, as the parents have the least likelihood of contributing genes for common inheritable diseases. F1b puppies are the most likely to be non-shedding and allergy-friendly. I currently do not breed F2 Bernedoodles. They are all about people and are happiest when they're spending time with their families: playing, cuddling, and making us laugh. The puppies are raised in our home, being snuggled daily by our children, and come with a 12 month genetic health guarantee. Here are some tips for finding reputable Bernedodole breeders in your area: 1. Reputable breeders will have their information easily visible online. Good breeders will have all their information available on websites or through social networking sites like Facebook, where reviews from past customers are also readily available for you to read before deciding on which breeder is best for your family! Avoid dealing with puppies from backyard breeders or those in puppy mills! And ask them everything you want to know about the breeder. This is the best and easy way to check the breeder is reputable or not. Visit The Breeders: Before you cut any deals with a breeder, ask them if you can visit their place. A trustworthy breeder always allows you to visit their place if they have nothing to hide. If you know any great Bernedoodle breeder who lives in New York, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in NY? It really helps others who are looking for a Bernedoodle Puppies in New York. If you are looking for the best Bernedoodle Breeder in New York, you can consider one of these breeders. Other Bernedoodle Breeders. Questions about Bernedoodle puppies for sale in New York? We have answers. Give me a an overview of Bernedoodle puppies for sale in New York. Bernedoodle puppies for sale New York are a mix or designer breed created by crossing Poodles with Bernese Mountain Dogs. The result combines the best traits of the Poodle, like its hypoallergenic and low shedding coat, with those of the Bernese, like its friendliness and loyalty. New York Bernedoodle puppies for sale are as smart as they are sweet! What if the pup I want is too far away? With Uptown Puppies, it's no problem if your dream Bernedoodle for sale New York is from an out of state breeder. Our network of puppy businesses and companies are all happy to work out pick-up from the breeder or transport to your nearest major airport according to your needs. What kind of checks do you do on breeders and businesses? Holding our network of Bernedoodle breeders New York and companies to the higest standard is what our Breeder Pledge is all about. Everyone in our network is held to the highest standards of animal welfare, legal compliance, and experience - no exceptions. What sets Uptown puppies apart from the alternatives? Social media groups and classified ads are the most popular ways of finding a Bernedoodle for sale in New York. Sadly, these avenues offer no guarantees; the dog might come from a great home, or it might not.That's the reason we created Uptown Puppies, and that's what sets us apart from the alternatives! How much should I pay for a Bernedoodle puppy? As with most breeds, there are a wide range of prices for Bernedoodle puppies in New York. Check it out with our puppy finder! Puppy mills are criminal New York Bernedoodle breeders dedicated to one thing: producing puppies by the thousands and selling them for profit. Mother dogs are held in appalling conditions, exposed to serious maltreatment, and forced to reproduce over and over to the serious detriment of their health. Sickness is common in the resulting Bernedoodles for sale in New York, as well as behavioral problems and significant reductions in lifespan. Are there any Bernedoodle breeders in New York? Of course, that depends on exactly where you live. The growing popularity of this breed means that they are commonly found nationwide. Or, if the distance makes it completely impractical, companies in our network are happy to arrange transport for your new dog. Tell me more about Bernedoodles! Overall, Bernedoodles for sale New York are loving, loyal, intelligent and sweet pooches. Easy to train and always up for fun and games, this pup appreciates an active lifestyle and lots of stimulation. Bernedoodles are great dogs if you enjoy lots of time outdoors and energetic play followed by long evenings cuddling in front of the fire. A perfect companion pooch! Do Bernedoodles need lots of attention? New York Bernedoodles for sale are clever dogs who appreciate plenty of mental stimulation. So this breed enjoys lots of interaction, exercise, and fun and games. In short, your dog will appreciate it if someone is usually around and might not enjoy extended periods left alone. Are Bernedoodles difficult to train? Not at all!

Lifespan Sociability When you are looking for the perfect puppy for your home, one of the best things you should do is find out everything about the dog that you can, so you know what to expect. Cocker Pugs tend to be loyal and affectionate dogs. They create strong bonds with their human companions and are a great choice for families. Their easily trained and are eager to play with anyone. The mix of the personalities of the Cocker Spaniel and the Pug balance each other out. They result in being intelligent and loving dogs. You need to exercise Cocker Pugs daily, otherwise, they will become pudgy. They need lots of attention. These dogs are very intelligent, but they are often stubborn. Many of them are motivated by treats or food. Cocker Spaniels are happy , affectionate, and social. They are also good with other dogs and children when socialized early, as well as being sweet and gentle. They always want to please you and they crave your attention. Cocker Spaniels are also energetic, so they love to explore and play. Pugs are known as being clowns, while at the same time being intelligent and not at all aggressive. They love spending time with you, and they do their best to take all of your attention. These dogs can also be lazy, which often will cause chubbiness. They have low levels of energy and are glad to simply hang out. If you are noticing that your Cocker Pug is taking after their pug parent, make sure that you are giving them exercise daily. Your dog will be good with children and other dogs , but they can be strong-willed and stubborn. Many times, the genes from the parents of the puppy will balance one another out, resulting in an intelligent, loving and charming companion. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Not much is known about cats. This will be covered when you purchase high-quality dog food. Fats also add Omega-6 and omega-3 to their diet, which is necessary for their skin, coat, heart, and brain. Cocker Pugs generally are social dogs that will enjoy going to a dog park and making some new friends. However, your dog may be more laidback, which means they are happy to simply lay around. Unfortunately, this can make them gain weight. Walking them daily so they get exercise will be needed to keep your dog from becoming overweight. Since they have shorter snouts, these dogs may be more heat sensitive. Therefore, you will need patience while training them. Some of these hybrids can be very stubborn. You can usually motivate your Cocker Pug with food, so use this to your advantage. You also want to use positive reinforcement, combining small treats and vocal praise for rewards during training. This can make them lose interest in their training. Their nails should be trimmed monthly, either by you, your vet, or by your groomer. Since he has floppy ears, you will need to keep them clean to prevent infections due to the buildup of bacteria. Your vet will be able to recommend a wash for you to use. You may need to bathe him each month, particularly if he loves rolling in the grass and dirt while outside. Brush his teeth each week to so that you stop tartar from accumulating. One of the biggest things is the possibility of it having a brachycephalic head with a short snout. If your dog has a face that is similar to a pug , they are going to have more health issues than if it has a Cocker Spaniel head. These dogs are occasionally diagnosed with kidney disease and obesity, and they may need tests such as hip x-rays, thyroid tests, skin scrapings, allergy tests, electrocardiograms, biopsies, and others. Minor Conditions. A mixed-breed can inherit any combination of traits from their parents. Should a Pug Mix take after their Pug parent, they will be an affectionate, social dog that loves their families. A Pug tends to be playful, social, friendly, and gentle. They thrive on attention and affection and tend to get along well with children, other pets, and other dogs. As long as they are well-socialized, they also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. They can be prone to barking and it can become a nuisance behavior if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Pug Mix. You still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed as they will likely introduce their own potential quirks. You can also meet the mother in person to get a sense of her temperament and see the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started socialization and training, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. Pugs are moderately adaptable dogs. Although they do well in apartments as well as larger homes, they are particularly sensitive to heat and cold as a snub-nosed dog breed. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you should be able to expect the same from a Pug Mix. The other parent breed could still introduce some traits that affect adaptability, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs, but it is not a guarantee. They can inherit none, some, or all of the conditions common to their parent breeds. From the Pug side, potential health conditions to be aware of include eye problems, luxating patella , encephalitis, and hip dysplasia. As a brachycephalic, or snub-nosed, dog, they are prone to allergies and respiratory issues. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues on to puppies. So, 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. A Pug is eager to please and tends to pick up on things quickly. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. The other parent breed could make a Pug Mix easy to train or more difficult, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about them. A Pug Mix can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Pug coat, it will shed a bit year-round, require weekly brushing, and the occasional bath. Cutting nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal dental care for dogs. Pugs tend to sit in a low to moderate energy range. Usually, daily walks and some playtime are enough to keep them happy and healthy. They may be up for more activity, but can also get easily overheated. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to help make sure they get enough activity. If the other parent breed also has a low to moderate activity level, then you can expect something similar from a Pug Mix. However, if the other parent breed is a higher energy dog, then you will want to make sure you are prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. Fully-grown Pugs are usually inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Although it is not a guarantee, you can meet the mother in person to get an idea of what to expect in a fully-grown Pug Mix. A Pug generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Pug Mix. Featured Pug Mix Article. It is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Pug. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He was 4 years old on Christmas day. He is full of energy and very strong for a small dog. Very alert, smart, stubborn and loves constant attention. Pedro is absolutely great with kids. I can't tire him out, even on the longest walks. The only time he has embarrassed us is when in the company of people wearing hi-viz clothing, baseball caps and niqab's. Overall he has a fantastic temperament and is always entertaining us with his antics. He was the size of a full-grown Cocker, weighing in at 35 lbs. His ears were long and his snout was short, but not fully pugged. His tail was curled like a Pug. His coat was short, coarse and thick like a Pug, but was wavy by his tail. His eyes were prominent, but not "bugged" like a Pug. He was repeatedly mistaken for a Mastiff puppy, even to the age of nine. Sparky's disposition was even-tempered, tolerant and mellow. He never met a stranger. He had a courageous spirit and feared nothing. He was the happiest dog, and well known for his "full body wag. His tail is like the Cocker Spaniel and docked. He has an extremely soft and shiny jet black coat. He is solid like the Pug but the size of the Cocker. He is the best of both worlds. He was easily to train to sit , lie down, roll over, stay, and pretty much anything. He seems to know what you are saying. He is not too hyper like the Pug, but never runs out of energy for the long walks. Duke is a lap dog; happy and mellow and eager to please, yet our big protector! He is a 6-month-old Cocker Pug. He seems to have the personality of a Cocker; loves to play. He is 25 lb. He is a loving, energetic and adorable pup, with a great temperament. I think he is a perfect example of a beautiful Cocker Spaniel x Pug. In only one month she learned sit, wait, leave it, lie down, and some more of the fun ones: dance, spin, shake, speak and roll over. Her mother is a lb black Pug and her father is a lb. Although she was only 35lbs, she acted as if she were bigger and was the leader of all our dogs. Cudjoe was a great family dog who would never hurt anyone. Unfortunately, she was only 8 when she was diagnosed with cutaneous lymphosarcoma skin cancer and soon after died. She put up a fight to the very end and we were left broken hearted. They have always carried a deep sense of liking for animals in their lives. Before they ventured into puppy-raising, Ashlee was working as a veterinary technician for a veterinarian and she helped in different aspects of care for pets. These breeders do not ship their puppies but they require a PUG Nanny if in case the buyer cannot come personally to pick up the puppy. They also demand at least a dollars deposit. They will begin to develop a more consistent look over time and with repeated breedings. They have a compact, slim and well-muscled torso supported by long, straight legs. They are always bigger than the Pug, reaching up to 45cm in length and weighing between 8 and 16 kg. Cocker Pugs Sociability Cocker Pugs are bright dogs who like pleasing their owners. Every pet must be socialized. You must create limits early on and educate them to your Cocker Pug in a consistent and patient manner. As a result, your Cocker Pug will most likely have a low to medium level of activity. Cocker Pugs are often friendly dogs that like visiting a dog park and meeting new people. Your dog, on the other hand, may be more laid-back and content to simply lie about. Unfortunately, this can lead to weight gain. These dogs may be more heat sensitive due to their shorter snouts. Avoid walking your dog on hot asphalt to avoid burning their paws. Grooming While most members of the breed have a short coat, they just need to be groomed once or twice a week. A few have significant skin folds on their faces that must be washed. Because their floppy ears are prone to infections, they should be examined. Any wax should be removed, and most should have their ears cleaned every two weeks. Many of the puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy factories, where their mothers are compelled to produce litter after litter. Breeders with a good reputation can be identified online or via kennel groups. When it comes to the care and environment that these breeders provide for their pets, they are held accountable. They reduce inbreeding, which is significant. Final Thoughts A Cocker Pug is a delightful and sociable dog. They are continuously driven by food and desire attention from their owners. They make wonderful companions for any sort of owner. They will go to great lengths to please you, but they must be regulated or they will continue to do what they want. A Cocker Pug is the dog for you if you want a dog that is a lot of fun and is willing to work with you. We compile some of the most well-known breeders of all time. Here are a few breeders you should never ever skip to guide you in having the best cocker pug puppy your own.

