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Best dog bed 1. They were bred as guide dogs The Labradoodle was created by breeder Wally Conron in .A female Labrador Retriever was crossbred with a male poodle and the result was young Sultan, the first-ever Labradoodle. They come in lots of different sizes and colors Labradoodles vary greatly in size as this is dependent on the size of their parent breeds. They can be standard size with pups weighing around 45lb , medium around lb or miniature less than 25lb. Their coats can also be quite different from wavy or curly to wiry or even straight depending on how much poodle is passed down to them. They also come in a variety of colors including chocolate, cream, black, silver and a red apricot mix. They tend to be good dogs for allergy sufferers While there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog , some breeds are less likely to bring on fits of coughs and sneezes. However, because they are a crossbreed and their coat is dependent on their mother and father, this may not be the case with all Labradoodles, so do check with the breeder first. While they may not shed often, they will still need to be brushed regularly. They are water babies Labradoodles love to swim, which is no surprise as both Poodles and Labrador Retrievers are water dogs. Of course, this can depend on the individual dog, but if they are exposed to water early on the breed generally loves to splash around and even dive into the deep end. Just make sure you remember their safety and make it fun for them. Image credit: Getty Images 6. They also offer emotional support because of their loving, loyal nature. The breed is fun and playful with lots of energy but is also happy to cuddle and will be gentle. Labradoodles love people and are very sociable dogs. They may have underlying health issues Wally Conron may have bred the first Labradoodle, but he is said to regret this decision as the crossbreed may have some underlying health issues inherited from their parent breeds. These may include hip and elbow dysplasia, ear and skin problems, epilepsy and allergies. This is often due to unethical breeding, so make sure you do your research and check its breeding before you bring a Labradoodle home. However, be aware that these dogs need at least minutes of exercise a day. They need plenty of space and lots of walks, plus playtime with some of the best dog toys. Labradoodles are not a recognized breed While they may be super popular, Labradoodles are not recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club. However, the International Australian Labradoodle Association, the Australian Labradoodle Association and the Australian Labradoodle Association of America are working to put together a breed standard and bring together Labradoodle breeders. Plus, the Oxford English Dictionary includes the word Labradoodle and the breed is also featured in the Australian edition of the classic board game Monopoly. A friend for life Labradoodles have a lifespan of about years as both their parent breeds have long lifespans. Zara Gaspar Social Links Navigation Zara is Editor on bookazines and covers a range of topics from cookery to travel and animals. Former editor of World of Animals magazine, she has over 8 years of experience in publishing inspiring children and adults about the wonders of the animal kingdom as well as teaching them about their pets. She also has over 5 years experience working with vets, wildlife experts and animal behaviourists in her comms roles for various animal charities. A keen animal lover, Zara can often be found researching her next wildlife destination to travel to. Having just moved into a bigger house she is currently looking at which dog and cats breed would suit her new family so she can fill her house with pets. More about dogs. Playing with other dogs Swimming These dogs cans do great in apartments, particularly the smaller Labradoodles mini Labradoodles. They do still need that daily exercise so lace up the shoes, throw the tennis ball, or take them to a dog park. You can even get super tiny Labradoodles. The Mini Labradoodle is that miniatures stand as little as 13 inches high at the shoulder which is around 30 centimetres tall and weight about 15 pounds which is 7 kilograms. You can find out more about Labradoodle sizing in our article comparing Labradoodles and Goldendoodles. They inherit these traits from both the Poodle and Labrador parent breeds. They are also low to no shedding. This can mean no hair dropped at all for Labradoodles. These traits make them excellent guide dogs and service dogs. In fact that is one of the original reasons the guy named Wally bred the Labradoodle! Labradoodles have a moustache that makes them look like a teddy bear. This facial hair has a special name furnishings You can actually get Labradoodle that do NOT have furnishings or moustaches, but they tend to just look like a Labrador or a Poodle. Such a coat is highly correlated with shedding. Labradoodle Not all Labradoodles have the facial furnishings moustache. Improper coat Labradooodles often resemble Labradors. They might be cautious at first but Labradoodles learn to love the water. It is in their genetics! Labradors historically were used to hunt water birds, and Poodles were used to retrieve ducks and waterfowl. They take to water readily. Labradors love lakes, Poodles prefer pools! It is wonderful to know that Labradoodles can live a long time because of the smaller size introduced by the Poodle breed. Author note: I met a sixteen year old Labradoodle at the dog park two days before I wrote this article! She was a miniature and still somewhat active. And of course, friendly and cute. Labradoodles are generally healthy dogs if given good nutrition. There are not many diseases to worry about. The larger Labradoodles do have a shorter lifespan than the smaller ones. Labradoodle Conclusions Once you know these ten facts you can see what an amazing cross breed the Labradoodle can be. Low shedding dogs like the Labradoodle are in hot demand, and their excellent temperament helps. The Mini Labradoodle is that all of these great traits can safely be packaged into such a tiny dog! Our miniature Labradoodle Max has all of these awesome traits. 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 Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their 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 Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. 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 they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their 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. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. 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. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. 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. It's time to talk about Labradoodles. This combination Labrador retriever and poodle is an excellent family dog who's often sought out by allergy sufferers because of their minimal shedding. The ever-popular Labradoodle is immensely trainable and, unlike some dogs, a good fit for first-time dog owners. On the larger side, these pups can take up some space-but are great with kids and will adapt to their family's lifestyle. The standard version, which is a Lab bred with a standard-sized poodle, can grow to be about 24 inches tall and weigh up to 75 pounds. If you're searching for a dog on the smaller size, it's possible to also find mini Labradoodles, a hybrid of a Labrador retriever and a miniature poodle. The loving, loyal doodles are a fun addition to any family. They're prone to zoomies and more than happy to play with the baby. Labradoodles are healthy dogs and need exercise, though the amount of running, playing, or swimming might depend on their makeup of Labrador and poodle genes. But regardless of the genetic breakdown, you'll need to get used to trips to the groomer. These pups are hairy. A quick note: Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodles aren't the same. Australian Labradoodles are crosses between a poodle, Labrador retriever, and cocker spaniel. Appearance Like many Labradoodle characteristics, your dog's appearance will depend on the generation you're looking for. To illustrate: Martinez breeds F1 half Labrador, half poodle , F1b 75 percent poodle, 25 percent Lab , and F2 87 percent poodle, 13 percent Lab Labradoodles. The half-Lab F1s will have longer, wavier hair and will still shed, Martinez says. The F1bs and F2s will have more poodle-esque hair that's tighter, curlier, and generally won't shed. They'll often look like little teddy bears as puppies. Labradoodles are often thought of as hypoallergenic -even though no dog is truly an allergen-free animal-but generally the F1b and F2 generations are considered better options for some allergy sufferers. Martinez recommends people with allergies spend time with their puppy before they adopt. His customers are required to. They'll come in around inches tall, Martinez says. As for colors, Labradoodles run the gamut. You'll find them in black, white, cream, red, chocolate, or a mix of those colors. Taking after their poodle brethren, these fluffy boys and girls need to be brushed frequently , too. Temperament Martinez loves the dogs he breeds-he owns 10 himself-and was especially effusive about how Labradoodles act around people, families , and children , even kids who might not know exactly how to pet or interact with dogs "They love people," he says. But not only can these pups live with cats -Martinez says several of his puppies have gone on to become therapy dogs , meaning they're calm and affectionate enough to visit schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers to offer psychological and physiological support to patients and people in need. Some Labradoodles go on to become service dogs , as the breed creator originally intended. But don't confuse them for docile dogs. They still have big personalities-Martinez describes a typical day with his dogs as "entertaining"-but mischievous behavior can be counteracted with training , which Labradoodles quickly pick up on. Genesis Service Dogs , which breeds Labradoodles to help children and adults with special needs, says the dogs will mature slower than their Labrador retriever brethren, so they'll be puppyish for about a year and a half. Then they'll become even more affectionate toward their humans. They're mostly quiet, keeping barking to a minimum, but Labradoodles' energy level can vary based on their generation, Martinez says. The dogs with more Labrador genes F1s will be more energetic than the ones with more poodle in their blood. Labradoodles will often reflect the energy levels of their owner, Martinez says, but they're still descendants of sporting dogs who like having something to do. Whether that means long walks together or playing games in the yard, a Labradoodle will be happiest with any activity he can do with you. Living Needs Labradoodles are flexible when it comes to where they live. While the standard Labradoodles are bigger, they can still reside in an apartment, though generally Martinez admits smaller dogs, potentially miniature Labradoodles, are better suited for living in smaller homes. If you do live in an apartment or smaller home where yard space is limited, make sure you can regularly fit in enough exercise and play for your active pup to blow off some steam, like a visit to the local dog park every so often. Labradoodles certainly won't turn down a house with a big, fenced-in yard , though. Martinez lets his group of pups spend plenty of time outside, where they'll be just as likely to lay down for a spell than run around on the doggie playground equipment. They do need exercise, though. If Martinez sends a puppy home with someone who works all day, he advises them to invest in a dog walker so their doodle is able to stretch his legs during the hours he's left alone. But if you have the time and like to explore, a Labradoodle could be the perfect hiking partner. And since poodles are considered water dogs, some Labradoodles like to swim , too. This breed is good for all ages, Martinez says, but Labradoodle owners will still need to put the work in with positive reinforcement training and to meet their activity needs. He subscribes to the oft-used mantra: There aren't any bad dogs, just bad owners. Care It's important to start training your Labradoodle puppy as soon as you bring him home. Labradoodles are considered smart dogs and will pick up what you're teaching very quickly. Martinez says they may even understand some commands within the first day. Labradoodles are smart enough that daily training doesn't take too long. Martinez recommends three or four sessions of 10 minutes each day to accommodate the dogs' short attention spans, which is like that of "a young child," he says. They're so easy to train and quick to learn that even first-time dog owners can fare well, Martinez says. But if you don't have the time or know-how to train, obedience school is the answer. Once he's learned to recognize the basics, your doodle will start making those classic head tilts when you mention their favorite words walk, car, treat. According to Martinez, early socialization -both with other dogs and people-is important for Labradoodle puppies. Martinez says he lets the puppies he breeds spend their early days with his adult dogs to get them used to other dogs at a young age. If your vet says it's safe, you may want to have your new Labradoodle puppy meet other humans and dogs in their first few weeks in their new home. When it comes to exercise, three to four walks a day will suffice which is why you might need a dog walker. Otherwise, swimming, hiking, or some playtime in the yard or at the park will help your dog immensely. Labradoodles do enjoy their activity, but Martinez says they'll spend just as much time lounging around to relax. Grooming is another integral part of caring for your Labradoodle, but it's probably best to outsource it. These fluffy boys and girls need regular trims. Martinez sends his dogs to the goomer for a haircut every six weeks, regardless of whether they're F1s, F1bs, or F2s. Regular brushing is a good idea, too, because you don't want your Labradoodle's hair to get matted or uncomfortable. You'll also want to keep those ears dry and clean , and don't forget to keep up with the nail trimming and tooth brushing , either. Health Here's another reason Labradoodles are good for first-time dog owners: They're a relatively healthy breed over their years of life. But being the ideal combination of Labs and poodles also means Labradoodles can be susceptible to the health problems of both their parent breeds. Labs, for instance, will commonly suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia , so the risk is there for Labradoodles as well. Doodles can also run into problems with myopathies, diseases that damage muscles , and exercise-induced collapse. For anyone looking to adopt a Labradoodle, Martinez couldn't emphasize enough: Make sure your breeder conducts DNA tests on your puppy's parents to find any genetic abnormalities. The same goes for having their hips and elbows tested and certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. If the breeder you're considering doesn't do that testing or says it isn't needed, find someone else. Martinez notes that Labrador retrievers are happy to eat just about anything and everything. While your Labradoodle will likely be a bit pickier, be sure to keep any weight gain in check since they may have a tendency to overeat if they're allowed to. History Australian Wally Conron is credited as the modern-day creator of the Labradoodle, breeding the first one in the late s. He was trying to create a guide dog that would also be hypoallergenic, by breeding a Labrador retriever and a standard poodle. Clearly, his efforts were successful. The breed exploded in popularity, and since it is the combination of the U. People seek out the Labradoodle for its trifecta of cute looks, friendly demeanor, and minimal shedding. While the Labradoodle is the seemingly ideal dog for people with allergies, Conron has said he regrets his creation. Because of the intense demand for these "designer dogs," Conron has expressed concern over the bad actors who breed Labradoodles in puppy mills-and the inexperienced and sometimes misinformed breeders who fail to prevent genetic problems from being passed on to new generations. Labradoodles have belonged to several famous owners, including golfer Tiger Woods, actress Jennifer Aniston, and actor Henry Winkler. Doodles certainly earn their keep on Instagram, so if you need some extra fluff in your life, the Dood Squad is a good place to start. Was this page helpful? Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. These dogs have remained a favorite amongst dog lovers because of their loving and loyal personalities and intelligence. Here are some of our favorite interesting facts about Labradoodles. The 10 Amazing Labradoodle Facts 1. Labradoodles Appeared in the s While crossbreeding dogs has been around for centuries, the creation of the Labradoodle is most often attributed to Wally Conron. Wally had tried training several Poodles, but none of them were successful candidates. He eventually developed the Labradoodle in , which was much calmer than the Poodles, and successfully became a seeing-eye dog. Image Credit: Dayton, Pixabay 2. Loose dog hair often carries dead skin, which is what triggers allergies. The level of shedding from Labradoodles also depends on the type of coat that they inherit. Poodles are among the smartest dog breeds, 2 and Labrador Retrievers are often loved because of their intuition and ability to connect with people easily. This combination makes them relatively easy to train, and they make wonderful pets for first-time dog owners with little experience with dogs. Image Credit: Lopolo, Shutterstock 4. After all, they were first intentionally bred to be seeing-eye dogs. Along with their intelligence and eagerness to please, Labradoodles are also excellent service dog candidates because of their low-shedding coats. This makes them less likely to trigger allergies and more compatible with homes that have individuals with dog allergies. Labradoodles also have an unintimidating appearance, which can be extremely helpful for making people feel comfortable and at ease in their presence. Labradoodles can also be bred with each other, and this is one way that helps breeders maintain a consistent size throughout all their litters of puppies. Because of the varying ways that Labradoodles can be bred, their sizes can range from small-medium dogs to large dogs. Despite this, you can find several different Labradoodle associations and clubs that help preserve and protect the health of the breed. This is because both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles were originally bred as retrieving dogs. However, many people are surprised to find out that Poodles were intended to be dogs that could swim easily. Their coats are designed to keep them warm as they swim. In fact, the fancy Poodle cut was actually intended to prevent Poodles from retaining too much water in their coats and to help them swim quickly without losing body heat. Image Credit: Aaron Rogosin, Shutterstock 8. This is why Labradoodles often become successful service dogs. Their intelligence enables them to learn tasks quickly, and they love mental challenges and receiving praise and affirmation from people. Pet Labradoodles may not have official jobs, but you can certainly give them jobs around the house. For example, you can teach them to fetch or carry items. It will love feeling helpful and being able to accompany you as you go about your day. They Require a Lot of Grooming Labradoodles tend to require more attention to grooming than many other dog breeds. However, if you want your Labradoodle to have the signature floppy look with curly locks of hair, you have to make sure to brush their coat daily to prevent tangles and mats. Matted hair can be dangerous for any dog because it can end up tugging at the skin, which causes irritation and increased itching. More severe cases can lead to skin lesions, infections, and flea and tick infestations. Image Credit: Shutterstock, Dikushin Dmitry .People more interested in making a profit rather than caring for their well-being engaged in unethical breeding practices to sell as many Labradoodle puppies as possible. Despite not being an officially recognized dog breed, Labradoodles are truly the gift that keeps on giving, and anyone is lucky to have one in their life. Related read:. Nutrition and Feeding Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. Labradoodles like most large breed dogs can be prone to bloating and stomach problems, but smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk. The Labradoodle diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the dog feeding guidelines of his particular food. Grooming Labradoodles It is difficult to predict what kind of coat the Labradoodle is going to have, as they may inherit a coat like a Labrador or they may inherit the Poodle coat or any mixtures of the two. This means they may not shed or shed minimally the Poodle coat but in that case will require regular trimming. Or else they may shed the Labrador coat and may or may not have an unruly coat that is prone to matting. They can be anything from low maintenance to high maintenance so be prepared for either! Dog ear care is extremely important as Poodles can have problems with excessive hair inside the ears, which can cause infections or sore ears. Training Labradoodles Dog training is important for this very active, smart and busy dog. They are a joy to train as both breeds are intelligent and love working with their owner — but they will learn bad habits as quickly as good ones, so reward-based training should start early and be ongoing. This is a great breed for dog sports such as agility or even pet gundog work, and they will love having an active job to do. It is important to train a Labradoodle to enjoy handling and grooming as they will need a lot of it and to happily give up any prizes they may rather hold onto — always using positive, reward-based methods. Are Labradoodles Good Family Dogs? The Labradoodle is close to being the perfect family dog. If the Labradoodle is sourced from a reliable breeder, and well-trained from puppyhood, they will make fabulous family dogs , be a total joy to own and will get on with everyone. An untrained or bored Labradoodle can however easily become unruly and overly boisterous. Their warm personality is often a match for people with autism or physical disabilities. The Labradoodle lifespan can reach 14 years as both their parent breeds have long lifespans. FAQs Do Labradoodles shed a lot? Depending on the type of coat Labradoodles inherit, shedding can be either minimal or non-existing. Do Labradoodles bark a lot? Do Labradoodles like to cuddle? Labradoodles are very loving and adore to cuddle when they feel tired and need attention. Is a male or female Labradoodle better? However, female Labradoodles can be more responsive to training while males are said to be more affectionate than females. Similar Breeds.

