boxer puppy schedule
Also, poop containing blood might indicate that your Doodle has caught parvovirus. Parvo in dogs is very easily spread and can cause severe complications. Parvo poop may contain blood, so it appears red, very dark brown, or even black. Puppies with parvo may experience yellow colored poop. Usually, parvo poop is very liquid-y and has a very strong, foul smell. But always discuss this with your vet and follow their exact guidelines. You should also provide your Doodle fresh drinking water at all times. This only applies to adult dogs with no underlying medical conditions. Puppies and dogs with illnesses should not be fasting. So what helps a dog with diarrhea fast? During the fast, you can prepare your dog rice water, which helps with stool consistency. But what can I give my dog to harden his stool? A bland diet of plain boiled white rice and chicken breast without skin and bones is usually recommended, especially after the fast. But do not add any seasonings or fats fatty foods can worsen diarrhea! Also, plain cooked eggs or boiled potatoes without skin or seasonings can be helpful. Plain boiled white rice and chicken breast Plain boiled potatoes At first it may be necessary to give your dog only small portions at a time. Bland food helps soothe an upset stomach and firm up the stool. After a day or two you can gradually introduce regular dog food back into their diet. The dog elimination diet includes only one type of protein and one type of carbohydrate over the span of 8 to 12 weeks. But this should only be done if your vet recommends so. Divide the daily amount into smaller portions that you can feed your dog throughout the day. Dog Diarrhea — Pumpkin Remedy The American Kennel Club recommends 1 to 4 tablespoons of pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin to bulk up the stool and to balance the PH level of the large intestines source. Again, the pumpkin should be as clean as possible, so: no additives, sweeteners, or canned pumpkin pie fillings. As always, discuss this with your vet first. Smaller dogs should not eat as much pumpkin as larger dogs. Plain eggs are a great bland food that your Doodle could benefit from. Banana is another plain food that you could feed to your Doodle as a diarrhea remedy. You can try mashing up a few small pieces of peeled banana without any seasonings. In mild cases of diarrhea, a piece of plain bread could help. However, since wheat has a higher protein content, it may cause allergic reactions and, in turn, more diarrhea. Also, regular bread has a relatively low nutrient content. Rather, opt for a bland diet of rice and chicken. In cases of simple diarrhea, vets usually recommend the hour fast and the bland diet. If your Doodle suffers from an allergy, the elimination diet or special dog food may be required. These can include Imodium, metronidazole, tylosin, Panacur, Drontal and Dolpac. Imodium for Dogs For severe cases of diarrhea, your vet might recommend Imodium to help combat dehydration caused by diarrhea. However, never give your Doodle Imodium unless your vet has instructed you to do so. It can cause severe constipation, bloating, and even pancreatitis. Furthermore, some breeds have a hard time breaking down certain drugs. For example, Aussiedoodles may carry the Multidrug Sensitivity gene. In conclusion, dog diarrhea is not a pleasant experience either for you or your Doodle. However, most of the time it is harmless. As long as you keep an eye on their behavior, know what symptoms to look out for, treat them with a bland food diet, and keep in touch with your veterinarian, your Doodle should get better in no time. It is not intended to be a substitute for qualified professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. Hyperthyroidism or other metabolic condition Cancer Dysbiosis Chronic diarrhea in dogs can sometimes lead to weight loss, a dry and unthrifty hair coat, and lethargy. If your pet is continuously exposed to a diet that they are sensitive to, this can also cause chronic intermittent diarrhea. Some dog and cat foods that are marketed as healthier for your pet can also be high in fat and protein. Grain-free diets remove healthy fiber content from the dog food, which can be very rough on a sensitive system. It is important to look for balance in a diet and that it comes from a reputable company that is doing their homework when it comes to their formulations. Diarrhea With Vomiting in Dogs When dog diarrhea occurs with vomiting, a new section of the gastrointestinal tract has entered the picture. Gastroenteritis is the group term for inflammation of both the stomach and the upper GI tract. Sometimes a high-fat treat, even a small one, can trigger pancreatitis—a condition wherein the pancreas, which produces digestive enzymes, among other things, becomes inflamed. This condition can cause acute vomiting and diarrhea as well as abdominal pain. In very severe cases, pancreatitis can even be fatal. Vomit that contains blood can look red, brown, or black. Unlike a small amount of blood in the stool, any amount of blood in vomit is concerning and should result in a trip to the vet right away. Simply put, lighter colored foods will result in a lighter colored poop. There are a few color indicators that are important to note when talking to your vet. Yellow Diarrhea Yellow diarrhea is most typically caused when a pet parent has started feeding a bland diet, such as chicken and rice. The chicken and rice are white, and when they mix with yellow bile in the gastrointestinal tract, it comes out as yellow stools. Bloody Diarrhea Bloody diarrhea or hematochezia is caused when there is large bowel diarrhea or colitis. This occurs when small blood vessels in the lower part of the GI tract break open and bleed a bit into the stool. A small amount of blood is not overly concerning, but if the stool is primarily blood, your pet should be taken to the vet right away. Black Diarrhea Black diarrhea or melena is caused when blood is being digested before it is passed. This stool looks like newborn baby poop and can have a black or greenish color. Melena can be seen with conditions such as bleeding ulcers or foreign bodies. You should never use your own human medications on your pets. Only administer medications as prescribed by your veterinarian. Antibiotics can make diarrhea worse In my experience, Pepto Bismol just results in pink vomit Imodium works by paralyzing the gastrointestinal tract. The best thing you can do for your dog at home when diarrhea hits is to feed them a bland diet. Think simple protein lean chicken, beef, ground chuck, white fish, or cooked eggs and simple carbohydrates white or brown rice, white or sweet potatoes combined. Feed small, frequent meals that help heal the GI tract but do not overwhelm it. In the case of stress-induced diarrhea, starting a fiber supplement a few days prior to the stressful event can help prevent the diarrhea from starting. Psyllium fiber can be purchased over the counter in products like Metamucil. Other signs that would warrant a prompt appointment would be: Vomiting especially if there is blood present Weight loss Severe diarrhea with large amounts of blood Diarrhea after administering vaccines or medication If you are ever unsure, it is best to err on the side of caution and call your vet's office. When you go to the vet, they may recommend one or a few tests to help them weed through the extensive list of possible diagnoses: Fecal flotation looks for the presence of intestinal parasites. Giardia tests look for the presence of the Giardia parasite. Parvo testing screens for parvovirus. Chemistry and CBC bloodwork look for signs of protein loss, metabolic disease, inflammation, anemia, and much more. CPL tests look for the presence of pancreatic lipase, which can be elevated in pets with pancreatitis. Imaging radiographs or ultrasound looks for evidence of obstruction, cancer, gall bladder disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and much more. It is important to bring the following information with you to your veterinary appointment: Thorough history of the illness, including when it started Symptoms you have noticed Colors of stools Whether or not there is anything you can think of out of the ordinary that may have brought the diarrhea on When an owner can provide a thorough history, it sometimes means a doctor can narrow down the list of tests they want to run—which can help save time and money when coming to a diagnosis. The treatment that your vet prescribes will depend on their diagnosis or suspected diagnosis. Medications Used for Dog Diarrhea Metronidazole and Tylosin are two antibiotics that have known anti-inflammatory properties in the gastrointestinal tract. When a bacterial overgrowth is suspected, additional antibiotics may be added, such as amoxicillin. Probiotics and fiber can be an important part of resolving diarrhea. The good bacteria in the GI consume fiber and produce short-chain fatty acids that help heal the intestine. In the case of diarrhea caused by cancer, a chemotherapeutic drug may be prescribed. Antacids and stomach protectants can help to resolve stomach and upper GI irritation, and anti-nausea drugs are often added when vomiting or inappetence is an issue. Change of Diet for Diarrhea in Dogs Other components of treatment may include a bland prescription diet, a high-calorie diet, or a hypoallergenic diet. When dealing with diarrhea, the answers can be easy all the way up until they aren't! Remember that our pets can't talk to us to tell us how bad they feel. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian. References: Jan S. Markel , 1 Jose F. Heilmann , 1 Scot E. Steiner , 1 Audrey K. Volkmann, J. Steiner, G. Fosgate, J. Zentteak, S. Hartmann, B. Lethargy Poor appetite Gums that are pale or tacky to the touch, which can indicate dehydration, anemia or shock Watery poop that lasts for more than a day Deciding Whether To Go to the Veterinarian A puppy with diarrhea almost always warrants a call to your veterinarian. At the very least, this will get you individualized guidance on what home therapies you can try and what doses to give your pup. Puppies metabolize many medications differently than mature dogs, so dosage adjustments may be necessary. When a puppy has loose stool, talking to a veterinarian can also help you determine whether a trip to the hospital is needed. Treatments that are often needed in more severe cases of acute diarrhea include: Fluid therapy to treat dehydration— given under the skin or intravenously Medications to slow down the bowels and reduce diarrhea and fluid loss Medications to manage vomiting Antibiotics to treat or prevent a bacterial infection arising from within the gut Hospitalization and close monitoring for extremely sick puppies Your veterinarian can also run tests to determine why your pup has diarrhea—a fecal examination for parasites or a test for parvovirus, for example. Scoop up some diarrhea and seal it tightly in a plastic bag or container. If you see a parasite or incriminating evidence like a chewed piece of plastic, make sure you bring that too. Puppies, especially those really young and really small, can dehydrate quickly. Make sure your puppy has access to fresh water at all times. Bring it to them if necessary. Entice a reluctant drinker by adding some low-sodium bouillon to the water or a few drops of liquid from some tuna canned in water. Pediatric hydration fluids for human babies work well, too, if your pup will drink them. Stick to bland food. This might be boiled, unseasoned hamburger or white meat chicken with some rice or a prescription diet for intestinal problems that you can get from your veterinarian. Check with your veterinarian to see if you can give any supplements or over-the-counter medications like canned pumpkin, kaolin-pectin or probiotics. A: The reasons why your puppy has diarrhea could include a change in diet, eating something unusual, exposure to toxins, viral or bacterial infections, food allergies or intolerances, intestinal parasites, stress, and other potentially serious health problems. Q: What to give dogs for diarrhea? A: Pet parents have to be careful in what they give for dog diarrhea—some over-the-counter treatments are dangerous if used incorrectly or in the wrong situations. If the diarrhea is mild and not associated with a serious health problem, it may respond to a bland diet boiled white meat chicken and rice, for example and extra water intake. Your veterinarian can let you know whether it is safe to give your puppy canned pumpkin, kaolin-pectin, probiotics and other supplements or medications. Q: How long does puppy diarrhea last? A: Puppy diarrhea can last for just a few hours, or it may persist for days or even longer. Always talk to your veterinarian if puppy diarrhea lasts for more than a day or two or if it is associated with vomiting, lethargy, weakness or any other symptoms of disease. Q: Does puppy teething cause diarrhea? A: Many pet parents report that puppy teething seems to be associated with diarrhea. However, diarrhea during this time can still be serious enough to require veterinary care. Teething puppies will often chew on and swallow almost anything they can get their mouths on. Also, the immune systems of young puppies who are teething are not yet fully formed, so they are at higher risk for the bacterial and viral infections that can cause diarrhea. Q: Is blood in my puppy's diarrhea an emergency? Call your veterinarian immediately for advice. Q: Why does my puppy have diarrhea after changing food? Whenever possible, make dietary changes over the course of a week or two. If you suspect your pet is sick, please call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your regular veterinarian when possible as they can make the best recommendations for your pet. If you need help finding a vet near you, use this link. Preventing Puppy Diarrhea Puppy diarrhea is, unfortunately, a reality of pet ownership. Puppies do not have fully functioning immune systems, so they can be a little more sensitive to changes and potential sources of infection than their adult counterparts. Mild cases of diarrhea may go away quickly on their own, but other causes—including infections and parasites—can be a sign of a serious problem. Here's what to watch for and how to know what your next steps should be when your puppy has diarrhea. Some of the most common reasons for diarrhea in puppies include environmental factors, infections, and parasites. Hopefully this helps you find answers to "Why does my puppy have diarrhea? Moving into a new home, meeting new people and animals, learning to walk on a leash , vet visits and vaccinations , that first encounter with the Roomba. All of these experiences can cause stress, and your puppy may get diarrhea because of that. Diarrhea related to stress usually occurs within hours to a day of the stressful event, and generally resolves quickly on its own. Ask your puppy's breeder or previous owner what brand and formula of food she is used to eating, and start off by using that same diet. If you want to switch to a different food, do it gradually over several days, starting with just a little of the new food mixed in with the old and increasing the ratio of new food over time. Some dogs may have food intolerances or, less commonly, allergies to specific ingredients. These can also cause diarrhea. Identifying a food allergy or intolerance is a time-consuming process and will require guidance from your veterinarian. Some common parasites that can infest puppies include roundworms, hookworms , whipworms, tapeworms , coccidia, and giardia. Parasites are most commonly transmitted through poop a dog with worms poops out eggs and larvae, a puppy sniffs poop and inhales them. But some, such as roundworms, can be transmitted from mother to puppies through the placenta. As well as having diarrhea, puppies with parasites may have distended bellies, bloody diarrhea, appear thin, or be lethargic. Sometimes you may be able to see worms in the poop. Your veterinarian can c heck your puppy's stool