The dog shares the non-sporting group with the Boston terrier and the bulldog, two breeds for which the French bulldog is most often mistaken. The French bulldog is not simply a miniature bulldog. The most notable characteristic is the "bat" ear, which occurs naturally and is never cropped or altered. Also unique to the breed is the skull, which is flat between the ears. The French bulldog is a compact, muscular dog with a flat, short coat. Colours common to the breed include fawn, white and varieties of brindle. The male and female dog weight is 25 to 27 kg. Personality: The French bulldog is an even-tempered house dog that thrives on attention. In fact, he demands it! This dog is ideal for a single-person household, as he may compete for your attention with other members of the family. The French bulldog does not bark a lot, only when he finds real cause for excitement. Living With: A French bulldog is able to be happy in any housing. This breed is suitable for city life, because no large yard is required. He is not meant to be a jogging companion, but he is always willing to go for a brisk walk. The French bulldog does not require a lot of food, and his short coat is easy to keep clean. Facial wrinkles should be cleaned regularly. The Frenchie snorts and snores, but somehow it's part of his appeal. He prefers to spend his time in the house, receiving all your attention. History: In the early s, Normandy lace workers from England set off to find work in France. They took with them smaller bulldogs to be kept on the farms as companions and to chase away the rats. In these northern French farming communities, the popularity of this hardy dog grew quickly. In fact, established bulldog breeders in England were happy to perpetuate this "new" breed by selling their undersized dogs to the French. The dog is widely known as a very fashionable household companion kept by upper class and royalty. In the late s and early s the French bulldog was considered a dog of high society; the breed still attracts people who appreciate the finer things in life. Related Pet Care Articles. Conclusion About the Breed Bouledogue francais in French, these French bulldogs fall in the nonsporting group of dogs and are one of the most frequently adopted and registered dog breeds in several countries including America, England, and Australia. This miniature bulldog is often mistaken for the English bulldog and Boston terrier the other two dog breeds in the nonsporting group due to possessing a very close resemblance. For this very reason, these dogs are recommended for single-person households. And do you know that these toy bulldogs were once used as ratters? With their small size and ability to stay super alert all the time, these dogs were used to chase and catch even the fastest and smartest rats. However, nowadays, this dog breed is mainly being used as a family pet. However, they can live only in regions or households with moderate temperatures since they cannot sustain too cold or too hot temperatures. Due to this, even the first-time dog owner can consider keeping this muscular dog as his family pet. Unlike English bulldogs, these Frenchies are not way too relaxed but also show their silly, mischievous side. History of the French Bulldog When inhumane bloodsports like bull baiting got banned in , the breeders of England started to develop newer dog breeds that can serve them for other purposes like herding, guarding, ratting, and accompanying. In the early nineteenth century, breeders crossbred a small bulldog with a native dog, which resulted in the formation of these French bulldogs. Even though this new little French bulldog originated in England, the industrial revolution impelled the English lace-makers to travel to France, in the search of jobs. Those lace workers also took their toy bulldogs along, where these miniature bulldogs caught the attention and praises of locals. Resultantly, the demand for these new bulldogs skyrocketed, and French traders had to import a large number of these dogs from England. Soon the charm and fame of these small bulldogs reached America and Europe. That was the time when only the royal and elite class could afford this highly fashionable dog breed, making it a fashion and status statement. By the end of the 19th century, this dog was considered the pet of upper-class society. Considering their fame and social status, these dogs began to be noticed as a separate breed and also got a new name; Bouledogue francais. After this, the fancier owners of these little bulldogs made their French bull dog club in and did their first show. As the fame of these dogs increased, the English kennel club finally accepted this dog breed in , under its original French name, as a companion dog. However, in , the breed club changed the name officially to the French bulldog. On the other hand, the American kennel club recognized this dog breed much before UKC in as a non-sporting dog. You can also read our guide and see how much owning a French Bulldog Cost. French Bulldog Facts The average life expectancy of a french bulldog is around years. French bulldog puppies possess high tendencies to snore and drool. By , french bulldogs ranked at the fourth position in the list of most popular dog breeds in America. In a single litter, only two to four Frenchie puppies are delivered. However, sometimes, five pups are also born in a litter but it happens once in a blue moon. There was a time when French bulldogs were sought after by only the elite-class ladies, Persian prostitutes, lace-making workers, writers, artists, and designers as a status symbol. Even a french bulldog puppy was also on-broad on the famous titanic with its rich owner Robert Daniel. The popularity of these Frenchies had a serious decline after world war I. During that period, another dog breed, Boston terriers, was enjoying the title of the most famous dog. Around , these bulldogs were considered one of the rarest dog breeds, due to a sudden drop in the count due to heat exhaustion and world war consequences. Frenchies are also sometimes called frog dogs due to their special style of laying down on their tummies and spattering or spreading their legs from behind, like a frog. A french bulldog won the AKC best-in-show title about 55 times. Likewise, another French bulldog earned the title of best of breed for about eight years. French bulldogs have made screen appearances several times, in various TV shows and movies. French Bulldog Appearance These squared, muscular, and compact bulldogs are categorized as mid-sized dogs. At first glance, the very first thing that would catch your attention is their pointed, bat ears that are naturally uncropped. Its skull is doomed in between its dark eyes, whereas it is flat between the ears. Size Like other dogs, a male French bulldog is taller than a female. Generally, the male can grow up to 12 inches, from the withers, whereas a female is 11 inches tall. Weight Both the male and female Frenchies weigh almost the same. The healthy weight range of a French bulldog is pounds. Any Frenchie weighing more than 28 lbs is not considered desirable by the breeder. Coat Like English bulldogs, the coat of a Frenchie is also short and fine. Also, the coat most French dogs feature is single-layered. However, not all Frenchies have single coats since some other breeds like brindle also come with double coats. Color Generally, French bulldogs come in five major coat colors: white, black brindle, fawn, and cream. Besides these colors, many French bulldogs also feature multicolored coats including grayish brown and black n white coats. According to the breed standards, a Frenchie can be of any coat color except for liver, solid black, black with tan and white, and mouse. However, coats with streaks of dark and light markings also called brindle pied are considered acceptable among breeders. French Bulldog Temperament and Personality Even though Frenchies might look a bit grumpy and serious at first glance, they possess clown instincts and super cheerful personalities. With their strong built-in urges to please their owners, these dogs can mold themselves into whatever their owners like. For example, if their owner is an extrovert, these dogs can join in daily walks and active play sessions, without showing any tiredness. In this way, they are trustworthy around children and aged people but still, supervising the interaction is a must. Towards strangers and new dogs, these Frenchies could be a little reserved for some time, but after that, they will grow friendly towards them. The best part of French bulldog personality is that they come with the lowest tendencies of excessive barking and digging. In normal situations, your French bulldog will be super calm and quiet, but after seeing a new face, it may bark to alert its owner. This quality makes them excellent watchdogs and incredibly poor guard dogs. Even when feeling threatened, the only response these dogs give is in the form of barking. If left alone for even a small period, these Frenchies may develop a severe form of separation anxiety, making them depressed, non-obedient, and stubborn. French Bulldog Health and Care Common health problems which a French bulldog may develop are as follows: Brachycephalic Syndrome All dogs having wide nostrils and short heads are prone to developing this disease. Even on breathing heavily and forcefully, the airway of the dog may collapse in an instant. The only treatment to cure this condition permanently is surgery to either shorten the elongated soft palate or widen the nostrils so he could breathe easily. Hemivertebrae: In this strange health condition, a vertebra begins forging into a triangle or wedge shape. Sometimes, dogs with hemivertebrae manage to live their life normally whereas in some other cases, they might suffer from immense pain in the spinal cord, paralysis, and weakness in the entire body. Intervertebral Disc Disease IVDD : In this condition, one of the intervertebral discs gets ruptured or displaced from its original position, causing severe pain and partial paralysis. IVDD may be caused by physical jolts, improper diet, and growing age. Keeping your dog under veterinary care might help reduce the pain of your canine. In it, its kneecap keeps slipping in and out of its original place, causing arthritis and problem in walking normally. Most of the time, this problem is transferred from one generation to another and gets worse as your dog ages. Other forms of this disease affect knee and elbow joints. This condition could be hereditary but your dog may also develop it afterward, for doing too much exercise. On the other hand, please keep your dog inside the house during warm and humid weather since their brachycephalic facial features might make it hard for them to do labored breathing, during such weather conditions. Instead of using combs or brushes, you may also opt for grooming gloves since, with them, it becomes much easier to access hard-to-reach body areas. Similarly, bulldogs are not hypoallergenic and also have sensitive skins, which can easily catch skin allergies. Likewise, clean the bat ears of your French bulldog at least once a week, to prevent ear infections. Since their ears are erected and opened, grass, dirt, and debris may easily go inside. So get a soft cotton ball and an ear-cleaning ointment to remove debris. The exercise needs of this dog are not insane, as only a one-hour walk will be enough. However, for providing proper mental stimulation, you better take them on a short walk and give them some time to sniff around and play off-leash. However, they can also be quite stubborn, especially when treated harshly or trained using negative reinforcement. Since these Frenchies are quite sensitive, keep your tone gentle and stick to the reward-based training. To encourage their positive behaviors, reward them with dog treats, verbal praise, and patting. Another thing that is worth mentioning here is that you need to stay consistent and firm with the training and corresponding training rules. Make sure all the family members are following the same training rules, so your dog will understand the commands and recognize desirable behaviors more efficiently. And yes, French bulldogs may develop small dog syndrome too. Resultantly, the pup grows up with the same mindset and gets extremely noisy after not getting what he wants. Lastly, socialize your bulldog from a very young age so it could grow tolerable around new people, places, and environments. Conclusion We hope you have found the article helpful. Relate Guide:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. It's no secret that French Bulldogs are unique in every way. From their looks to their personalities, your Frenchie will be one of a kind. Thinking of adopting one? There are a few things you should know. Plus, we'll tell you how to choose the right Frenchie for your family and how much space you'll need. What is a French Bulldog? Toy Bulldogs gained popularity in the s. Lace makers in Nottingham, England, embraced the snub-nosed dogs and eventually brought the breed to France. As the years went by, these miniature Bulldogs were cross-bred, and their looks began to change. Because of their unique appearance and sweet temperaments, the breed quickly became a favorite around the globe — including in the US. The average weight for an adult French Bulldog is between 16 and 28 pounds. They can measure between 11 and 12 inches tall. These pups have a short, straight coat that comes in a range of colors. Popular varieties include white, fawn, brindle, cream, lilac, and blue. Want to rent a property with a French Bulldog? Learn how Petscreening can increase your chances of securing a home with a pet. What are the most common Frenchie personality traits? We know the breed doesn't always determine the behavior of the dog. However, there are a few personality traits that French Bulldogs commonly share. Here are six of them: 1. Gentle Frenchies are a gentle breed. They're usually calm and suited to a range of households. For example, they can be the perfect pet for families, singles, couples, or seniors. While they'll be playful puppies, they're not usually aggressive, even during their younger years. Keep in mind, though, that Frenchies can have bouts of hyperactivity. With the right upbringing and socialization, your French Bulldog will be approachable and docile. They appreciate a kind, caring owner and respond best to positive reinforcement. Friendly Looking for a friendly breed? You can't skip the French Bulldog. These happy pooches love being around people and won't usually hide away when you have company. French Bulldogs don't like to be alone and can get on well with other pets. If you're thinking of getting your Frenchie a friend, they'll be best suited to a dog of the same breed. If you want your French Bulldog to be comfortable around others, make sure you socialize them from a young age. Affectionate French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate personalities. They like company and will follow you around the house. Frenchies will bond with their owners to the point of being possessive. Their "clingy" nature can be caused by separation anxiety. It's also because you make them feel safe. They usually enjoy cuddles, sleeping near you, and sitting on your lap. Female Frenchies can be slightly more affectionate than males. These are companion dogs, and once they've bonded with their owners, they'll give unconditional love. Playful Most French Bulldogs have a playful streak. You'll need to keep them entertained because a bored Frenchie may chew your furniture or shoes. If you need to leave your dog alone, make sure they have a chew toy. Your pup will enjoy playing games with you. You can start by teaching them to play fetch and tug of war. French Bulldogs can also play more advanced games, such as hide and seek. What about exercise requirements? Aim for up to an hour of exercise per day. You can break this up into minute walks because these dogs can overheat. With their flat noses, the hot weather can increase breathing difficulties, so avoid the outdoors in high temperatures. Entertaining Most Frenchie owners will tell you their pets are entertaining. They like to impress their owners, and they'll always make you smile. Your French Bulldog will like to be the center of attention. For example, they'll love to show off their tricks, such as "sit," "stay," and "drop". If you ignore your dog, it could lead to destructive behavior, such as chewing and urinating. However, they do have a short attention span, so proper training can be a gradual process. Alert French Bulldogs are an alert breed. They like to know what's happening in their territory and will tell you when someone is at the door. You can expect your Frenchie to notice if there's any activity. Whether it's a parcel delivery, visitor, or intruder, you'll be alerted with a bark. While they can be good watchdogs, these aren't built to be guard dogs. Most of the time, French Bulldogs will only give a quick yap. They're not known to bark excessively, and they're rarely aggressive. Is a French Bulldog a good family dog? French Bulldogs can be ideal family pets. They're affectionate and loyal and bond with owners of all ages. Keep in mind this flat-faced breed can get injured easily. Your children will need to be gentle and avoid rough play. It's for this reason that Frenchies can be best suited to families with children over five. Like any dog, you should teach your kids to listen to your French Bulldog's cues. For example, the pet may give a warning growl when they're uncomfortable. In this situation, your Frenchie should have space to walk away. Remember, children should always have adult supervision around dogs, no matter how small or sweet the animal is. How to care for a French Bulldog If you adopt a French Bulldog, there are a few things you should know. They don't need much exercise and can get hot quickly. Due to their breathing difficulties, they aren't suited to climates with extreme temperatures. In cold weather, your Frenchie will need to wear a coat. They have low grooming requirements, and you'll only need to brush their coat once a week. You should also wipe your dog's face every few days. There is a range of potential health concerns for French Bulldogs. Besides breathing difficulties and obstructed airways, these dogs can suffer from patellar luxations slipped kneecaps. Plus, they can get ear discharge and dermatitis. As said before, this is a breed that doesn't like to be left alone for too long. If your pet will be by themselves for long hours, consider getting them a friend. You'll also need plenty of toys for mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys, food dispenser balls, and rope toys. These dogs may be cute, but they're not always the smartest pets. The good news is Frenchies usually want to please their owners, so they'll try their best to learn. If you want to train your pup, start as early as you can. You can train them yourself with the help of books or online resources, or you can take them to a store like Petsmart, doggy boot camps, or other classes to have the training done by a professional. If you train them yourself, keep in mind that they like their routines, so consistency is key. You'll need to be patient because some skills, such as toilet training, can take time to master. When teaching your French Bulldogs different commands, keep your training sessions short. They can get overwhelmed easily, and this can bring out their stubborn streaks. Never punish your French Bulldog. They respond best to positive reinforcement and affection. Reward your little friend with treats and celebrate their successes. What to look for when choosing a French Bulldog Thinking of adopting a Frenchie? Here are a few things to look out for. Breeding When adopting a Frenchie, it's important to choose a reputable breeder. The right person will have a good track record and be experienced with this popular dog breed. French Bulldogs can have a range of health issues, including breathing troubles, ear infections, hip dysplasia, and skin allergies. A good bloodline can help reduce some of these issues. A responsible breeder will help you understand your dog and be there to offer advice both short and