Below are details and specs for the American Bull Dane breed. American Bull Dane Breed Description These dogs are extra-large, often standing over 24 inches at the shoulder and up to 33 inches! With the sheer size of a Great Dane and some of the American Bulldog musculature, it is not uncommon for them to easily weigh over pounds and they are often quite a bit heavier than this. Females are noticeably smaller than males. American Bull Danes make ideal family companions and protectors. They are loyal, affectionate and playful meaning they not only make great playmates for kids but also fearless family protectors. Unfortunately, due to their massive size, they shouldn't be left unsupervised with small children, as they may pose an accidental knocking-over hazard. They should be trained and socialized early in order to live harmoniously with other pets. Although both parent breeds like some toy time and a romp in the yard, neither is overly active and a moderate daily walk and some playtime should suffice. Grooming will also be straightforward, weekly brushing of the short coat will help reduce shed and, although cumbersome, getting them in the bath every month or so will also be beneficial. Check the teeth and ears at least weekly for cleaning and trim the nails as necessary. Training should be done early and consistently, as this is a large dog to go unchecked; the parent breeds are not known for being easily trained. American Bull Danes originated in the United States over the last few decades and are able to be registered with the International Designer Canine Registry. Coat color is varied with the most popular being white and black. Members of this breed are prone to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, as well as other bone disorders including Osteosarcoma. Cardiomyopathy, thyroid disease and eye disease are also common ailments for the parent breeds. American Bull Danes, themselves, are known to live between years. This is a cross between the relentlessly loyal, often silly American Bulldog and the gentle Great Dane. For experienced, confident dog parents, this breed is sure to only keep growing loyal fans. Despite their large size, the Great Dane is a gentle, affectionate companion. However, their playfulness and love for their families shines through in their personalities. If you plan to adopt one of these breed mixes, be ready for lots and lots of cuddles. Still, there are millions of dogs waiting for homes in shelters. When looking for a specific breed, make an effort to adopt from a shelter or rescue. Read on for a detailed list of characteristics of the American Bull Dane. Contrary to popular belief, the suitability of dogs who adapt well to apartment living goes beyond its size. Apartment dwellers have a myriad of dog breeds to choose from as potential companions, with various factors to consider. Some large breeds can adapt well to apartment living and have lower activity levels. Others may require more space and possess higher energy levels. On the other hand, certain small dog breeds with abundant energy can still find contentment with indoor playtime or brisk walks. However, when selecting a dog that adapts well apartments, it is essential to prioritize your neighbors. This makes them less suitable for apartment living. Therefore, desirable qualities in an apartment dog encompass being quiet, low-energy, and displaying polite behavior towards other residents. Apartment dwellers have a wealth of dog breeds to choose from as potential furry companions. While some larger breeds can adapt well to apartment living, with lower, others may require more space and have higher energy levels, making them less suitable for smaller apartments. Conversely, certain small dog breeds with higher energy levels can still thrive in apartments, finding contentment through indoor playtime or brisk walks. By considering these factors, you can find a dog that will adapt well to apartment living and create a harmonious living environment for everyone involved. Lifespan Sociability American Bull Danes may seem too massive for anything but a mansion, but these laidback dogs make surprisingly good apartment dwellers. However, when they get rambunctious, they can knock over every bit of furniture in your house, so make sure anything breakable is put away. Also, their barks are loud enough to wake the dead, which may not go over so well with the downstairs neighbors. These dogs are klutzes, which is adorable — until they take out your entire bedroom set. They have a knack for finding the most uncomfortable place to put their paws and elbows. Some are as massive as Great Danes, while others are stockier, like American Bulldogs. Left to their own devices, all they want to do is curl up next to you and soak up affection, as well as play tug-of-war now and then. However, if anyone messes with their family, they will make that person immediately regret their decision. Along with the intelligence boost, the American Bulldog genes can make them extremely stubborn too. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Also, if you have small children at home, you should teach them how to behave around dogs in order to minimize the risk of a negative incident. This can lead to little kids getting trampled during playtime, stomped on while crawling on the floor, or just whapped in the face with a stiff tail. However, if your primary concern is keeping your family safe from outside threats, the American Bull Dane is the best home security system you can buy. All it takes is a single bark from one of these dogs to make even the most hardened criminal change their mind. If not, they may exhibit unfortunate aggression issues. The cat will need to be on alert to avoid being sat on or trampled. Novice owners can struggle when trying to control them, and many people underestimate how stubborn these pooches can be. These dogs are extremely food-motivated, so using treats during training will often be successful. However, be careful not to take that too far, as any extra weight will put a ton of strain on their already-beleaguered joints. Still, you will need to provide them with exercise. Mental stimulation is also important. Since these dogs are talented trackers, you can hide a few treats around the house and have them sniff them out. Be careful pushing your American Bull Dane too hard. Just be careful about letting them get fat; you may have to ramp up their activity levels if you notice them start to get pudgy. Issues like pulling on the leash and jumping need to be curbed at a young age, or else you could find yourself getting dragged through the park by an unstoppable tank of a dog. However, training can be problematic with these dogs. They tend to be incredibly food-motivated, so it may just take a treat or two to get them to do what you want. Their hair is so short that it can be hard to brush, and you may be better off smoothing over their coat with a rubber mitt than trying to attack them with a slicker brush. Their ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infection, about once a week. If your dog has a wrinkly face, wipe the wrinkles clean with a damp cloth once a week to prevent bacteria from building up. Here are a few issues these dogs often struggle with: Minor Conditions. Is it more like the Bulldog or the Great Dane? With the Great Dane being in the mix, this is obviously going to make for a potentially larger dog. Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Bulldog Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue , we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Great Dane Bulldog Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Great Dane Bulldog Mix puppies for sale. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. Please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Bulldog History: The original intent of the bulldog was that they were bred to help butchers control livestock. It is a very old breed and by the 15th century, in addition to catching and herding horses, cattle, and boars in legitimate farming use. If you can believe it, this lasted for a few centuries until this activity was banned in .Being that this is such a violent activity, they were bred for aggression. After this ban, the more aggressive tendencies were not necessary and one might wonder why they would even stay a breed. Well, they are very faithful and loyal companions and are the official mascot for nearly 50 schools and five times as many secondary schools. They are also the unofficial mascot for the U. Marine Corps. For many subsequent centuries these large boarhounds continue to appear throughout ancient Greece. The Molossian hound, Suliot dog, and specific imports from Greece were used in the 18th century to increase the stature of the boarhounds in Austria and Germany and the wolfhounds in Ireland. Bigger dogs are depicted on numerous runestones in Scandinavia, on coinage in Denmark from the fifth century AD, and in the collection of Old Norse poems. Obviously very large dogs were a part of our history even thousands of years ago. The purpose of these extremely large dogs were to hunt bear, boar, and deer. The favorite dogs got to stay the night at the bedchambers of their lords. These so called chamber dogs were there to protect the princes while they slept from assassins.

Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. This range, however, is comparable to that of other large dog breeds. The ongoing expenses associated with having a Boxer puppy primarily comprise food and other necessities. However, you must also consider check-ups and pet insurance. Regular check-ups should be provided to your Boxer dog at least every two months so they remain healthy and they meet their maximum lifespan. Additionally, you should invest in pet insurance to help with the financial strain of high-priced vet expenses. Pet insurance coverage includes emergency procedures such as total hip replacement, injuries, and various illnesses. These additional costs may include pet daycare, grooming, kennel club certifications, and other necessities. Pet Sitter Fee: Pet sitters are an alternative to pet daycare. Leaving your dog with a friend, neighbor, or a professional pet sitter is an excellent option, particularly for well-behaved, socialized canines. You can hire a professional groomer instead. Emergency Medical Procedure: Serious health issues such as kidney, liver disease, or cancer can strike certain dogs without warning, and the Boxer is not exempt. If your dog has already reached the end of its prime years, expect to pay for emergency medical treatments. Apart from emergency medical treatment for certain health conditions, the expenses mentioned above are entirely optional. This implies that as you progress, you can identify strategies to avoid these expenses entirely and make additional savings. All of these sites are trustworthy, so you can rest assured that you will not come across a backyard breeder. They have been conducting research and working with healthy Boxer puppies since .They began breeding Boxer puppies in and have continued to expand, following the breed standard. This breeder maintains a close group of experts who serve as consultants of the kennel. Cimarron Boxers — Cimarron Boxers have been breeding European Boxer puppies for over two decades now. They vet their dogs and provide a 5-year health guarantee. Aside from the ones mentioned above, you can also check out our list of top Boxer breeders for more options. Meanwhile, if you advocate for rehoming, the following Boxer shelters and rescue organizations may have adult Boxer dogs available for adoption: Boxer Lovers Rescue BLR — Boxer Lovers Rescue BLR is a non-profit organization managed entirely by volunteers that assists Boxers in the Northwest states. Their principal objective is to decrease the number of homeless Boxer dogs and increase public awareness of the breed. In collaboration with volunteers and local veterinarians, this rescue provides medical care and temporary housing for the Boxers they handle. HBR was founded out of genuine love for the Boxer breed and a passion for helping reduce their suffering caused by neglect, abuse, or abandonment. You can also read our list of top Boxer rescues for more options. It includes some reputable Boxer dog rescues in the United States and some other helpful sources. Moreover, you can connect with other Boxer owners via social media groups. Surely, someone will gladly assist you in your search for this pooch. Furthermore, you might also want to read this article on how to ace your adoption application. This will undoubtedly guide you in bringing your chosen Boxer dog! Money-Saving Tips for Boxer Owners While we adore our canine companions, caring for them may become costly, particularly if they become ill. Unexpected expenses for your Boxer dog are inevitable, so you should really find ways to save money. Here are some money-saving tips you can use as a Boxer owner: Make food and treats for your dog. If your Boxer dog is a fussy eater, you will be obliged to purchase expensive wet canned food. Making homemade food and treats for your dog is one method to cut down on this expenditure. Invest in high-quality essentials. Investing in high-quality dog accessories such as a food and water bowl is an excellent way to save money. Groom your dog at home. Boxer puppies require little grooming at home. Investing the time and effort necessary to learn how to groom this puppy yourself will eventually pay off. Stick with durable dog toys. Choosing durable dog toys for playdates is essential. Consider products noted for their durability, so it would take a few months before you need to buy new ones. Visit the vet regularly. Investing a few hundred dollars in veterinary care is preferable to spending thousands on emergency medical procedures later. Routine check-ups will ensure that your pup remains healthy and fit. You can cut back on money while still providing adequate care to your Boxer. Final Thoughts The Boxer puppy cost is relatively reasonable. Except for the high maintenance requirements and grooming costs, the monthly expenses associated with having this dog are manageable. If you have assessed that you have enough savings to tend to this dog, then go contact the breeders and rescues I listed above to ask for the price of their available litter. Got leads on where to find Boxers with affordable prices or tips on how to cut down the expenses of Boxer ownership? Feel free to share them in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. During its first year, a Boxer puppy will consume about pounds of food. They only need to be taken to the groomer about six times annually. This includes bathing, hair removal if applicable, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. To save money, consider buying an at-home dog-grooming kit. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. Your dog can urinate on a rug or eat your favorite pair of shoes. Ensure he always has plenty of fun toys to keep his mind occupied. But it is possible to own a Boxer on a budget while still providing it with exceptional care. You can skip the costs of bi-monthly grooming sessions by purchasing an at-home dog-grooming kit. Make DIY dog toys from old clothing. However, this is just an estimate. You can own a Boxer without breaking your budget. Be prepared for unexpected emergencies by opening up emergency savings account for your dog and getting pet insurance. Boxers make loving, loyal pets that deserve the best care money can buy. With some planning and preparation, you can comfortably bring a Boxer into your home. 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. The contractual agreement between you and the breeder Agreement made to not breed the dog in the future Agreement made to not enter it into competitions No restrictions on the Boxer puppy Read on to see why these factors affect the price of Boxer puppies. Reputation Of The Breeder Breeders spend a lot of time and money to build up their reputation as trustworthy Boxer breeders. The more renowned a breeder is, the more they are able to charge for their dogs. However, some puppy mills and backyard breeders will shoot up their prices to appear to be reputable breeders. Therefore, you should go through a trusted association to find a reputable breeder. Do not be fooled by good advertising. The individual Boxer puppy you want to purchase must have its own papers that document its registration with the American Kennel Club. These papers cost money and will increase the price of your Boxer puppy slightly. This is important because pedigree changes the price of the Boxer puppy; I will discuss this next! Pedigree is important when it comes to determining what your Boxer puppy will look like, its temperament, and the chance of it developing genetic issues in the future as it grows up. Determining who the dam and sire of your Boxer puppy are is important in determining price. If your Boxer puppy has a champion sire or dam, then the price of the puppy will increase significantly. Champion heritage drives the price of the Boxer puppy up because the buyer is almost guaranteed to get a perfect specimen of what a Boxer should be and has a better chance at winning competitions with their Boxer puppy when it grows up. The breed, unfortunately, suffers from hip dysplasia, cardiovascular myopathy, severe arthritis, degenerative myelopathy, several cancers, and aortic valve disease. The American Kennel Club recommends that all of these tests, including thyroid screening, elbow evaluations, and certain DNA tests are all done to produce a long-term prognosis so effective preventative care can be carried out from day one. If a Boxer puppy has any health concerns, then their price will decrease, and they will often be sold for a couple of hundred dollars or so depending on the specific health issues they have. As medium-sized dogs, Boxers can leave their mothers safely at eight weeks. Many people who want to compete with their boxers will wait until the Boxer puppy is six to eight months old before purchasing them. During this time, the breeder will invest in behavioral training. When the Boxer puppy is six to eight months old, the breeder will also be able to give you a better idea of their temperament and their adult markings and ultimate size. As a result, these puppies will be much more expensive than the younger ones. Boxers will stand at 23 to 25 inches tall if they are male and .They have tall, regal-looking shoulders that slope down gently to a smaller set of hips. Their heads are quite square and are characterized by their wrinkles that make them appear confused but curious! Boxers that meet the breed standard are a fawn or brindle color with white markings on their chests, bellies, inner legs, and faces. However, the white markings may not be more than a third of their entire body. If your Boxer puppy meets the breed standard, then their price will increase because they can be used for competitions. However, if they do not meet the breed standard, then their price will be decreased, as this is seen as undesirable from a competition standpoint. The first agreement will prevent you from further breeding your Boxer puppy. The second agreement will prevent you from entering your Boxer puppy into any competitions. Both contacts will decrease the price of your Boxer puppy, as they place restrictions on what you can and cannot do with your puppy as it grows up. There are many other costs associated with owning a Boxer! One-Time Bring Home Costs There are a number of things you will need to purchase before you even pick up your Boxer puppy to make them feel more comfortable and happy in their new home! Fortunately, a lot of these items only need to be purchased once or twice, like food bowls and crates, for example. Here is a list of some of the vital things you need:.