for worm eggs and other parasites. Always bring a sample along if your puppy is having diarrhea. Once the offending parasite is identified, your vet can prescribe the best deworming medication to resolve the issue. Being treated for worms or other parasites does not prevent your puppy from getting them again, however. Remember how parasites are often spread through poop? Be sure to thoroughly clean your yard, removing all poo to minimize the number of parasitic worms living in the soil and environment. Otherwise, your puppy can reinfect herself from her own poop. All puppies should be on a regular deworming schedule starting while they are with the breeder. Most veterinarians recommend continuing regular, long-term deworming, such as with a monthly product. Dietary Indiscretion and Toxicities Like toddlers, puppies love to put their mouths on anything and everything. Eating the wrong thing can cause diarrhea in a couple different ways. This could range from feasting on the garbage leftover from your cookout to swallowing a chewed-up tennis ball or munching on your amaryllis plant. Eating an excessive amount of rich or fatty foods can cause stomach upset. In cases like these, your puppy may vomit or appear uncomfortable as well as having diarrhea. If your puppy has eaten something toxic, exact symptoms will vary depending on what and how much she ate. If you suspect your puppy has eaten something toxic, or are unsure about the potential threat of her illicit snack, contact an animal poison helpline such as the ASPCA Poison Control Center or the Pet Poison Helpline , , immediately. These services do charge a fee, but it's well worth it to have access to the most up-to-date information on toxicities in dogs. Even nontoxic non-food items can be problematic if they get stuck in your puppy's gastrointestinal tract and cause a blockage. Besides having diarrhea, a puppy with an obstruction may vomit, be lethargic, refuse to eat, and have abdominal pain. Viral and Bacterial Infections Parvovirus, often referred to as simply "parvo," is a diagnosis that strikes fear in any puppy owner's heart. This virus is highly contagious and wreaks havoc on your puppy's immune system and body, causing severe diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, fever, and lethargy. Treatment consists of supportive care to help your puppy fight the disease and target symptoms. A puppy with parvo will likely be admitted to the hospital for intravenous fluids to keep her hydrated, medications, and round-the-clock supervision from her veterinary team. Parvo is often fatal, especially if treatment is started too late. Thankfully, there is an effective vaccination for parvo, and it is included in the routine puppy series. Your puppy will receive several rounds of the vaccine depending on her age. It's essential to get your puppy to her booster appointments on time; even one missed vaccination can leave her unprotected. Once she has finished her puppy series, the following year she can either get a one-year or three-year vaccine. Avoid places with other dogs, such as dog parks, boarding kennels, and popular dog-walking spots until she is fully vaccinated. Only allow her to interact with dogs who you know are vaccinated. If your puppy does get parvo, she will need to be kept away from unvaccinated dogs and puppies to prevent spreading it to them. Besides viruses such as parvo, your puppy can also get bacterial infections in her G. Common culprits include clostridium, E. Your puppy can pick these up from eating rotten food or poop from an infected animal. As she matures and her immune system finishes developing, she will be less susceptible to these tiny invaders. Puppy Vomiting and Diarrhea Vomiting and diarrhea are a dangerous combination. Both cause your puppy to lose water from her body, leading to dehydration. Dehydration can cause permanent damage to her internal organs in a matter of days. If your dog is experiencing this one-two punch of vomiting and diarrhea, you'll want to call your vet right away. When to Call Your Vet If your puppy has diarrhea but is still playful and normal, there is no need to panic. It will likely resolve on its own. Here are the signs to call your veterinarian to schedule an appointment: Diarrhea that lasts more than a day Bloody or black stool. Guardian My Dog Has Diarrhea! To do this we send lots of literature each week to help teach our puppy families. We like to put things out on our blog that may help our puppy families or other families who have a beloved canine companion. This article will help you to know what to do when your dog gets sick. Any time your dog is not himself you should find out why. When you are sick you seek help through medication, a doctor, or herbal remedies. Your canine companion looks to you for assistance. As responsible pet owners, we find out what is causing the issues. Food Poisoning. Dogs can get food poisoning, just like any human. It is common if you are feeding your dog scraps from your plate. The diarrhea should only last 24 hours, if it is any longer then you need to take you dog to the vet. What your dog eats could play a part in its diarrhea. Over eating or foods with high fat content can cause diarrhea. Keep an eye on your dog and if the symptom persists, speak to your vet. If your dog is suffering from an infection in the intestines then one symptom would be diarrhea. If they are black or there is blood in them , that could indicate an infection. Metabolic Diseases. This includes kidney infections and liver diseases, but there are many others that are much more serious. Another sign would be if your dog is vomiting , the two are usually present together when it comes to diseases. These would be tapeworms or roundworms and they usually play a large part in gastric problems, including diarrhea. You should have your dog wormed everything three months, which can be done by a vet, to stop parasites from making your dog ill. Looking after your dog is extremely important; it cannot tell you outright when there is something wrong. If you think that it is ill, keep an eye on it. It is important to watch for any chronic diarrhea in dogs because if it does last for more than 24 hours you need to get it to a vet. The sooner you get your dog treated, the easier the problem is to treat; and the more likely your dog will make a dull recovery without any problems. Get to the Vet if your dog has Fever. Many of our first-time puppy owners frequently will contact Texas Australian Labradoodles asking lots of questions regarding what is normal and what is not. After completing another Open House, we have come to realize that a blog post is needed so that all new puppy owners could use as a reference guide. To speed things along, you might want to bag a sample of the poop so that your vet can examine it under the microscope and assist him in making the proper diagnosis. Poop can actually tell you a lot! This is due to the amount of oils and fats in their diet. However, if your puppy has loose or water stools, such as with diarrhea, he may be having an issue. This is where your vet comes in because it might be almost impossible for you to identify the problem alone. Hard poop may indicate dehydration please ensure that your puppy has access to clean water throughout the day. Presence of mucus may mean that your puppy is having difficult digestion. Red or black tarry stools may indicate either upper or lower gastrointestinal track bleed. Rule out any possibilities for bleed, such as straining, excessive diarrhea, etc, before you panic. However, if your puppy is lethargic, vomiting and has diarrhea with terrible odor, take him to your vet immediately as these are some of the symptoms of Parvo, which often is deadly to puppies and many adult dogs. Undigested food may mean that your puppy is struggling with grain digestion. Whitish or clay looking stools may be produced by raw meat bone diet. Ensure that you puppy has access to fresh and clean water throughout the day, especially on hot days. If diarrhea or constipation occur, give a teaspoon of organic cooked pumpkin puree once daily as it is loaded with natural fiber. You can even mix it with a little bit of yogurt for additional probiotics. Practical poop tips and tricks for doodle owners struggling with chronic diarrhea Updated: Mar 25 Does your doodle seem to always have an upset stomach? I'm talking.Rest assured that this is, unfortunately, a very common problem. You are not alone. Before we get to the tips and tricks, I need to write a disclaimer. I am not a vet. This article is not intended to diagnose or treat any serious medical conditions. Before starting any new treatment or regimen, please consult with your board certified veterinarian. Ok, that's out of the way. I'm not a veterinarian! And I'm not pretending to know more than one. But, I am an experienced dog breeder. So I have come up with many different regimens that work to make your puppy's gut healthier. Genetics, genetics, genetics First of all, let's address probably the most common cause of sensitive stomachs--genetics! Unfortunately, somewhere down the line, we introduced some bad genes into our poodle and doodle communities. Poodle hybrids have become well known for having ultra sensitive stomachs, and nobody really knows why. Except that your puppy could very well be genetically pre-disposed to having a sensitive stomach. Many breeders, like myself, are working hard to breed away from these traits by NOT breeding dogs with these sensitivities. We have experienced sensitive systems in our bloodlines in the past, and it is not fun to deal with. As breeders, it is our job to breed away from undesirable traits. We are fighting an uphill battle against backyard breeders and puppy mills who are not selecting breeding pairs for health and vitality, so these bad genes will continue to be passed on. If your puppy has a genetic sensitivity, it is important that you find a protocol that works for him and stick with it forever. Food allergies are a lot less common than you think So, you switched your puppy to a poultry-free kibble and his itching and diarrhea stopped? That's great! The problem probably wasn't "chicken. Higher quality kibbles use higher quality ingredients. Your puppy was probably sensitive to the lower quality fillers "chicken meal," or "chicken by-product meal" that cheaper kibbles are full of, not "chicken. How about commercial dog treats? Your puppy could be sensitive to the ingredients in those foods, too. To know for sure, why not test for sensitivities? We have so many tools available to use today. Why are pet owners still trying to solve their problems blindly? Try one of these food sensitivity tests so that instead of trying 10 different kibble formulas, you can find one that suits your puppy's individual needs. Click here to order. Our favorite is the Spectrum Veterinary allergy test. Parasites are more common than you think Puppy owners need to stop blaming breeders for every little problem they have. Sure, breeders have a lot of control over a puppy's health and wellbeing for the first 8 weeks of it's life. But once you bring your puppy home, you need to take control of his health. You need to take responsibility for his well being. Parasites are everywhere. They live inside every animal that walks barefooted, eats off of the ground, eats dirt whether on purpose or by chewing on a dirty toy , and drinks water that has been sitting outside for any period of time. Do you pick up sticks off of the ground with your mouth? Do you drink from puddles, or from a water dish that has been sitting on the ground outside? That is why you don't have parasites. You can't prevent exposure to parasites--please don't try! Eating dirt and playing in dirty water is good for your puppy. It's fun, enriching, and builds his immune system! But I need you to understand something. Once you pass the four week mark of bringing your puppy home, parasite problems are your problem, not your breeder's. Parasites work quickly and efficiently, and they're very good at what they do. Your puppy can leave your breeder completely clear of parasites, and pick up eggs or larvae all are microscopic as soon as he hits the ground in his new home. Just 30 days or less! Puppies are still building their immune systems, so they are more susceptible to damage and infection from parasites. The most common form of damage is to the digestive tract, since that is where the most common parasites call "home. After the puppy leaves the breeder, they have no control over what the puppy is exposed to. Deworming is a part of routine pet care, and should be done several times a year. It is possible you are deworming your dog regularly and you don't even know it! The most common combination products used that contain broad spectrum dewormers are: Trifexis Sentinel Nexgard Spectra If you do not use any of the products listed above they are very strong products and many dogs have adverse reactions to them , then it is important to talk to your vet about deworming your dog a few times a year. The exception to the rule I mentioned above that if your puppy tests positive for parasites after you have had him home for four weeks or more, then the breeder is not to blame. Here are the exceptions to the rule: Coccidia Giardia These parasites are species of protozoa. They are much smaller than other parasites, and the same dewormers that kill other parasites do not kill these protozoa. Coccidia and Giardia, like other parasites, are everywhere. You cannot avoid them! Giardia most often lurks in water it doesn't have to be dirty water! Traditional disinfectants won't kill these tough protozoa. These protozoa are species specific, meaning dogs get giardia from other dogs. And dogs get coccidiosis from other dogs. Your infected puppy or dog cannot infect you. And no, your puppy didn't get giardia or coccidiosis from your chickens, goats, or from the birds flying over your yard. Your puppy "inherited" these nasty protozoa from his mom! Most dogs are carrying these protozoa around in their systems, and constantly shedding them in their feces. These dogs are not ill from these protozoa because their immune systems are very strong. Many breeders do not include protozoa eradication in their routine deworming protocol. Not because they're lazy, or ignorant, but because it did not used to be considered the "norm" for breeders to use prophylactic protocol against protozoa. Therefore, many new puppy owners experience bouts of infection from these protozoa for two reasons: When a young puppy changes homes, there is stress involved you don't always "see" this stress, but it is there. This stress weakens your puppy's immune system and makes him more susceptible to infection and illness. Again, many breeders do not include protozoa eradication in their routine deworming protocol. It is possible your puppy's breeder did not use prophylactic treatment to get rid of these protozoa in your puppy's system. So here's the thing about coccidia and giardia--it is possible for your puppy to leave your breeder feeling well, and then fall ill just a week later after joining your new home. And, it's not necessarily your breeder's fault. Some breeders have caught on to the prevalence of coccidia and giardia in certain regions, and have added protozoa prevention protocol to their already rigorous deworming protocol. But many breeders still do not know about this protocol or the desperate need for it. It has been shown in some loose studies that oregano oil has strong and effective antibacterial properties. Adding oregano oil to your sensitive puppy's daily regimen could help in preventing future illnesses. Not food allergies--remember, true food allergies are a lot less common than you think. Pets are sensitive to low quality ingredients, just like we are sensitive to fast food and junk food. When we eat too much greasy fast food and get an upset stomach as a result, we don't then go on saying that we are "allergic" to fast food. We understand that too much junk is not good for us, therefore, it makes our bodies feel sick