long-term. If you prefer a rescue animal, check with any local breed-specific organizations. Price A purebred dog will usually cost you a few thousand dollars. The price can vary depending on your location, the coat color, and the breeder's reputation. If someone is selling a French Bulldog at a price that's "too good to be true", it's probably a scam. Try to talk to the breeder over the phone and meet the dog in person. Do your research and be prepared to wait for the right dog. The price should include a health guarantee and a written bill of sale. Your French Bulldog should have had veterinary care, including a checkup and vaccinations. Background The behavior, health, and temperament of your French Bulldog can depend on its background. If you're adopting a pup, you should be able to learn about its upbringing from the breeder. For example, does the dog come from a home with young children and other pets? Is the Frenchie toilet trained? Has it lived in an apartment, home with a yard, or a farm environment? On the other hand, if it's a rescue dog, you'll need to be prepared for potential issues. Appearance Before you adopt a French Bulldog, take a look at its appearance. It's not about how cute the pup looks - it's about health. However, there are a few red flags. A shiny coat is also a sign of good health. How much space does a French Bulldog need? French Bulldogs have low to medium energy levels and don't need much space to be happy. They're a good choice for apartment living as well as larger properties. While they do need daily exercise, you can meet their needs with daily walks, games, and dog toys. Due to their calm nature and small size, French Bulldogs are suitable for renters. Remember, Frenchies can be destructive, but this is usually only if they get bored or lonely. Make sure your home has heating and cooling to keep your pooch comfortable in all weather conditions. These traits can vary depending on upbringing and training. Adopting one of these dogs is a long-term commitment, and you should be committed to regular vet visits. Beware of prices that are too low, as this can signal a scam. French Bulldogs are suitable pets for renters. Learn how the PetScreening service can help you secure a rental property. Sarah Smith. That will help them feel comfortable and friendly toward visitors human or animal that come to their home. Otherwise, they may be standoffish with strangers. But make no mistake—French Bulldogs are friendly dogs who bond deeply with their people and love to have a good time. Because of those deep bonds, they can feel neglected and anxious when their people are out of the house for too long. Speaking of their people, the French Bulldog breed is good with kids and babies, but as with any dog, they should always be supervised. They also get along with other dogs and cats, as long as you introduce them properly. The French Bulldog is primarily a companion dog. They also make good watch dogs, often barking if someone new is at the door. Sure, they need solid training ground rules, but they aim to please and their short coats are easy to brush. Grooming French Bulldogs are an easy-to-groom, short-coated breed. Clean their face folds and eyes every day. They might also need an occasional assist to keep their bums clean. Introducing the process to your French Bulldog as a puppy will make the task more manageable in the long run. Brushing will help reduce the amount of loose hair you find around the house. Another weekly task to stay on top of is cleaning their ears. Occasionally: Unless they get exceptionally dirty, Frenchies only need a bath about once every months. Get the how-to here. Overbathing removes the natural oils from their coat and skin. Between baths, you can keep them clean with a damp washcloth or cleaning wipes. Trim their nails as needed. Training One of the keys to training a French Bulldog can be summed up in two words: start early. Frenchies respond well to positive reinforcement—think treats, toys and praise. If they get frustrated during training sessions, take a break. We all need one now and then. These intelligent, sensitive pups are eager to please their humans, and are motivated by food, two attributes that will help you achieve your training goals. Typically, they do well on high-quality commercial dog food. Some Frenchies are prone to obesity, especially since exercise can be difficult due to their flat faces. Collaborate with your veterinarian to find the right combination of quality food and regular exercise. Keep an eye on the scale and adjust amounts as needed. A treat once in a while is fine and helps with training, but remember: treats equal extra calories! Have more questions about what to feed your French Bulldog? With their short legs, large bodies and flat faces, these dogs are more suited to brisk exercise rather than distance running. Opt for a game of fetch in the yard or a nice walk around the neighborhood. Be sure to keep an eye on their breathing while they exercise. As a brachycephalic flat-faced dog breed, Frenchies are prone to airway issues more on Brachycephalic syndrome in the Dog Health section below. Ideal Environment French Bulldogs can adapt to many home situations. They can handle life in a city apartment as well as life in a small-town or a rural country homestead. Two things they cannot handle well: extreme hot or cold. Frenchies prefer a moderate climate. During hot spells, bring them outside during the cooler parts of the day and consider buying a few products to help them keep cool and prevent heatstroke. In the winter, limit outside time and consider keeping your pup warm in a cute dog coat or dog sweater. With all their needs and personality quirks, does that mean you have to be an experienced dog owner to have a Frenchie? Not necessarily. French Bulldogs are a good choice for first-time pet parents, if you can commit to their training—the earlier, the better. Frenchies prefer to be with you as much as possible. If you have to be gone for long, check them into doggy day care or arrange for a neighbor or pet sitter to come play with them. Back to Top French Bulldog Health With good food and exercise and common sense on your part , the French Bulldog lifespan is about 10 to 12 years. Unfortunately, they suffer from some health issues. Be aware of these concerns, so you can help your pup live a long, happy life. Allergies: Allergies are a common condition with French Bulldogs and can be caused by various natural causes—pollen, dust, mold, food and insects, to name a few. Allergies often show up as itchiness, although a dry nose can also be an indication. Your vet can prescribe treatments depending on the cause, including a change in diet or medication. While these noises may seem harmless, the fact is their physical attributes cause them health problems. Brachycephalic breeds, including Pugs, Boxers, Pekingese and French Bulldogs, may develop difficulty breathing during exercise because their nostrils, airways and palettes are too small. You can manage symptoms by keeping your dog at a healthy weight, but severe cases might require surgery. Ear Infections: French Bulldogs are somewhat prone to ear infections their ear canals are narrow. If your dog suffers from frequent ear infections, your veterinarian can show you how to properly and safely clean the ears to help prevent future infections. Underbite: Underbites may cause dental and gum problems or even make it difficult for pups to chew. Treatment may include ball therapy where the dog is encouraged to carry a small rubber ball behind their teeth , removing teeth or braces. Skin Infections: Those charming face wrinkles can trap bits of food and moisture so gross! Bacteria can multiply there, leading to skin infections. If you see signs of infection irritated or swollen skin , visit your vet for a topical treatment. Spine and Orthopedic Issues: Your French Bulldog may also be susceptible to common issues like intervertebral disc disease IDD , hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation. IDD is a disease of the spinal cord. Depending on the severity, pain meds or surgery can be used to treat the condition. Treatment can range from weight management to physical therapy to surgery. Patellar luxation is a knee issue where the knee slips out. Keeping your pup at a healthy weight is your first line of defense; severe cases might require surgery. Eye Problems: The French Bulldog dog breed is susceptible to common eye issues, including cataracts and cherry eye. Cataracts, a cloudy lens, can cause blindness, but surgery can correct it. Cherry eye is a condition when the third eyelid slips out of place and swells. Surgery is the only solution. They were developed as a smaller type of Bulldog aka English Bulldog and were popular with people in the lace-making industry in the s. Gaining notoriety for their temperament in Nottingham, a center for lace-making, they became a bit of a lace-maker mascot. After the Industrial Revolution changed the lace-making industry, many lace-makers moved to France, where their diminutive bulldogs became fashionable. By the end of the s, Americans began taking notice of the charming bat-eared dogs, and established the French Bull Dog Club of America in .American French Bulldog enthusiasts favored the bat ears, and as in France, the French Bulldog became fashionable in the United States, especially among socialites. Following World War II, their popularity decreased, but experienced a steady rise until the s and eventually surging in the s. The breed catapulted dog-apulted? Considering a French Bulldog as a pet? Be sure the breeder you buy from screens their dogs for health and temperment issues. Breeders often spay their females after two litters and then find them loving permanent homes. French Bulldogs produce dander and saliva, and these, along with normal shedding, may trigger allergies in some people. Are French Bulldogs smart? Can French Bulldogs swim? Boston Terrier vs. Frenchies have a stockier and heavier body type, leaning toward the bully breeds, while Bostons lean more towards terriers and have a lighter bone structure. Bostons are more energetic compared to Frenchies. They are agile and have a comparable temperament to Frenchies, and are similarly great with kids and other dogs. However, Bostons are generally more high-spirited than Frenchies. Read more about Boston Terriers here. What are the top French Bulldog names? For more name inspiration, check out our dog name guide. What are the most common French Bulldog mixes? Sure, there may be the occasional health concern, a bit of grooming work and that Bulldog attitude, but nothing worthwhile in life ever comes without some effort. Here are 5 more facts about Frenchies. Expert input provided by veterinarian Dr. Female Names. They have widely-set, loveable eyes and cute pointy ears. French Bulldog Personality One thing to note is that the French Bulldog is a particularly intelligent breed. Their personality traits vary in this department, as they can range from the calm attentive observer to the highly energetic adventurer constantly stimulated by everything, although their adventures are usually just hopping on and off the couch. While we can generalize and draw patterns in certain canine personalities, each dog is going to differ. Their overt cuteness and bat-shaped ears, paired with their loving rapport make them fantastic pets. As a puppy, you should expect an incredibly energetic canine that likes to get in trouble. As the French Bulldog puppy ages into adulthood, they lose quite a bit of their energy, but usually remain active socialites. A well trained French Bulldog should be the center of attention in the household, the active lover, and the dignified adult. And even as adults, they never lose that mischievous behavior that makes them such coveted pets. The French Bulldog personality might just be the best personality of any small dog. But without the proper upbringing they can become reclusive, aggressive, and barky. This phenomenon occurs with every breed, which makes their puppy years so important. Females on the other hand can often be a bit more timid, but incredibly more affectionate between the two. Females are also said to be more docile, while male dogs take longer to house train. Just as well, females tend to be a lot nippier. Males can have this same problem, most often curbed by proper training, but they tend not to be as aggressive. French Bulldog Temperament Overall, French Bulldogs are well-tempered, friendly animals whose worst temperamental flaw is that they can have a stubborn streak. They are constantly seeking validation, but not in an unhealthy or obsessive way. Not only that, but a Frenchie can become destructive in a home without proper guidance. Where the French Bulldog temperament becomes a problem is often when it comes to their stubbornness. They can be stubborn to the point that they simply refuse to learn or follow the rules set before them, in which case they can also become aggressive. Tips for Raising a Well-Behaved French Bulldog Puppy training classes are very important to ensure your dog is well-mannered. It will teach your dog obedience and work to produce the best French Bulldog personality possible. Early socialization is also incredibly important when it comes to their personalities. Be active about this one, as a French Bulldog that becomes accustomed to the world early-on often is a vastly different adult than one that stays indoors. Outside of early-socialization and training, it is essential to know your French Bulldog breeder. If you do indeed decide not to rescue a French Bulldog but instead want a purebred, then do the proper research and ensure that you choose a reputable breeder who produces quality canines, and that the parents have received the proper health clearances before purchasing your puppy. French Bulldogs are tiny, adaptable, and absolutely lovely pets for the household. They snore and can be a bit noisy. Since they have such huge hearts, separation anxiety is common in Frenchies. If not properly socialized and trained, stubbornness can become a big problem in their adulthood, making it all the more important to give them the proper attention early in their youth. Overall, French Bulldogs are astounding companion dogs and will bring a whole new light into any household.

For the complete list please see our resource links page. Are the puppies bred for quality or quantity? Do the parents have health clearances? What genetic testing has been done on the puppies? Are the puppies raised in a home environment? What type of support and training does the breeder offer? How often do the breeders breed their dogs? But prices can vary depending on the breeder. When looking for a breeder, it is important to set your budget before you start searching for a puppy. If you have an exact price in mind, this will help you eliminate breeders that are outside of your price range. These dogs typically cost less than a dog from a breeder. But be aware that these dogs may not have all of their shots or they may be ill with something like parvovirus. In some cases, it is possible to adopt animals from places other How to Find A Responsible German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts If you are looking for a responsible German Shepherd breeder in Massachusetts, there are a few things you can do to make sure you are choosing a reputable breeder. First, ask your friends and family if they have any recommendations. If they have had a good experience with a breeder, they will be more than happy to recommend them to you. Second, do some online research. There are many websites that allow dog owners to review breeders. Reading through these reviews can give you a good idea of what the breeder is like and whether or not they are reputable. Third, social media is a great new way to find out about breeders that may not be in your local area. If you do not want to visit the kennel in person, at least meet with the breeder of your pup face-to-face before you put any money down. Spend some time getting to know the breeder through email or even by telephone but insist that you will only purchase if they would be willing to let you come and visit their facility in person. There are plenty of reputable breeders out there who will be more than happy to help you find the perfect puppy for your family. Do your research, ask lots of questions. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts Make sure the breeder has a list of references that you can contact who have purchased dogs from them in the past. Do not be afraid to call or email these people and ask questions about their experience with the breeder, whether they are happy with their dog, if they recommend her, and if they would buy a dog from her again. Be prepared to wait for the right puppy. Be cautious of any German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts that does not offer you references. If your breeder tells you he is unable to provide this information for some reason, then take this as a red flag and politely thank him for his time but do not purchase anything from him. An ethical breeder will be happy to provide you with documentation that proves that his dogs are healthy and have been cleared of any genetic health issues. Ask Your Massachusetts German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Many people who go to a breeder and meet the parents of the puppy they are interested in, find out that if they had met some of the past customers who have purchased a puppy from our German Shepherd Breeder, they would not have even considered buying a puppy from this breeder. Many of these past customers will tell you that they did not get what was been promised to them when it came to the exercise requirements, temperament and loyalty qualities that these German Shepherds possessed. In fact, many of us made costly mistakes with our first dog or dogs because we were unaware of the time commitments involved in owning a quality German Shepherd Dog that is going to resemble what has been advertised by so many breeders around the country. Meeting past customers will help you to understand what you are getting into if you purchase a puppy from our German Shepherd Breeder. We want you to be happy with your new addition for years to come, and talking to people who have already gone through the process is the best way to gauge whether or not our breeder is right for you. When looking for a German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts, it is important that you ask if you can meet some of their past customers. This will help you to understand what kind of experience you can expect if you purchase a puppy from them. Happy customers are the best advertisement a breeder can have. One of the things that you will want to ask your breeder is if they have a good veterinarian that they use. This is important because you will want to make sure that your puppy has all of its vaccinations and is healthy. When looking for a German Shepherd Breeder in Massachusetts, it is important to ask if they have a good veterinarian that they use. This will help you to ensure that your puppy is healthy and has all of its vaccinations. Happy and healthy puppies are the goal of every breeder. Some of these signs include: The breeder does not allow you to meet any past customers The breeder does not have a good veterinarian that they use The puppies are kept in poor conditions The breeder is asking for too much money for a puppy If you see any of these signs, it is best to walk away and find a different breeder. It is not worth it to purchase a puppy from an unethical breeder, as you will likely end up with a dog that has health problems and behaves poorly. Ask The Massachusetts Breeder if Your German Shepherd Puppy Has Any Health Problems The best way to determine whether or not a breeder is ethical and responsible is to ask if the puppies they offer for sale have any health problems. Most reputable German Shepherd Dog Breeders in Massachusetts provide you with a written health guarantee that ensures every puppy they sell will be free of genetic health issues. An honest and ethical breeder should be able to prove their claims by providing you with proof that all of their dogs are free from genetic health concerns. If they cannot do this, then walk away. When your puppy is first brought home it is a good idea to confine them to a crate or a small area with nothing on the ground that they can chew. This lets them get used to being in one spot without getting into trouble. Once you have taught your German Shepherd Dog not to chew things you can give them free reign of the house though still keeping dangerous items out of their reach. If you want, but this may be difficult if your new dog has already chewed through everything at least once, you can purchase some baby gates and put them up around your house so that your puppy is confined to specific rooms unless they are leashed. If all goes well, and it usually does, after about 3 months sometimes sooner your puppy will have learned the house rules and can be allowed to roam free. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy One of the most important things you will need to do when potty training your new puppy is to be consistent. You should take them out every time they eat, drink, or play and also after they wake up from a nap. Reward them with lots of praise and a treat when they go potty in the right spot. It can be helpful to put your puppy on a regular feeding schedule as this will help with predictability when it comes to going potty. Once your puppy is consistently going potty outside you can start to slowly lengthen the amount of time between bathroom breaks. Training Your German Shepherd Dog German Shepherds are intelligent dogs and with a little bit of training they can be taught to do all sorts of things. Some popular commands that people teach their GSDs are sit, stay, come, down, and guard. You can find lots of resources online about how to train your dog using positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. One thing to keep in mind when training your German Shepherd is that they need plenty of exercise. A good way to tire them out is to take them on long walks or play fetch with them in the park. Thank you for reading and happy hunting. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. What would be the perfect puppy to you? Well, many people would think of the beautiful German Shepherd breed. This versatile, hard-working, intelligent dog is truly good at so many things. You are sure that you want to become a German Shepherd owner, so where should you start your journey? The answer is easy: the first thing you need to do is check the breeder! Since German Shepherds are pretty popular in Massachusetts, there are many breeders who can offer you this dog breed. So, how can you make a decision and choose a breeder? By doing this, you will see the environment where the German Shepherd is living, and you will also be able to estimate his daily routine and his relationship with the breeders, too. Just calling or texting your breeder before you buy is simply not enough! Beware that you are welcoming a new life into your home, and that both of you will have to make certain adjustments. Therefore, one visit to the kennel could either allow you to decide whether you should become a German Shepherd owner, or maybe wait with this decision. Before you decide to buy a German Shepherd, check with the breeder if their dogs have AKC health certificates. If you are dealing with a reputable breeder, this is the most normal question, which you will not even have to ask because for reputable breeders, a health certificate is a must. However, if the breeder avoids answering this question or does not offer any specific answer, take this as a warning. He is probably a frivolous breeder who does not care enough about the health of his dogs. Well, if the breeder has a reputable veterinarian, and suggests that you check references from past customers, allowing you to see clearly that the puppies are living in really good conditions — we can say that you will not make a mistake by choosing to buy your German Shepherd from this kind of breeder. Just to be sure: the best way is to pay a visit to a couple of kennels in order to finally make the right decision. However, the price depends on a couple of factors. Color German Shepherds are usually either black, sable , or gray, or else they have two colors combined: black and silver , black and red, or black and tan. Still, if you are a fan of rare colors, there are some unusual German Shepherd colors, such as the Isabella German Shepherd , whose color is light lavender, or the Liver German Shepherd , which resembles a brownish red. Working lines or show lines? If you are looking for a friend and companion in your dog, then a show-line German Shepherd would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you are thinking of a protective, obedient dog, then a working-line German Shepherd is the one you should be looking for. However, be ready to pay some more money for working lines. That boosts the initial price by at least a few hundred dollars. To Conclude This dog breed is very popular and extremely versatile — no wonder why there are so many German Shepherd breeders in Massachusetts. If you are looking for healthy German Shepherd puppies in Massachusetts, make sure you have thought about all of the important questions related to the choice of a breeder. Just like you are making a choice for the best breeder, a reputable breeder is looking for the best possible new homes for their German Shepherds that he has been raising and training from birth. If you are to become a proud German Shepherd owner, make your yard the perfect place for your magnificent new friend to enjoy! German Shepherds for sale in Massachusetts Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving Massachusetts with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of Massachusetts. We're a small family run operation with our main training and breeding facilities based in Spring Grove, Illinois. Because of the quality and pedigree of our German Shepherds there's been a demand for our dogs all over the world. The owner, Cynthia Kelly, has a lifetime of experience in creating the perfect family companion, service dog or therapy dog. Because of the lack of top quality German Shepherd breeders in some parts of the United States, we've carefully set ourselves up so that we can send our dogs direct to your home by use of a private courier service. German Shepherd Breeders in Massachusetts There are a number of great German Shepherd breeders in Massachusetts, from Worcester to Boston, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy? At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. You should not forget that when it comes to buying a puppy you also need to be mindful of other costs outside of the purchase or adoption fee. Included within the cost of our puppies are: Lifetime health guarantee contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract. Send us a message or give us a ring on .Emotional support dogs are suited for both children and adults and have the ability to work with their owners in all types of locations. We have placed many dogs with children and teenagers that suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and manic disorders. Service dogs provide a physical service to their owners. We have been incredibly successful in providing service dogs to children in MA afflicted with Autism and Asbergers, as our dogs can help to enhance the verbal skills of non-verbal Autistic children and support their overall way of communicating. Some of our previous placements our dog courier service - we ship to your door in MA! You might find this a bit hard to believe but we actually ship right to your door, wherever you are based in the US! Such is the demand for one of our dogs we decided it would make things a lot easier for our customers if we could hand-deliver them right to you. For those people in need of a top class GSD, and who can't get to our premises, this is a bit of a lifesaver. We make use of a private courier service whereby they come to us and pickup the dog in their vehicle before making the journey to your home. Our driver is well trained in the handling and care of your dog on the trip, and due to their temperament our dogs always enjoy the journey! On rare occasions our dogs have flown out to their destination, again accommpanied by one of the Regis Regal team to ensure for a very smooth and calm trip. We also go through a very thorough process to make sure our dogs are going to the right kind of owner - at the end of the day it's really important that we can rest easy at night knowing they'll be going to someone that's going to love them as much as we do. Because of COVID we've held plenty of online meetings where you can ask us any questions about our dogs, and you can even get to meet-and-greet them virtually! Reviews from Customers based in MA We like to think we've made a lot of people in Massachusetts happy over the years that we've been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we've received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too. I started searching for a good German Shepherd with good temperament, good health and from a good blood line. I searched and searched for a long time; across the country, even across the world but then I met Cynthia Kelly from Regis Regal German Shepherds. She is an encyclopedia and a wealth of knowledge about this breed. She paired me with, what I consider, a once in life time puppy. Thank you Cynthia - Manny is amazing! As you can imagine this can change quite regularly - so please send us a message below, or give us a call on .We look forward to hearing from you! Your name. They don't understand the distance traveled, time spent, or costs involved for "Just a dog". Some of my proudest moments have come about with "Just a dog". Many hours have passed with my only company being "Just a dog", and not once have I felt slighted. Some of my saddest moments were brought about by "Just a dog". In those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "Just a dog" provided comfort and purpose to overcome the day. If you, too, think it's "Just a dog", you will probably understand phrases like "Just a friend", "Just a sunrise", or "Just a promise". Because of "Just a dog" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future. For me and folks like me, it's not "Just a dog". It's an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. I hope that someday people can understand it's not "Just a dog". It's the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "Just a woman". So the next time you hear the phrase "Just a dog", smile, because they "Just Don't Understand". We have answers. For example, lacquer black German Shepherd puppies for sale Boston Ma might fetch a higher price than your standard tan-and-black variety. Breeder experience and champion bloodlines also factor in on pricing. Will you only match me with local breeders? All our partners from the 48 states in the continental US have the means to bring your future best friend to the nearest major airport to you safely and reliably. How do you screen breeders for German Shepherd puppies near me? We have a stringent process to ensure that our partners conform to the highest ethical and legal standards in breeding--all to make sure you take home a happy and healthy puppy. Check out our Breeder Pledge page for details. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are run by people who want the money-making potential of puppies but not the responsibility that comes with it. Puppies produced in such poor conditions are likely to run up vet bills and have a very low life expectancy. Are there any purebred German Shepherd puppies for sale near me? Let us know about your preferences so we can scan our network and connect you with German Shepherd MFA Boston breeders and businesses that match your criteria. What is the MatchMaker process? Getting a puppy that matches your lifestyle is the first and most crucial step in making sure your relationship with your future best friend gets off on the right foot. How do I know I can trust you? Our mission has always been to create families by connecting loving humans with healthy puppies from responsible breeders and businesses.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. The Golden is slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be both delightful and annoying. Many keep their puppyish traits into old age. Originally bred for the physically demanding job of retrieving ducks and other fowl for hunters, the Golden needs daily exercise : a walk or jog, free time in the yard, a run at the beach or lake Goldens love water , or a game of fetch. And like other intelligent breeds who were bred to work, they need to have a job to do, such as retrieving the paper, waking up family members, or competing in dog sports. A tired Golden is a well-behaved Golden. As well as giving your Golden Retriever physical and mental exercise , you should also be prepared to include him in your family activities. Golden Retriever Highlights Golden Retrievers shed a lot, especially during spring and fall. Brushing their coat daily helps remove loose hair, preventing it from spreading on your clothes and around your home. Living with a Golden means embracing their shedding. Golden Retrievers are active and require minutes of vigorous exercise every day. They enjoy obedience training, agility classes, and other dog activities that provide both physical and mental stimulation. While they are gentle and reliable around children, Golden Retrievers are large and exuberant, which might accidentally knock over small kids. Goldens have hearty appetites and can become overweight if overfed. Manage treats, measure their daily food portions, and feed them regular meals instead of leaving food out all day. Due to their popularity, some breeders prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. To ensure a healthy pup, avoid irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Look for reputable breeders who test their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and focus on good temperaments. Golden Retriever History For many years, there was a legend that Golden Retrievers were descended from Russian sheepdogs bought from a circus. In fact, the breed was developed in Scotland, at the highland estate of Sir Dudley Majoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth, like many gentry of his day, bred animals of all kinds, trying to perfect different breeds. He also wanted the dog to be loyal and even-tempered in the home. Tweedmouth kept mostly the yellow puppies to continue his breeding program, and gave others away to friends and relatives. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Today, the Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed in the U. Golden Retriever Size Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally .Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two. Golden Retriever Personality A sweet, calm nature is the hallmark of the breed. The Golden was bred to work with people, and is eager to please his owner. Though hard-wired with a good disposition, like all dogs the Golden must be well-raised and well-trained to make the most of his heritage. Socialization helps ensure that your Golden puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Cataracts: As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: This heart problem is caused by a narrow connection between the left ventricle out-flow and the aorta. It can cause fainting and even sudden death. Your vet can detect it and prescribe the proper treatment. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Allergies: Golden Retrievers can be allergic to a variety of substances, ranging from food to pollen. If your Golden is licking his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, have him checked by your vet. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in his stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Epilepsy : Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes periodic seizures and convulsions. Your vet will need to know how severe the seizures are and how often they occur to determine what medication to prescribe, if any. Hemangiosarcoma : This is a very dangerous form of cancer that originates in the lining of blood vessels and spleen. It most commonly occurs in middle-age and elderly dogs. Golden Retriever Care Golden Retrievers are built for action and love outdoor romps. If you like to hike or jog, your Golden will be happy to join you. Slacking on the activity, however, could lead to behavior problems. These dogs grow very rapidly between the age of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. Normal play on grass is fine, and so are puppy agility classes. Golden Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Golden in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. For more on feeding your Golden, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Some coats are wavy, some are straight. The fur feathers on the back of the front legs and underbody, with heavier feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and tail. Golden Retrievers come in all shades of gold, from light to dark gold. Golden Retrievers shed moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangling, and once a week is the bare minimum. Your Golden will also need a bath at least once a month, often more frequently, to keep him looking and smelling clean. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Fold-over ears create a warm, dark environment for bacteria or fungus to grow in, and breeds that have them — such as the Golden — are prone to ear infections. His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Check them every time he gets wet, too. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. He enjoys the companionship of other dogs , and with proper introductions and training, can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Golden Retriever Rescue Groups Goldens are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Goldens in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Aside from forcing you to get more active, having a canine friend can reduce stress for people of all ages. For starters, vaccinations start at weeks old and should be spaced out every two weeks. Golden retrievers have a reputation for being some of the best dog breeds for families. Are you looking to bring home a golden retriever puppy? Read on for an in-depth golden retriever guide to prepare you for your new best friend for life. Are Golden Retrievers Good Dogs? Of course, all dogs are the best boys and girls and deserve all the belly rubs in the world! However, when people ask if a golden retriever is a good dog, they want to know if the breed is a good fit for them. Some dogs also require extensive maintenance and can be too much for a beginner dog handler. For people wanting to make sure a golden is good for their lifestyle, the quick answer is yes. Golden retrievers are an all-around versatile breed for all kinds of people and are the best dogs you could ask for. Golden retrievers are amazing with kids and make for great family dogs. Goldens are a gentle bunch, and their intelligence and patience are often under-appreciated. They can handle household noise and curious toddlers with the patience of a saint. As a breed, they are well known for their loving, patient, gentle, and fun-loving nature. This is largely a result of upbringing and conditioning, as any dog can become aggressive if mistreated. If you want a friendly golden retriever, do your part and give them the love and care they need. Golden Retrievers Are Affectionate Goldens are affectionate and are sure to get along with any dog or person they meet. This is why you often see them excelling as therapy, comfort, and emotional support dogs. Golden Retrievers Have Wonderful Personalities There is nothing to not like about the personalities of this breed. They love to have fun, but they also like going with the flow. Given their history as hunting dogs, golden retrievers are curious and will go often go exploring if you let them. They also have plenty of courage and work ethic, making them great working dogs. Golden retrievers will always want to greet strangers and sneak a chance at some playtime. This makes them a poor choice to defend your home, as they might befriend the intruder instead. If you want a guard dog, a golden retriever may fall short of its responsibilities. They Can Be Mischievous This one should be obvious for anyone scrolling social media. Goldens have a penchant for tomfoolery and mischief, which can often be hilarious. Golden retriever puppies are particularly notorious for this. Part of this stems from their natural curiosity but also their relaxed and loving nature. While temperament is often a genetic arch-type and can differ from dog to dog, most of it is solid. This is a huge factor for families with multiple dogs or a cat. They May Have Trouble Behaving in Public Because goldens are so friendly, they sometimes have trouble behaving in public. Their temperament naturally pulls them toward new potential friends. You can work on these through socialization and by going slow. Take them to less crowded or busy places first, and work your way up until they get the hang of it. Keep an eye out for body language and physical contact. As we said, some of this comes built in, but you also have to work on it. There are two major things you need to do. If you want to ensure your golden has that loveable personality, start socializing them at a young age. Training is a must, and golden retrievers are usually eager to please. It also helps to get a puppy from a reputable breeder, not from any pet store or puppy mill. At My Golden Retriever Puppies , we breed and raise our puppies with the love and attention they deserve. Golden Retriever Traits Aside from personality and temperament, goldens have great traits. These include their trainability, intelligence, and energy levels. It also includes behaviors to watch out for, like chewing. For a quick dive, keep reading. Golden Retrievers Are Smart Golden retrievers are much more intelligent than people give them credit for. A great example is how the police love using them as sniffers and tracking dogs. As long as you put in the work, your golden will be able to flex its stuff. This has a lot to do with their intelligence and obedient and loving personality. Golden Retrievers Need Exercise Despite being pretty flexible with their energy levels, Goldens still need to exercise. Examples of this include frequent zoomies around the house or getting into messes. They Can Be Chewers Goldens can be chewers, and this stems from adolescence. Teething golden puppies will chew anything they can get their hands on. A great way to handle this is training and exercise. Goldens need stimulation. Playing tug of war or fetch is a great way to address that bad chewing habit. They are cute and smart, easy to train and grow up to be fantastic family dogs. Visit us today to bring the newest addition to your family home. A golden retriever is happy, loyal, affectionate, non-aggressive, and almost always friendly. They get along with almost everyone, including kids, strangers, and other animals. Do Golden Retrievers Bark a lot? For example, your puppy may boop things with their nose or use their paws to communicate. Are Golden Retrievers Well Behaved? Golden retrievers are some of the most well-behaved dogs out there. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

Articles Labradors are easily among my top 5 favorite dog breeds of all time. It is really hard not to love these smart, loyal, and beautiful dogs. I am not the only one that thinks that labs are the best thing to have happened to us. However, not all Labradors are equally as popular, with the Mini Lab being one of the most controversial variations. The term Miniature Labrador is used to describe Labrador Retrievers that are smaller than the Standard Labrador breed. They are not recognized as a standard variation of Labrador Retrievers. Miniature Labradors can appear as a result of dwarfism or mixed breeding with small dog breeds. One of the reasons why Mini Labradors are so controversial is their health issues. We shall take a closer look at these and all other care needs you should know about if you are considering getting one. Strictly speaking, this is not accurate. There is no such thing as a standard smaller version of a Labrador. The miniature versions around are either Labradors with the dwarfism trait or mixed Labs. The dwarf versions are what most people refer to when they use the term Miniature Labrador. They are more or less like your average Labrador, with just a few differences in appearance. Here is what you can expect: Size Miniature Labradors vary in weight depending on their origin. Dwarf Labs can weigh anywhere between 30 to 40 lbs, while mixes with smaller breeds can go as low as 20 lbs. In terms of height, Mini Labs are usually 3 to 10 inches below the inch height average of Standard Labs. Build The build with Miniature Labradors is usually less proportional than regular Labradors. They often have malformed limbs that may be short and bowed. This applies both to Dwarf Labradors and those from mixes. Facial and skull features The facial and skull features are where the Miniature Labrador has the most similarities to the standard breed. They have the same large droopy ears, wide forehead, and narrow, long snout. However, Mini Labs with the dwarf trait may have a disproportionately large head and shorter snout. Coat Mini Labs have short, dense coats that can be chocolate, black, or yellow. If they are a result of mixed breeding, they may take coat traits and colors from the other involved breed. However, dwarf Mini Labs are often very sickly and may have a lifespan as short as 5 years. Here are some of the common health problems that affect the Mini Lab variety in general. Limb Malformation Limb malformation in Miniature Labradors is most commonly seen in dwarfism as a result of the SD 2 genes. This results in short, often crooked, and uneven limbs. The bones are also more prone to issues like fractures and arthritis, which makes Mini Labradors more fragile than their regular counterparts. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition that mainly affects large dog breeds , including Regular Labs. However, the Mini Lab is one of the exceptions that often suffer from the joint anomaly despite its smaller build. Intervertebral Disc Disease Intervertebral disc disease occurs when the tissues between spinal vertebrae break down. This leaves both the spinal column and the spinal cord that it protects exposed and at risk of injury. In very serious conditions, the Miniature Labrador may suffer spinal compromise with consequences including chronic pain and even paralysis. Obesity Mini Labradors may be small but they have appetites just as large as regular-sized Labs. This, combined with their numerous musculoskeletal issues and subsequently lower levels of activity, leaves them more prone to obesity. Fortunately, this is something you can very easily prevent by watching what and how much your Mini Lab eats. Image from Instagram: lunalabi There is no standard price for the Miniature Labrador. This is because their breeding is not very common, and thus, there are not very many breeders with set prices for the dog breed. Even then, the higher limit makes Mini Labs some of the most expensive niche dogs out there. Here are a few of the reasons why this may be the case. This is because breeders rarely intentionally breed them as a result of the numerous health issues that they are associated with. This means the only other way for you to get a purebred Mini Labrador is through litter rants which are also very difficult to find and unpredictable to selectively breed. With such a tight supply, breeders that have Miniature Labrador Retrievers have free reign to set the price as high or low as they wish. Firstly, they need to screen the involved dogs for health issues that need to be selectively bred out to ethically produce Mini Labradors. They also have to take care of the pregnant Mini Labradors which usually end up having very complicated pregnancies and deliveries. All these costs add up and make the resulting Mini Labs quite pricey. These people drive the demand in the market which makes the dogs expensive despite all their issues. At least they have redeeming qualities including their endearing personalities that we will get right into. Can Miniature Labs Get Aggressive? Temperaments Of Miniature Labradors Image from Pawstruck There is a common belief that Miniature Labradors are aggressive and noisy like other miniature versions of large dog breeds. This is not at all true. Remember that Mini Labs are strictly speaking not a standard variation and are thus in every way just like Regular Labradors in terms of personality. Here are a few traits you may notice if you happen to get one. Eager To Please Miniature Labradors live to please and thrive on approval and praise. This will come in handy during training as they are usually also very eager to learn new skills. They love to play, especially with their favorite human friends, which is ideal if you want a lively companion to bring life to your home. Social Miniature Labradors are social butterflies. This works well if you have a large family or happen to have other pets. With a little socialization, there is no one that Mini Labs will not get along with. Loyal Loyalty is something else you have to look forward to from your Mini Labrador. They form strong bonds with people they spend a lot of time with, especially for things like playtime and feeding. Intelligent Mini Labradors may be smaller than regular Labs but this does not make them any less smart. The little pooches pick up very easily on new skills, which makes them convenient to train and easy to live with. Do Miniature Labs Shed? They are also sometimes prone to skin issues including dermatitis and odors. This means that you pretty much have your work cut out for you in terms of grooming. If you plan on doing some of the grooming yourself, here are a few tips that may come in handy. The best way to get ahead of things is to get on a regular grooming schedule. Mini Labs shed seasonally. When the shedding is minimal, you could go for a twice-a-week interval. If they are shedding more heavily, increase to 4 times a week or even every day. It is also important that you invest in the right grooming tool, in which case we recommend the FURminator Undercoat Tool. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. Seamus Cherry Blossom Whitening Dog Shampoo is ideal for the job here, whether your Mini Lab is white, yellow, or even darker tones like red or chocolate. Its gentle formula works wonders leaving your dog with healthy, shiny fur and a mild, floral scent. This automated vacuum also stands out in that it is designed to clean up specifically after pet particulate messes, including fur and dander. Yes, small dogs can make for good guard dogs, but they work better as watchdogs. This is especially the case if the particular small dog breed is known for temperament traits like alertness, wariness towards strangers, and a vocal predisposition. If the dog breed is the social and friendly kind, then the pooch may not do well as a guard dog. Are Teacup Labradors Real? Teacup Labradors are not real. While there are breeders that market Mini Labradors as teacups, it is more or less impossible to get a Labrador to the 2 to 5-pound range that defines the teacup breed. Dogs that look like small Labradors may either be dwarf Labradors or mixes between Lab Retrievers and other small breeds. With Dwarf Labs, the dog will have every other feature similar to Standard Labradors, from facial features to coat traits. With mixes, on the other hand, they may have features from the other non-Labrador parent. Make sure you understand the implications of investing in a Lab that was bred via runt breeding or a Lab that is diagnosed with dwarfism. Avoid getting your Lab through breeders who have purposefully bred dwarfism into their Lab puppies or through breeders who have purposefully bred litters to be smaller than average. Try and ensure that your Mini Labrador maintains a quality diet and eats a dog food specified for his age, weight and activity level. Keep up with routine grooming practices, and ensure your dog sees a vet regularly for wellness exams and check ups. In spite of not being the healthiest dogs, Mini Labradors are just as friendly, affectionate and playful as their full-sized counterparts. Mini Labrador dogs are still Labradors, and as such they are some of the most highly sought after dogs in the world. These dogs are renowned for their family-friendly temperament and companionability when it comes to children. They also get along great with other pets including both dogs and cats. Labradors are very high energy , however, which can be exhausting for the more laid back owner. That said, in the right home and with an active family , Labrador dogs can thrive. They are incredibly intelligent as well, meaning training is a breeze. In fact, Labrador Retrievers are some of the top employed service dogs throughout the world, thanks to their keen sense of emotional intelligence and ability to pick up so quickly on what their people need of them. However, Labs can become very bonded with their family and do get bored easily when left alone for too long. This boredom can lead to destructive behaviors like digging, marking, barking and chewing. Mini Labrador Training and Socialization Requirements Like all dogs, the Mini Labrador should be trained and socialized at an early age to prevent behavioral issues. Like all dogs, Labrador Retrievers require plenty of socialization and training at an early age in order to grow up happy, healthy and well-rounded. Even though Labrador Retrievers are highly social and friendly, they can be prone to behavioral issues and even aggressive tendencies if they are not raised and socialized properly. Because they are so intelligent, Labrador Retrievers love to learn. They are also eager to please and highly food motivated. Instead, use positive reinforcement tactics like treats and praise. If you find your Mini Labrador is becoming distracted or bored during training sessions, try and offer several five minute sessions throughout the day and provide him with plenty of breaks and playtime in between. Tips on Socializing Your Mini Labrador Socializing your Mini Labrador is just as vital as training is to his overall health and happiness. A dog who is properly socialized is a confident, well-rounded dog that is less likely to exhibit aggressive tendencies and fear-based behavioral issues. Try and ensure your dog has positive first time experiences and as many new experiences as possible as he develops. Introduce him to different people, children, other dogs, sights, sounds, and so on. Encourage your Mini Labrador gently using treats and praise to help him associate the world around him with something positive. Most importantly, avoid forcing your Mini Labrador into a situation or experience he is clearly frightened of. Doing so could exasperate his fear and lead to future problems down the road. Labrador Retrievers are naturally energetic dogs. Bred water retrieving dogs, these guys love to be with their people and will enjoy being outside and having a job to do. A Mini Labrador will be no different, and will enjoy a variety of exercise routines including both mental and physical exercises designed to keep him healthy and happy. Mental Exercise Labs are considered some of the smartest dogs in the canine kingdom. As such, they are happiest when they have jobs to do or when they are given plenty of appropriate, dog-safe activities to keep them busy. We recommend investing in interactive puzzle toys and slow feeders to keep your Mini Lab engaged and challenged. You can also take time to set up fun little obstacle courses in and outside of your home with furniture or appliances and encourage your dog to complete these courses for treats. Not only will this help keep your dog mentally and physically sound, it will help build the bond between the two of you. Remember, Dwarf Labradors can suffer from a higher rate of bone and joint issues, spinal issues and chronic pain. They may also suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome due to their abnormal skull development. This can lead to respiratory issues, heat intolerance and exercise induced collapse. When dealing with a Dwarf Labrador or Mini Labrador, be sure not to over-exercise your dog and to monitor him in warmer weather. The appropriate exercise for a Mini Labrador will include about 30 to 45 minutes of exercise a day as well as free playtime in a securely fenced backyard. Mini Labrador dogs are also highly social and get along with other canines, so dog parks are another great way for your Mini Labrador to have his exercise needs met. This is especially beneficial for dogs who might suffer from breathing difficulties. The harness is ideal for medium sized dogs like Mini Labradors and will help you guide your Lab on walks easily and naturally. The material is comfortable for your Lab as well, and even includes reflective materials for safer evening walks. Still, they require routine grooming and upkeep to ensure they stay healthy. The Mini Labrador is a shedding dog, so he may not be the ideal companion for those who suffer from allergies. This is a breed who has a dense, double-coat that is weather resistant and self cleaning. The good news is that he only needs to be bathed once every six weeks or so with a quality dog shampoo and conditioner. Over-bathing your Mini Labrador can lead to skin and coat issues. Your Mini Labrador will not need hair cuts or trims, though he will need routine brushing. While he sheds year-round, the Mini Labrador sheds heaviest twice a year during the shedding season in Spring and Fall. During the shedding season, you may want to brush your lab a few times a week to collect and reduce loose hair from his undercoat and keep it from your clothing and furniture. Outside of shedding season, you can get by brushing your Mini Lab once a week. Along with bathing and brushing, the Mini Labrador should have his ears checked regularly to prevent chances of moisture and build up leading to an ear infection. His teeth should be brushed daily using a safe toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste , and his nails should be trimmed or ground down regularly. Gonicc Dog Nail Clippers. March 7, Miniature breeds are the new trend in the dog world. Not only are they super-cute, but their smaller size makes them a choice for prospective owners who may not have room for their full-size counterparts. Miniaturizing any breed comes with health consequences, especially when it involves a large breed dog such as the Labrador. Do miniature labrador dogs exist, and if so, how small are they, and do they have any specific health issues? Do Miniature Labradors Exist? The answer is both Yes and No. However, miniature labradorsresult fromquestionable breeding practices that can create a host of problems for both the pups and their owners. So if these miniature labs do exist, what are they like? Overview of Miniature Labradors Besides being smaller in size, miniature labradors are the same as any normal labrador in all aspects. Mini labs are extremely devoted to their owners and love to please them in all sorts of ways. They love accompanying their owners in any activity they do, especially if it involves physical exercise. Due to their smaller size, miniature labrador dogs are lighter in weight than your average lab. Mini Labrador puppies tend to make excellent pets for families with lots of children and activity. Despite that, there is a bit of controversy surrounding the overall health of these dogs. Dwarfism Like humans, dwarfism is a condition that is known to exist in many breeds, including Labradors. It affects dogs just like it affects humans, causing a slowed growth of bones, which causes the dog to develop a shorter-than-normal stature. Dwarf labs are conceived by breeding two labradors that carry the genes responsible for dwarfism. When both dwarf parents contribute a copy of the dwarf genes, the litter is born with predisposed dwarfism. There are two types of genes responsible for dwarfism in labradors known as the SD1 and SD2 gene. SD2 Gene: Known as skeletal dysplasia. It hinders bone growth and prevents them from reaching full size, giving the lab a smaller appearance. Thus, the