Heat and Cold Intolerance Due to their brachycephalic nature, Frenchies often struggle to regulate their body temperature. For example, it will take a Frenchie much longer to cool down after running around when compared to other non-brachycephalic not flat-faced breeds. Keeping your Frenchie cool You can accommodate for them by having plenty of water, a not-too-hot area, and knowing when enough is enough. Lots of Shedding It surprises me how much my Frenchie sheds especially as she has such a short coat! I have to constantly de-shed her coat using a tool like the Furminator unless I want to walk around covered in dog hair. If you suffer from dog allergies , a French Bulldog might not be for you. Frenchies are not a hypoallergenic breed. Pulling on the leash Frenchies are notorious for pulling on their leashes. Your living room should be enough for them! Are Frenchies good around children? Yes, Frenchies are a great breed for children! Are French Bulldogs smart? Are French Bulldogs Strong? Relative to their size, Frenchies are pretty strong dogs. They have powerful jaws and a muscular body that makes them rip through toys like nothing. Note: compared to larger powerful dogs like the Rottweiler, Pitbull, or Mastiff, Frenchies would not be considered strong. Are French Bulldogs good pets? Are French Bulldogs loyal? Are French Bulldogs friendly? Yes, Frenchies are one of the most friendly dog breeds you could find. Are Frenchies hard to take care of? Why do people like French Bulldogs? Are French Bulldogs cuddly? They love snuggling up right next to you and leaving you barely any room for yourself. Posted on. Youtube French Bulldog Puppies Youtube French Bulldog PuppiesWith this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. For information on any of our teacup puppies, toy breed puppies, or French Bulldog puppies for sale, please call the boutique at .Try not to fall in love Challenge! Funny puppy videos! The mix of the cutest, funniest and best French Bull. Trust Euro Puppy to do all the work and bring you the very best puppy. Join us as we follow the heartwarming journey of these cute French Bulldog puppies, from their very first breaths to their curious 1-month milestones! Watch as they grow, learn, and play. You can expect your French Pitbull to be loyal, friendly, and loving-natured dogs. Finally, she gave birth to five adorable puppies. The male and female dog weight is lbs. However, they can actually be quite a bit more expensive if you are looking for an exotic color or a show dog with specific characteristics. Stargate French Bulldogs : French Bulldog puppies for sale. Frenchies look active and intelligent with a smooth coat and medium or small body structure. But why? They are well adjusted to people, handling and especially car rides. Female Akc registered french bulldog puppies. Frenchies stop getting taller between. These funny bulldog videos will make your day! Bulldog is one of my favorite dog breeds to watch, mainly because they are so funny looking, and incredibly playful too. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Fluffy Carrier French Bulldog Puppies. The average cost of a French Bulldog in the U. It will be very painful and will occasionally require surgical treatment to rectify. In general, the French Bulldog resembles a Bulldog in miniature as they have a stocky and muscular appearance. Click below to see more adorable puppies! The French Bulldog resembles a Bulldog in miniature, except for the large, erect 'bat ears' that are the breed's trademark feature. We are a family unit and our French Bulldogs are raised indoors in a loving environment with four children. Our rare specialties are blue, lilac, lilac fawn, and merle. French Bulldogs are quirky and playful, and rarely bark. We look forward to speaking with you. French Bulldog Puppies Near Me. Colors common to the breed include fawn, white and varieties of brindle. We start you off with a healthy pup, The breeder believes that when properly bred, the French Bulldog can be an ideal companion and house pet because of their charming personalities and mellow temperaments. French Bulldog Puppies 5 Weeks Old. It loves companionship and bonds with animals and families. They'll also be able to check for any possible issues with the pregnancy and give you advice for birthing the puppies. We're very excited to see they're healthy. Frenchie puppies make amazing non-barking watchdogs. We have specialized in champion sired puppies since with our original male Gabrielle. Y way to play slip and slide on the hammock in the rain. Funny and Cute French Bulldog Puppies. The vet will be able to do an ultrasound or radiograph to see how many puppies your dog is going to have. Now we are proud to have 3 champion males and females who are championed sired. Michelles Fabulous Frenchies. French bulldog puppies Yager 3. French Bulldogs have erect "bat ears" and a charming, playful disposition. With careful introductions and with the right socialisation, French Bulldogs can get along with other dogs and even cats. The smushy-faced Frenchie is beloved worldwide as small, non-sporting city dog. Starting to get used to eating and drinking on their own. Stargate French Bulldogs has French Bulldog puppies of pet and show quality for sale. Their lifespan is about 11 to 13 years. These dogs are descendents of English Bulldogs, who were, unfortunately, used for violent "sports" such as bull-baiting. Stage 3: The Overlap Stage Weeks From weeks, your French bulldog puppy begins the most critical social development period of his life. Their puppies are as healthy as they are beautiful. Find us also on Instagram and YouTube at Houseoffrenchies and. French Bulldogs with blue eyes differ from their brown-eyed counterparts in their eye color. 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. French Bulldog Puppies for Sale. The head is large and square, with heavy wrinkles rolled above. Our pups are used to seeing a lot of people which ensures they are incredibly well-socialized. However, many owners, local shelters, and rescues are looking for potential adopters to rehome their French Bulldogs. They don't bark much but are alert enough to make an excellent watchdog. We sell Morkie Puppies in Ge. A little french puppy tries to reclaim bed from a cool-looking cat. Video shows stacks of puppy crates At the airport in Kyiv, witnesses at the loading area became suspicious last Saturday and recorded video of what appears to be men loading stacks of animal crates. As a family-owned kennel, they made it a mission to breed. We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. Mama Bleuet and her five babies. French Bulldog Puppies for Sale French Bulldogs have erect "bat ears" and a charming, playful disposition. All their French Bulldogs are AKC registered, and the puppies are crate trained, potty trained, and socialized with other dogs and humans. The signs of French Bulldog cherry eye include: Pawing and scratching at the affected eye area. Their paperwork is on our website. Welcome to my channel for a new family member, the French Bulldog Yager. Akc registered french bulldog puppies. French Bulldog Breeders in Illinois! These French bulldogs not only stand out from the crowd, but also come with a ton of additional features. Whatever the case, he's clearly having a better day than us. They also sleep when they are bored too. Ready for your forever French Bulldog puppy? We guide you through the process of finding the perfect French Bulldog puppy for you, how to prep for the arrival, and what to do when your puppy arrives. French Bulldog Dog Breed Profile. Looking for Morkie Puppies or other special breeds? Sugar Sweet Georgia Puppies is the right place with a variety of dog breeds. Full-grown French Bulldogs range from 11 to 13 inches in height. Not only do we love the standard colors coming in fawn, brindle, pied, and cream but we love the rare colors as well. Best French Bulldog Breeders in Florida! The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. Frenchies stop getting taller between 9 and 12 months but can continue to gain weight until they are full grown at around 12 to 14 months. French Bulldog Rescues in New York! The French Bulldog puppies are now five weeks old. French Bulldogs are a bright, affectionate and charming breed. They always travel with us between our two residences in Long Island, New York and Florida they are snowbirds too. Frenchies generally live for years on average. French Bulldog: Temperament, Lifespan, Grooming, …. Was born June 18, will be ready at 8 weeks old on August 13, Present in each puppy are the genes of blue merle, blue pied, fawn merle, fawn pied and chocolate merle. They love human company so your schedule should allow for lots of time spent at home to prevent separation anxiety, which French Bulldogs can be prone to. For more than 2 decades we have been the choice of over 12, happy families. They love goats milk its the closest thing to th. Take your female dog to the vet for prenatal care before the birth. Females weigh between 16 and 24 pounds while the males are slightly bigger at up to 24 pounds. Personality: The French bulldog is an even-tempered house dog that thrives on attention. The French bulldog is not simply a miniature bulldog. This compilation of bulldog videos is both sweet and hilarious! In any case, it contributes to a happier day. We start you off with a healthy pup, complete with a birth certificate, health records, and. Excessive squinting and blinking. And we make certain your puppy comes from a wonderful, caring breeder, whose focus is on the quality and comfort of their bloodlines, not on the quantity of the pups. French Bulldog Dog Breed Information. French bulldog puppies feeding time. Since over , dog owners have used Bully Max for just that. This price can fluctuate based on the reputation and location of the breeder. They don't require a lot of exercise and enjoy the family love - whether the family is a single owner, a couple or a family. The French bulldog is a compact, muscular dog with a flat, short coat. Umpqua Valley Kennels — Oregon. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. They usually get along well with other animals and love to make friends. Present in each puppy are the genes of blue merle, blue pied, fawn. The French Bulldog Pitbull Mix has loads of energy that can challenge parents without an active lifestyle. A little french puppy tries to. For the puppies, they sleep an average of 17 hours aday. They love human company so your. Officials probe arrival of puppies, 38 of them dead. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The Frenchie breeder has impeccable breeding standards. History: Despite what its name may imply, the French Bulldog was developed in England. In the viral clip , shared on TikTok earlier in June by the pets' owner, under the username Bill, the two puppies can be seen sitting in their individual beds, sniping at each other with short high-pitched barks, while a third dog seems rather unimpressed and refuses to take part in the argument. The hilarious post, which is just one of the many fights between the two dogs that can be found on their TikTok account, comes with a caption that says: "I said turn left.A heated argument between two of the French bulldogs has gone viral. Right Georgie striking a pose. Bill The pets' owner, Bill, told Newsweek: "Bentley and Annie are about 3 months old and Georgie is about 4 and a half months old. We got Georgie first, then about three weeks later we got Bentley and Annie and they bonded right away. Watching Bentley, and his short little legs, sprint around the house and the other two chase him is a very funny sight. They will also do so if they alert you to someone or something they may see as a threat. There is also the possibility that you unknowingly trained the dog to bark for attention ," the website says. The video quickly gained popularity on social media, getting viewers from across TikTok. It has so far received over , views and 23, likes on the platform. And those alert ears! Frenchies are making a big comeback popularity-wise , climbing up the list of the most popular dog breeds in the United States in recent years. If you bring one of these puppies home, you might learn to understand their adorable language before they start to learn your human words. This may not be apparent, as French Bulldogs take to training slowly, but they do love you. They may have breathing issues As adorable as those smooshed faces are, the French Bulldog is a brachycephalic breed , meaning they have shorter snouts than other dogs. This can lead to breathing issues, especially when it comes to swimming or flying in an airplane. If you want to take your Frenchie for a swim , be sure to have them geared up with some puppy floaties, and stay close to them, as they literally cannot keep their snout — or the rest of their body — above water. Some airlines will not let brachycephalic breeds fly. Being in a small, hot area under a lot of stress can make breathing very difficult for these dogs and can even be fatal. As fancy as French Bulldogs are, the jet-set lifestyle was not made for them. Frenchies have something of a reputation for not only breathing issues but also for being gassy. Prepare to grab some non-toxic air fresheners and open up some windows! They can be champion couch potatoes and incredibly playful French Bulldog puppies can grow very accustomed to living in the lap of luxury. French Bulldogs can be incredibly silly and playful. Take the Quiz 3. Frenchie farts… … are arguably the worst. These little fart factories can clear a room in an instant. The best way to draw attention A follow-up to the previous one. Turns out we are the reason they fart a lot. Always listen to your Frenchie! First name Email 5. Play with me! When you get a Frenchie puppy, you probably want to spend all your time with them. You have no other choice really. Frenchies and clothes… Name a better duo! So, if you end up shrinking one of your shirts, no worries! Your Frenchie will gladly wear it. The masters of doing nothing Frenchies love sleeping… a lot. They always find the comfiest spots in the house like your bed. This cute little baby can barely deny being half asleep. Frenchies are delicate eaters… or not? If you have a Frenchie puppy, this may be familiar too. You give them the best food possible and then you see them eating their poop. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies .Probably the one thing Frenchies love more than sleeping is food. Their round little belly is so cute, but as you can see, they are very sensitive about it. Seems like Barbie got bored of Ken and switched him for a Frenchie. Great taste Barbie! They are always up to something! This one says it all. They are like kids, always up to some mischief! There are two types of people on Friday nights… Which one will be you this Friday? You can also check out our available French Bulldog puppies here. Ultimate Guide.

Here are three other ways to find a Golden that needs your home. The first is to scour your local animal shelters. Plus, you might even find another dog that steals your heart there! The next option is to get active in your local Golden Retriever Facebook groups. Often, these dogs are great dogs, the owner is just moving or having financial or time issues that make it difficult to keep their Golden. The final way to find a Golden that needs your home is to get active in your local Golden Retriever Club. One of the members in the club may know about a Golden who needs your help. This is another long shot, but the more Golden Retriever lovers you know, the more likely you are to find a Golden of your own. And speaking of local Golden Retriever Clubs… Connecticut Golden Retriever Clubs Golden Retriever clubs may be able to help you find a Golden, but they can definitely help you raise them. The clubs and their members can help with: Meeting other Golden parents and getting advice and tips from them Hosting competitions and events where you and your dog can meet other Goldens and Golden Retriever owners Giving referrals for services like vets, groomers , and doggy daycares Here are the two Golden Retriever clubs in Connecticut: Connecticut River Valley Golden Retriever Club Location: Enfield Southern Berkshire Golden Retriever Club Location: Hartford Website: www. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Connecticut Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Connecticut? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Connecticut? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We have made it our mission to find loving suitable homes for displaced, abandoned, or stray dogs with golden personalities. We work with volunteers in New England and with our partner rescue groups outside of New England. Our dogs come to us in different ways: relinquished by their owners, found as strays, or abandoned at a shelter. All of our volunteers have rescued and placed dogs for years. We are committed to decreasing the numbers of dogs euthanized at overcrowded shelters, primarily in the south. Our rescue dogs come in different shapes, sizes and colors. Most of our dogs come to us from our rescue partners in areas outside of New England, taken from kill shelters where they have landed due to no fault of their own - many are strays, others have been turned in by their owners. Because of their various backgrounds, we rarely have any medical or ownership history on them. All of our dogs are vetted age-appropriate meaning they are spayed or neutered and given all necessary vaccines. Together with our vet we will treat them for medical issues that are diagnosed. When they are ready to go to their forever homes, our dogs are transported with a USDA certified transport company and require a license to cross state lines aka a health certificate to travel. For additional information about who we are and how the adoption process works, check out our adoption information. Since , the volunteers of SGRR have rescued Golden Retrievers, Golden mixes, and Golden-hearted dogs who have been abandoned, abused, or relinquished by their owners. We are dedicated to finding the best possible homes for these dogs in need. September is National Preparedness Month! The peak of Atlantic hurricane season is here which is why it's important to take some time to reflect on disaster preparedness. As unlikely as it may seem, a disaster can strike at any moment. Whether it's a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or blizzard, it's critical to be prepared and have a plan in place. Unfortunately, pets are sometimes unintentionally left out of their owners' disaster preparedness plans which makes it difficult to know what to do with them during an emergency. Luckily, you can plan ahead for your pets using these tips: Listen to your veterinarian Make sure your pet wears a collar with up to date information on it, get them microchipped, and have them vaccinated. These recommendations will come in handy during a disaster and help you avoid any potential pitfalls, such as being unable to get into a shelter with an unvaccinated pet or losing them during an evacuation. If possible, take your pet's medical records with you and attach their rabies tag to their collar. Find out which shelters allow pets Do some research into where you can safely evacuate with your pet during a state of emergency before a disaster occurs. Your local police department can typically give you this information. If not, they'll likely be able to point you in the direction of someone who can. Though unfortunate, it is not true that hotels must accept pets during evacuations, so please keep that in mind while planning ahead. Prepare a pet disaster kit In a suitcase or other easily movable storage container, pack food and water bowls, a manual can opener, two weeks' worth of canned food and bottled water per pet, plastic poop bags for dogs , litter and a small litter box for cats , and two weeks' worth of any medications your pet may need. You should also pack cleaning items, sturdy leashes and harnesses, toys, and a copy of your pet's medical records. For small animals and cats, have a carrier ready. Use this checklist to prepare. Create handouts Create an identification handout and a boarding instruction handout. Have both ready to go at a moment's notice. They should contain important information, such as your pet's name, age, sex, markings, microchip number, allergies, and vaccination status. If you get separated from your pet, make sure you're safe before you begin your search. If you're in a shelter that houses pets, inform a caretaker and provide them with the identification handout. Once you've been given the OK to leave the shelter and return home, contact animal control and call the microchip company to make sure all information about you and your pet is current. Stay safe out there! Some dogs become comfort or therapy dogs, while others are champion security systems. Dudley's adopters, however, found he is quit the poet!! Kind of melts your heart, doesn't it? We hope you will be too! Looking for a good gift for yourself or someone else and make an impact at the same time? Go over and see our friends at Golden Retriever Coffee Company! Not only do they have amazing products, but they're big supporters of SGRR! Also, shipping is always free in the U. This all-natural craft bakery offers delicious treats for your furbabies such as pumpkin hearts, peanut and blueberry chews, turkey and sweet potato duckies and more pup-alicious flavors. Everything in the dog bakery is made with natural, healthful, nutritious ingredients, blueberries, duck, cheese, turkey, rolled oats, whole dried eggs, and more. Sunshine also will share a percentage of the bakery profits with other golden rescue organizations. Our Goldens and Golden-hearted dogs make wonderful pets. We want our applicants to also know that rescued dogs come from a variety of backgrounds. Some dogs are older dogs, including well-behaved and cared for pets whose owners have become ill or died. A patient and loving owner can make all the difference. The joys of seeing these dogs become the devoted and contented pets they were meant to be is remarkable. New to SGRR? Want to Learn More About Us? We at Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue take the job of finding the best possible forever homes for our dogs very seriously. The adoption process is thorough so that we can learn as much as possible about those to whom we entrust our precious pups. Once a dog is placed with an approved adopter, they are welcomed into the SGRR family and given the tools and support to make the adoption successful. We have gathered comments from some of our adopters who are happy to tell you how they feel about us! You can read more comments on our Get to Know Us! To make a very long story short, she went on to become the saving grace of my life and a certified therapy dog who was with me for 13 years. After she crossed over that rainbow bridge, I did a lot of research with adoption agencies and came across SGRR. After filling out the application and being interviewed I was offered a dog by the name of Daisy, a beautiful red Golden Retriever. I thought I would never feel about another dog the way I felt about my Julie but it was not long before I fell in love with that sweet, sweet girl who was also with me for 13 years. Everyone loved Daisy, she would go up to people and do that lean into thing, a Golden thing, and they would just laugh and pet her. That is when I realized what an amazing organization, so full of caring and wonderful people who often go above and beyond for these wonderful animals. When my Daisy girl crossed over after a few months went by I thought it time to bring another friend home. Golden Retrievers had become hard to find so I decided to take a mixed breed home which was a big deal for me being the Golden Retriever lover that I am. I never had a male or a mixed breed before so I did not know what to expect. Finnie settled right in and is a wonderful companion and friend to furry sibling Gracie. Finnie took some training but I knew in time he would be a great dog and he is a great dog. He is very different than the other dogs in my life but he is so much fun to have with us. He loves people and gets very excited with everyone and will jump up in the air like an acrobat we are working on that , but a great dog. I would encourage everyone to think about a mixed breed. With time, love and patience you get a great dog and companion. We are excited and proud to share it with all of you. Click the button below and enjoy! The soft light and subtle fragrance will be a sweet reminder of the love you have shared. Please check out their website to learn more about J. Lilienne Custom Candles Pet Collection. SGRR is designated as a c 3 organization which means your donations are tax-deductible. You can make a donation to our general fund or designate your donation for a specific purpose such as a memorial or a tribute. Single Payment Use for a single donation or to pay an adoption fee. Recurring Donation Sponsor a Dog If you would like to provide for the care of a particular dog's needs, you may sponsor that dog. We will then note you as a sponsor on the dog's dedicated bio page. We thank you in advance for your generous support!