when we eat too much of it. Why don't we think this way about dog food? Too many people are feeding their dogs junk food for every single meal. When your dog eats junk all the time, he is going to feel like junk all the time. And for many dogs, what owners think are food allergies, are actually just normal bodily reactions to junk food. Teaching you how to read ingredient labels and buy good dog food is a job for a whole separate blog post. But here are some practical tips when it comes to choosing a dog food: Ignore labels like "organic," "all natural," "free range," etc. Don't buy literally into the hype. All commercial dog food companies are using by-products of the human meat industry. Be it, different levels of quality, but--all dog food is made from plant and animal by-products. What is important is what by-products are selected, and how the ingredients are used in the recipe. Meat should be the 1 ingredient. A single word meat source should be the very first ingredient in your kibble. This is non-negotiable! Having real meat as the first ingredient ensures that your kibble contains muscle meat. Lower quality kibble will have meat by-products such as "bone meal," or "chicken by-product meal" listed. Some might not have any meat at all, if you read the ingredients carefully! Avoid "exotic" meat ingredients like venison, kangaroo, or rabbit. These meat ingredients are not regulated like more common ones chicken and beef , and therefore these meat ingredients can actually be much lower in quality, but they're priced significantly higher. For example, the kangaroo meat in dog food is obtained from Australian bounty hunters who are paid to kill these animals in mass quantities, because they are overpopulated and destroying the environment. The meat is not approved for human consumption, so it is made into dog food! So many people pay exorbitant prices for a kibble that contains an exotic meat because of the assumption that an exotic meat is somehow healthier for their dog. There is no research that supports that exotic meats are better for your dog. Avoid peas, lentils, beans, squash, and pumpkin. These are trendy new "fillers" being used in modern boutique dog food formulas. These ingredients are nothing more than plant by-product fillers being pawned off as "healthier" ingredients. Wheat middlings are distillery by-products, and have been used for centuries as animal feed. We know a lot about the ingredient and how dogs are able to utilize it. There is little to no research supporting the use of newer, "trendy" ingredients in dog food peas, lentils, squash, etc. Corn is not your worst enemy. Just like chicken is not your worst enemy. Low quality ingredients are your worst enemy. Higher brands split certain ingredients in order to make the ingredients more easily digested, and therefore, nutrients more bioavailable to dogs. In other words, they split an ingredient ahead of time so that the dog's body doesn't have to do it during digestion. For years, a popular dog food rating website claimed that ingredient splitting was a fraudulent way for dog food companies to use more fillers in their formulas. I used to believe this, too. The myth needs to stop circulating! Higher quality brands use ingredients that are going to give you the most nutrition in the most highly digestible form. You can spend more money now on a premium diet, or you can spend more money later in vet bills. Vet bills that are incurred on your senior dog because he is developing conditions in his old age that have been caused by eating a poor diet his whole life. In addition to a premium kibble, we suggest adding a few supplements. A raw egg on top of kibble a few meals every week is a great way to add in some extra healthy protein and fat. Some fish oil a few times a week keeps skin and coat healthier. A daily pre-biotic, digestive enzyme, and antioxidant supplements is also a great idea. High quality kibbles are sprayed with probiotics look for probiotics on an ingredient list and so a daily probiotic is not needed. Stop it with the treats Giving your dog too many junky commercial dog treats could greatly affect a sensitive system. Your dog's ultra premium kibble is perfectly balanced to ensure optimum nutrition. When you feed too many junky treats, that balance is thrown out of whack. You're now working against yourself by feeding a high quality kibble, with very low quality dog treats. Try some of these all natural options when it comes to "treating" your dog: Raw, whole carrot.
Prevalence: Common Bull terriers are extremely powerful dogs. They are stocky and muscular and come in two varieties: standard and miniature sizes. The standard version reaches about 22 inches in height and a maximum of about 60 pounds 27 kilograms. The miniature version is a maximum of about 14 inches high and weighs up to about 33 pounds 15 kilograms. The most distinctive physical feature of the Bull Terrier is its head, which is egg-shaped and flat on top. The eyes are small, dark, and close-set. The ears are pointy. The body is broad and the back short and strong. Bull Terriers have a medium-length tail. The Bull Terrier's coat is short and dense and is white, black, brindle, red, fawn or tri-colored. The dogs are considered average shedders. They live about 10 to 12 years. Personality: Bull terriers are gentle, affectionate and playful with family members. They also are loyal pets that will guard the family. As with any large or tough breed, proper precautions around strangers, children, and other animals is essential. If not given enough exercise and attention from the owners, Bull terriers can be destructive. Living With: Because the breed is powerful and some members may have aggressive tendencies, Bull Terriers must be obedience trained. They must also be carefully socialized from a young age. Socialization requires frequent supervised exposure to other people and pets in the neighborhood. With proper socialization and training, Bull Terriers make great family pets. However, they probably are not a good choice for novice dog owners, nor are they generally recommended for households with other pets or irresponsible children. Bull terriers must be exercised daily in a fenced-in yard or with walks on leash and should not be permitted to run free, even if trained and socialized. Because of their stocky build, care must be taken not to overfeed as they can easily become obese. History: Bull terriers were developed in England during the 19th century. Around , a cross between the old English terrier and the bulldog produced the Bull Terrier. Later crosses to the Spanish Pointer; even later, to the white English terrier and Dalmatian, produced a stylish, tough, white dog. In the mid s, the white version of the breed, known as "white cavaliers," became a favorite pet among gentry. Crosses to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier reintroduced color around .Today, Bull Terriers are gentler than their ancestors but are still strong, fearless dogs. They are primarily family pets, but are not suitable for many families. Related Pet Care Articles. 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 Bull Terrier Overview If you remember the late s, you probably recall the Budweiser commercials featuring a Bull Terrier named Spuds Mackenzie, whose sly grin and on-screen antics turned the breed into a pop icon. Bull Terriers have larger-than-life personalities that range from intelligent and innovative to placid and loyal. Life with a Bull Terrier is always an experience. They do best with an active family who can provide them with plenty of energetic play. They also need someone who will consistently but kindly enforce the house rules. Like most terriers , Bull Terriers unneutered males in particular can be aggressive toward other animals, especially other dogs. To be well-behaved around other canines, they need early socialization : positive, supervised exposure to other dogs that begins in early puppyhood and continues throughout life. Cats and other furry animals who enter their territory should beware. Successfully training a Bull Terrier calls for patience, confident leadership, and consistency. Some cities and states have restrictions on Bull Terriers, and you should be aware of your local laws before you bring your Bull Terrier home. Bull Terrier Highlights Bull Terriers thrive in the company of their people, and should live indoors with their human family. Keep your Bull Terrier warm with a coat or sweater in winter. A weekly brushing and occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep them clean, although they must be brushed more frequently during twice-yearly shedding periods. The Bull Terrier needs 30 to 60 minutes of exercise, play, and mental stimulation daily. The Bull Terrier is strong-willed and can be difficult to train. They are not recommended for timid or first-time dog parents. Bull Terrier History The Bull Terrier dates to approximately and was probably created by crossing a Bulldog with the now-extinct white English Terrier. They were known as gladiators for their prowess in the dogfighting ring. In , fanciers of the bull and terrier, in particular a man named James Hinks, set about creating an all-white dog. Twelve years later, in , the Bull Terrier Club of America formed. The colored Bull Terrier was made a separate variety in , and the Miniature Bull Terrier became a separate breed in .Beloved by tourists, she was photographed more often than Rin Tin Tin, and in she was named the official greeter of Juneau. A colored Bull Terrier made history in , when Ch. The only white Bull Terrier to win the prestigious event was Ch. Haymarket Faultless in .As of , Bull Terriers ranked 64th in popularity among the most popular dog breeds registered by the American Kennel Club. Bull Terrier Size Bull Terriers come in a wide range of sizes, ranging from 50 to 70 pounds. They stand about 21 to 22 inches at the shoulder. Bull Terriers are described as courageous and full of fire. These are good traits, but they can veer into the disagreeable category if the Bull Terrier is allowed to become possessive or jealous. Without early training and socialization, they can be potentially aggressive toward other animals. With people, though, they have a sweet disposition. On the downside, they can be chewers , barkers , and tail chasers, and are often difficult to housetrain. Bull Terrier Health Bull terriers are generally healthy, but like any breed, they can have health issues. The following problems may occur in the breed: Hereditary Nephritis: This is a severe form of kidney disease found in Bull Terriers, often at an early age. Deafness: in one or both ears is common in white dogs, and some colored Bull Terriers can be deaf in one ear. All Bull Terrier puppies should undergo BAER brainstem auditory evoked response testing to ensure that their hearing is normal. Bull Terriers who are deaf in one ear can lead relatively normal lives, but puppies that are deaf in both ears require special training techniques and handling. Heart Disease : This condition is caused by defects in heart structure and function. It is occasionally found in Bull Terriers. Some cases are more serious than others and usually are indicated by the presence of a heart murmur. In some cases, a cardiac ultrasound echocardiogram may be necessary to diagnose the problem. Some Bull Terriers outgrow their murmurs, some live with them for years with no problem, and others develop heart failure. Skin Problems: Bull Terriers, especially white ones, have sensitive skin that can be prone to rashes, sores, and irritations. They may also be prone to contact or inhalant allergies, caused by a reaction to substances such as detergents or other chemicals or airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and mildew. Provide soft, clean bedding in crates and other sleeping areas to prevent sores. Sometimes a change to a diet with few or no chemical additives can help. Other Bull Terriers need long-term treatment with antibiotics or steroids to keep skin problems under control. Spinning: This is an obsessive form of tail-chasing that usually begins at approximately 6 months of age. It can continue for hours and leave the dog with no interest in food or water. Spinning may be a type of seizure and is sometimes successfully treated with medications such as phenobarbitol, Anafranil, or Prozac. Treatment is often more successful in females than males. Lens Luxation : This is when the lens of the eye is displaced when the ligament holding it in place deteriorates. Bull Terrier Care Bull Terriers need someone at home during the day. Rawhide toys can be especially problematic. Dog-proof your home! A Bull Terrier needs half an hour to an hour of physical and mental exercise daily. Bull Terrier puppies are bouncy and into everything. These can all stress or injure the still-developing joints and ligaments. Early and consistent training is essential. You must be able to provide leadership without resorting to physical force or harsh words. B ull Terriers can be difficult to housetrain. Follow a housetraining program closely and crate-train your dog. A crate will also prevent your Bull Terrier from destroying your belongings or otherwise getting into trouble. Bull Terriers are suspicious of strangers and can be aggressive toward other animals especially dogs of the same sex and people. Take them to puppy socialization classes as early as possible, as well as to dog-friendly public places so they can get used to many different situations, people, and dogs. They should also learn to welcome visitors to your home. Bull Terrier Feeding Recommended daily amount: 4 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age , build, metabolism, and activity level. The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference — the better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog. Keep your Bull Terrier in good shape by measuring their food and feeding him twice a day rather than free feeding. 