Labrador cannot grow as much as a typical lab, causing them to develop a smaller stature. Crossbreeding Another way most breeders create miniature labradors is by crossbreeding them with another small breed of dogs. And to sell them at a premium is unethical and can land the breeder in trouble. Another problem with hybrid miniature labs is that they might not always turn out to be perfectly healthy. Breeding Runts This one is perhaps the most popular technique for creating a miniature breed. With some breeds, this technique can be quite successful and can yield puppies that are significantly smaller in size than the average puppy of that same breed. However, there are some issues with this technique as well. Runt parents can produce standard-sized puppies. Because the small-size of these runts is usually due to some health condition, or worse dwarfism, the same genetic flaws would probably pass on to the litter they conceive. Also, some breeders inbreed these runts, which can lead to difficulties of their own. And even though they are predisposed to specific health issues, breeders have evolved labs so that these defects are slowly decreasing in pedigreed dogs. However, methods used to produce miniature labradors can re-introduce those defects back into the population of miniatures. So what are those health defects? And which mini labs have them? Defects In Miniature Labs The method of producing miniature labs, which leads to the highest amount of defects, is dwarfism. Both SD1 and SD2 genes can cause abnormal growth, which can worsen or create entirely new defects within a miniature lab. Some of the most prevalent defects associated with dwarfism in mini labs are: Bowed Legs and Knees: Labs with dwarfism appear shorter because their legs are malformed. Swollen Joints: Because dwarfism causes a malformation of the bones in labs, it can put uneven pressure on the joints, causing swelling and inflammation. Swollen joints are usually helped through regular medication but could need surgery in some cases. Worsened Joint Dysplasia: Joint dysplasia is a predisposed defect that many labradors suffer from naturally. Not only is joint dysplasia extremely painful, but it can also lead to arthritis, which might even lead to the dog getting euthanized in severe cases. Larger Skull and Breathing Problems: Dwarfism is also associated with abnormal growth of the skull, including the muzzle, which creates breathing problems for the Labrador and deteriorate their quality of life. Should You Get a Miniature Labrador? Now for the most important question, should you buy a miniature labrador? Most breeders and advertisers of miniature labs are untrustworthy. Let us explain a bit more: 1. And considering that a miniature labrador dog suffers from way more than the average dog, caring for them is more involved. For a labrador to officially register with the AKC, they must be between .If a labrador does not meet these requirements, they can still get registered with the organization. However, the owners must provide the pedigree documents to prove that the dog is purebred. A miniature lab is only about 2 to 2. FAQs What is the lifespan of a dwarf labrador? Unlike a standard labrador, a mini lab might only live up to 5 years, even if they receive full medical care and attention. What can you buy instead of miniature labradors? What is the difference in height between a standard and miniature lab? Unlike other miniature breeds, a miniature lab might only be 2 to 3 inches shorter in height than a standard labrador. How much do miniature labradors shed? A miniature lab has the same double-coat as a standard labrador. They shed an adequate amount of fur, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. Do miniature labradors bite a lot? Miniature and standard labs are both more prone to biting during puppyhood. But once they become adults, the habit mostly subsides, provided they get proper training. Featured Posts:. Photo from: henryhenrichsen Well, yes. There is a mini version of the Labrador Retriever. This dog is slightly smaller than the standard Lab. However, this dog is not officially recognized. There are some teacup dogs and miniature dogs that are recognized by the AKC American Kennel Club , but the mini Lab is not among them. So, how did breeders even come up with the idea of a miniature version of the Lab? Like with any other miniature version of one dog, there are a couple of ways miniature Labradors can be bred. However, we advise you to do your research right from the start to see if it really is a purebred Labrador. Unfortunately, many of these small dogs are created today as a result of crossbreeding. So, breeders crossbreed Labradors with some other smaller dog breed, resulting in a dog that looks like a Labrador, but in a smaller package. Today, there are various Labrador mixes , and we think that many of them are wonderful dogs, but these dogs should not be sold under the name of mini Labrador. Crossbreeding is quite a complex process that should only be undertaken by experienced and educated breeders. Unfortunately, many breeders today put quick money first, while not paying enough attention to the health records of the dogs they intend to crossbreed. Vet exams and health records are even more important in the case of combining two different dog breeds, each of which has its own needs, its own history, and the health conditions to which it is prone. Dwarfism In Labradors Just like with humans, dwarfism can also be found in dogs. This condition is an endocrine disease, which is characterized by a lack of growth hormone. In dogs like these, besides the growth hormone, there also might be a lack of some other hormones. This is a congenital disease, which means that a puppy will inherit it if both of its parents have it. So, if you breed two Labradors that have the dwarfism gene, you will be getting puppies that will have the same gene. In dwarf Labradors, there are the SD1 Gene and the SD2 Gene that are the reason for this medical condition to appear, and thanks to which there are miniature Labrador Retrievers today. The first gene stands for Osteochondro dysplasia to appear in Labradors. This state makes a dog have bent legs, deformed paws, and enlarged joints. The second gene stands for a genetic mutation called skeletal dysplasia. Dogs with this diagnosis have a body of normal size, but their shorter legs make them different from the standard Labrador. Also, their legs might be slightly curved. Its head also might be larger than average, while its nose might be shorter. Breeding Runts Simply put, breeding runts refers to taking the smallest dog from a litter and breeding it with another equally small dog. This sometimes involves inbreeding of two dogs from the same litter, where it only matters that both dogs are smaller than the others. It is not recommended that brother and sister dogs have puppies together. Although in some cases they can produce completely healthy offspring, in many cases, serious diseases are recorded in such dogs. Breeding runts is not considered ethical. These dogs often have more serious health problems. Also, it is important to mention that breeding two small dogs does not necessarily mean that all their puppies will be equally small. So, when in search of mini Lab puppies, make sure to check that the breeder you are dealing with is completely ethical and trustworthy. Their basic difference is, obviously, their size. This is why we call them the miniature Labrador. For many of these dogs, this will actually be the only difference. Also, their legs are shorter than those of the standard-sized Lab. In some cases, many people will not even notice that they actually own a mini Lab. For this reason, we wanted to investigate the origin and characteristics of miniature Labradors. If you like everything about the Labrador Retriever, but its size makes you doubt the decision of adding this dog as your new family member, well, maybe a mini Lab would be a marvelous solution. But, should you really be taking a risk and buying a mini Labrador Retriever dog? This way, we can get an insight into the temperament, appearance, and health of this smaller Lab. Based on this, we can make a conclusion about how much the mini Lab actually differs from the standard Lab. Or, how similar these two dogs are. Temperament For many dog lovers, the Labrador breed is the number one breed among them all. The mini Lab is a bit smaller than the standard Labrador. However, their personalities are quite similar. The mini version is equally kind, friendly, and loving as the standard version of this dog. These miniature dogs are also in love with their human family, and the thing they like the most is spending time with them. So, with a mini Lab, you will have your own shadow following you around wherever you go! This dog gets along well with children and other pets. Also, this dog is quite energetic and needs different activities, both physical and mental, to stay happy. This dog is literally a Labrador Retriever in a smaller package. The one thing that differentiates them from standard Labs are their short legs. They also have floppy ears, big eyes, and a broad head. There is a slight difference when it comes to the weight and height of male and female Labradors. According to the Labrador growth chart , males usually weigh from 65 to 80 pounds, while the average weight of females goes from 55 to 70 pounds. The average weight of a Labrador Retriever goes from 55 to 80 pounds. Miniature Labs are quite lighter, and they weigh from 35 to 50 pounds. The difference in weight can be noticed as early as around two to three months of age — at this age, a standard Labrador will reach a weight of 20 to 25 pounds, while a mini Lab will probably weigh 16 to 22 pounds. According to some opinions, a Labrador is a large dog. Some other people see this dog as a medium-sized dog. The average height of a standard male Lab goes from 22 to 24 inches tall. Females are usually 21 to 23 inches tall. Many miniature dogs are usually a lot smaller than the same dogs of the standard size. However, there is not a big difference in the height of a full-sized Labrador and the mini version of this dog. Miniature Labradors are only two or three inches shorter than the normal sized dogs. So, the average size of mini Labs goes from 19 to 22 inches. Some of these dogs might be even shorter… around 17 inches. Coat Characteristics Photo from: thejoniexpress Some of the standard Labrador colors are black, chocolate, and yellow. We can also find mini black Labs, mini chocolate Labs, and mini yellow Labs. Labrador Retrievers shed quite a lot, so they are not the best option for people with allergies. This is also the case with the mini Labrador. Its double coat is dense and short, and you can expect to find its hairs all over the place. A miniature Labrador will have short legs. Also, we have learned that this dog might have many additional health issues. What are those medical conditions? What is the overall quality of life for this dog? Coat: Are Mini Labs hypoallergenic? If you are after a hypoallergenic dog, you will have much better luck with Labradoodles , which are Labs crossed with Poodles. Unfortunately, the Mini Lab has the same tendency to shed as a standard Lab. Their thick double coats are waterproof on the top layer, soft and fluffy on the inner layer. Thanks to their double coats, they can withstand heat and cold much better than their owners can. That being said, every dog is different and their preferences should be taken into consideration. A house dog would not like being left out in the cold, whereas a dog used to winter would find your home too stuffy with the heating on. Do Miniature Labradors make better house pets? Purebred Labradors are known to be awesome family pets. They get along great with kids and are as loving as they are active. Your Teacup Lab Retriever will be no different. However, due to issues with their health, your Mini Labrador Retriever dog might be more time-consuming to take care of. According to Google, there are plenty of runts that live to lead healthy lives but they often have lower survivability in their puppyhood. On the other hand, Labradors born with dwarfism will need a lifetime of specialized care and attention. Exercising your Miniature Labrador Retriever Mini Labradors have the same energy levels as their standard counterparts. The only difference is that they are even more susceptible to joint disorders such as hip dysplasia. You also want to provide them with enough stimulation, lest they get bored and become destructive. How often should Mini Labs be groomed? Too much shampooing can also cause their coats to dry out, which will either cause itchiness or an increase in oil production. Neither of which will do your dog any favors. Check their eyes and ears frequently to ensure that there are no abnormalities. Nails need to be clipped every few weeks or when you can hear them clacking on the floor. As you can see, they are quite low maintenance and only require a brush every now and then. Any ole slicker brush you get off Amazon will do, although some pet parents like to use a furminator to get their annual shedding under control. How do you feed a Toy Labrador? They will need the same nutrients as a large-breed dog. Miniature Labrador Health Issues Depending on what caused your Labrador to be smaller than the breed standard, you might need to be prepared for a shorter than average lifespan. Dogs with dwarfism might only live 5 years, whereas the breed average is 10 — .They also suffer from certain physical disabilities such as short legs, bowed knees, swollen joints, turned-out feet, and a low slung back. Dwarf Labs also have proportionally large heads. There are two main kinds of dwarfism, SD1, and SD2. The SD1 gene is called osteochondrodysplasia and will manifest as malformed legs. These dogs will most likely develop dysplasia and cause pain and lameness, something that the Labrador breed is already susceptible to. The SD2 is the more common form of dwarfism and it causes skeletal dysplasia and inhibits their bones from fully developing. This means that while their legs will be shorter, they will not have any deformities. Another genetic mutation that might create a Miniature Labrador lies in their faulty pituitary gland. A malfunction that inhibits their growth hormones naturally stunts their growth and leaves them smaller than other Labs. All three mutations can increase the risk for retinal dysplasia which causes blindness. Smaller Labs bred with runts are often more sickly than regular-sized Labs. However, they can also be just as healthy. This popular breed of dog could also develop ear and eye problems, and hypothyroidism. The other health issues that Labbie owners should look out for are obesity and cancer. How Much is a Miniature Labrador Puppy? Most breeders do not advertise their stunted puppies as bigger Labradors are often more desirable. First of all, they should be breeding healthy Labradors who do not carry the gene for dwarfism. Just be aware of the risks involved as they are unregulated. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. Welcome to Miniature Labs! Labs have been on the top of the list when choosing a family pet therapy dogs and hunting companions. The Miniature Labradors are really no different when it comes to temperament, looks and being family friendly. They are a bit smaller so they take up less space! They still have all the great attributes as a standard lab like great coats, webbed feet for swimming and otter tails. There have been a couple of good breeders that have invested a lot of time into the Miniature Labrador Retriever. We hope that these dogs will continue to bless all of us with their GREAT personalities and their zest for life for a long time to come! We breed our miniature Labrador puppies using many of the breeds listed on our miniature lab breed origen page. However, we do try to keep "Lab" as our primary breed. By doing this, it helps to preserve what past miniature labrador retriever breeders have started as well as help build the future of the mini lab breed. Above is a 15 month old standard labrador Chocolate Left lbs next to one of our miniature labs 15 months right merle 34lbs www. Their legs appear to be bent because they are malformed. This bone malformation causes them to have problems with their knee and hip joints, which can be painful and crippling. Any type of dwarfism can cause additional health problems to the animal. Although you associate dwarf Labradors with short legs, they can also have abnormally formed skulls. This can result in breathing problems. They can also have problems whelping, and require c-sections instead of being able to give birth naturally. Disproportionate leg and body lengths, such as seen to an extreme scale in the Dachshund, can also result in spinal problems and painful movements. Although some dwarf Labradors will live full and happy lives, they are at a greater risk than their unaffected cousins. It is therefore very important that Labrador breeders ensure that they do not breed from Labradors who carry the gene for dwarfism. Dwarf Labrador Health Tests Before you buy a Labrador, their breeder should have carried out a variety of health tests on both of the parents. One of the things you should make sure that they have tested for is dwarfism in Labradors. There is a test available for SD2, which will tell the breeder whether the parent carries the gene. No Lab with the gene should be bred to another with it, as they could result in the puppies having dwarfism. Miniature Labrador Breeders A Labrador Retriever small breed is something that has been coined by a few dog breeders to try and cash in on a market of dog lovers who want a small Labrador Retriever to fit into their lives. Every month hundreds of people scour the internet looking for a miniature black Lab or miniature chocolate Lab to join their family. And unscrupulous people will take advantage of these people who are innocently putting their faith in them to provide a happy, healthy new friend. They will provide you with clear, breed specific information. Those claiming to be miniature Labrador breeders may be producing puppies that carry the Labrador dwarfism gene. They may have cross bred their lines with a smaller breed of dog. Or they may be producing regular sized Labs and simply giving their customers the misleading impression that they will remain the same size. Words Of Warning From Lab Breeders If you are researching Labrador breeders, here are some negative buzzwords to keep your eyes peeled for: Micro Labrador Mini Labrador Miniature Labs These words demonstrate that the breeder is either lacking knowledge about Labradors or is trying to mislead puppy buyers. Either way, they are not the breeder that you want to approach. Well, yes, you can. Some Labradors are smaller than others! Within the bounds of usual Labrador size, they are a bit shorter, lighter and just plain littler than other Labs. You will also find that some English Labradors are chunky in build but short in height. Short legs are more fashionable in the show ring at the moment. So this can be removed as the reason for them being shorter legged. Small Labradors who are simply at the lower end of the normal spectrum can be found from reputable breeders, and they are a good option if you want a Labrador temperament in a slightly smaller package. The other option is to buy a Labrador mix, who is crossed with a smaller breed of dog. Just make sure that you check out the health tests that are relevant to this breed as well before you commit to the puppy. But no healthy Labrador will stay small to the miniature extent. Lab puppies that stay really small do so because they are undernourished, ill or have a disease. Even dwarf Labradors are only around 2. If you want a small Labrador Retriever, then think about why. Is it to do with a lack of space, or simply a personal taste issue? Small dog breeds are popular at the moment, but fashions change and the most important part of any pet is their personality and temperament. I hope that you will decide that a full sized Labrador is worth the loss of space on the couch, in exchange for the love and devotion they will give you for the next ten years. Find Out More About Labradors!