Print Retrievers, for the most part, make great family dogs. They are also smart, so they learn quickly and their strong willingness to please often makes retrievers a great addition to the family. But some retriever puppies are a high-energy ball of fire, one that is difficult to train or even handle in daily life. And sometimes there will be signs of aggressive behavior that are concerning. However, there is a fine line between puppy play behavior and hyper and aggressive behavior. Some owners are reluctant to stop such behavior thinking that it is just puppy behavior and therefore the dog will outgrow it. If you have a retriever puppy that is hyper or aggressive you might wonder what can be done and why they are acting that way. Here is some guidance on this topic. What are normal puppy behaviors? It is normal for very young puppies to nip at your hands and your feet. It is also normal for them to chew on things, jump on you and walk all over you. An 8-week-old puppy nipping at your hand might at first seem cute and sweet. But one bite from those exceedingly sharp puppy teeth and you might decide its not so cute. Those teeth can puncture your skin in a second and draw blood just as quickly. So, while it may be normal for a puppy to nip at your hand or foot, it is not a behavior that you want to ignore. Puppy play is naturally aggressive When puppies playing with their litter mates, the play can be very aggressive. This is natural, as dogs, they are always figuring out their pack and where they fit into the pack. Recognizing puppy play You can recognize when a retriever puppy is playing by the stance they take. They also may run around in circles, growling, or barking in high pitched barks, but when they do this their ears will be up, their tail wagging and they do not look threatening. It is uncommon for puppies under 12 weeks of age to exhibit true aggression. True aggression involves a dog exhibiting prolonged growling with a stiff posture and baring of teeth. Their hackles the hair on their back will be raised and they will be poised in a threatening position with ears back. If you were to approach a dog in this position which I do not recommend they will often move toward you and try to bite or snap at you. This type of aggression is something to be fearful about and is not healthy. Isolate the dog as much as possible and consult a veterinary or other professional for help or advice. What are signs of aggression in puppies All puppies can act aggressively, but if you take steps to address the aggressive behaviors while your dog is a young puppy, you can make a huge difference on how or whether that aggression progresses. These are all forms of aggression and none of them should be tolerated, not as a puppy and certainly not as a dog. There are also dominance behaviors that puppies exhibit that are often mistaken as aggression. They include things like jumping on people, stepping on people, pushing you around, forcing you to pet them and others. While these behaviors can be done aggressively, and should still be corrected immediately, they are not the same as aggression. Definition of puppy Because we often get clients that bring out their dogs that are close to a year old and refer to them as puppies, I want to define what I consider a puppy. A puppy is a dog under six months of age. Most retrievers are a good size by around six months. They will often continue to grow up until about a year and a half, but they have the bulk of their size by the time they are six months. And by six months, you need to have a handle on any aggressive behaviors, or you are going to struggle with eliminating them. Is it normal for a puppy to be very aggressive? It is normal for a puppy to test you with aggressive behaviors. And to be clear, that place should be at the bottom of the pack, under all your family members. I understand that your dog is a part of your family but allowing your dog to be in a position above any or all your family members is just asking for trouble. Treating your dog as a human and attributing your dog with human thoughts and reasoning is not fair to your dog or to your family. Love your dog, but make sure your dog is the lowest member of your pack and you will have a much easier time with obedience and basic good behavior. How to stop puppy growling Growling is often the first step for dog aggression. Or, if you try and take a toy away from your dog. No matter how or when you see the aggression start, it is important to nip it in the bud right away. A sharp NO command sometimes is all that is needed, especially if it is well-timed with the first sign of the growl or nip. Other times you may need to grab your dogs muzzle and squeeze. If these corrections do not seem to be helping, I would immediately crate my dog if it growled at me. Be sure you do not let your dog out of the crate while he is exhibiting a growling behavior. Only let him out if he is behaving appropriately. How to stop puppy nipping or biting A dog that nips or bites you often started as a very young puppy. We teach our puppies at 8-weeks-old that biting and nipping people is not allowed. And at this very young age, they learn it very quickly. Your pup may cry out or squirm, but that is fine. In fact, you need to be quite stern to make an impression. If it continues, you are not being firm or consistent enough. How to stop puppy growling while tugging During play, it is not uncommon for retriever puppies to growl and tug at toys, blankets, even your pant leg. This behavior is usually just playful and natural. However, I would still try to end this behavior as soon as possible. While almost harmless at first, this behavior can escalate quickly as your dog grows bigger and stronger. You can end this behavior first by not participating in it. If you start tugging with a toy with your puppy, you are going to encourage the behavior. The second step is to discourage the behavior with a sharp NO command. It can help if you say GIVE when you take the item. This will start to teach him the GIVE command that will be helpful later if you are a hunter. How to stop puppy baring his teeth A puppy or dog that bares his teeth to you is threatening to bite you. Even if the puppy goes no further than to bare the teeth and growl, you need to end this behavior. This behavior is far more dangerous than the puppy that nips at your hand. The nips may be done in play, since that is how puppies play with one another, but baring of teeth and growling is different. And you must handle it differently. I am not talking about lifting your dog off the floor with the shake, but if your puppy is very young, that may indeed be a great correction. Have you ever witnessed a mama dog correct her puppies? This is not a violent thing, just a natural correction for a puppy. The puppies rarely cry out or whimper when given this correction, they just walk away and understand that the behavior they were exhibiting is not acceptable. If your dog continues to bare his teeth even after this correction, you may have a bigger problem on your hands, and I would proceed carefully. True dog aggression is no joking matter. Dogs with aggression problems can snap at any time and go from baring their teeth to full out attacks. Hyper behavior is different from aggression. A hyper dog has a lot of energy and may not know how to control or channel that energy. Often hyper behavior is a genetic trait. In this sense, it is not something that you can eliminate. But you can take steps to make it more manageable. Exercise more Dogs that are hyper need more exercise than dogs that are more docile in nature. If your dog is hyper and is not getting enough exercise, the hype behavior is going to drive the dog to other behaviors that you may not enjoy such as chewing up your dining room table leg or your favorite pair of shoes. For instance, if your dog is hyper and is jumping up and down all the time, and you not only allow the jumping but pet him or her and give praise while your dog is jumping, then you are unknowingly rewarding the jumping behavior. Give your puppy time to mature Retrievers are often full of energy while they are young, well some a bit longer, but tend to slow down as they mature. But as they mature they do usually slow down and become a bit less energetic. Training Highly energetic dogs can benefit greatly from structured training programs. Programs such as the ones we offer here at Otter Tail Kennels, can teach an energetic dog control and channel their energy into hunting or retrieving which can make home life more manageable. There are even some things you can do at home to get more control of your energetic dog. Practice sitting I know this sounds boring, and for you it is. But for an energetic dog that does not like sitting at all, having them sit for 30 seconds, or a minute or two can be very challenging. They will need many reminders at first, but over time they will learn to settle and sit calmly. You can slowly increase the amount of time. This simple obedience drill will help your dog learn control. Teach your dog the kennel command so that when you say Kennel, they run into their crate and stay there until you release them. This basically sends your dog on a time out and forces them to practice control and settle. Final thoughts on why my puppy is so hyper and aggressive For dogs under 6 months of age, much hyper and aggressive behavior is simply puppy play. You must teach your puppy boundaries and the earlier you teach them the better. Be consistent in your corrections and persistent, and over time you will reap the benefits. You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. You are bound to want to know when your biting puppy will grow out of this phase and how you can speed that process up. Biting, as you will have discovered is usually accompanied by lots of noise! Why do puppies bite? So why do puppies bite? My puppy is biting hard Puppies do bite hard and it does hurt. But I want to reassure you that even at 8 weeks old, your puppy has learned to moderate his bite in play. Puppies have powerful jaws designed to tear through flesh and crush bones. Those of you who feed your puppy a raw diet will know that even an 8 week old puppy from a medium sized breed can crush bones the size of your little finger. He is deliberately attempting to be gentle. Puppy Biting — Bite inhibition This ability, that your puppy has, to moderate the power of his jaws in play, is called bite inhibition. It is something that his mother started to teach him when he was just a few weeks old. And now it is your turn to take over and complete the training process. Growling and Puppy biting One thing that often worries people who have a new puppy in the family, is the growling that accompanies puppy biting. It sounds horrific. Great snarls and snaps accompany the biting and the puppy can appear quite demonic as he grabs onto your skin, or clothes. Tugging away with all the strength he can muster. Ninety nine times out of a hundred this is completely normal play biting. Is my puppy biting aggressive? You cannot determine whether or not a puppy is biting aggressively by how hard he bites or by the volume of the noise he makes. Play biting puppies bite hard and growl fiercely. Some puppies do occasionally draw blood. But these are not normally savage or crushing bites and the puppy is clearly enjoying himself. Fierce but fun! The play biting puppy will launch himself at the target of his bite. Whether it is your slippers or your fingers, with equal tail-wagging enthusiasm, hanging on grimly and grabbing repeatedly when the item is removed from him. All this, shocking though it may seem, is normal, and is not a sign that your puppy is going to be an aggressive dog! In fact some of the gentlest and most amiable breeds the labrador for example are the worst and fiercest play biters. The puppy that is a cause for concern is the puppy that is frightened. Because although puppies rarely bite through aggression, the nervous puppy may become aggressive as he matures Is my puppy afraid? A scared puppy may bite and scared puppies can grow into scared adult dogs so this is something you need to address quickly. You will know that your puppy is scared because he will try to avoid whatever it is he is scared of. A really frightened puppy will sometimes give off a distinctive musky smell. This hiding, and retreating, and the scared smell are warning signs that you have scared your puppy badly, or purchased a poorly socialised puppy. In this situation you need to get specialist help right away. Your vet should be able to advise you. For the vast majority of puppy owners then, biting is normal puppy behavior. Will my puppy biting stop naturally? To some extent biting is a phase caused by natural puppy playfulness and teething. Some puppies do stop biting with very little input from their family. Which is great. You may feel he should have grown out of it by now. We can physically prevent puppies from biting and we can train puppies not to bite. Both of these are good strategies. Or when children are getting upset, or visitors are winding your puppy up. Prevention usually involves interrupting the biting behavior, then redirecting the puppy into an alternative and more acceptable behavior, such as chewing on a toy. Or, it may involve temporarily separating him from his playmates. Interrupting the puppy biting In mild cases you may simply be able to put a toy in your biting puppy's mouth and get him tugging on that instead of on your fingers. If you are on the floor with the puppy stand up. And if you are standing up, turn and walk away from the puppy. This is where dog gates come in very handy with small puppies. A standard baby gate works fine for most breeds of dog. Managing the puppy You may have to pick up your biting puppy to remove him from the scene if he is biting your children for example, rather than you If he bites your hands and clothes as you try to restrain him, put him on the other side of a barrier or in his crate or puppy playpen for a short while. Although the puppy does learn from them, these are useful management techniques to enable you to control the situation. They help you to keep your puppy calm, and prevent the biting escalating through over excitement. Over-excited puppies Puppy play biting is directly linked to excitement. The more excited your puppy gets, the more and the harder he will bite. And the harder it will be to interrupt and distract him. Rough play excites puppies and noisy play does too. Children tend to squeal when they play and get very physical with puppies. One of the first rules they need to learn when playing with dogs, especially big dogs, is to stand up and stand still when the game gets too much. Limit such play and call a halt to it if your puppy is biting. With medium to large breed dogs, physical rough and tumble play is not a great idea. It can lead to dogs bowling people over or humping them, neither of which is very pleasant. Stopping play when it gets rough is a good management strategy and it is a form of training too. Over time, your puppy learns that biting and rough play loses him his playmates and that people simply leave if he is being mean. When do puppies stop biting? Many puppies have stopped biting completely by six months of age and biting is usually subsiding by the time that the puppy is heading towards five months old. This is if the puppy has been managed appropriately If people have been exciting him, or rewarding him for attention seeking behavior then biting can persist And it can be much more of a problem in bigger stronger puppies than in little ones. Training Puppies Not To Bite The idea of this exercise is to teach a puppy to accept being stroked and handled in any way, without touching us with his teeth. The event marker is a distinctive sound. Even around his mouth, without him making any attempt to bite you. You can also make it easier for him by starting this training when he is calm and not distracted. But for now, keep things simple. It can be a good way of getting the training started so that you have chance to say YES and give the puppy the opportunity to learn what you want him to do. Over the next few sessions, you can work on getting your hand closer and closer to the puppy. Until you are brushing the sides of his face without him making any attempt to mouth or bite at you Progress to touching and holding his collar, stroking his ears, grooming him, examining his paws and so on, all the time rewarding him for the correct behavior. Anytime the mouthing returns, back up to a point where he can succeed and move forward more slowly again Bite Inhibition Training Some experts feel that puppies should be allowed to mouth and even bite gently for a week or two before being prevented from biting altogether. Simply follow the instructions for managing your puppy above when he bites hard. But allow him to mouth you when he bites gently without much pressure. This is a great way to teach a dog excellent control over his mouth. After a couple of weeks of this, you can progress to the training exercise I outlined in the previous section. Older puppies that bite in play have often learned that this gets them a lot of attention. They have discovered that people squeal and shout and get quite cross. Sometimes these people push and shove the dog around which young dogs quite enjoy when they are playing. For these dogs it is important that you stop all physical play, with all family members If a puppy is biting hard at your hands when you try to interrupt his game. Or an older puppy is getting out of hand biting at clothing, you need to put your puppy on a harness and house-line a short trailing leash. This will enable you to control your puppy, and take him to a calming place, without handling him. You can just pick up the end of the line and lead him away. Older biting puppies are often bright and bored. And the best approach to avoiding future episodes of bad behavior is a structured programme of training and interesting activities. A professional dog trainer using modern positive training methods will be able to help you with these. Summary So now you know some tips on how to stop your puppy from biting. The first few weeks can be tough with a determined biter in the house, but you will get through this and come out the other side. A few months from now, this difficult period will be a distant memory In the meantime, focus on keeping your biting puppy calm, avoiding too much rough play, and redirecting his biting onto appropriate toys and activities. Spend some time on the training exercise set out above. Are Golden Retrievers Aggressive? The Honest Truth Posted on April 5, by Galen Kauffman Share: Golden Retriever owners will most times be highly indignant if you dare to suggest that their Goldens have even an iota of aggression in them. They will be quick to tell you that dog experts will even use this big golden, friendly dog as an example breed when looking to confirm what a calm, amicable dog is. And the puppies? Are golden Retrievers aggressive as puppies? Not at all. Alright, so as a puppy it is only natural that he will nip and bite your hand as he is teething. He has the cutest little growl too. However, not training your puppy and not taking him along to socialization classes can