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. Bull Terriers come in two color varieties: white and colored. White Bull Terriers are solid white, with or without colored markings on the head but nowhere else on the body. Colored Bull Terriers are any color other than white or any color with white markings. Bull Terriers are easy to groom ; they need only weekly brushing with a rubber mitt or curry brush. The exception is during their twice-yearly shedding season, when daily brushing will be necessary to keep all the hair under control. Daily is better. Trim their nails once or twice a month, or as needed. If the feet need to be tidied up with trimming, the best time to do it is when you are clipping the nails. Clean them as needed with a cotton ball and a cleanser recommended by your veterinarian. Handle their paws frequently dogs are touchy about their feet and look inside their mouth and ears. Always supervise play; as with any dog, never leave a dog alone with a child, and teach children how to approach and touch dogs. Bull Terriers, especially unneutered males, can be aggressive toward dogs of the same sex, but opposite genders usually get along well. Bull Terrier Rescue Groups People sometimes adopt Bull Terriers without clear understanding of what goes into parenting one. These dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. Presumed by many to be standoffish dogs thanks to their muscular build, the affectionate bull terrier actually thrives while spending time with and getting pats and scritches from bonded humans. They aren't super interested in pleasing their parents, although they are very sweet dogs. Bull terriers are busy dogs from the time they are puppies until middle age, earning the nickname "the kid in a dog suit. Bull terriers always keep life interesting for their owners. Appearance The bull terrier has a face like no other. Their heads are long and egg-shaped, sloping down into a Roman nose and topped by pointed ears. Fun fact: they're also the only registered breed to have triangle-shaped eyes. Some can be on the smaller side at just 35 pounds, but beefier males can bulk all the way up to be pound bullies. There are also miniature bull terriers , who were recognized as a separate breed in the s and weigh less than 30 pounds. Big-boned dogs, their gait shows off their strength and agility. Their coats are made up of short, flat hairs that appear shiny and feel hard to the touch. Bull terriers can either be white— even solid white —or colored with various markings, with more than 20 different combinations. Temperament While bull terriers may seem tough and intimidating thanks to their unique looks, they are a sweet and gentle breed. Bull terriers are goofballs, the class clown of the dog world, and owners delight in their funny personalities. They love to play and get into trouble in equal measure. These extroverted pups are always happy to see you and meet other people, often feisty and excited in their greetings. Because they are full of fire and spunk, their dominant personality can be a handful. They might become easily jealous if you're paying more attention to another animal or even a human! Talk to your veterinarian if you notice any of these behaviors becoming prevalent. If you socialize your bull terrier puppy when they're young, provide loving and consistent training , and make sure he gets lots of physical and mental exercise , you won't find a more loyal or entertaining pup. These dogs benefit from spending as much time as possible with you so they can thrive and might do best with an experienced dog owner. Their love of people even extends to strangers. They are very active dogs and need companionship all day long. Leaving a bull terrier on their own is a recipe for disaster—he can easily develop separation anxiety, resulting in undesirable behaviors. One thing to know about bull terriers: they eat anything. So your home should be bull terrier-proof to keep him from snacking on things he shouldn't and avoid emergency veterinary surgery. These energetic dogs can play rough, so adding a bull terrier to a family with children needs to be considered carefully. They can be good with cats if they are socialized with them at a young age. Brushing once a week with a soft-bristle brush helps to remove dirt and loose hairs. Those signature ears do need to be regularly checked and cleaned as needed. Bull terrier nails should be kept short so they aren't uncomfortable when walking. They don't need frequent bathing —unless they've gotten into a stinky mess—and can be washed with either dry shampoo or wiped with a damp cloth. Keep in mind: their coat doesn't keep them warm in colder weather, but they don't mind donning a cute sweater or coat when the weather's a bit chilly. They will be more comfortable in warmer weather, but never leave them outside unsupervised for extended periods of time. Like all dogs, bull terriers don't sweat like humans do and need plenty of water, shady spots, and AC to keep cool. But you can skip the ice cubes! Their strength and dexterity means they are also skilled at obedience training, tracking, and agility courses—which are all great ways to challenge their energy. But go easy with puppies who are especially bouncy; high-impact activities—such as jumping on furniture, long jogs , or playing Frisbee—can damage their developing joints. They need to exercise their mind along with their body, and love the challenge of interactive toys. Because of their terrier 'tude, they put a bigger emphasis on play than work ethic. So when it comes time for any training, ensure it's fun for your bully. They respond well to positive reinforcement , so bring on the treats and toys! Independent thinkers that they are, Wooten says bull terriers can be a challenge to train, so be consistent— especially when house-training. Bull terriers do well with crate training , which helps keep them out of trouble when you can't be home with them. Health The typical bull terrier lifespan is 12—14 years, and, as with all dog breeds, there are a few health issues they can develop, according to the Bull Terrier Club of America. Hereditary nephritis is a severe form of kidney disease that can be found in bull terriers even from an early age. The disease causes the kidneys to malfunction, and often a dog suffering from this affliction will not live to be older than three. Because they have a piebald coat , bull terriers can have hearing issues ranging from partial to total deafness. They can still lead relatively normal lives with special training and handling. Their unique coat, especially for all-white bull terriers, can also lead to contact allergies and other skin issues such as rashes, sores, and irritations. Bull terriers may also suffer from heart disease , which is typically indicated by a heart murmur. Their distinctive eyes are also prone to lens luxation , which may be treatable with medication or surgery, but may also lead to eye removal. As mentioned, bull terriers are likely to deal with obsessive compulsive behaviors that manifest as spinning, pacing, or chasing their tail for hours on end if left unchecked. It may be treatable with medications such as phenobarbitol, anafranil, or Prozac for extreme cases—or, for milder cases, by simply eliminating boredom. They were considered gladiators in the dog-fighting ring, prized for their strength and tenacity. The "New Bull Terrier" first appeared at a dog show in and was shown by James Hinks, who is credited as the original bull terrier breeder. They earned the nickname "White Cavalier" thanks to their courageousness, their courtliness towards people, and their sweet disposition. The miniature bull terrier became a separate breed in .There are many notable bull terrier owners, including General George S. Perhaps the most famous bull terrier is Patsy Ann , the official greeter of Juneau, Alaska. Patsy Ann sat on the docks in Juneau during the s greeting sailors and taking photos with tourists. Her spirit lives on in Juneau thanks to a commemorative statue commissioned in .Fun Facts Spuds Mackenzie , the sly-grinning bull terrier used in Budweiser commercials in the late s, helped increase the popularity of the breed. Target decided to use a bull terrier as their official spokesdog, too. They introduced Bullsye in with the Target logo appearing as a spot on his eye—thanks to non-toxic dye. Bull terriers have also been popular in books and on the big screen. As for movies, bull terriers have appeared in Toy Story , Frankenweenie , and Next Friday to name a few. Was this page helpful? The Bull Terrier is a breed of dog in the terrier family. There is also a miniature version of this breed which is officially known as the Miniature Bull Terrier. Appearance A brindle Bull Terrier showing head profile, triangular eyes, robust and very muscular body The Bull Terrier's most recognizable feature is its head, described as 'egg-shaped head', when viewed from the front; the top of the skull is almost flat. The profile curves gently downwards from the top of the skull to the tip of the nose, which is black and bent downwards at the tip, with well-developed nostrils. The lower jaw is deep and strong. The unique triangular eyes are small, dark, and deep-set. The body is full and round, with strong, muscular shoulders. The tail is carried horizontally. They are either white, red, fawn, black, brindle, or a combination of these. A Bull Terrier has an even temperament and is amenable to discipline. Although obstinate, the breed is described by the Bull Terrier Club as particularly good with people. Although the breed has been a target of breed-specific legislation , a study in Germany did not find that Bull Terriers had any significant temperament difference from Golden Retrievers in overall temperament researches. Many Bull Terriers have a tendency to develop skin allergies. A UK breed survey puts their median lifespan at 10 years and their mean at 9 years 1 s. The bull and terriers were based on the Old English Bulldog now extinct and Old English Terriers with possible other terriers. This new breed combined the speed and dexterity of lightly built terriers with the dour tenacity of the Bulldog, which was a poor performer in most combat situations, having been bred almost exclusively for fighting bulls and bears tied to a post. Many breeders began to breed bulldogs with terriers, arguing that such a mixture enhances the quality of fighting. Despite the fact that a cross between a bulldog and a terrier was of high value, very little or nothing was done to preserve the breed in its original form. Due to the lack of breed standards—breeding was for performance, not appearance—the "bull and terrier" eventually divided into the ancestors of "Bull Terriers" and " Staffordshire Bull Terriers ", both smaller and easier to handle than the progenitor. Originally, these dogs did not yet have the now-familiar "egg face", but kept the stop in the skull profile. Hinks wanted his dogs white, and bred specifically for this. The first modern Bull Terrier is now recognized as "Lord Gladiator", from , being the first dog with no stop at all. Brindle is the preferred color, but other colors are welcome. Pete received plenty of contemporary press, having bitten a naval clerk as well as chased and bitten the French ambassador. Patton owned a Bull Terrier named Willie. When it got into a fight with Dwight D. Eisenhower 's dog, Patton apologized, saying that Willie was outranked and would be confined to quarters. Spuds MacKenzie is a fictional character used for an extensive advertising campaign marketing Bud Light beer in the late s, portrayed by a bull terrier named Honey Tree Evil Eye. The novel Hell Hound by Ken Greenhall centers around a homicidal white bull terrier named Baxter. It was adapted as the French film Baxter , in which the titular character was played by a bull terrier named Chimbot and voiced by Maxime Leroux. See also. Less - The Bull Terrier is the cavalier gladiator — a good-looking tough character. It is strongly built and muscular, longer than it is tall. Its muscle mass combined with its relatively low center of gravity make it difficult for opponents to knock it off its feet. Its distinctive head not only shows off its keen and determined expression, but also its great jaw strength. Its gait is smooth and easy. Its skin is tight, and its coat short, flat and harsh. Exuberant, comical, playful, assertive and very mischievous describes the bull terrier. It is an imaginative breed that often sees things its own way and is stubborn to the end. It needs daily physical and mental exercise lest it exercise its powerful jaws on your home. For all its tough bravado, this is an extremely sweet-natured, affectionate and devoted breed. It can be aggressive with other dogs and small animals. Later they crossed the Bulldog with the Old English Terrier, mixed with some Spanish Pointer to increase its size, which produced the Bull Terrier breed. After dog fighting was abolished, Bull Terriers were bred with the Dalmatian to produce a white colored strain, then again with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier to reintroduce color. Both the white and colored types increased in popularity as pets, and both strains remain today.
Lifespan Sociability This designer dog breed might not be the most common, but it is certainly an adorable mix. The better the lineage of one or both of the parents, the more expensive it will be. Finding a Poo-Ton at a dog shelter might not be an easy task, but you can always ask around and you never know when you might find one, or at least a mixed dog that resembles the Poo-Ton. When you bring a Poo-Ton into your home, be ready to have a friendly an affectionate dog by your side. Early socialization and training are essential for them to get along with other dogs and to remain calm around strangers. Poo-Ton dogs are hypoallergenic. Yet dogs are given these labels if they have a higher tendency not to affect allergies. Regarding mixed dog breeds, if the parents have the genes to be hypoallergenic, then this can impact the puppies. If only one breed does and not the other, the puppies end up with a varying degree of effect on the allergies of people. The Poo-Ton are long-lived pups compared to other small breeds. Poo-Ton dogs not only inherit the desired hypoallergenic traits from their parents, but they also inherit a long life. The Coton de Tulear typically lives years, and Miniature Poodles live for an average of 15 years. This combination can live anywhere from 12 to 16 years and sometimes even beyond. Taking excellent care of the dogs can help extend their lives for as long as possible. Only specific poodles can be used to breed a true Poo-Ton. Not just any Poodle can be used to breed a Poo-Ton. This is partially to maintain its size, as a standard poodle can stand 18 to 24 inches tall, dwarfing the small Poo-Ton. The most noticeable characteristics of these dogs are the affection and love that they shower their people with, along with their energy. They are vigilant dogs and can be trained to function in multiple different capacities, such as a watchdog, albeit their small size. This breed is also called Doodle-Ton, Cotondoodle, or Cotonpoo because of the fluffy coat. Because of how intelligent this dog is and their desire to please their masters, they easily pick up new tricks and commands. They love to have fun and are quite responsive. Incorporating training games into their sessions helps keep them engaged and satisfies their playful nature. They are not known to be excessive barkers but may bark at strangers if they come close. If your puppy tends to bark more than most, this may be something to work on in training. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are rarely aggressive and love to play. These traits, combined with their small size, make them perfect pets to have around if there are small children in the home. However, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on small children and dogs during playtime, no matter the breed. This breed tends to be sociable and friendly. If the pups are socialized, especially if done early, they will be happy to have other dogs and even cats as new playmates. Summary Pooton Generations The Pooton dog, a perfect combination of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, has become a popular designer dog breed in recent years. As with many hybrid breeds, understanding the different generations of Pooton puppies is essential for prospective owners. F1 Pootons are known for their small stature, floppy ears, and curly coat, making them an excellent choice for those seeking hypoallergenic dogs. F1 Pooton puppies tend to be highly intelligent and affectionate, making them great family pets and companion dogs. They have a playful nature, but their exercise needs are moderate, with a daily walk and mental stimulation being sufficient. It is important to remember that F1 Pootons can inherit traits from both parent breeds, so the appearance and temperament may vary between puppies. The F1B Pooton is an excellent choice for those seeking an even more hypoallergenic dog breed due to the higher percentage of Poodle genes. F1B Pooton puppies inherit the intelligence and affectionate nature of their F1 counterparts, making them excellent family pets and companion dogs. They may have a more curly coat than the F1 generation, but their exercise needs and small size remain similar. F2 Pootons often display a wider range of characteristics, as they can inherit traits from all four grandparents. F2 Pooton puppies can have a medium-length coat that may be curly or wavy, depending on the inherited traits. They still maintain the intelligent and affectionate nature of their F1 and F1B counterparts, making them great family pets and companion dogs. Exercise needs and size remain consistent with the other generations. Pooton History The Poo ton dog, a delightful designer dog breed, has gained popularity in recent years due to its small size, hypoallergenic coat, and charming temperament. This mixed breed, a combination of Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners and those living in small