If your dog has an outie, read this. By Deb M. Eldredge, DVM, is an award-winning veterinarian and writer who graduated from Cornell University, where she was the first recipient of the school's Gentle Doctor Award. Most of them are basically "outie" belly buttons. If small, they may seal up on their own and generally don't cause any problems. Larger ones may require surgery to close up the abdominal wall and prevent intestines from slipping out or getting twisted. Some dog breeds such as Weimaraners are predisposed to these hernias. Ideally dogs with anything other than very small umbilical hernias should not be bred. This is especially true if most of the puppies in the litter have one, suggesting genetic predisposition. What Exactly Is an Umbilical Hernia? In an unborn puppy, the umbilicus slips out through an opening in the puppy's stomach wall to connect to the placenta. When a puppy is born, his dam chews or breaks this umbilical cord or the breeder cuts it and ties it off. It dries and shrivels up, leaving behind the "belly button. Sometimes a small bit of fat may get stuck in the opening, which leaves an "outie" belly button. Occasionally the wall of the abdomen simply does not close all the way. That is when we say a puppy or dog has an umbilical hernia. Signs Your Dog Has an Umbilical Hernia If your dog has an umbilical hernia, when your dog lies on his back, you can feel a small opening at the umbilicus site. If it is the size of the end of your pinkie finger at 8 weeks of age, it is usually not a problem. Many of these small hernias will close up on their own by 6 months of age. If the hernia bubbles out or is bigger than a pinkie finger, there is a chance that intestines may be slipping in and out of the opening. At some point, a section of intestines could slide out through the hernia opening and get trapped or twisted. At that point, your dog needs emergency surgery. Signs you see with trapped intestines can include pain, your dog standing stiffly with his back arched, and possibly not eating or vomiting. If you see these symptoms, you need to call your veterinarian right away. Larger hernias will require surgery to close up the opening, leaving the intestines safely inside. If your puppy is not having any problems, your vet may recommend keeping an eye on it and doing the surgery at the same time as spaying or neutering. That means one bout of anesthesia and recovery for your pet and less cost for you. If intestines become trapped at any point, immediate emergency surgery is necessary. Some people have tried to encourage closure of hernias by using a belly wrap on their puppies with hernias. The goal is to keep all tissues fat, intestines, etc. This is generally not successful but does help in some cases. It is best to consult your pet's veterinarian for advice on the best way to handle your individual dog's treatment. Luckily most umbilical hernias are small and don't present a health concern for your dog! Was this page helpful? Full size image Surgical reduction of the hernia followed by plication of the oesophageal hiatus, oesophagopexy and left flank gastropexy were performed. The liver was retracted to the right side of the abdomen while caudal traction was placed on the stomach and the hernia reduced satisfactorily. Two simple interrupted sutures were placed, using 2 metric polydioxanone PDS; Ethicon , between the right and left crural muscles adjacent to the oesophageal hiatus and the corresponding ventrolateral aspect of the oesophagus. Care was taken not to include the dorsal or ventral vagal trunks in the sutures. The sutures engaged the seromuscular layers of the oesophagus and full thickness of the diaphragmatic crural muscle. The oesophageal hiatus was then plicated using three simple interrupted sutures of 2 metric polydioxanone PDS, Ethicon to reduce the diameter to within subjectively normal limits. A 4 cm seromuscular incision was made in a cranial to caudal direction on the fundus of the stomach running parallel to the left craniolateral abdominal wall. A similar length incision was made on the lateral aspect of the left abdominal wall through the peritoneum and transversus abdominis muscle starting 1 cm caudal to, and running perpendicular with, the last rib to allow left flank incisional gastropexy. The free edges of the seromuscular incision and the abdominal wall incision were apposed with a single layer of simple continuous sutures using 2 metric polydioxanone PDS; Ethicon. Completion of the gastropexy procedure resulted in sufficient caudal movement of the stomach to help maintain reduction of the hiatal hernia and also create a mild degree of traction at the gastro-oesophageal junction. Umbilical herniorraphy was performed as part of the coeliotomy closure, while a separate surgical approach was made to the left inguinal region and herniorrhaphy performed using horizontal mattress sutures of 2 metric polydioxanone PDS; Ethicon. Although the puppy was not neutered at the time of surgery in accordance with the owner's wishes, they were strongly advised that she should not be used for breeding. The puppy recovered uneventfully from surgery, with postoperative analgesia provided by a combination of 0. For the first two weeks post-operatively, the puppy was regularly fed small meals of a commercially available complete tinned puppy food from an elevated position. On re-examination two months post-surgery, no further episodes of dyspnoea had occurred and the puppy was eating and growing well. A repeat upper airway examination was advised six months post-operatively although the owner declined. Follow-up telephone conversations with the owner at six and 12 months post-operatively indicated that the dog was in good general health, with a normal appetite and had suffered no further bouts of dyspnoea or other signs referable to either hiatal hernia or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Discussion Hiatal hernia was first described in the veterinary literature in by Gaskell and co-workers. Despite numerous additional cases having been reported since then, the true incidence, aetiology and pathophysiology of the disease remain incompletely identified. A number of interrelated factors, including: displacement of the lower oesophageal sphincter LOS ; changes in the angle of insertion of the oesophagus into the stomach; anatomical changes to the hiatal canal and phrenico-oesophageal ligament; oesophageal mobility disorders; underlying respiratory, neurological or neuromuscular disease; and others have been indicated in the aetiopathogenesis of this complex disease [ 25 ]. A distinction has been made between congenital and acquired sliding hiatal hernias in the dog on the basis of age [ 8 ]. In congenital hiatal hernia, clinical signs may be observed immediately after weaning onto solid food and are usually seen before one year. A familial inheritance autosomal dominant for sliding hiatal hernias has been shown in humans [ 6 ]. While the inheritance pattern has not been established for either type I or II hiatal hernias in dogs, it has been suggested that Shar-pei dogs may be predisposed to developing type I hernias [ 5 ]. Interestingly, most of the reported cases of congenital hiatal hernia to-date have been in breeds classified as brachycephalic. Increased inspiratory effort secondary to brachycephalic airway syndrome, as with any upper airway obstructive disease, can result in an increase in negative intra-oesophageal and intrapleural pressure. This may then tend to pull the oesophagus and stomach into the thorax and exacerbate clinical signs related to hiatal herniation [ 8 , 4 , 19 ]. Poncet et al. The authors proposed that gastro-oesophageal reflex disorders aggravate respiratory signs by encumbering the pharyngeal region and stimulating persistent inflammation. Conversely, the chronic respiratory depression promotes gastro-oesophageal reflux. GORD is one of the major consequences of hiatal hernia; indeed much of the symptomatology of clinically important hiatal hernia is thought to depend on concurrent GORD and reflux oesophagitis [ 14 ]. Hypersalivation and vomiting or regurgitation, especially in the immediate postprandial period, is frequently reported [ 21 , 3 , 5 ]. Regurgitation and hypersalivation result from the chemical effects of gastric fluid e. Often, poor body condition results from this altered digestive function. Dyspnoea and exercise intolerance have also been observed secondary to either aspiration pneumonia or lung compression by the herniated abdominal organs [ 24 , 19 ]. The presence of gastric acid in the lower oesophagus can result in severe laryngospasm and bronchospasm, which will worsen respiratory signs [ 11 ]. However, dyspnoea as a solitary presenting sign is unusual. Type I hiatal hernia can also be an incidental finding and it may be that many animals have asymptomatic hiatal herniation as seen in humans. Survey radiography was diagnostic of hiatal hernia in this case; with the presence of a gas-filled intra-thoracic soft tissue structure containing gastric rugal folds within the caudo-dorsal thorax adjacent to the diaphragm. Additional thoracic radiographic abnormalities seen with hiatal hernia may include megaoesophagus, a solid soft tissue mass in the caudo-dorsal thorax adjacent to the diaphragm, absence of the right crus of the diaphragmatic border and lobar alveolar consolidation due to aspiration pneumonia [ 8 , 21 ]. Although survey thoracic radiographs alone can sometimes diagnose hiatal hernia, it is frequently necessary to perform a positive contrast oesophagram or gastrogram to document the disorder [ 13 ]. This is particularly the case in patients with sliding hiatal hernia, in which the oesophagus and stomach may only intermittently be displaced. Fluoroscopy after oral administration of barium paste is one of the most reliable means of detecting intermittent hiatal hernia and assessing oesophageal motility [ 12 ]. The use of abdominal ultrasonography has also been reported as an additional aid in the diagnosis of hiatal herniation [ 7 ] and does not carry the risk of aspiration associated with the use of contrast material in a potentially dysphagic or regurgitating patient. Symptomatic congenital hiatal hernias frequently require surgical correction although this should only be performed if conservative therapy is unsuccessful [ 14 ]. The recommended regime for medical management is effectively the same as that described for gastro-oesophageal reflux, reflux oesophagitis and gastritis. This involves elevated feeding, reduction of gastric acid secretion with histamine-2 antagonists such as cimetidine and ranitidine, protection of the oesophageal mucosa with sucralfate, and the use of prokinetic agents such as metoclopramide or cisapride to increase lower oesophageal sphincter tone [ 21 ]. In the current case the only clinical sign was dyspnoea after feeding, presumably due to the space-occupying effect of the hernia, with none of the typical signs of GORD reported. Therefore, it was not surprising that a conservative approach did not allow full resolution of clinical signs. Surgical treatment of hiatal hernia is a focus of controversy in both the human and veterinary literature [ 8 , 21 , 25 ]. Surgical treatment is aimed at achieving reduction of the hernia and restoration of normal LOS function [ 28 ]. Restoration and stabilisation of what has been described as 'normal anatomy' by reducing the hernia, decreasing the size of the oesophageal hiatus and performing an oesophagopexy and gastropexy is an effective means of treating hiatal hernia in dogs and cats [ 21 , 27 ]. This combination of surgical procedures was first reported by Robotham [ 23 ] and is based on the assumption that all animals have a distinct intra-abdominal segment of oesophagus creating an essential flutter valve that maintains gastro-oesophageal barrier function. However, the presence of an abdominal oesophagus is not necessarily a normal finding in every dog and it has been proposed that oesophagopexy, phrenicoplasty and left flank gastropexy may not be so much about restoring normal anatomy as creation of an anatomical situation which artificially elevates pressure at the gastro-oesophageal junction and hence reinforces the anti-reflux barrier [ 20 ]. Recent evaluation of the pathophysiology of hiatal hernia suggests that anti-reflux procedures such as Nissen fundoplication are not indicated in veterinary patients as a primary incompetence of the lower oesophageal sphincter rarely exists [ 25 ]. The use of anti-reflux procedures in small animals has been widely discontinued due to the unacceptably high risk of complications, including dysphagia, 'gas bloat' syndrome, the inability to belch and reherniation, which may lead to compromise of the stomach wall and death [ 8 ]. With attention to exacerbating problems such as brachycephalic syndrome, good results may be expected with treatment of hiatal hernia [ 21 , 27 ]. Canadian Veterinary Journal. I run my fingers down the center near their belly button feeling for the telltale blob of an umbilical hernia and near the groin checking for inguinal lumps and we find them quite a bit. Hernias are not uncommon in puppies, and occur in a variety of ways. The good news is most are easily treatable and often caught early. A hernia occurs when abdominal organs or fatty tissue protrude through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue. The severity of the hernia depends on the size of the defect in the abdominal wall. In its most benign form, a small amount of abdominal fat may intermittently protrude from the hole and be easily placed back through with a little pressure. In its most severe form, intestines or other abdominal organs may pass through the the hole, compressing blood supply and essentially strangling the organ. In these worst-case scenarios hernias can become life threatening in a short period of time. Amazingly, even large hernias can often be successfully treated if the diagnosis is made before the herniated organ is compromised. In some cases the closure is incomplete, leaving a hole in the abdomen through which contents can herniate. Inguinal : the inguinal canal is an opening in the area of the groin through which the testicles descend. Both males and females have an inguinal canal and can suffer from inguinal hernias. Diaphragmatic : the diaphragm is the large sheet of muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen. While trauma and congenital defects can cause defects at any point along the diaphragm, there are two specific subtypes of diaphragmatic hernia which are known to occur as congenital defects in puppies: Hiatal : the hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus, which carries food from the mouth to the stomach, passes from the chest to the abdomen. If the opening is larger than it should be, the stomach can start to bulge through into the chest cavity. Peritoneopericardial : this mouthful of a word refers to an opening between the peritoneum a membrane lining the abdominal cavity and the pericardium the sac that surrounds the heart. This results from an embryologic problem during development, and is the most common form of congenital pericardial defect in the dog. What Causes Hernias in Dogs? Hernias can be congenital meaning the puppy was born with the condition or acquired through trauma, disease or aging. Congenital hernias are the most common cause noted in young dogs. They may be the result of a spontaneous problem during development, or a genetic defect passed on from one of the parents. Trauma is the other common cause of hernias in puppies. Blunt force trauma such as being hit by a car or any sort of blow to the body wall can cause a tear in either the abdominal wall or the diaphragm, allowing abdominal organs to herniate. What are the Signs of a Hernia in Puppies? Signs of a hernia vary depending on the location and severity of the hernia. In many cases, with a small uncomplicated hernia consisting only of a small amount of abdominal fat, the owner may not even notice anything or just feel a small squishy blob in the region of the belly button or groin. As the hernia becomes larger and more vital organs are compromised, signs may be as follows: Pain. So, What happens next? What is a hernia and what causes them? Hernias are a common congenital condition meaning that puppies are born with them , affecting around 1 in puppies. A hernia is a hole in the muscle wall of the tummy abdomen which allows the abdominal contents fat, intestines and other organs to squeeze through into a space under the skin or, less commonly, through the diaphragm into the chest. This usually causes a soft, squishy swelling under the skin, which often fluctuates in size. It may occasionally pop in and out of the tummy, disappearing for short periods of time. While some hernias result from trauma causing a tear in the muscle, most puppy hernias are congenital problems. This is where the muscle fails to develop properly. There may be a genetic element to this condition, as some breeds appear more susceptible. So it is advisable not to breed from a dog with a hernia. Hernias typically arise in specific locations. These result from the muscle failing to close over the area where the umbilical cord entered the body. Less frequently, hernias are found in the groin inguinal or next to the bottom perineal. The rarest kind of hernias involve the diaphragm and can be more difficult to diagnose as they are less obvious from outside. How are hernias diagnosed in puppies? Most external hernias are fairly easy to diagnose just by their location and feel. A soft swelling under the skin in one of the characteristic hernia locations is a strong indicator but your vet will check for an underlying hole in the muscle wall to be sure. These checks are quick, pain-free and harmless. In a small number of cases, or when an internal hernia is suspected, additional tests such as an ultrasound or X-ray may be necessary to diagnose the problem and assess its severity. These are straightforward, non-invasive procedures but may require your puppy to be sedated; your vet will be