allow this puppy habit to develop into something serious. Is Aggression Common in Golden Retrievers? Are Golden Retrievers aggressive? Only very seldom. Calm and laid back as your Golden Retriever is, there are going to be times when your golden doggo may be aggressive. They are loving, playful, calm, friendly, smiling, amiable dogs. Are male Golden Retrievers aggressive more often than females? Not really. As mentioned, these dogs are rarely aggressive, but it is more likely that the male Golden Retriever will be more aggressive than the female. Aggression in Golden Retrievers nearly always comes from poor breeding, bad dog owners, inadequate training, and lack of socialization. You can also add in abuse, neglect, and cruelty. Golden Retrievers are known as control groups for aggression A control group is a standard to which comparisons are made in a dog aggression experiment. There is a control group and an experimental group. The inclusion of a control group helps the researcher to make conclusions from the study. It is only with a control group that a researcher can determine whether a treatment can have an effect on an experimental group. In the study, golden retrievers were tested and used as a control group. Seventy Golden Retrievers were tested in the temperament test. Levels of escalation in aggressive behavior were scored. A total of .Goldens are not typically aggressive Most Golden Retriever owners are familiar with the good-natured temperaments of their Goldens, and they would consider an aggressive Golden Retriever to be an unheard-of thing. Dogs are like kids and the Golden is just a big loving child wanting to please you. And rightly so. Nobody in their right mind would want an aggressive Golden Retriever around their small children. Nonetheless, even though the chances are almost nil that your Golden has any aggression in him, there are one or two factors that can cause aggression in Golden Retrievers, and with good reason, and we look at some of them below. Fear Fear causes any dog faced with a threat to defend itself by biting. Veterinary behavior specialists tell us that fear-related aggression is just that — it is used as self-defense. It may well be out of sheer desperation that a cornered dog bites when it anticipates a threat. A Golden Retriever that has been regularly smacked learns to generalize — believing that every human hand wants to strike him. He goes into self-protection mode by biting the hand that reaches out to him. Fear is also instilled in a dog such as the Golden Retriever when an owner uses harsh, cruel punishment-based training methods. Harsh behavior increases aggression but also anxiety. Danger Dogs act in unusual ways when they sense danger. Can Golden Retrievers be aggressive in the face of danger? This abuse can take different forms. Goldens who have suffered from emotional and physical abuse can respond to anyone with aggression. He will in all likelihood be scared, agitated, and aggressive. Socializing your Golden Retriever will prepare him for a broad range of situations so that he is able to interact with various animals, people, and situations. It teaches him to react to the world out there in a calm way without fear and aggression. Illness Aggression in a Golden Retriever can have a medical cause. Just like the human child gets whiney, cranky, and aggressive when ill and with a bad headache, our canine friends do as well. Medically-induced aggression in a Golden Retriever can result in warning signs of growling, baring teeth, and general aggression. Brain inflammation occurs in conditions such as rabies and encephalitis. The aggression in this instance is most times a neurological reaction to the effect of the inflammation on the brain. Low thyroid levels affect mood and thyroid therapy can relieve aggression in dogs with hypothyroidism. Dogs are like humans in some ways and if they have woken up feeling under the weather, they may respond by showing signs of aggression. Injury There are many causes of aggression in dogs and injury is a common cause of canine aggression. Your Golden Retriever is nearly always a well-behaved dog, so if he suddenly shows signs of aggression, you just know there is something unusual up with him. If you find him acting out of character and wanting to nip you, get him to the vet as soon as possible for a thorough examination. He could have chewed on something that has caused injury to the teeth or even lodged somewhere, causing injury and pain inside the mouth. Irresponsible Breeding Canine aggression always poses concerns. Aggression in dogs is researched by people wanting to understand breed differences. Research always reveals that the Golden Retriever is a calm, good-natured golden beauty with hardly an aggressive bone inside him. But what about irresponsible breeding? A dog can suffer from all kinds of complications in pregnancy and when ignored because of the costs it can be tragic and heartbreaking. A responsible Golden Retriever breeder is one who knows the breed well and who has health clearances to show that both parents are free of genetic disorders. They follow the AKC breed guidelines for health testing. The test includes hips, elbows, thyroid tests, hearing tests, DNA testing, and heart tests. Also before breeding, dog parents need additional tests for Brucellosis testing and both dogs need to be up to date with all their vaccinations. Their characteristics, their bad attitude, their lack of affection, their lack of concern, and their troublesome lifestyle all cause aggression in Golden Retrievers. Signs of Aggression in Golden Retrievers Golden Retrievers are sometimes like other dogs in showing their aggression and they will growl and bark while simultaneously becoming hyperactive. Their floppy ears are raised, the feathered tail is raised and stiff and their hackles are raised. If your Golden has turned into a bit of a biter, snapper, and growler, there has to be a good reason. So how does one stop aggression in Golden Retrievers? Socializing Ensure that your Golden Retriever puppy stays with his mother until he is 8 weeks of age. Just like young kids have to be disciplined in order for them to display appropriate behavior, your puppy Golden will need to be trained and socialized. Check out with your local vet where the best puppy socialization classes are. Choosing a Good Breeder By the time your Golden Retriever puppy is 8 weeks old, he is ready to go to his new home. The way he has developed so far will be dependent on how the breeder has raised him and his siblings. Puppies kept in an unloving, cold, hostile environment will have aggressive tendencies later on and not be able to function properly in your household. Choose a good breeder very carefully. Are you wanting to buy the cutest, most beautiful, friendliest, balanced, loving, non-aggressive Golden Retriever puppy? My Golden Retriever Puppies has just what you want, after all, they are the trusted source for responsibly-raised Golden Retriever Puppies in Ohio. Know your breeder and find yourself a healthy, lively, happy, amicable Golden who has been raised with love and care and dying to shower you with Golden Retriever kisses. Training Although it is difficult to find one iota of aggression in a Golden Retriever, any kind of aggressive behavior can be avoided with proper training. Apart from early socialization, you can train your dog firmly, fairly, and consistently. You could also allow a reputable professional dog behaviorist or trainer to train your Golden to mix with other people and dogs without showing aggressive tendencies. Positive reinforcement training is great when a tasty treat is given as a reward for the desired behavior. Never confuse your dog, and make sure that everyone in the family uses the same signs and commands that he is familiar with. Exercise If you want to avoid aggression in your Golden Retriever, exercise him. Dog aggression is a concern for any dog owner and even your mild, calm Golden can begin to feel the stirrings of aggression when he is never exercised. The Golden Retriever is a large dog and he is also a sporting breed. Your Golden will need a consistent workout every day for at least 20 minutes at a time. Hitting a ball for him with a tennis racquet can be an excellent running exercise for him. You have to be patient with him and show him kindness, gentleness, and fairness when training him. Conclusion Are Golden Retrievers aggressive? They can be, but only under certain circumstances. It is things such as improper breeding, abuse, and fear from humans that put aggression into any dog. Know your Golden and get him to the vet if you suspect uncharacteristic aggression which could be brought on by pain or illness. You can easily find one by checking out our puppies here! All our puppies are raised by our own group of small, independent breeders who lovingly care for and socialize with each of them daily so they grow up happy. We even take all the extra steps to provide the best healthcare for them. 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. While most people do not think that agressive golden retriever is a problem, it can be depending how the dog was raised. If a dog or puppy is abused from early on and then you adopt this dog, it can have some aggressive dog behavior that needs to be corrected as soon as possible. The kind, friendly, and confident manner of Golden Retrievers have made them so popular that many unscrupulous breeders were attracted towards them. As a result, careless breeding of Golden Retrievers have developed several health and temperament problems. Unprovoked Golden Retriever aggression is one such problem that has developed due to irresponsible breeding. Though aggression is an instinctive nature of Golden Retrievers, they were never unwanted. Golden Retrievers had shown aggression to hunt, to defend themselves from other creatures, to defend resources such as food, a place to sleep, and a mate. Golden Retriever aggression has been classified in several ways — dog aggression, food aggression, aggression towards strangers, and aggression towards family members are some of the common types. Aggressive Golden Retriever Dog : rare but it can happen. It is rare for a Golden Retriever dog to turn out to be aggressive, but it can happen. There are many causes for this type of behavioral issues. In some cases, poor propagation can result in an aggressive Golden Retriever. Dominance issues are one of the most common reasons for aggression. Most often times, Golden Retriever dog aggression issues will simply be acting out of fear. This is acknowledged as defensive aggression. For instance, if your golden was hurt by a big dog or young child when she was youthful, she may react aggressively when uncovered to these triggers later on in life. Dealing with defensive aggression can be scary and irritating at the same time. While you do not want to scare your dog or cause more emotional trauma, you naturally want to decrease the incidences of aggressive behavior. One of the most important things you can do when dealing with defensive aggression is to not disregard the problem. It is important to deal with the issues as soon as possible mainly because aggression can increase over time if not properly addressed. Aggressive behavior can begin with some Golden retriever dogs when they are as youthful as five or six weeks old! This is why it is very important to invest in your golden retriever from a reputable breeder. One good way to stop aggressive behavior is to make sure that your dog or puppy is properly socialized. A critical period for socialization is from the time a dog is 6 weeks old until he or she is 14 weeks old. Following your puppy is weaned and has received her first sequence of shots, you can take her out in public. Some people choose to socialize their dog in public before she has acquired shots. You can minimize the risk of your dog contracting a virus by holding her while out in public. Aggressive behavior in any dog is easy to spot, ears will be laid back, teeth showing and body more in a downward slant as if to attack its prey. In addition, you should be able to recognize the signs of dog aggression to learn how to deal with an aggressive golden retriever dog. This signs can include: Dominate aggression is typically the bully type of aggression, which can lead to food dominance or having problems with dogs or people. Fear aggression typically happens when the dog is so afraid that they go into a fight or flight mode. Typically their tail may be between their legs even when they are showing signs of aggression. Territorial aggression happens when there is typically more than one dog in the home and one is territorial over food or toys. Some dogs become very aggressive when they are possessive of their owners. This means that they may bite or growl if others approach their owner. Many dogs become aggressive with punishment which is the direct cause of humans. This means harsh punishment which is abuse can lead to the dog becoming aggressive to protect itself. Some dogs display aggression when they are in pain, especially a senior dog, therefore it is important not to lift a dog that is in pain. Maternal aggression, if your golden retriever dog just had a liter of puppies, you might not want to begin playing with the puppies straight away because this can cause the motherly instinct to kick in and make her aggressive toward you. It is important to recognize the type of golden retriever aggression that your dog is displaying because sometimes it is just situational, such as pain aggression. Dogs are like people and they deal with pain differently, which means that some dogs want you to comfort them when they are in pain and others want you to leave them alone. It is vital you know the cues your dog is giving you so that you understand if it is situational or if your dog needs obedience training. While golden retrievers are not know for their aggressiveness, any dog in certain situations can become aggressive. Half of all the dogs out there bite someone or another dog at least once in their life. Dog biting is not desired behavior, no matter whether it is aimed at humans or dogs you need to put a stop to it as early as possibly can. By stopping this behavior as early as you can you will be able to prevent the chance of your dog developing anti-social habits. If you can stop your dog from biting as early as you can then you will be able to have a nice friendly dog which will not be a risk to other dogs or other people. When stopping dog biting too many people don't stop to think about the actual reasons for it happening, actually Golden Retriever aggression and biting are two very natural things when they are in danger or feel threatened. Your dog might bite because he is scared or for a variety of other reasons. If your dog is stressed for example then he might bite, just think about what you do when you're in a foul mood. Some people may become aggressive when they are in a bad mood, and dogs are exactly the same. There are different ways that humans can relieve this pressure, however dogs don't have as many options. In order to stamp out Golden Retriever aggression and biting you need to show your dog that any such behavior is completely unacceptable to you. There are a number of different things that can cause dog biting and aggression, including fear, when they are with young, or when they feel threatened. If you are aware what causes dog aggression and biting then you may be able to avoid all of these things. The next important step that you want to look at is training your dog, you will be able to train your dog so that he doesn't show any aggression. It's possible to do this training yourself or with the help of a professional. If you train your dog properly then he will be able to know that it is wrong to bite. There are also a number of other options that you have when you want to find ways to stop your dog biting. If you notice that your dog is biting from a young age then you stand a better chance of getting the problem sorted out easily. You need to socialize your puppy with other people and dogs to make him feel comfortable around strangers. Try to get your dog used to other people touching and petting him, you can do this by allowing your dog to sniff each new person before they are allowed to pet him. Your dog will enjoy this as it is like a handshake! Make sure that you do not tease your Golden Retriever dog, teasing your dog might get some good reactions but it's not good for your puppy. Teasing games will only aggravate the puppy and make him annoyed. So if you have a puppy that is biting then now is the right time to start training him not to bite. A puppy's bites may not hurt at this stage, however they will do very soon! Make sure that you socialize your dog and get him completely used to strangers before he reaches adulthood. If you do all of these things then you should be able to stop your dog being one of the ones that bites other people! Nobody wants a Agressive Golden Retriever that bites, fortunately you don't have to put up with it any longer! You will learn how to deal with it. This means that you should never discipline your young puppy harshly, especially if she is between 8 to 10 weeks old. When you discipline your dog, do not hit her with your hand or another object, yell at her, or use other harsh discipline methods. This can actually backfire and cause more aggression, especially if your dog is defensive aggressive. In Golden Retrievers, the majority of the cases of dog aggression and food aggression have genetic components. According to one such study, breeding for calmness in Golden Retrievers have messed the fundamental brain chemistry of the dog resulting in unwanted aggression. Selective breeding against the nature of the dog has fastened the process. However, if a Golden Retriever has developed a dog aggression or food aggression we can at least control it through proper socialization and obedience training. Living conditions, excessive punishment, being attacked or frightened by an aggressive dog also influence aggression in Golden Retrievers. While genetics may play a role in raising aggressive behavior, environment can play a huge role. If your dog is abused or neglected, she will have a very good chance of starting to be aggressive. A dog that has poor living conditions, very harsh masters and no social expertise is very most likely to develop behavior issues. If your dog shows aggressive behavior immediately after one year of age, you will need to address the problem quickly. You may need to enlist the help of a trained professional to do this. Recall that it is important to not reward your dog for aggressive behavior. If you deal with your dog or pet your dog immediately immediately after aggressive behavior, you are in essence rewarding that behavior. If your dog becomes aggressive since it is fearful, you will need to take some time to work on social competencies and socialization. You should also seek the advice of a trained professional who has practical experience dealing with defensive aggressive behaviors. Aggression can be controlled. Nonetheless, it is very important to take the steps necessary to solve the problem as an alternative of ignoring behaviors and hoping that they will go away on their