spaces. This small, affectionate dog was once a companion to the Malagasy royalty and later became popular among French settlers. As a breed with an affectionate and playful nature, the Coton de Tulear has been a beloved companion dog for centuries. Poodle: A Breed with Many Talents The Poodle, the other parent breed of the Poo-ton, is one of the most intelligent and versatile dog breeds. Originally bred in Germany for water retrieval, the Poodle has been used for various tasks, including hunting, herding, and even circus performances. There are three Poodle size varieties: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. As a designer dog breed , the Pooton combines the best traits of both parent breeds, including intelligence, affection, and a hypoallergenic coat. Pooton puppies quickly became sought-after pets due to their playful and loving nature, making them great family pets and companion dogs. Pooton Appearance The Pooton dog, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, has won the hearts of many dog lovers with its unique appearance and hypoallergenic coat. This small, playful, and intelligent designer dog breed is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners and those living in small spaces. Size and Weight The Poo-ton dog is known for its small stature, which makes it an ideal companion for small living spaces. Adult Pootons typically weigh between 7 to 14 pounds, and their height ranges from 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder. Despite their small size, Pootons are sturdy dogs with a compact body, short legs, and a well-balanced frame. Coat Characteristics One of the most appealing traits of the Poo ton dog is its hypoallergenic coat, which combines the features of both parent breeds. Pootons have a medium to long coat, which can be curly or wavy, depending on the inherited traits from the Coton de Tulear and Poodle parents. Their coat comes in a variety of colors, including apricot, lemon, white, black, grey, brown, and sable. Their head is typically rounded with a moderate-sized muzzle, and their dark, expressive eyes add to their endearing appearance. Poo-tons have short tails, which may be carried high or low, depending on the individual dog. Ears, Eyes, and Muzzle Pootons have floppy ears that are set at the side of their head and covered in a soft, curly or wavy coat. Their eyes are dark and round, contributing to their friendly and intelligent expression. Pooton Lifespan Studies have shown that the Pooton has an average lifespan of years, which is comparable to other small-breed dogs. However, like all dogs, their lifespan can vary depending on various factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and healthcare. Pooton Ideal Environment The Pooton dog, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, is known for its small size, intelligence, and affectionate nature. This designer dog breed is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners and those living in small spaces. Indoor Living and Small Spaces One of the many appealing traits of the Pooton dog is its adaptability to small living spaces. Due to their small stature, Pootons can comfortably live in apartments or houses with limited space. They are well-suited to indoor living and enjoy spending time with their human companions. Socialization and Training Poo ton dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Early socialization and training are vital to ensure your Pooton develops into a well-mannered and confident dog. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are highly effective in teaching your Pooton new tricks and good behavior. Outdoor Access and Safety While Poo-tons are well-suited to indoor living, they still require access to outdoor spaces for exercise and exploration. If you live in an apartment or a house without a yard, regular visits to a nearby park or dog-friendly area will allow your Pooton to enjoy the outdoors and socialize with other dogs. However, they are not suited for extreme weather conditions. In colder climates, consider providing your Poo ton with a warm sweater or coat during winter months. Similarly, in hot climates, ensure your Poo-ton has access to shade and plenty of fresh water to avoid overheating. Pooton Temperament The Pooton dog, a charming mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, is known for its affectionate and intelligent temperament. This small, hypoallergenic designer dog breed has become popular among first-time dog owners and those living in small spaces. Affectionate and Loyal Poo tons are known for their affectionate nature and strong bond with their human companions. These intelligent dogs are quick learners and eager to please their owners. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and treats, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Poo-tons enjoy learning new tricks and engaging in training sessions, which also provide valuable mental stimulation. Playful and Energetic Despite their small size, Pootons are playful and energetic dogs that love to engage in games and activities with their families. They are a great fit for families with small children, as they enjoy playing with and entertaining their human companions. Adaptable and Good-Natured One of the many appealing traits of the Poo-ton dog is its adaptability. This breed can adjust well to different living environments, making them suitable for both small apartments and larger homes. Pootons are generally good-natured dogs that get along well with other pets and family members, making them an excellent addition to a variety of households. Pooton Grooming Pooton dogs, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, have a unique and hypoallergenic coat that requires regular grooming and maintenance. This will help prevent matting and tangles and keep their hypoallergenic coat clean and healthy. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, as this can cause skin irritation. Ears Regular ear care is essential for Pooton dogs, as their floppy ears can be prone to infections and buildup of debris. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean the outer part of the ear, being careful not to insert anything into the ear canal. If you notice any signs of infection, consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatment. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and potentially lead to more severe health issues. Regular teeth brushing can prevent the buildup of tartar and plaque, which can lead to dental issues and bad breath. In addition to brushing, you can also provide dental chews and toys to help keep their teeth clean and healthy. Pooton Nutrition A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of your Pooton dog. This designer breed, a mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, has specific nutritional requirements that must be met to ensure a happy and healthy life. Calories The caloric needs of your Poo-ton will vary depending on their age, size, activity level, and metabolism. In general, Pootons require fewer calories than larger breeds due to their small size. Look for dog food formulas that list a high-quality protein source as the first ingredient to ensure your Pooton receives the necessary nutrients. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates provide energy for your Pooton and are an essential part of their diet. Avoid dog foods with high levels of simple sugars, as they can contribute to obesity and other health issues. Look for dog food formulas that contain healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can be found in sources like fish oil and flaxseed. How Much to Feed Your Pooton Determining the right amount of food to feed your Pooton will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. In general, Pootons should be fed high-quality, small-breed dog food, divided into two or three smaller meals throughout the day. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations on how much to feed your Poo ton based on their individual needs. As a general guideline, an adult Poo-ton weighing around 10 pounds may require approximately 1 cup of food per day. Pooton Training Pooton dogs, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, making them excellent family pets. Training your Pooton is essential for ensuring good behavior, socialization, and a strong bond between you and your furry companion. Start Early Begin training your Poo ton puppy as early as possible. Enroll your puppy in a puppy kindergarten class or socialization group to expose them to various situations, people, and other animals. Consistency is Key Consistency is crucial when training your Poo-ton. Ensure that all family members are on board and use the same commands, rules, and techniques. This will help your dog understand what is expected of them and make the training process more efficient. Positive Reinforcement Pooton dogs, like their parent breeds, are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly responsive to positive reinforcement training methods. Use praise, treats, and toys to reward your Pooton for good behavior and successful completion of training tasks. This will create a positive association with the training process and encourage your dog to repeat the desired behavior. Incorporate playtime and mental stimulation into training sessions to keep them enjoyable and beneficial for your dog. Socialization and Obedience Training Proper socialization and obedience training are essential for preventing small dog syndrome, a behavioral issue that can occur in small breeds like the Pooton. Expose your Poo-ton to various situations, people, and other animals to help them become well-rounded, confident, and well-behaved dogs. Address Separation Anxiety Pootons can be prone to separation anxiety due to their affectionate nature and strong attachment to their owners. To prevent this issue, gradually acclimate your Poo ton to spending time alone. Begin by leaving them for short periods, gradually increasing the duration over time. Provide toys and treats to keep them occupied and create a positive association with alone time. Pooton Exercise Pootons, a charming mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, are energetic and playful dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. Daily Walks Poo tons benefit from a daily walk to help burn off energy and maintain their overall health. If your Pooton has a higher energy level, consider incorporating a second, shorter walk or additional playtime into their routine. Playtime Playful by nature, Poo-tons love to engage in interactive play with their human companions. Provide your Pooton with a variety of toys, such as balls and tug toys, to keep them entertained and active. Playing fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek are excellent ways to bond with your Poo ton while ensuring they receive the physical and mental stimulation they need. Mental Stimulation As intelligent dogs, Pootons require mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise. Training sessions that incorporate new tricks or commands also provide excellent mental stimulation and help reinforce the bond between you and your Poo-ton. Indoor Exercise Due to their small stature, Pootons are well-suited for apartment living and can adapt well to small spaces. Indoor exercise can be a valuable addition to their routine, especially during inclement weather. Consider setting up an indoor agility course or playing interactive games inside to keep your Pooton active and entertained. Regular visits to dog parks or arranging playdates with other dogs can help your Pooton burn off energy while developing essential social skills. Ensure that your Poo-ton is well-behaved and supervised during these interactions to prevent any issues with other dogs or people. Pooton Health Issues Pootons, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, are generally considered a healthy designer dog breed. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions inherited from their parent breeds. Sebaceous Adenitis Sebaceous Adenitis is a skin condition that affects the sebaceous glands, which produce the oils necessary for maintaining a healthy coat and skin. This condition can cause hair loss, scaling, and inflammation. If you notice any signs of Sebaceous Adenitis in your Poo ton, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Regular grooming and skin care can help manage this condition and prevent secondary infections. Hip Dysplasia Hip Dysplasia is a genetic condition in which the hip joint fails to develop properly, leading to arthritis and joint pain. While this condition is more commonly seen in larger dogs, it can also affect smaller breeds like the Poo-ton. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing regular, low-impact exercise can help reduce the risk of Hip Dysplasia. If you suspect your Pooton may be suffering from this condition, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment options. This condition can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Mitral Valve Disease Mitral Valve Disease is a heart condition that affects the mitral valve, which controls blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. This disease can cause a heart murmur, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian, including monitoring for heart murmurs, can help identify Mitral Valve Disease early and implement appropriate treatment to manage the condition. Regular eye exams can help detect PRA in its early stages, allowing for appropriate treatment and management to slow the progression of the disease. While there is currently no cure for PRA, advancements in veterinary medicine may offer new treatment options in the future. Final Thoughts Owning a Pooton can be a great decision. They are family-friendly, intelligent, low maintenance, love to play, and are loyal companions. They excel at agility and obedience competitions and make great therapy dogs. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them perfect for people who suffer from allergies, and they provide unconditional love and companionship to their owners. So, if you are looking for a new furry family member, consider getting a Poo-ton, and experience the joy and love they will bring to your home! Summary Pooton dogs are a mix of Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, resulting in an intelligent, playful, and affectionate breed. Ideal for apartment living and small spaces, Pootons require daily walks, playtime, mental stimulation, and socialization for exercise. Training should start early and focus on consistency, positive reinforcement, short, engaging sessions, socialization, obedience, and addressing separation anxiety. Grooming includes regular brushing, bathing, ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care. Proper nutrition involves a balanced diet of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fats, with portion sizes adjusted according to age and activity level. White, black, brown, cream, gray Suitable for: Families with allergies, those living in apartments, and first-time pet owners Temperament: Fun, playful, intelligent, responsive, social, and sweet But what exactly goes into caring for a Poo Ton, and how do you tame the stubborn streak that they sometimes have? We break down everything that you need to know here and help you decide if a Poo Ton is the right dog to add to your home. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. If you have a second or third-generation Poo Ton puppy, then the price will drop significantly. Poo Tons are great family-friendly dogs and are very smart and easy to train. Poo Ton puppies need a balanced diet, exercise, and mental stimulation to grow into healthy and happy dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, due to their small size, you do need to be careful with them around smaller children, who can fall on them or otherwise accidentally hurt them. This is especially likely because your Poo Ton will want to stay in the mix of things despite their size. Still, you should always supervise smaller children around pets to prevent injuries to both the child and the pet. While you still need to socialize them properly, the Poo Ton typically gets along great with other pets. But just like you need to be careful with your Poo Ton around smaller children, you need to be careful with them around larger dogs as well. The Poo Ton sometimes forgets their small size, and a larger pet can easily step or fall on them and injure them without meaning to. A post shared by Mia Cherry Winter Honey Daisy itsthedoodlegirls Things to Know When Owning a Poo Ton While a Poo Ton is a relatively easy dog breed to care for, there are a few basic care requirements that you should be aware of before purchasing one. We broke them down for you here. Fenced-in yards are not required, but your Poo Ton would likely enjoy the extra space to roam. However, their intelligence can also lead to a bit of a stubborn streak on their part. The best way to get around this is to keep training sessions short, stay consistent, and use positive reinforcement. Poo Tons want to please their owners, and the more positive attention that you give them, the more it will reinforce positive behaviors. You also need to take them to a groomer every 2—3 months to keep the length of their hair in check. Next, you need to keep up with typical grooming requirements, like nail trimming, as needed and to brush their teeth a few times a week. Keeping up with their oral hygiene might be a pain until your dog gets used to you brushing their teeth , but it can end up saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in dental work. If you notice any of the following conditions in your Poo Ton, you need to take them to a vet as soon as possible. Minor Conditions. Give them small puzzles to figure out with treats as rewards, or hold energetic training sessions with games and fun new commands. Activities like these help prevent boredom and keep them active and healthy. The Poo-Ton is a highly intelligent dog, inheriting positive traits from its impressive parents. The most noticeable characteristics of this dog are the affection and love that they shower their people with, along with their energy. They are vigilant dogs and can be trained to function in multiple different capacities, such as a watchdog, albeit their small size. This breed is also called Doodle-Ton, Cotondoodle, or Cotonpoo because of the fluffy coat. Because of how intelligent this dog is and their desire to please their masters, they easily pick up new tricks and commands. They love to have fun and are quite responsive. Incorporating training games into their sessions helps keep them engaged and satisfies their playful nature. They are not known to be excessive barkers but may bark at strangers if they come close. Are These Dogs Good for Families? These dogs are great fits for families. They are rarely aggressive and love to play. These traits, combined with their small size, making them perfect pets to have around if there are small children in the home. This breed tends to be sociable and friendly. When these pups are socialized, especially if done early, they will be happy to have other dogs and even cats as new playmates. Training Due to their sweet personality, they have a deep desire to please their trainers and owners. During training, they pick commands up quickly with a firm consistency and plenty of positive reinforcement. Owning a Poo-Ton is as close as you might get to owning a fluffy angel. This breed is cuddly, loving, and smart. Should a Coton de Tulear Mix take after their Coton parent, they will be a small dog with a lovable, charming, and playful personality. They will love spending time around their favorite humans and being affectionate with them. A Coton de Tulear loves being the center of attention. They will often engage in clownish and comedic antics to get the attention they love so much. They also tend to be friendly and affectionate dogs with just about everyone. This means they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. If they take after their Coton parent, you can expect something similar in a Coton de Tulear Mix. But, the other parent breed will introduce their own set of quirks and traits, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about them. Although the breeder should have started some socialization and training, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. This will help your Coton de Tulear Mix puppy grow into a confident, well-rounded, and well-mannered dog. Coton de Tulear tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments, larger homes, and most climates. They do tend to get cold easily, so you will want to bundle up with some winter dog products while out on walks during the winter to keep them warm. Because they bond so closely with their families and love attention, they do not do well with alone time. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect a Coton de Tulear Mix to be highly adaptable as well. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix as they will introduce their own traits that could affect adaptability. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? Just as a mix could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could just as easily inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Coton de Tulear side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Coton de Tulear Mix include heart disease, eye conditions, and hypothyroidism. They can also be prone to developing allergies and sensitive skin. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The Coton de Tulear is an intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. This makes them a highly trainable dog breed that is a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect a Coton de Tulear Mix to be a highly trainable dog as well. If the other parent breed is more difficult to train, first-time dog owners may want to be prepared to enroll in puppy training classes in case they need them. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat that is similar to one of their parents or one that is a mix of both of them. Should a Coton de Tulear Mix inherit the Coton coat, they will be low-shedding and require grooming every weeks. If they are kept in a short puppy clip, weekly brushing is sufficient. If their coat is kept longer, they will need daily brushing. Cutting nails once or twice a month is usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. As a small dog breed, a Coton de Tulear Mix is even more prone to developing dental issues, which makes practicing good dental care for dogs even more important. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste in addition to regular cleanings at the vet is ideal. Coton de Tulear tend to sit in a low to moderate activity range and will often match whatever you are doing. Although they may be energetic while playing or being active with you, they are not high-energy dogs and will tire out relatively easily. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a similar activity level in a Coton de Tulear Mix. If the other breed has a different activity level, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in a Coton de Tulear Mix. A fully-grown Coton de Tulear usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed could have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so you want to ask the breeder about them. That can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Coton de Tulear Mix. Coton de Tulear generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span for a Coton de Tulear Mix. Currently, we do not have any Coton de Tulear Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Coton de Tulear Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address!
This comes at no extra cost to you. This is peak puppy biting time and it will get better soon. So to prepare you and help you be the best puppy parent you can be, this article will show you: What to expect from a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy How big a four-month-old Golden is How much sleep a puppy needs at this age What kind of exercise a four-month-old Golden Retriever needs How to train your four-month-old pup How much a four-month-old Golden Retriever should eat How to deal with teething and chewing 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever Behaviors Oliver at 4 months old! At four months old, your puppy has had a couple of months to learn how things operate around the house. This can make things easier for you because your puppy is likely falling into your daily routine. Now that your puppy is a bit older, they may experiment to see what they can make happen for themselves. This does not mean they are a bad pup! You might observe that your four-month-old puppy has even more energy than when they were three months old. This is normal as they gain better coordination and stamina. Always remember that energy is both physical AND mental. What 4-Month-Old Golden Retrievers Look Like Your week-old Golden might start looking a little gangly with long legs that seemingly sprouted overnight see the video below of Oliver. They might also begin losing their cottony puppy coat, which can cause them to look a bit funny as their more coarse adult coat grows in. The picture above is Oliver at four months old, as is this video below. He was so lanky and goofy! Ideally, you were getting your puppy out and about safely, and giving them positive experiences that will prepare them for life as an adult dog. Remember to keep outings with your puppy fun and positive, and avoid things that might be scary or overwhelming. As your puppy shows more signs of physical maturity, it can be easy to start expecting more from them. Be consistent in teaching them how things work, how to act and what to expect. Keep showing them that you are a kind, trustworthy person who meets their needs and keeps things fun and safe. While your puppy may have been a cute round ball of fluff at two months of age , they should be kept nice and lean at this age. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can be prone to joint issues. You should be able to easily feel their ribs without having to dig around too much. Four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies need about 18 hours of sleep per day. Sometimes it can feel like they have tons of energy that you need to burn and it can be tempting to keep them really active to try to wear them out. While they definitely do need exercise and fun activities, too much go-go-go can actually backfire and push the puppy into an overtired state. A puppy that is overtired might be really wild — bouncing off your furniture, barking a lot, and biting you more than usual. Creating a routine around nap time and bed time can really help your puppy relax and fall asleep more quickly. They ate, they pooped, you took them on a nice stroll and played with their favorite squishy ball. You even did some fun training games and they worked on a puzzle toy. Your puppy parent sense tells you that they are ready for a nap, so you take them outside for a final potty. When you come back inside, you grab a frozen stuffed Kong or toppl for your puppy to enjoy in their crate. Puppy goes in the crate and you give them their frozen treat. Then you cover the crate, and turn on a white noise machine to drown out noises while they rest. Any time your puppy is making you pull your hair out, ask yourself when their last nap was. So often, an obnoxious puppy is actually a tired puppy and the solution is sleep! Click here to download the potty training cheat sheet to make potty training much easier! Fifteen to twenty-minute walks are best for four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies, but a general rule is to let your puppy set the pace when it comes to exercise. If they need a break and flop down in the shade, let them take a breather. So while you may hope your Golden Retriever pup grows into a great running or cycling partner one day, keep things short and easy for now. And by four months of age, your puppy probably has all their necessary vaccinations, which is such a relief. This can open up their world a bit more, which means you have more options for exercise. Get a well-fitted harness and a long leash , and hit up a local trail or open space with your puppy. Unstructured time outdoors is ideal exercise for this breed. That means your pup is free to sniff and frolic around, rather than being in a perfect heel position by your side. Golden Retrievers were historically bred to spend a lot of time outdoors, running through the fields and bounding through water. Modern Goldens still love these activities and giving your four-month-old pup some nature therapy will set them up for physical and mental wellness. Neighborhood walks can also be a nice outlet for a pup of this age. Always allow your Golden to stop and sniff on walks. In addition, you can also work on:. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! But to develop properly, your puppy needs your help and encouragement. This is because the biting peaks at about 4 months old. The exercise needs of a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy Training for a four-month-old Golden Retriever Feeding four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies How to deal with chewing and biting What to Expect From a 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever Puppy 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever By now your puppy has been in your house for a couple of months and has learned about the rules and the way things work in their environment. This means that your puppy is getting comfortable and falling into step with your daily routine. Because of this, things are a little less chaotic in dealing with your pup than they were when you first brought them home. When your pup pushes boundaries and does new things, this is actually a sign of intelligence and mental development, neither of which are bad things. Your puppy will also have more energy, stamina, and coordination than they had in the previous weeks. Their coat will also look a bit odd. This will result in some random patches of fluff. At 4 months old, your golden should be roughly half of its adult height. When it comes to how much they should weigh, the average is around lbs. There are different types of Golden Retrievers and they come in all sizes. Heredity plays a part, as well. If your pup had small parents, then your pup will likely be a little smaller. And if your puppy was seriously ill for a prolonged period of time, then it may have inhibited its ability to grow properly when compared to healthy puppies. But usually, once the worms have been eliminated, the puppy will start to grow normally again. This means that your puppy will have already learned a lot of the socialization skills it needs to develop properly. The socialization your pup experienced prior to their four-month milestone will affect their behaviors and temperament going forward with their lives. Hopefully, you let your puppy go on adventures into the world and they had safe positive experiences. You should still take them out in public and teach them how to be well-behaved. You still need to keep your socialization light-hearted and safe. Your puppy is a baby animal, and they can become traumatized the same as human infants can. You also need to be more patient with them during this time period. Your four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy will sleep somewhere between 11 and 18 hours per day. While your puppy will be really energetic and hyper and your instinct may be to give them lots of exercises to burn off the extra energy, this can actually backfire on you. To avoid an overly- tired puppy, make sure your pup is getting naps in. You can use a crate or pen to help confine them to their sleep area. Developing a nap time routine is quite easy. Once your puppy has eaten, played, and went potty, you can put them in their crate with a soft toy to chew on. Puppies chew to soothe themselves to sleep. Intense exercise