happy to discuss any questions you may have about this. Are there any problems hernias cause? How serious a hernia is depends on its location, its size and its contents. While many hernias cause few problems, some can make a pup very unwell. Most hernias, especially small ones, contain just fat which usually causes little problem apart from, possibly, some mild discomfort. The main concern with small hernias is that they get larger over time. Bigger hernias may allow a loop of the intestines or other organs such as the liver or bladder to pop out of the tummy. But having intestines or organs in this location exposes them to injury. In a small number of cases, it can make a pup seriously unwell. It can cause them to go off their food, be lethargic, vomit repeatedly or suffer breathing problems. These are potentially life-threatening complications. What treatment do hernias require? Some very small hernias may require no treatment at all because the muscle does eventually close as the puppy grows. These hernias leave a small blob of fat under the skin which can look a bit funny but is not usually of concern. Most hernias, however, will need surgery to close the hole in the muscle. The contents of the hernia to their normal location. Surgery is advisable even if your puppy is currently unaffected by their hernia, to prevent more serious problems later in life. If the hernia is small and stable, this may be done once your puppy is big and old enough, or at the same time as neutering. This is usually from six months of age. So your vet may advise regular checks of the hernia to make sure it is not causing problems in the meantime. For large hernias, or those which involve the intestines or other internal organs, surgery may be carried out at an earlier age, or as an emergency, to prevent some of the more serious complications. What happens during hernia surgery? Surgery to repair a hernia requires a general anaesthetic. The area around the hernia will be shaved and scrubbed with an antiseptic to reduce infections. An incision is made through the skin. The contents of the hernia are checked to make sure they are healthy. They are then gently returned to the abdomen and the hernia is closed, usually with stitches that dissolve in a few weeks. The incision is usually slightly longer than the original hernia and there may be slight redness or swelling around the area for a few days. Umbilical hernia surgery is usually quick, straightforward and low risk. In cases where the hernia is very large, contains more than just fat, or involves the diaphragm, surgery may be more complicated. It may also carry additional risks, which your vet will discuss with you. Thankfully, these cases are much rarer. There will usually be very little trace of surgery after a few weeks. Most puppies make an excellent recovery. Hernias are relatively common in puppies. While some do cause problems, most dogs will have normal, healthy lives following treatment. Corrective surgery is usually routine and recommended in most cases to prevent future problems. They will be happy to check your pup is healthy and advise on the best way to deal with this condition. You may also be interested in;. Shortness of breath Excessive drooling If you suspect your dog has developed a hernia, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for a proper diagnosis immediately. Although hernias are usually visible, there are cases in which a veterinarian will have to do a physical exam to determine the condition. In some cases, an x-ray will even be required to identify the exact location of the hernia. Are Puppy Hernias Common? Yes, puppy hernias are relatively common, especially since the condition is usually congenital, meaning the puppy is born with it. Are Puppy Hernias Painful? Hernias can be painful; your dog or puppy will show signs of pain if it has the condition. This is also why puppies tend to lack appetite or be lethargic. How Serious is an Umbilical Hernia in a Puppy? An umbilical hernia is the most common type found in puppies and generally poses no serious health threat. However, there is a chance for parts of the intestines or other tissues to be trapped and cause strangulation. This is a health emergency that requires immediate surgery. What Causes Hernias in Puppies? Hernias in puppies can be caused by several factors, including genetics, trauma, and injury. Hernias in dogs are categorised as either congenital genetic or present at birth or caused by later trauma. Certain genetic and hormonal conditions can predispose a dog to hernias, along with other conditions such as dog hip dysplasia and patellar knee disclosations. They are also more common in specific dog breeds. There are five types of hernia found in dogs: Umbilical Hernia — This is the most common type found in puppies. Although this type of hernia can usually heal on its own, your puppy may need surgery to repair the hernia if it has already been neutered. Hiatal Hernia — The most severe type of hernia on this list, Hiatal hernias, is typically caused by trauma or injury but can also be congenital. This is why these hernias are most common in brachycephalic breeds since their restricted airway creates pressure that can draw the stomach through the opening. Inguinal hernias form in different sizes and most often occur in middle-aged female dogs, posing a higher risk during pregnancy. This is because larger inguinal hernias can impact the uterus or bladder, resulting in a life-threatening condition. Diaphragmatic Hernia — As the name suggests, this hernia is caused by a hole in the diaphragm. This particular type of hernia is usually congenital. This is most common in non-neutered male dogs over five years old and certain breeds like Boston Terriers, Boxers, Corgis and Collies, among others. What is the Treatment for Puppy Hernias? Treating puppy hernias usually requires surgery to return the organs to their original position and repair the tear. The veterinary surgeon may also reinforce the area with mesh during hernia repair surgery. Almost all instances of hernias in puppies require surgery and seldom resolve themselves naturally. Puppy hernias only resolve by themselves in cases where the hernia is less than 3mm in size, which is exceedingly rare. Even at 1cm in size, an umbilical hernia poses a serious health risk to your puppy and should be immediately seen by a veterinary surgeon. Just like in people, hernias pose a significant risk to the health of your puppy. This includes: Pain medications to keep them comfortable and reduce swelling. Keep your dog calm and still as much as possible to avoid tearing stitches or staples Watch for signs of infection such as yellow discharge or bleeding Attend any follow-up appointment required by your vet, including removal of stitches or staples Do Puppy Hernias Go Away? Some small hernias in dogs may go away without treatment. However, this is very rare, and if your puppy has a hernia, they will likely need surgery. Umbilical hernias smaller than 3mm may close without treatment when the puppy reaches months old. If the hernia does not close by then, surgery will be required. However, this is something that the veterinarian will ultimately determine, so consulting a veterinarian is still the best course of action. What does Puppy Hernia Surgery Involve? A puppy hernia will involve the removal of misplaced abdominal contents, placing them back into the abdomen, and repairing the tear that allowed them to move into other cavities in the first place. Most types of hernia operations may be performed by a primary veterinarian, while rare types or complex cases may have to be referred to a boarded veterinary surgeon. Despite the cost, the benefit of having your dog or puppy cured of a hernia is well worth the cost. Seeing your furry friend live their life without the pain of an untreated hernia is unmatched. Treat your dog well and make sure it gets the medical treatment it deserves! Otherwise, umbilical hernia surgery can also be done at the same time as a puppy is desexed. This is usually around six months old. If you suspect or have found out that your puppy has a hernia, keep your pet in a stable position and call your veterinarian immediately. This is not always the case, so consult your vet and proceed with caution. If you can determine that the umbilical hernia is mechanical and not genetic, it should be safe to breed a dog with a hernia. This is when the hernia happens during whelping due to too much pulling or an overeager dam. Disclaimer: This article is published in good faith, for general informational and educational purposes only. Paws and More Vet Centre does not make any warranties about the ongoing completeness and reliability of this information. Lisa is a veteran in the industry, working in vet clinics for over 17 years. Her passionate demeanour makes her the perfect person to greet our clients and their owners. Every day, she has the pleasure of coming home to a menagerie of animals.

As the judge approached him before awarding the Best in Show crown, the judge's mic so she must have heard it herself picked up the rattle in his throat that likely points to an elongated soft palate. Two-hundred breeds, dogs and, ta-daaa, a respiratory cripple took the top spot. Here's Thor playing with a puppy at home, the obstruction obvious. This video is from around two years ago. Given that BOAS is a progressive condition, I am surprised that Thor was not noisier trotting round the National Dog Show ring but then the mic was not close to him most of the time and the crowd was loud. Now Thor is actually better than most other Bulldogs we've seen in the US show-ring - he moves quite well for a Bulldog , he has tight eyes and there are no obvious skin issues although the judge did not lift his large nose roll to check. He's heavy but at least not grossly obese. He has terrible teeth compared to a normal dog, but they are better than most Bulldog teeth you can, at least, see all six incisors even if they are higgledy-piggledy and largely buried in the gum. Most Bulldog teeth look like this. Thor has a very short, recessed screw tail a mutation that we now know is associated with spine issues. The tail does not appear to be mobile, robbing him of that mode of expression, and it doesn't come anywhere close to covering his anus. And that nose!! Tilted backwards under the large nose roll, Thor's nose is dry and dull and his nostrils are almost closed. Remember that dogs are as near-as-dammit obligate nose breathers. And yeah.It's a demand in the breed standard; codified therein in the erroneous belief that, back-in-the-day, it better-equipped the Bulldog to hold on to a Bull. I say it a lot but I will say it again.Or, indeed, in a modern dog. Thor has been quite extensively health-tested - and I'm genuinely pleased to see that he has good hips given that the Bulldog is the worst breed for hip dysplasia. This is a bit of progress. But you'll note that there is no result here for respiratory health and that's because despite poor breathing being the single biggest health issue for Bulldogs and other extreme brachycephalic breeds, there is no official scheme in the USA, unlike here in the UK, Scandinavia and an increasing number of countries in Europe. To sum up, while Thor might be good for a Bulldog, he is a disaster for a dog and I despair that any judge could have chosen him over the other dogs all with normal canine conformation in the Best in Show ring. I mean, award him Best of Breed if you have to - but the Best dog overall? Why are you not even talking about it publicly when the Bulldog is now the 5th most popular dog in the US and the French Bulldog - arguably even worse - is the 4th? Here in the UK, in Scandinavia and in parts of Europe, there is progress being made because veterinarians have stood up and said enough is enough. US vets: your silence increasingly suggests tacit approval of the breeding of dogs that struggle to mate, whelp, breathe, thermo-regulate and are dead by, on average, six old. Please, please, please get more involved in shaping a healthier future for these dogs. They need you. Here are some pictures which prove they are one and the same dog - on the left, stills from the home video, compared with, on the right, stills of Thor from the National Dog Show TV footage. Posted by. The Sigma Pi Theta sister has a mass communications degree in television production, and is a chief compliance officer in the oil and gas industry. So how in the howling hound did she end up in the world of competitive dog showing? Yet along with her bulldog Thor, who licked the competition to defeat more than 2, canines in the November competition. It was a rescue, and I got involved with rescuing, and did that for 10 years with bulldogs. After losing three elderly bulldogs in one year, she was offered a puppy by a friend who was breeding bulldogs. But she was hesitant to take a puppy because puppies can easily find homes. Henceforth Gordon was bit by the dog show bug. He got his Marvel-ous street name because his entire litter was named after superheroes, said Gordon. Thanks to being raised multiculturally, Thor understands four languages — English, Spanish, Portuguese, and of course, dog. Due to being judged by bulldog specialists, those competitions are often tougher than the huge ones like the National Dog Show and the illustrious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in February, which Thor will compete in. Thor—who, according to the Washington Post , is an English bulldog with an "adorable waddle and Winston Churchill looks"—won Best in Show at the nation's second-most prestigious dog pageant, beating out 1, other competitors. While I would like to issue a hearty congratulations to Thor formal name: GCHG Diamond Gold Majesu Pisko Bulls , there's also something a little disturbing about this victory, because Thor, like all bulldogs, is basically a cuddly sack of intentionally created genetic disorders and if there were any justice in this world, he and his kind would not exist. Like many purebred dogs, Thor has been selectively bred for maximum cuteness to humans, but this comes at major cost to Thor himself. Bulldogs are brachycephalic, which means "short-muzzled," and like all brachycephalic dogs, cats, and rabbits yes, they do exist , these dogs have severe respiratory problems—so severe, in fact, that they are more likely to die on airplanes than dogs that haven't been intentionally bred for short, stubby faces. Breathing is so difficult for these dogs, in fact, that the British Veterinary Association BVA started an awareness campaign to alert the public about what these dogs go through. Bulldogs, both French and English, have a bevy of health problems including but not limited to: overheating, allergies, eczema, acne, arthritis, degenerative spine disease, hip dysplasia, joint issues, idiopathic head tremors, heart disease, cherry eye don't google it , and the highest rates of cancer of any other dog breed. Their skin problems are so severe that their owners are advised to clean their skin folds every day. Their hips are so narrow that they are unable to conceive or birth puppies naturally, and, as if that weren't bad enough, digestive problems mean their farts smell like a hot blend of rotten eggs and death. Despite these massive health problems—which cause dogs like Thor major discomfort and leave their owners with major vet bills—these dogs are becoming more and more popular. So why are these man-made freak shows getting more popular? Well, to answer that question, I turned to one of the world's foremost experts in humans' strange relationships with animals, a man I like to call "Dad. In a study examining AKC registration data from to a data set of nearly 54 million , he and his co-authors found that dog breed popularity is often random. With some notable exceptions for instance, the spike in Dalmation popularity after Dalmations came out , most dog breeds become popular for the same reason other trends like baby names get popular: They just do. Dog breed popularity is, in other words, a form of social contagion. Regardless of why some dog breeds get popular and others don't, researchers have found that dog breeds that get popular quickly tend to suffer from more genetic disorders that those that don't. Why might this be? Are people actually seeking out dogs predisposed to suffer? One study , out of Denmark, examined this very question, and the researchers found that the owners of fucked-up dog breeds like bulldogs and Chihuahuas had a greater attachment to those dogs than the owners of less fucked-up dog breeds like Cairn Terriers. His hypothesis is that people are often attracted to animals that look like they need our care. But what comes first, the messed up genetics or the boost in popularity? That we don't really know. It's possible that people are more drawn to dogs with big, bulging, baby-like eyes and smushed snouts, but it's also possible that health effects come after spikes in popularity. The more popular a dog is, the more likely you are to see in-breeding, which, again, results in more genetic deformities. The good news is, there does not seem to be a correlation between winning dog shows and spikes in breed popularity. This goes against conventional wisdom: Of course champion dogs mean more puppies of that breed the next year! But AKC registration data shows it's just not true. Take, for instance, labradors. Labs rarely win Westminster and or the National Dog Show, and yet they've been the most popular pure-bred dog in the U. Interestingly, according to Herzog—the other one—the more slowly a dog climbs in popularity rankings, the more likely it is to remain popular for long stretches of time, and the faster a breed spikes in popularity, the faster it declines in popularity, too. So will we see a rash of baby Thors next year thanks to this one dog's victory in Philly? We may see a rash of farting, snorting, long-suffering bulldog puppies, but Thor won't have as much to do with it as plain old social contagion. And in the meantime, I can only hope Thor's blue ribbon win dulls the pain of existing.