own. Here are some tips for Controling Agressive Golden Retrievers Aggressive Behavior : Firstly you need to work out why your dog is biting. Once you know the reasons then you will be able to isolate these and work on correcting them. We're going to take a look at a few tips which might be enough to make your life slightly easier. Social Life While your Golden Retriever puppy is young you should make sure that he socializes with as many other dogs as possible. This will help him to understand that the other dogs and people are not a threat, and in actual fact they can all get on like a house on fire! When your Golden Retriever puppy is young it might look cute when your puppy bites, however it's certainly not cute when your puppy gets older! Consistent In order for your Golden Retriever dog to learn anything you need to be consistent. Whenever your dog bites anybody, anything or any other dog then you need to show him that it's just not acceptable. Once he starts to learn that biting is not acceptable then he will slowly learn not to do it. Don't get too annoyed Dogs thrive on contact with other people and so you cannot just ignore him when he does something wrong. If your dog is agressive then tell him off, then for a few minutes do nothing, however after that stroke him and pet him. You need to show your Golden Retriever dog that you still love him, otherwise he will only get annoyed, just make sure you keep your hands a long way away from his mouth! Don't hit your dog When you are telling your dog off some people may tell you to strike your dog. However this is never a good idea. It isn't sensible to strike your dog because he is being disobedient, or aggressive. Just give him a warning. Physical punishment is a surefire way to lose your puppies trust forever. Trust is vital for any future relationship you have with your dog to be a success. Don't play too roughly If your Golden Retriever is aggressive then you shouldn't play roughly as this might encourage him to bite you. By playing roughing you are actually showing him that this behavior is ok. You need to show that it is not acceptable for your dog to do anything you don't like. By playing rough he will think that it's ok to play rough with you too. Some dogs are harder to stop biting or being agressive than others which may cause you a lot of frustration. However there are plenty of other methods to help you find ways how to get dog to stop biting. Water spray You could get one of those spray water bottles used to mist plants and put some water in it. Whenever your dog does anything you don't like then you can say no, and spray him with water. This should startle your dog, and as he doesn't like it he should associate it with being bad. Praise Another option is to reinforce everything good that he does. Whenever he does anything right then give him lots of praise. Positive reinforcement is thought to be much more effective than negative punishment. All dogs love treats and praise, so if you only give it to them when they deserve it then they will soon get the idea. Though Golden Retrievers are equally amiable with both strangers and those familiar to them, they sometime show aggression towards both of them. The reasons may vary for a Golden Retriever aggression towards strangers and towards family members. One reason why a Golden Retriever shows aggression towards strangers is that they might never have the chance to get used to them. Again proper socialization and lot of outings can solve the problem. Socializing Golden Retriever means that you start exposing them to a wide variety of new experiences, new people, and new animals from a young age. Aggression towards family members can be commonly because of two reasons— either your Golden Retriever is trying to defend himself from a perceived threat, which he sees in any of the family member or he is not comfortable with the treatment he is getting from you or other members of the family. Golden Retrievers have an overly-possessive behavior and when you try to take away his belongings or you approach it when it is eating, they develop aggression against you. This resource guarding nature of Golden Retrievers which gives rise to aggression actually boils down to the issue of dominance. Your Golden Retriever has a tendency to rank each member of the family, and has his own perception of where he ranks in that environment as well. And a higher-ranked Golden Retriever acts aggressively in defense of resources. The best way to treat Golden Retriever aggression is consistent and frequent obedience work with lot of socialization. In fact, the earlier you start the socialization process the lesser are the chances of aggression. Golden Retrievers also show aggression if they are not handled and groomed properly. Picking up his paws and touching them with the clipper and taking them into the bath definitely helps in reducing the chances of aggression. Conclusion about how to deal with an agressive golden retriever dog Agressive Golden Retriever can quickly become a serious problem which is often blamed entirely on the dog. However your dog doesn't know any better, and so it is actually your responsibility as the owner to get the problem sorted. It can be very frustrating when dogs bite, however it is possible to stop your dog biting and being agressive today. So, Keep in mind that golden retriever dogs are smart, therefore, if you recently adopted a full grown dog and it is showing signs of aggression, you should immediately get your golden retriever dog in an obedience training course. Read the full disclosure here. Tasty finger! Your golden retriever puppy is as friendly as can be — great with kids, respectful of other dogs, and not overly attentive to your cat. Yes, golden retrievers are known for their good-natured demeanor, but they are still dogs — not so very far removed from their wild cousins, and they can be unpredictable when faced with stressful, disturbing, or frightening situations. One of our jobs as responsible dog owners, of course, is to keep our dogs safe, but we may not always be able to protect them, and we may not always be able to prevent them from biting through fear or when in pain. What is Bite Inhibition? Puppies begin learning this from their mother and siblings as soon as they start to tumble around with each other in play. If they bite too hard, they are scolded by their mother or alerted with a yelp from their siblings. Eventually, they learn how hard is too hard, and they use their teeth more gently in play. Human Sensitive or Advanced Bite Inhibition By the time your puppy moves into your home, they will have been using their bite inhibition skills for weeks. Your puppy needs to learn that human beings are fragile and should be treated with care. There are many professional trainers who recommend that you simply train your puppy not to bite. This seems like a practical course of action, and it does work — in the short term. Teaching a puppy not to bite will give you quick results, but it may mean they never learn how much force is safe to use on people when they are forced to bite in an emergency. So if they do eventually bite, they will know to hold back the pressure safely and will not cause anywhere near as much pain or damage as they otherwise might. Why is Bite Inhibition Important? Believe it or not, even the most gentle dog that has been trained from a young age never to bite, can react to certain triggers. Those triggers are fear and pain. Consider these situations: Your dog has been suffering from chronic ear infections and hates to have his ears handled. The neighbor stops by with her toddler, who immediately runs to your dog and fondles his sensitive ears roughly. What will he do? You and your dog are walking down the road like you do every morning when out of nowhere comes a huge dog who attacks your dog without thinking twice. You manage to pull your dog away, but in the process, your frightened dog bites your arm. Your sweet golden retriever has gotten themself tangled in some barbed wire while hiking. As you loosen the wire from her skin and fur, she snaps at you, biting your hand. You may never experience any of these situations. By teaching bite inhibition while your puppy is young, you will be far safer and ready for any of these situations should they occur. Teaching Advanced Bite Inhibition Following is a general guide to the bite inhibition skills your puppy learns and when, as well as where you should aim for their skills to be at certain ages. She will start the puppies off by teaching them how rough is too rough during nursing and play. These lessons begin when the puppies start nursing day 1 and continue until the day you pick your puppy up from the breeder. This works for some puppies, but for others, it just seems to arouse the pup and make matters worse. You will have to experiment to find out what works for you and your pup. You should withdraw all of your attention from your puppy for very hard bites. Do not over-correct your puppy so they become afraid of biting. After your puppy has calmed down, use a chew toy as a reward and let them chew it in your lap or lying by your side. This teaches you puppy that there are other ways to keep their mouths and teeth busy. By four or five months, all force behind play bites should be eliminated. Kids tend to play rough with puppies, and puppies will get rough right back. Your puppy needs to know that every human being is sensitive to their bites, not just you. It is a process that sometimes lasts months, depending on your puppy. Be prepared for this, and remember that long-term results in your adult dog are more important than curtailing puppy bites as painful as they may be. Supervise your puppy around children — If you have young children at home, you will have to think carefully about how you will protect them and your puppy. Little puppy teeth can cause a lot of pain, especially when your pup is still learning to control those urges. Young children can also cause a lot of pain to small puppies. Always supervise very carefully when your pup and children are together. A tired puppy is a happy puppy — It will be much easier to teach bite inhibition if your puppy is not bouncing off the walls. Make sure they get enough exercise every day. Not only will this help with training, but it will also help prevent all kinds of other destructive behavior. Conclusion Teaching bite inhibition to your golden retriever puppy is a gift you give to your pup that will last forever. In reality, more than 4. Although only a tiny percentage have to seek medical attention, the experience can be unnerving for the person being bit and the dog owner. But to help your pup, you should understand why puppies and older dogs bite and what type of training will inhibit their inclination to bite. So, why do Golden puppies bite so much? Like human babies, puppies also teethe. Teething starts around three weeks when their first milk teeth come in. Once this process begins, your puppy will want to bite and chew on almost everything, including you! Biting helps relieve the pain in their gums and soothes some of the irritation as new teeth come in. Retrievers were originally bred to pick up and retrieve prey, which means using their mouths as a tool is part of their genetics. In the 19th century , hunters would use this breed to help them hunt waterfowl and other game. Once they shot down a bird, the dog would find it, pick it up in its mouth, and bring it back. Another factor is those foundational canine instincts. Guarding people, digging holes, turning around before lying down, and biting — these behaviors are part of the canine DNA. These early versions of domesticated dogs developed strong social instincts, which is why dogs today can become nervous when separated from their packs. When they feel alone and anxious, they might bark, howl, or start chewing or biting on anything they can find until you come home. Goldens, in particular, seek the approval of their owners. Training your puppy not to bite unwanted things and be gentle when using their mouth is known as bite inhibition. Most Golden Retriever puppies outgrow their biting habits. Usually, when teething is over and all their adult teeth have come in — at around six and seven months old — you can expect the puppy-biting phase to end. However, not every pup will stop on its own. Some will need training to break the habit. Of bites reported from to , Golden Retriever bites account for one bite every two years. If your Golden Retriever is biting, it might have underlying issues that require addressing. But seeing your older Golden bite can be alarming. Even the calmest dogs might bite if provoked. The better you understand where your dog is coming from, the easier it is to implement a solution. For instance, say an intruder breaks into your home. As a reaction, your dog might bark or growl. And, if they feel threatened enough, they might try to bite the intruder. This is an example of territorial aggression. Fear: if a dog feels cornered or trapped or is startled, their first instinct might be to bite. Maternal or protective: when your pet feels that someone in their pack is at risk, they might act aggressively to the perceived threat. Predatory: this is when a dog reacts to fast-moving things and starts aggressively chasing. Playful Playful biting is a lot like Golden Retriever puppy biting. This type of biting occurs when the dog never outgrows the puppy-play biting stage. If playfulness is behind the problem, teaching bite inhibition now by reinforcing positive behavior can go a long way in helping your dog drop their bad habits. For example, if a rambunctious puppy continually nips at an adult Golden Retriever, the older dog might snap at the younger puppy. This can happen when a dog is in pain because of a health issue. Golden Retrievers are genetically predisposed to several conditions that can cause pain and discomfort, including the following: Hip and elbow dysplasia Cancer Eye conditions, such as entropion Getting your Golden Retriever puppy from a reputable breeder can help to reduce the chances that your dog will develop these and other health conditions. The Golden Retriever breed has one of the highest cancer rates. And older dogs, in general, are more susceptible to disease. If you notice your dog starting to bite and growl for no apparent reason, it also might be worth talking to your vet to rule out health problems. But as every dog has a unique personality, you might need to work through different methods before successfully teaching bite inhibition. Here are three methods you can use to teach your Golden Retriever puppy not to bite. Method 1: Socialization Puppies who are properly socialized learn bite inhibition while nursing and playing. Both of these social feedback mechanisms help to teach a puppy to bite softly or not at all. Bringing your puppy to meet other playful pups or taking them to the dog park when they are ready can help them learn not to bite. A reputable breeder will also spend time socializing your Golden Retriever puppy with both other dogs and people. These interactions can help your puppy learn how to be gentle before you even bring them home. The key to this training technique is redirecting their focus before your dog can react. Method 3: Deterrence The name of the game here is to deter your puppy from having a satisfying experience when they start biting. There are a couple of ways deterrence training can work when teaching your Golden Retriever to stop biting. Golden Retriever puppies want to please their owners. Another option is to use a safe deterrence spray for puppies. For example, if your puppy has a habit of biting your furniture, you can apply an anti-chew spray like a bitter apple or bitter cherry. Eventually, your dog will start associating that fun thing to chew on with an awful taste and lose interest. Know that positive reinforcement is your best friend, no matter what training you use to teach your Golden Retriever to give up on biting. Successfully training your Golden Retriever comes down to understanding why the biting occurs. You can contact expert dog trainers who have experience with biting. Some trainers specialize in addressing underlying issues, such as aggression. Otherwise, your dog might never grow out of their habits. Instead, use socialization and puppy training tools to help your little Golden Retriever learn how to respond to different environments, triggers, and people. With social and lifestyle training, puppies are exposed to various situations, so they learn how to behave around other people, at the park, vet, and home. Ultimately, education during puppyhood is the foundation of a happy and healthy adulthood. At Snowy Pines, we teach our White Lab and English Cream Golden Retriever puppies the skills they need to be happy, tail-wagging dogs, including bite inhibition. Check out our Wagology curriculum and lifestyle modules today! Share on.