and prolonged repetitive motions can even cause injury to their developing joints and muscles. Not to mention the fact that when puppies are over-stimulated and exhausted it causes them to act up. So, how much exercise should a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy get? Your pup has more energy than they did last month, so they can now go on walks for 20 minutes at a time. In general, you should let your puppy decide how much exercise they can handle. If your puppy stops and decides to lay down in the middle of the walk, let them. They obviously need a break. By the time they reach this age, golden puppies should be up to date with their vaccinations, which is great because they love the outdoors. The type of exercise that your Golden Retriever puppy will likely enjoy the most involves unstructured play outside. Originally, Golden Retrievers were bred to hunt and do fieldwork, and your golden puppy will likely love the outdoors because of this. You can gently put them in the water, or allow them to get in themselves. People who live in more urban environments will find that their golden pups will enjoy walks around the neighborhood. Smells will engage brains and provide mental stimulation. You should be focused mainly on teaching your puppy to be comfortable with alone time, as well as potty training. Keep treats with you when you take your pup out on walks to reward positive behaviors and a good job on their leash. For instance, if you typically give your pup a treat when they come back inside from going potty, then you can use this opportunity to work with them to sit and stay and wait for their treat. To work with them about being comfortable with being alone, you should put them in their crate or pen and then gradually stay out of their sight for longer and longer each time. This takes practice. So this training is important. For more information about separation anxiety, check out our article about goldens and separation anxiety. For more information about training, check out our article about training golden retriever puppies. Your four-month-old golden pup should be eating 3 meals a day , spread throughout the day. They should be eating about 1 cup of food at each meal. Golden Retrievers have a major problem with overeating. Like us, they find food enjoyable and comforting too. A good rule of thumb to determine whether your pup is overweight is to pick them up. To find out for certain whether your pup is the right weight, you should take them to the veterinarian and follow their recommendations. Four months old is typically the peak chewing and biting period. This makes their gums uncomfortable and painful. You should also make sure that there are lots of chew toy options and chewy treats in your house so that your puppy can get the chewing out of their system without doing anything destructive. Using pens and gates can be really useful during this time. Just walk to the other side of the pen. If you missed the other articles in this series, you can find them here:.
In fact, the American Kennel Club ranks goldens as the third most popular breed. Golden retrievers are loving, intelligent, active dogs that make great family pets and excellent show dogs. If you would like a golden retriever puppy for your family, contact us to learn about our available or upcoming litters. Meet Our Goldens Our dogs are all healthy and qualified to act as service dogs — which is how we got our start. Our daughter, Hailey, needed a service dog and we had a difficult time finding one. The search led us to our first golden, Hunter. Hunter is one of our top sires and has passed all of his tests and health evaluations with flying colors. Choose Your Puppy When you are looking at American golden retriever puppies for sale, you should have at least some idea of what you want. If you are familiar with the temperament and traits of goldens, you will have an easier choosing a puppy that will fit in with your family. Goldens are active, hard-working, and intelligent dogs. A healthy golden will live years. Goldens are a sporting breed and need plenty of exercise, though some have more mellow attitudes than others. Because goldens are loving and eager to please their owners, they are easy to train, which makes them great family pets, show dogs, and service or companion animals. Tom Thorpe Blog Are you looking for the best golden retriever champion breeders? If you are eyeing a purebred healthy puppy that you want to include in your family, you should search for the breeders that possess excellent qualities making sure that the puppy feels ennobled because of how carefully they are bred. Of course, these will take a large sum of your money but if you want the best and top prized golden retriever breeders, then you should consider this fine list of breeders. Getting a golden retriever puppy from a reputable breed is one of the best things to make sure that your ideal Golden is in great shape with no genetic disorders. Also, you get the chance to seek advice from expert breeders. Why buy from the best dog breeders? There are thousands upon thousands of dog breeders currently providing services across the United States but there are only a few breeders that have a remarkable reputation and guarantees that what they breed is in excellent condition with the provision of their utmost care. The ones who have adjusted well to the environment are stronger and healthy. This is what reputable dog breeders are. They have conditioned and took care of the puppies and the parents during pregnancy. Furthermore, although you can still get the chance to have a golden retriever puppy from private rescue groups or adoption shelters, although they are often mixed-breed adult dogs or puppies. As previously mentioned, there are only hundreds of more or less dog breeders that have the highest reputation. Sometimes they can be found among the list of American Kennel Club AKC , sometimes through recommendations from the vet, and sometimes through word of mouth. This article will also help you find some of the excellent golden retriever champion breeders. What exactly is the champion bloodline title? Basically, when a dam or a sire has entered into an AKC competition and earned a title. For obvious reason, bearing the title of champion and an AKC recognized dog will be deemed as something royal or have noble blood because of its said title. This will also affect the price of the puppy. This will also help you evaluate the temperament and the health of the puppies easily. The fact that it garnered recognition makes the dog breeder proud. The reasons why you should search for golden retriever champion breeders Breeders will always ensure you will get the best golden retriever puppy With the best breeder chosen, they will make sure what you will get will be the best and ensure to you that your ideal golden retriever puppy will be a perfect match for you. That said, make no regrets or be hesitant with the puppy they will choose for you because they are expert and highly trained golden retriever breeders. You get to meet the parent of your golden retriever puppy The advantage of getting a puppy from responsible breeders is you get to meet their parents and also the whole dog family which also you will get to know their behavioral issues and even health concerns if there are any. Also, you will get along with the breeder and may also give you expert advice on how to raise your golden retriever into a responsible dog. The dog breeder will also get in touch with you once in a while to check about your golden retriever. These kinds of people are some of the wonderful dog people you will ever meet in your life. Get better recommendations and advice Aside from you will get the chance to meet the dog parents and establish a connection with the breeder, you will also get better recommendations and tips. Being a first-timer dog golden retriever owner or maybe an experienced with little knowledge of dog care, the breeder will generously give you recommendations about dog diets, proper grooming, and others drawing from their own experience which is very valuable. Also, you will have the chance to have recommendations from a veterinarian that offers the best care. And because champion breeders know best, they will not hesitate to give you some of the best advice and recommendation they could think of. Because the application process will undergo extensively Most highly reputed dog breeders have at least 50 pages of list of potential candidates for selection of owning a puppy and before you even own or visit the center, your application process will be carefully reviewed and they will determine if you are really the rightful owner or not. After all, the breeders need to choose responsible dog owners who will make the right choices for his Golden as he grows along. Your puppy will be an example of what pure breed golden retriever look like Golden retriever breeders and any other breeders have always chosen for the best outcome. Some breeders are buying semen samples for old golden retrievers who are in good shape and healthy without having any health conditions. Your puppy can go back to the breeder Just like a warranty guarantee or an after-sales service for the product you buy, this is also the same with responsible dog breeders. If something wrong happened to your goldie puppy, you can just ask for assistance and further discussion on some matter or even arrange a vet for you depending on the intensity of the condition. Or in some other case, if ever you want to bring back your golden retriever puppy due to complicated reasons, or say, one of your family members is allergic to dogs or other dire straits situation, you can just call your dog breeder and take the puppy back. They will help you through the transitioning process and even make sure that you and your puppy are in good terms. There are many scammers all over the internet who sell golden retriever puppies at a low price. Ask the seller first to pay a visit so you can get a glimpse of the puppy in reality. You know they are legit and responsible breeders if they are more than willing to pay the puppy a visit. Ask the right questions One of the most important aspects of selecting the best breeders is by inquiry. Then if there are some breeders in mind, get to know them first and ask some questions about the puppy. AKC has the authority to guide you and select the best golden retriever puppy for you within your ideal match. AKC has some links from different parent clubs which will also give you potential lists on picking the best dog breeders. That said, you should choose the latter one. Dog breeders should be the epitome of a responsible and caring dog owner. Also, the way the dog breeders sell their dogs is also reflected in what kind of dog breeders they truly are. May ask questions about your ability to tend for the dog For the dog breeders part, they should also scrutinize the person who is buying their puppy first just like a job interview. They should know you first and ask some simple questions in order to truly know that you are a rightful owner. In addition, prior to your purchase of the puppy, the dog breeder will also provide some suggested nutritional needs and diet so you will have no trouble finding out the best meal for your golden retriever puppy. Top 5 golden retriever champion breeder These are what we have gathered so far for one of the best golden retriever champion breeders. Although some of these breeders have bred or had a bloodline connecting to a champion breeder. These are in no particular order:.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Want to know if golden retrievers are good with kids? Golden retrievers are great with kids. They have the ability to be soft and gentle around babies and toddlers, but can also play rough and tumble with older kids, adults, and other dogs, too. And in addition to golden retrievers being good with kids, they can also be good for kids! Growing up with a dog can teach your child responsibility, as well as provide them with an ever-present best friend. But are they just perfect family dogs? Is there anything to watch out for? Although golden retrievers are generally loving dogs , just like any other dog breed or even humans, for that matter they can be aggressive. Aggressive golden retrievers are usually created, not born. What does socializaton have to do with aggression? Well, aggression from most golden retrievers comes from a place of fear, which usually stems from a lack of socialization. For example, maybe your golden retriever has never seen a person in a hat with sunglasses on. He asks if he can pet your dog and you say yes, knowing that your golden loves kids. But since your golden has never seen a boy in a hat and sunglasses, this particular boy scares him, and he might bite the boy as he boldly approaches your pup and puts his hand towards his face. Get them used to being around other animals, noises, objects, environments, and different types of people, so that they grow into confident adults. Are Golden Retrievers Protective? Golden retrievers make great alarms, but usually not so great body guards. A golden retriever actually has the Guinness World Record for the loudest bark , so they can definitely let you know someone is at the door and potentially scare them off. But if that person comes in the house, your golden is probably more likely to bring them a toy and ask them to play than to attack them. Just the presence of a barking dog will deter most criminals from attempting to break in, so whether or not golden retrievers are actually protective, their presence can still bring some security to your home. Golden retrievers are known for being great around babies. But you still want to take be careful establishing their relationship. Take it slow introducing them and always supervise your pup around your baby. There are loads of stories out there about goldens sleeping under cribs or letting babies crawl or sleep on them, so if you have a baby and a golden, be sure to take lots of pictures and enjoy this precious time! My nephew, Oliver, and me. Just like babies, golden retrievers are known for being good with toddlers. One couple brought their two-year-old and he and Oliver played chase all through the house. Toddlers can often grab, step on, or trip over dogs, which might scare or annoy them. So as long as you supervise the two of them, golden retrievers are known for being good with toddlers. Golden retrievers just want to play and kids make some of the best playmates. Plus, they make good cuddle buddies, and are experts at keeping secrets. Golden retrievers can also help teach your child about responsibility. Between walks, potty breaks , regular grooming , and feeding them, your child can learn to care for another living being. Here are some reasons that goldens might not be good for your family: Golden retrievers are boisterous puppies As puppies , goldens are energetic and excitable, and a crying baby or bumbling toddler can get them riled up. Golden retrievers have needs, too Golden retrievers are not exactly low maintenance dogs. Help them have positive experiences while kids are screaming or running around, or when you bust out the big scary stroller. Also, get them used to different types of people in different types of outfits and situations. Did your kid just puke all over the floor? Asking your dog to sit and stay and not try to help you clean up will make your life much easier. Did your kid just fall and bust their knee? They might not want your dog all up in their business right then and there, so asking your golden to sit and stay while you make everything better will also make life easier for everyone. Exercise them A tired dog is a good dog. If your golden has pent up energy, they can chew up the house, run around the house, or be more apt to jump on your children. But if you mentally and physically stimulate your dog, many of their bad behaviors will go away. You can get some of that energy out by training them, playing games like fetch and tug, and giving them puzzle toys. However, not