An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article Getty Images Every dog out there can't help but beg for table scraps every once in a while. But it turns out there's one breed that's more food-obsessed than the rest, and it's the most popular dog in America. A new study found Labrador retrievers are more likely than other breeds to beg for treats and generally be obsessed with food. That's because they have a specific gene mutation that sets them apart from the rest. It's the first of its kind that has been directly associated with canine obesity. The study, published in the journal Cell Metabolism , looked at specific genes that were related to obesity in humans. Obese dogs were more likely to have mutations in the gene POMC, and that genetic tweak was associated with food-motivated behaviors. Dogs with a specific POMC deletion were more likely to beg for food, pay attention at mealtimes, scavenge for scraps, and weigh more in general. Though not all food-obsessed dogs had the gene mutation, it was still a clear connection. And in a fascinating detail, the study also found that the gene mutation was more likely in Labradors that were working as assistance dogs. So if you have one of these pups, the researchers suggest keeping a closer eye on their weight. Make sure you're vigilant about portion control and don't give in to the puppy-dog eyes begging for a piece of steak at the dinner table. It's tough, but it's for your best friend's own good. Watch Next. Vets have mentioned that Labradors tend to be overweight dogs because of their begging. Why are Labrador retrievers always hungry? Why are Labradors obsessed with food? The latest studies in cell metabolism reflect the point that the over-hungry behaviour may be due to some biological factors. Results show that inability to switch off hunger is due to the modification in a gene, POMC. Additionally, due to this modification, Labradors cannot produce neuropeptides beta MSH and beta-endorphin, hunger switches. The same is the reason which causes obesity in dogs and especially in the Labrador breed. Along with this, there are chances that your Labrador is genuinely hungry, and it is not due to the absence of the mentioned substances. There is a possibility that the current food you are offering to your Labrador is not enough to complete its nutrient needs. Sometimes sickness also causes random and abnormal hunger in Labrador. Not only this, separation anxiety, along with stress or depression, also forces the dog to eat whatever is coming its way. Do Labrador retrievers eat a lot? As mentioned above, all of the explanations directly reflect that Labrador retrievers eat a lot. No matter what quality or quantity of food you are providing to your lab, it is going to demand food after an hour or even after 15 minutes. Again the reasons are somehow clear at this point it is due to the genetic modification which causes abnormal hunger in your Labrador. This abnormal hunger forces them to chew toys, socks, and stones. There is a wide range of methods to train a Labrador to stop begging for food and demand meals at their specific time. Proper training will teach your Labrador to control hunger rather than exploring the trash and eating grass and dirt. How many times a day should you feed a Labrador? Yes, we accept that Labradors eat a lot, but still, you should make a routine of feeding your Labrador so that it will not get an upset tummy or diarrhoea. Because of the food obsession, Labradors are more prone to get diarrhoea or other stomach problems, so you must feed them on a proper routine. The routine makes it easy for the Labrador to digest meals, and hence they get a smoothly running digestive system. Check out our article about How much to feed Labrador? The need and time for food will keep changing with the growing age of Labrador. Or we can say that a puppy will have a different food need as compared to the adult Labrador. For the Labrador puppies, it is highly recommended to feed them four times a day at the age of 3 months. For the Labradors between three to six months, the advice is to provide them only three times a day. Once your Labrador is older than six months, feed them twice a day. It is crucial to mention that parents should avoid feeding their puppy within 3 hours of leading up to bed. In case your Labrador is suffering from diarrhoea or soft stools, then you must feed it with smaller different meals rather than a few large meals. Some love it more than others, and some of those are Labrador retrievers—the bottomless pits of the canine world. Dog obesity isn't something we talk about a lot, but there sure is a lot of it. In the U. Some breeds, like black labs, chocolate labs, and golden retrievers, are more obesity-prone than others. This is likely because, like many of us, they are highly motivated by food. But those treats add up. The domesticated dog, Canis familiaris, is a single species with a lot of variations. Great Danes and Chihuahuas are both dogs, but their bloodlines, and therefore their genes, are dramatically different. And all those differences within a single species make dog breeds a great resource for scientists studying genetics. Researchers recruited nearly adult Labrador participants. Of those dogs, were pets recruited through an email invitation from the UK Kennel Club, and 80 were part of an assistance-dog breeding colony. Some of the dogs were fat, while others were not, but all of them were healthy, with no pre-existing conditions. First, the dogs were weighed. Then the scientists collected drool samples from 33 of the dogs and sequenced the DNA within. As relatives, of course, the labs had a great deal of genetic material in common with each other and with other dog breeds. But they also had one gene variant that stood out: the deletion of 14 base pairs from a gene called pro-opiomelanocortin, or POMC. Previous studies of this POMC variant have shown a relationship with appetite and a feeling of fullness. Each dog could have one copy of the POMC variant, two copies, or none. The more copies a dog had, the fatter and more food-motivated it was. And about 23 percent of labs are carrying at least one copy of the variant. So further research in these obese Labradors may not only help the well-being of companion animals but also have important lessons for human health. For example, though they have to meet specific requirements, commercial dog foods may differ in nutrient composition, where one type of dog food carries the nutrients your dog needs in a small amount while another gives the nutrients in a larger amount. In the first case, feeding your dog twice daily would be enough. But if your dog needs a larger amount to meet his nutritional needs, then you may need to feed him more times. Reading the dog food listing on the package should help you decide on the number of times to feed your Lab. Alternatively, refer to the serving instructions on the dog food package. This dog food is made to provide a balanced feed to Labradors older than a year and balances out the fat and protein ratio to suit the breed. To answer the question of how often you should feed a Labrador with this particular product, the serving suggestion on the Royal Canin Labrador food package shows the number of cups your Labrador should eat per day in relation to its weight and activity level, divided into two meals. For example, a pound 20 kg Labrador with an hour of daily activity should be fed 4 cups 1 L of Royal Canin divided into two meals. Activity Level Labradors with a high activity level should be fed more food to replenish the energy expended during exercise. The more food a dog eats, the more you should break it down into smaller meals. For example, a pound 35 kg male Labrador is assigned 6 cups of Royal Canin food if he does 1 hour of activity daily. The increased food amount would be better divided into three meals rather than the usual two. This rationing is because feeding your dog more than it is used to eat in a single meal can cause slowed digestion and, consequently, bloating and stomach discomfort. A healthy dog feeding option is a 3-meal daily schedule breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Health Labradors with health issues need special feeding plans. The rule for the number of times a sick Labrador should be fed is they should eat in small quantities several times daily. The food should be easy to eat and digest, like chicken breast or gravy. Doing this will ensure that your dog gets the required nutrients and does not risk malnourishment. Instead, if you work from home, you may opt for healthier, smaller meals 3-times a day. For example, you may already feed your Lab the right amount of food recommended for his age, weight, and activity level twice a day, but your dog always leaves food in his bowl. In this case, you may want to divide the food into three smaller meals. Dividing the food will ensure your dog eats the recommended amount and gets the required nutrition. Creating a Labrador feeding plan also means not allowing your Lab to eat every bit of food or non-food items he finds on his way. We will tell you how in the next section. Consult your vet. Lab food with all the recommended nutrients and the right amount of fiber will make your dog feel full and not required to eat always. You can work that out with your vet before reaching out to a dog food company. I really like Ollie as it makes feeding times so easy, and you can relax knowing your doggo is getting all the proper nutrients. Understanding why Labradors always feel hungry due to a genetic cause is reason enough not to give in to their begging. Giving in once means giving in always, and that will keep your dog asking for food at the table or even stealing it himself when you are not around. If your Lab is the kind that likes to eat everything, time spent working the puzzle could save him a few extra bites. For example, keeping your Lab busy with slow feeders while you have your meal is a perfect way of keeping him from begging for table scraps. If a puzzle or slow feeder sounds to you like an answer to the question of how to stop a Labrador from eating everything, I recommend the Outward Hound Slow Feeder Dog Bowl from Amazon. Whichever the case, your vet has the best answer to all these situations. There are several reasons why Labradors eat fast: your dog may have the POMC gene mutation that makes him always hungry and wanting to gobble down his food; your Lab may have a hunger-triggering illness like diabetes, or your Lab may be unsure of his next meal if your feeding schedule is irregular. Other reasons your Lab may be hurrying to eat his meal include: A learned behavior to eat quickly. Poor nutrition that makes him always hungry and in a hurry to replenish his energies. Competition for food resources with other pets in the home. If, instead, your Lab has a medical, nutritional, or stress issue, resolving the causes will help your Lab grow out of eating everything. Do you want to learn more about pica in Labradors? Why do Labradors eat so much? For no fault of their own. A good number of Labs have a mutation of the POMC gene that makes them perpetually hungry and always want to eat. Some Labs may eat a lot due to nutritional deficiencies, illnesses that trigger hunger like diabetes, or stress. Related Posts You May Like:. Interestingly, the University of Cambridge study found that the POMC gene mutation is significantly more common in Labrador Retrievers who are selected to become assistance dogs. Unfortunately, an underlying medical problem is another reason why Labs always feel hungry. If your dog has suddenly developed an increased appetite, then a visit to the vet is definitely in order. Canine diabetes can also make a dog feel hungry all the time. If this is the problem there are some ways to fix it. Between meal snacks should be the first thing you remove or change. This includes those used for training purposes Commercial snacks pack a lot of calories, often without any nutritional value. Consider vegetables, fruit, and other healthier alternatives. Portion Control Knowing how much food to give your Labrador is not always as easy as reading the label. Although this should give you some guidelines. How much food a Lab needs will differ from dog to dog and brand to brand. If so, you may need to reduce the amount of food he gets at mealtimes. Start by giving him a third less food than normal. This article offers more tips on feeding a Labrador. On average a male Labrador should weigh between 65 and 80 pounds. A female should weigh from 55 to 70 pounds. This is because, like people, pets have different bone structures. They can be outside the average weight range and still be at their optimal weight. Look at your dog from different angles. Also, you should feel for his ribs. These are good ways to tell if they need to lose weight. You should be able to detect a waistline when looking at your dog from above. There should also be a slight tuck up behind the ribs. When lightly running your hands along the sides of the dog you should be able to feel their ribs.

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She can eat on her own now and loves to fight with your hands We can deliver locally within miles of zip code .Harley is a very sweet and gentle dog. Michigan Golden Retriever Classifieds Hoobly. Find the perfect puppy for sale in Michigan at Next Day Pets. He is sweet, attentive and protective. Socialized with dogs and children of all sizes. Flint, MI .Free Dog for Good Home. Two Bulldog puppies one male one female. Michigan If you haven't settled on a particular breed you can find all the breeds of puppies and dogs we have for sale or adoption near Michigan in these listings. Bella is well kept very playful have lots if energy and but very calm Really needs a family that has time for » Read more ». Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog. This is a reposting of something I first posted as a personal note elsewhere, dated April 20, .Brutus left us last week. April 17, , at about in the afternoon. The little one, the black pug, Brutus had lived with us for almost seventeen years. I am very grateful for the support of friends, family, neighbors. I am not feeling the loss as sharply as I thought I might. In fact, I almost feel a kind of lightness. In fact, I find reminders of him—ghosts, phantom Brutuses—everywhere. But not sadness. This is my attempt to explain why. Or the next day, when we parked our car in the driveway of a farmhouse in Grass Lake, Michigan, and got out to look at the six remaining pugs one had already been sold. The seller, a nurse at the U-M hospital for whom the trek from Grass Lake to Ann Arbor was a short commute, held up a cardboard box with the three-week old pugs for us to inspect. Three of the hamster-sized lumps of tan and black fur slept through the whole affair. One fawn-colored male jumped up and rudely stomped over the others in its excited rush to have a look at the new strangers. Gabriel found it too aggressive. A black-coated female meekly let herself be trampled without complaint; too passive. But a third, a black-coated male, nipped at the offending aggressor, then calmly walked over to the edge of the box to satisfy its own curiosity about us. This one came home with us and became Brutus. For the next month or so Brutus kept the house in turmoil: a month-old puppy is as messy, unpredictable, and demanding as an eleven-month-old baby. But before long we settled into a routine. Or rather, a sequence of routines that changed as Brutus grew and, eventually, aged. One predictable routine was feeding. Once in the morning, once in the evening. Plus whenever Brutus smelled food or suspected food-related activities might be going on. The thing about pugs is, they are endlessly hungry, always on the lookout for a snack, a scrap, a handout, a dropped crumb or morsel. A second routine, in the early years, was the battle to keep Brutus off the furniture. And I think that was exactly why we would almost always come back from a long day at the office or an evening out to find Brutus jumping off the forbidden furniture. Perhaps, too, he thought that getting into minor trouble would bring us running back to scold him. At first, Brutus slept at night in a puppy crate, the method of house-training that had been recommended to us. It worked: within a month, Brutus was reliably holding it all in until he got outside. At some point though was it months or years? Still, for years he would come bounding up the steps to stand at the foot of our bed, or even try to jump onto it, if he thought I was taking too long to get downstairs and take care of him. The other daily routine we had was our walks, one in the morning, one in the evening, right after his meals. I did most of the walking with Brutus, and got to know the neighborhood and our neighbors—or rather, the few neighbors who made occasional appearances outside their houses—in the process. Except on days when I was on call to help get Gabriel to school or back, our walks were always long, and they got longer with the years. By the time Gabriel went off to college, we rarely walked for less than half an hour or less than a solid mile each time. We explored the greater neighborhood, crossing Monroe to go as far as Almendinger Park, or heading the other way, across Liberty and even over to Main Street a few times. You might not believe it, but we decided on these routes together. Eventually we settled on a favorite route: past Bach School, down Williams to the corner of Second where a retired woman who wished she could handle pets of her own regularly left out doggie snacks for every passing walker; then over to Jefferson and back home. Within three weeks, Rootboy had grown bigger than the pug, and within the year he had reached his full size, as big as a Shetland pony and dangerous to look at, but as sweet and deferential as could be toward his smaller, older mentor. That was the routine, for years. We were famous in the neighborhood, or at any rate Brutus was: on our walks, he would get shout-outs from people I had never met. Outdoor games consisted mainly of throwing sticks and watching Brutus run after and proudly capture them. Indoors, for lack of other canines in the house, he would play-fight with me or Gabriel much as he would with other dogs when he had the good luck to spend an afternoon with a dog-friend. Brutus would play-attack it, and sometimes clamp down hard enough on his imaginary dog-friend that he would dangle from the towel when we lifted it up. It looked brutal, but he loved it. Brutus in his salad days Fall , age 3 In later years, the routines began to change. First to go was the dog-play. In his elder years, he lost interest in the sticks, the towel games, even in spending time with other dogs. That was puppy stuff. Next, the battle over the furniture ended. At some point, and I no longer remember how many years ago this was, we realized that Brutus was no longer able to jump onto the sofas or chairs. Even going out the front door and down the steep steps from the porch to the ground became a struggle; we would leave for his walks out the back door, or else I would carry him down—a humiliation Brutus forcefully resisted. Next to fade away were the walks. Very nearly to the end, we continued our long walks, but as he paused longer and longer and walked more and more slowly, the time it took to walk the mile to Second Street and back grew from half an hour to 45 minutes and then a full hour. Then came the harsh winters, and Brutus no longer felt like walking at all. A quick nip out the back door to do his business and he was done. In the last year, though, these ventures rarely took us beyond our own block, though it still might take half an hour to go to the end of the block and back. In his last spring, March and April of , Brutus decided that he no longer needed the street at all. Puttering around his own back yard was enough. He no longer begged for bread. He no longer chased crumbs. He was no longer able to digest apple slices, and I had to stop offering them to him. Kibbles that escaped him were left on the floor where they landed; I would have to gather them up and put them right under his nose for him to find. Some days he was barely hungry at all. He would look at his bowl through his clouded eyes and walk away. He was letting us know, it was time. In his last days, Brutus got into the habit of lying down and sleeping in the oddest places: on the bathroom rug, by the foot of a chair in the living room, sprawled in the doorway to my office. They lay across the household paths he knew we walked every day. Even as he was leaving us, he wanted to be sure we saw him, and wanted to be able to tell by a smell or a rustling of his fur when we were near. But he was leaving us, it became clearer and clearer as the end approached. By letting his old routines fall, one after another, by the wayside, he was letting go. And, at the same time, leaving ghosts behind. In the months or years since I stopped feeding him bits of apple, I have still imagined him there, in my mind, waiting patiently by my feet for his own diced share, though by the end he was more than likely still sleeping soundly in his bed. Habits he let go of long ago. Brutus doing what he did best in later years Jan. He has been letting go of us for months, for years, generously leaving memories behind. Last week, he finally let go of the rest of life. To let him let go. He slipped off peacefully, contented. His life was full. I thank you for your concern, your condolences, your sadness for our loss. I feel—what? Fulfilled, perhaps. Goodbye, Brutus. I still see you here.

Teary, sunken, and caked in eye gunk Ears Clean without any dirt and wax Dirty and waxy with signs of earworms Nose Damp and cool to touch Dry and warm Pink jaw with well-spaced teeth Pale or inflamed gums with tightly packed teeth Skull Head size is proportional to the body The head is either too large, too flat, or too wide Behavior Lethargic and tired Similarities Between Healthy Pug and Unhealthy Pug Although there are many differences between a healthy pug and an unhealthy pug, there are also some similarities between the two. Body Type — Both healthy and unhealthy pugs are small, short-haired breeds with distinctive wrinkled faces and curled tails. Health Issues — Both types of pugs can be prone to certain health issues, such as breathing problems and eye issues, due to the shape of their face and skull. Food and Exercise Needs — Both healthy and unhealthy pugs need proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care to thrive. Personality — In terms of personality, both healthy and unhealthy pugs are known for being loyal, affectionate, and playful. However, an unhealthy pug may not have the energy or enthusiasm of a healthy pug due to poor health. Pug Skull vs Normal Dog Skull? Click here to learn more. Signs Your Pug is Healthy Some of the distinctive signs of healthy pugs are listed below. Shiny Coat — A healthy pug will have a smooth, shiny coat that is free of tangles or mats. Bright Eyes — Healthy pugs will have bright, clear eyes without any discharge or redness. Good Appetite — A healthy pug will be eager to eat and make some noise at dinner time. Regular Bowel Movements — Healthy pugs will produce firm, well-formed stools. Good Energy Levels — Healthy pugs will be able to run, play, and interact with you without difficulty. Signs Your Pug is Unhealthy Some common signs of an unhealthy pug are as follows. Dull Coat — An unhealthy pug has a dull, dry coat that lacks shine. Sunken Eyes — Unhealthy pugs have sunken eyes, which can be a sign of dehydration or illness. Lack of Appetite — An unhealthy pug may not eat at all and it can be a massive sign that your pup needs medical attention. Irregular Bowel Movements — Unhealthy pugs may produce loose or runny stools. Lethargic Behavior — An unhealthy pug is more tired and inactive than usual, lacking the energy and playfulness of a healthy pug. Frequent Illness — If your pug is frequently sick or prone to infections, it may be a sign of poor health. Common Health Issues with Pugs Pugs are small, stocky dogs that are prone to certain health issues. Some common health issues with pugs include: Breathing problems Pugs have flat faces and short noses which can cause respiratory issues. They may struggle to breathe in hot or humid weather, and they may snore or have difficulty panting. Eye Issues Pugs are prone to eye problems, such as dry eye, eye infections, and eye injuries. They may also develop cherry eye, a condition where the gland in the eye becomes swollen and protrudes. Skin Issues Pugs may develop skin allergies or irritations, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss. Orthopedic issues Pugs may develop joint problems, such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia, which can cause pain and difficulty moving. Obesity: Pugs are prone to obesity, which can lead to other health issues such as diabetes, heart problems, and joint problems. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your pug to the vet for a check-up. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. With over 40 years of experience, Shawn trains people to properly establish and maintain leadership roles with their canine companions. Shawn has trained with several acclaimed canine experts and refined The Dog Way training methods through experience and observation of dogs' natural interactions within their groups. Deciding you want to purchase a pug puppy is exciting. However, you want to make sure you find the right puppy for you. Make sure you seek out reputable breeders so your puppy does not come with any health problems. Visit the puppies in person and choose the one that suits your needs. Ask the breeder plenty of questions about the puppy's current health and pedigree. Before bringing your new friend home, make sure your house is puppy proofed. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Pug puppies come with a unique set of needs. Puppies in general require more care than an adult dog. Before embarking on your journey to find a pug puppy, consider whether you can accommodate one at the moment. Make sure you have time for a puppy. Puppies need extra feeding, as well socialization and training. If you have a very busy schedule, you may want to wait for things to settle down before getting a puppy. Pugs, as a pet, require some maintenance. The folds in their faces need regular cleaning, and they're also prone to a great deal of shedding. Make sure you can live with frequent grooming, and accept the fact your house will never quite be hair-free. Like all breeds, pugs are prone to certain health problems. While a good breeder is adept at breeding out such problems, there are certain problems that are hard to breed out. These are usually simply due to how a pug is built. Learn the risks associated with pugs and make sure you're prepared to deal with them down the road. All pugs, regardless of breeding, are prone to eye problems. Pug's distinctive, bulging eyes expose a large area of their corneas, which puts their eyes at risk of drying out or forming ulcers. You may have to deal with frequent vet visits to deal with eye issues. Pugs are very prone to overheating because their flattened faces makes it hard for them to breathe. This problem can be even worse in hot weather, and overheating can cause serious health issues for a pug. Behaviorally, pugs are a more social breed. They are more prone to separation anxiety issues than other breeds. If you're gone a lot, a pug may not be the right dog for you. When searching for a breeder, there are a few places to scratch off your list right away. Puppy mills and very obviously bad breeders should be avoided. You're more likely to get a pug with existing health problems, or the risk of developing health problems down the road. In general, do not trust a breeder who simply sells dogs online from any given buyer. A breeder who does not ask any questions is probably not a good breeder. Responsible breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes. Puppy mills sometimes sell puppies to pet stores, so avoid buying a pug from a pet store. Puppy mills may also sell pugs online. If you can simply look at a picture of a puppy and purchase it, this is probably a puppy mill. Start your search locally. If you're lucky, you will be able to find a breeder who lives nearby. Look for ads in the newspaper, online, at local pet stores and veterinary clinics, and at any local pet clubs. A breeder in your area is convenient, as you will not have to travel far to see the puppies. Just because someone is a local breeder, do not assume they are an ethical one. Make sure to visit any breeder in person and look at the puppies physically before purchasing one. Unfortunately, not all areas have pug breeders close by. In some cases, you may have to travel to meet and select a puppy. There are many places you can look online to locate the nearest pug breeder. The Pug Dog Club keeps a list of reputable breeders online. You can search for the closest breeder there. The American Kennel Club also has a database of dog breeders. You can search there by breed. Remember to have patience. Even if you find a good breeder relatively close to you, they may not have puppies available for a while. You may have to wait a few months before taking home your pug puppy. Call a few breeders during your search. Pay close attention to your interactions. Learn the signs of a good breeder. Only work with breeders who are responsible and care about their dogs. Their facilities should be clean and spacious. They will be flexible in scheduling a time for you to see the puppies. A solid breeder will usually only breed one type of dog, or only a few types of dogs. The breeder should be very knowledgeable of pugs. During your initial conversation, the breeder will want to go over some basic pug care information with you. Good breeders do not have anything to hide. Not only will the be willing to let you see the dog's pedigree and meet their parents, they will actually encourage this. When you select a breeder to meet up with, make sure to ask a variety of questions. You want to make sure their puppies are a good match for you and your home. You also want to make sure the breeder is responsible and that the puppies are in good health. Interacting with a dog's mother and father can give you a sense of your puppy's future temperament. Ask questions about the breeder's credentials. Ask how long they've been breeding pugs. A more experienced breeder is more likely to produce healthier puppies. Ask about the puppy's parents. Make sure the parents do not have any inheritable diseases. Ask if you can see the health certificates for the parents on request. You should also ask about what treatment the puppies have received. Have they been vaccinated or de-wormed? Have they been spayed or neutered yet? When you get a chance to interact with the puppies, look closely at the puppy's you like. Pugs are prone to certain abnormalities. You can detect a potential issue by examining the dog's eyes, as well as how it breathes and moves. Watery eyes, squinted eyes, or glazed over eyes are signs of poor health. Hold the puppy close to you to hear it breathe. Raspy, labored breathing is generally a bad sign. Watch the puppy moving and at rest. It's not uncommon for pugs to breathe through their mouths when running around. However, a resting puppy should be able to comfortably breathe through its nose. There should be no signs of limping or an uneven gain if the puppies are old enough to walk. If you notice a puppy walking funny, listen for a clicking noise from the hips. This indicates the dog may develop hip problems later in life. As you interact with the puppies, aim for one with a good temperament. You want a puppy that's not too shy, but also one that's not overly rambunctious. You want a puppy that allows you to pick it up without squirming. A very aggressive or very standoffish puppy can be a problem. Once you've selected two or three pugs you like, request one-on-one time with them. You want a puppy that is friendly away from its litter. A friendly puppy will wag its tail, allow you to pet it, and look at you when you talk. A good breeder will be as scrutinizing of you as you are of them. Breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes, so don't be put off if a breeder asks you a lot of questions. This is a good sign. The breeder wants to make sure you will take good care of the puppy. They will also want to know about your general lifestyle and how you plan to care for the dog. If this is your first pug, don't panic. A breeder is unlikely to reject you simply because you don't have specific experience with pugs. As long as you've done some research on the breed, the breeder will probably be willing to sell to you if you're responsible. A good breeder will always be willing to provide this information. After selecting the puppy you want, ask for its pedigree as well as a certificate of health. These papers should assure you the puppy is in good health, and that its family tree is relatively free of inheritable conditions. Puppies need frequent vet visits. You should have a certification on hand showing what vaccinations and other treatments your dog has already received. As you prepare to bring your puppy home, make sure you're ready. Your puppy should enter your home with all the supplies it needs to thrive ready. You will need the following: [7] X Research source A crate to transport your puppy home and for crate training later Bedding Collar, leash, and identification tag Toys Grooming supplies i. Before bringing your dog home, you will need to pug proof your house. Pugs are inquisitive animals and prone to getting into things. You want to make sure your pug cannot get into any dangerous substances or places. Make sure all electrical wires are covered or out of reach. Keep things like household cleaners and detergents out of reach. Place them in high kitchen cabinets. Prevent access to staircases, as young pugs can easily slip and fall on the stairs. A good breeder will present you with a contract prior to purchase. This outlines your basic responsibilities and the breeder's return policy. Read the contract carefully before signing. If there's anything you don't understand, ask the breeder. You want the option of returning a dog in the event it has a health problem you cannot afford to treat. Once the contract is signed and your home is ready, you can bring your new friend home. You can now enjoy your pug puppy, and begin the process of training and caring for your new lifelong friend. Caring for your Pug Pugs can be highly entertaining dogs due to their big personalities and clownish nature. They generally do well in family environments where they have lots of company all of the time as they love to spend time with everybody. Pugs and barking As with any dog, your Pug is likely to make noise in one form or another. How much your dog barks will be down to them as an individual. Training and socialisation When it comes to training Pugs, although they are a clever breed they can also be very strong willed. Training needs to be ongoing and firm but fair. You can start positive, reward-based training from day one, whether you get your Pug old or young. Exercise Pugs can be prone to gaining weight that can make breathing problems worse, so it is important to keep them active and avoid any weight gain. Your Pug will need up to an hour of exercise a day. This should include shorter walks, with extra playtime and lots of brain-stimulating activities. Several shorter walks throughout the day can help to stop them from becoming too tired or overheated, which is a great way to keep them active throughout the day. Keep a close eye on your Pug as they can tire easily due to their difficulties getting enough oxygen. As soon as you start to notice them struggling to breathe, stop and make sure they get enough of a rest. You will also need to avoid exercising them in the heat as this can cause even more problems since they can be at higher risk of heatstroke. Grooming Even though their coats are short, Pugs can still shed loads. Luckily, they tend to love being groomed as it means a lot of attention all on them. Pay close attention to the folds in their skin, as these are the perfect breeding ground for bacterial and fungal infections if left damp. You can teach your Pug from an early age to love tooth brushing and nail clipping so you can keep those pearly whites and paws in great condition. Pugs and children Pugs adore company and really love people of all ages. They often get on well with children, especially if the Pug loves to play. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Always supervise children and vulnerable people with your Pug and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. Pugs and other pets Pugs are known for getting along well with other pets and dogs. Introductions still need to be done carefully, though, just in case. Good, kind training will also help them become well-rounded dogs that keep calm in new situations. Your vet or vet nurse will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards for breeding. See our advice on what you need to know about flat faced pets and how to choose a healthier pedigree pet. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, some centres will vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will have already neutered the dogs they rehome where appropriate. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or if your dog outgrows them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catching any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. A group of Pugs is called a grumble! Pugs are an ancient breed, dating back to Ancient China where they were bred for Emperors. Pugs were bred to be companions, which is why they love people so much. Getting a Pug Do plenty of research before you get a Pug. Although they are loveable and friendly, they are sadly likely to get a lot of health issues more so than many other breeds. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Pug. Breed-specific rescues specialising in Pugs are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any existing health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will have been well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if a Pug is the right pet for you? Now, I have to decide which Pug puppy to bring home. I'm so nervous that I'll choose the wrong dog. How can I possibly know I am choosing a Pug puppy that is the best one for me? They're all going to be so cute! Answer: Hi Ashley. We agree that all of the puppies are going to be adorable and cute! However, there are definitely some guidelines that you can follow when you are trying to pick out the perfect Pug pup. We are not sure if it matters to you if you have a male or female. There are not that many differences, despite what others may say. While potential health problems may not be visible, there are 3 things that everyone should do: Check the eyes, breathing and gait. The Eyes: The eyes are not only the window to the soul, they can also give you a clue about the health of the dog. Watering, squinting or a glazed film on the eyes is a sign of health issues. Breathing: Hold the puppy close to your ear and listen carefully. Do you hear rattling and rasping? This is a sign of a breathing problem. Does the puppy have to breath through his or her mouth? If the puppy is at rest, they should be able to breath fine with their mouth closed this can be a stenotic nare issue, which often needs to be corrected with a surgical procedure. Watch the puppy walk: While young pups under the age of 6 weeks may still be gaining their footing, take note of any limping or odd gait issues. If you do notice an odd gait, listen for any clicking noises coming from the hip area. This sort of issue may be caused by underdeveloped hip bones joint and socket , a health problem not uncommon with the Pug breed. Interaction and Activity Some people will tell you that you should pick the puppy that comes right over to you first. This is not the best advice. Puppies that are very bold like that may be harder to train. Their enthusiasm may be great fun for a while, but keeping up with and trying to train such a puppy may turn out to be stressful. When you are choosing a Pug puppy, it is usually best to choose one who is quiet and calm. However, you most certainly need to make sure that the pug is not too quite due to an illness or extreme shyness. You don't want to bring home an ill pup and choosing a dog that is overly shy may make for a pet that is afraid of everything and will be in need of extensive of socialization training. It is recommended to have a close look at several puppies that stay in the background. If a Pug puppy is laying listless without any energy at all, this is a warning sign that the dog may be unhealthy. A calm Pug that does respond to you when picked up is what you should be looking for. Listen to the breathing for any signs of labored breathing or rasps. If the breathing is clear, take a look at the eyes. They should be bright and clear without an excessive discharge. With 2 or 3 puppies now left for you to decide on, take a look at how each one responds to you and how they respond to each other. Wiggle a toy in front of a puppy or whistle to him or her and see if the pup shows natural curiosity. The one for you should come over to you to investigate. Allow the whole litter to play with a toy. Take notice of the ones that seem to be bossy and the ones that seem to play fair. Take note of the ones who cower in the corner if the others fight for the toys. You will want to choose a Pug puppy who falls somewhere in the middle. This will ensure you have one that has a calm, yet curious personality. Finally, when you have it narrowed down to 2, do not feel rushed. Take time to sit down with each and talk to them. Does the pup look at you when you talk? Does he or she keep their tail high or wag the tail to express happiness? At this point, you should get a good feeling about which puppy is the one that is meant for you. Please remember, that just because you have an appointment to pick up a dog does not mean that you must go home with one. If the litter seems ill, all of the dogs seem aggressive or you do not feel a bond with any of the puppies it is absolutely acceptable to relay this to the breeder. While you may be very disappointed at first, in the long run you will be happy that you waited. When you are holding the Pug puppy that is right for you, you will know it. And what a lucky guy or girl that will be! Ready to begin his or her new journey as part of your family! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. This question is usually accompanied with wanting a list of questions to be asking the Pug breeder. Based on this feedback I wanted to give you the ultimate list of questions to ask, plus all the warning signs that should make you walk away. Not just warning sings about the Pug puppy, but also her mother and the breeder too. Things to know before buying a Pug puppy The moment you see that adorable Pug puppy for the first time will last with you forever, it certainly did with me when we first met our own dog. Just take a step back for a second. I wish we had, but luckily, our dog ended up being ok, but it could have been very different: Pugs are a notorious breed for health problems and unscrupulous breeders. With their cute squashed faces and cuddly squat bodies, they will tug at your heart strings. You will be tempted to just take that Pug puppy and go. But please, please, please… before you do that, here are some things you should check before you pay your money. Your pug will become a huge part of your life, but make sure you know what to look for before you buy a puppy. Read these before you spend the money. By doing this due diligence you should hopefully get a puppy that not only fits your family and lifestyle, but also lives a long and happy life. You want to choose one that has a track record, online reviews, and a good reputation in the Pug world… not some first timer nobody has heard of which would be a big red flag. Be suspicious of low prices: If the Pug puppies are advertised as a lower than average price, be wary. The old adage about if it looks too good to be true is almost always the case with puppies. Low prices can be a sign of an unhealthy litter. Find out how many litters the mother has had already: Pug mothers should not have anything more than one litter each year. The best scenario would be a litter every couple of years. More pregnancies than this mean she has been over-bred and both her and the puppies could have health problems. Look out for serious conditions and hereditary issues including dwarfism, hip and spine issues, soft palate issues, eye problems, and hearing problems. I would recommend getting a puppy from a Pug older than this just to be sure. Before 8 weeks of age, they should still be with her, and it can also help you understand what type of dog your puppy will grow up to be. If the breeder refuses access to the mother, walk away. Ask where the puppies have been living: If the Pugs have been in a dark garage away from human interaction it will mean they will be harder to socialize and harder to train. Ask how often the Pugs have been handled: When puppies are regularly handled by humans, they will be much easier when taken home. Ask whether a vet has checked the puppies: Puppies should have been checked by a vet and had their first set of vaccinations before going to their new home. Ask to speak to a previous buyer:A reputable breeder will let you talk to people who have bought a Pug puppy from them before. If they are unable to supply references and contacts, they could be hiding something. I hope you find these questions to ask a Pug breeder helpful. Please do print them off before you visit the litter and decide to buy. The personality of the Pug breeder This is so often over-looked, but I wanted to add it on as something to look for when buying a Pug puppy. Only buy a Pug puppy from a breeder who is prepared to take the time to answer any questions and concerns you might have. Breeders that treat buyers with respect will most likely extend that kindness to the Pug mother and her puppies. This gives you an indication of what health problems could in store. These can include: Allergies. Your dog will never verbally tell you they are happy, but here are 11 signs that will help you determine whether your dog is happy. Even though your dog will NEVER come out and say it, there are certain signs to watch for such as their body position, tail wag and position, soliciting attention, overall health, sleeping habits, and some other bodily signs can spot easily. Their big bulging eyes can make it challenging to know what they are feeling. In fact, Mindy my black Pug had eyes that always made her look sad. Instead, look for some of these other body signals to help you determine whether your Pug is happy. However, they will communicate their feelings through their body language. Every dog is unique and NOT every dog will demonstrate the same behaviors and actions. If you just got a Pug, then it may take some time to notice their behaviors and body language. According to Dog Grooming Board, dogs have over facial expressions. Personally, I tend to believe that Pugs only have a few, happy, sad , and curious. Pay attention to your Pug, they will show you a happy face expression to let you know they are content and happy with their life. Pugs are known for panting. Especially, if they are getting attention such as belly rubs or being pet. If they are breathing heavily and their mouth is open, it could be a sign that your dog is hot or stressed, which is NOT a happy dog. If your dog is comfortable and happy, their muscles will be relaxed when they are lying down. However, a happy Pug will wag their tail, sometimes they will even wag their whole body. Mindy used to wag her tail, it was so cute. Pugs naturally have a curly tail. Most dog breeds will raise their tails when they are happy and confident. Pugs, on the other hand, will have a tight curly tail to express their happiness and health. Happy Pugs love playing and going for walks with their humans. Puppies are known for destructive chewing as a sign of stress or boredom. A happy dog is less likely to destroy your home. If your pooch is showing signs of destructive behavior, it means they are not getting enough physical and mental stimulation. This can lead to boredom, unhappiness, and separation anxiety. Make sure you have plenty of toys to keep your dog busy, especially, when you are not home to give them the attention they need. Pugs love to eat! If your Pug has a good appetite and eats without you having to hand feed them, they are most likely happy. My Pug used to get so excited at mealtime. This is a sign of submission and satisfaction. If you see this, you should know they are happy. Pugs have a playful bow where they stick their rear up. The dog lowers her chest to the ground, while their rear is in the air. Healthy happy adult Pugs love to sleep , in fact, they sleep a lot. If you have a puppy, they may take some quick naps. As your dog ages, they will spend more time lounging around napping. A happy Pug will greet you at the door, get excited when you wake up in the morning and watch you as you walk around the house. If they are happy, they will try climbing up on your lap or just lay beside leaning up against you. Like you, when your dog is healthy, they are happy. As a pet parent, we all want our Pugs to be happy. Start paying attention to the signs that Fido is showing you. Pugs are NOT hard to make happy, regardless of what you think. This is a generally content and attentive dog. If you pay close attention, they seem to be happiest when they are getting ready to eat!