all Golden Retrievers may be sweet dogs, especially around kids. Golden Retrievers can be great with kids. After all, they were bred to retrieve in water , so they have relatively calm personalities, though they can easily still get excited. But even so, Golden Retrievers will need the proper training before they can safely play with kids. The Golden Retriever is a playful, intelligent, and obedient dog. Golden Retrievers can cope well with family life and are very active. They are always keen to go on a walk or for a game of fetch. The Golden Retriever ranks 3rd in the U. These dogs are great company on family holidays too since they do get sad if they are away from their people. Normally though, Golden Retrievers are happy dogs. You will often see them wagging their tails in happiness. This is especially true if the babies are part of the family pack. Their instincts to protect is very strong and so they will develop a lovely bond with a new baby in the family. They are still animals. Introducing the Baby to the Retriever If you already own a Golden Retriever when a new baby arrives, you need to prepare your dog for his or her arrival. Perhaps introduce the baby furniture into the home in advance and let your dog take a look and have a sniff. Also, introduce your dog to some smells and sounds associated with having a baby around the home. This will help your Golden Retriever create a close, protective bond over your newborn from the start. Perhaps a hat, a bib or a blanket. It is also a good idea to socialize Golden Retrievers with young children from puppyhood. This will make the dog happy and relaxed around children throughout his or her entire life. Behaviors to train into your Golden Retriever prior to bringing back a baby: Ensure your dog knows which rooms they are allowed to be in and which ones they are not. Train your dog not to play or jump at the baby or any humans for that matter. Try to train your Golden Retriever to spend some time alone. Unfortunately, their presence will sometimes have to take a back seat now that there is a baby on the scene. Make sure to go through this process before letting your Golden Retriever interact with a baby. Raising a Golden Retriever with Kids Obviously, a lot of the same information from the previous section still applies to small kids. For example, it will still be important that your Golden Retriever is always supervised around your children to prevent any accidental knocking over! Toddlerhood is the ideal age to encourage a loving bond between dog and child. For example, they can help with grooming , feeding or playing with the dog. This will also help your Golden Retriever see your child as a figure of authority, which is important. The dog may establish self-dominance over the pack of kids. Be aware, however, that if you have a Golden Retriever puppy around a toddler, it is likely that the puppy will view your child as another puppy! Even the gentlest of Golden Retrievers will get fed up while being pulled about, teased or bugged. It will likely turn out bad in the long run. Not grab or hit your dog. Stroke your dog gently and in places that are appropriate. Use gentle voices with no squealing or yelling Some dogs are hyper-sensitive around loud or sharp noises. No running at the Golden Retriever. It may startle the dog. Training Your Golden Retriever for Children Golden Retrievers have great characteristics that make them easy to train and pleasant to have around. They really love praise and treats too. In other words, they do best when you use positive reinforcement and lots of delicious snacks. Training your dog is so important. Physical Exercise is Crucial This dog requires heaps of exercise at least 1 hour daily. They need at least one walk a day. Golden Retrievers love any form of exercise, from long walks to fetch and swimming. Proper exercise is vital. Without it, your Golden Retriever will be bored and unhealthy. If your Golden Retriever does get bored, this is when he will become less obedient and more destructive around the home. If you are unable to provide your Golden Retriever with enough physical exercise on a daily basis, the chances of aggression may also increase. Mental stimulation can come in many forms, such as obedience training, dog puzzles or smart toys. It just needs to be something your Golden can keep his mind busy with. For example, the Nina Ottosson Dog Puzzle is one of my favorites. My Australian Shepherd loves this and can spend a great deal of time figuring out how to move the sliders to get to his favorite treats! For your Golden Retriever, make sure to get a large size. You can check it out at Amazon here. If you have the time, constant obedience training is the best. Mental stimulation keeps your dog occupied and healthy, decreasing the likelihood of unfavorable behavior around your children. Golden Retrievers are without doubt one of the best family dogs for children. Whether you have infants, toddlers or small children — a Golden Retriever will adapt. However, it will require a little bit of patience and consistent training. Just make sure you provide the necessary training for both your kids and dog. These dogs are generally sweet and kind, but still need to learn how to be around kids. The more socialization training they receive as puppies, the better. Bring them to dog parks, family outings and more. There are so many things great things about these dogs and few families have ever regretted bringing home a Golden Retriever. Do you own a Golden Retriever and kids? Do they get along? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. The "secure base effect" refers to the concept that dictates that when infants interact with the environment around them, they use their parents or caregivers as a secure base. Horn's research set out to determine whether dogs do the same with their owners. To find out, she had a series of canines engage with an interactive dog toy that, if played with, rewarded them with food. What Horn and her team discovered was that the dogs were not as eager to work for the food if their owners were not present during the task. Interestingly, as long as their owner was present, the dogs were motivated to take part, regardless of whether their caregiver spoke to them. To further test the hypothesis, they had the dogs play with the toys in the presence of strangers. Once again, the canines were found to be more hesitant to take part, despite the food reward on offer. Stock image of a Golden Retriever and a baby. A pair of dogs have been introduced to their owner's newborn baby. To these two dogs, their owner's son Miller must have seemed like an extension of their human companion and someone they immediately felt comfortable around. It helps that the two pooches are golden retrievers too. Not that he had anything to worry about, of course, with Winston and Doug going out of their way to make the tot feel welcome. In the video, the Golden Retrievers can be seen carefully climbing up on the gate to give the baby a few affectionate sniffs to the head, getting themselves accustomed to the child's own unique smell: a crucial step in helping integrate dogs with young children. Then comes the highlight of the footage. While Winston continues to dote over Miller, Doug disappears momentarily before climbing back up on the gate with a squeaky toy donut in his mouth for the baby. Winston then proceeds to lick at Miller's head, with the baby appearing serene throughout the heartwarming encounter. Read more. You probably know by now just how obsessed we are with videos of babies and dogs. We mean, how can you not be? They're some of the world's cutest things to exist. That's why we had to share this recent clip from TikTok user rachellruss which already has over 13 million views! As it turns out, this TikToker brought home a Golden Retriever puppy the same exact day her best friend had her baby. That, of course, means the puppy and newborn were destined to be best friends. You can see that already in this clip - a beautiful friendship already in blossom. View the original article to see embedded media. We didn't know so much cuteness could fit into one video, but we're absolutely here for it! Seriously though, this clip is warming up everyone's hearts. We weren't expecting that out of a puppy at all! This just goes to show how their souls know their best friends. This puppy really can't wait until his BFF is big enough to play with. Best friends forever. Do you have a pet who's funny, smart, full of personality, or just downright adorable? We'd love for you to submit a video of your fur baby for a chance to be featured on PetHelpful and our social channels! Click here to upload your clip and share your beloved pet with the world. For more interesting pet news, be sure to sign up for our newsletter! We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This was the first time we had a chance to chart puppies from birth until 8 weeks old. We tried to take as many pictures as possible so we could have a journal of our Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week. When raising guide and service dog puppies we usually bring home our puppies at around weeks old. On occasion we are allowed to see puppies before 8 weeks of age, but they need to stay with their mother and siblings during those important early weeks to get milk and antibodies from mama and learn how to interact properly with siblings, learning important behaviors like bite inhibition. During our days as a foster we raised two litters of puppies , but both were already weeks old by the time we got them home. We actually own the Puppy Culture DVD and Workbook which includes charts, lists, worksheets and other great information for raising your litter. Keep your eyes and ears open and absorb it all like a sponge! Birth To 1 Week Old Guess what? This was the first litter we ever whelped!? We got a lot of advise, but we were largely on our own. Large Puppy Dish — great for feeding the puppies when they moved to solid food. Whelping Mats — we ordered 2 of these mats and washed them several times a day. Whelping Box — We have a homemade whelping box built by my father-in-law, but if we continue raising litters I plan on purchasing an EZWhelp Whelping Box. Our homemade box lasted three litters. We ended up purchasing the Magnabox which was hellu expensive but if you plan on raising multiple litters we highly recommend it. We recently put together a whelping checklist with all the supplies we gathered together to help out with our second litter of Golden Retriever puppies. Check out our whelping supplies checklist here. However, none were overly huge and none were extra small. No runts and no beasts. It was my understanding that when the cord was chewed down to the base of the belly it was sometimes difficult to get it to stop bleeding. I took the hemostat and pinched the umbilical cord about 2 inches from the base of the pups belly then cut the cord rather than let Raven chew it off. I kept the hemostat on the cord for about 2 minutes to let it clout. The umbilical cord dries up quickly and then within a day or 2 it falls off. Raven was a good mama and took care of her poops. Puppy eyes and ears are closed at this stage and puppies army crawl around the whelping box looking for a teat to suckle. We did everything we could to make sure our pups stayed warm by adding a watt heat lamp to the whelping box and portable heating unit in the puppy room. As I mentioned Raven stayed in the whelping box most of week 1 and of course… the puppy piles! One thing I learned is if I had a puppy on my lap then do not let Raven lick those areas or be prepared for a little accident on your lap. While caring for Raven and her litter Raven was really blowing out her coat that first week, but as time went on it slowed down. I heard from other friends this is common and that Raven blew out her coat much less than other mama dogs. We got Probiotics for Raven before her first litter, but forgot to order them for her second litter. After an upset stomach for the first week or so we realized our mistake, got Probiotics, and no more upset tummy. Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. Have you ever had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Tell us about your experiences with puppies in the comment section below. Are you about to raise a litter of puppies? Not raising a litter, but getting ready to bring home your first Golden Retriever puppy? Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.
We are owners, breeders, trainers, hunters, hunt trial enthusiasts, and dog lovers living in the Pacific Northwest, who are dedicated to training, hunting, and promoting naturally pointing purebred Labrador Retrievers as the ideal versatile gun dog. Promote favorable regional exposure in the Pacific Northwest for Pointing Labradors. Encourage more youth participation in the sport of training and hunting over Pointing Labradors. Promote ethical and effective breeding and training of Pointing Labradors. Promote sharing of information and training among members of the club. Shawn is from the Vancouver, WA area and has been an eager participant and volunteer at all our events ever since he joined the club in .Cade is a newcomer to pointing Labs but is enthusiastic about becoming a better dog trainer. He and his wife and dogs recently moved from the Portland area to Lynden, WA. Don Banducci — Board Member through Dec .He has served on our Board since , and was elected President in .Julie Moore — Board Member through Dec .Gary Oakes — Board member through Dec .Gary returns to the Board after a brief hiatus. Search for:. It began in with my first Labrador and faithful companion. I soon learned that the Labrador is the ultimate man's best friend and the most versatile canine imaginable. I manage a small hobby kennel near Portland, Oregon. I breed English-style Labradors to the AKC standard with proper structure and temperament that can do it "all". Beautiful dogs that have a natural drive to retrieve, all the while being enjoyable companions. Thirteen years ago my friend Molly Scoggin and I decided to join kennels and become one under the prefix of Devonshire. I'm grateful to have such a good friend and great companion to share this hobby with. Some of the dogs on this site reside with Molly in Sisters, Oregon and some reside with me. We believe the hallmark of the breed is its temperament and versatility and are dedicated to preserving these wonderful Labrador traits for future generations to love. Enjoy your visit to Devonshire Labradors on the web! It began in with my first Labrador and faithful companion, leading to a passion for the breed. I breed English Labradors to the AKC standard with proper structure and temperament that can do it "all". I'm grateful to have such a trusted friend and great companion to share this hobby with. We strive to go above and beyond on health issues, temperament, and genetic screening for our breeding dogs, as well as for the individual care and placement of puppies in responsible homes. Meet our dogs—handsome stud dogs and beautiful b rood bitches— that are the foundation of our breeding program. Our puppies have grown to be wonderful family companions and successful show dogs, guide dogs, diabetic alert dogs, therapy dogs, Canine Companions for Independence dogs, and hunting dogs. We are proud of our home-bred dogs and how they have enriched people's lives. Find out more about our breeding program, and whether we have any upcoming litters planned or available puppies and older dogs. At Happy Lab Kennels, we specialize in healthy, happy silver Labrador puppies, a variation of a chocolate lab with a gene mutation that creates their distinctive gray coat. Explore more about silver Labrador puppies for sale in NC and learn about the other great Labrador puppies we offer, including black, yellow and chocolate. The reason for this record is simple. Labs are great dogs. They have a wonderful temperament and are filled with Love to share. They seem to have one goal in mind, making Life long friends and memories. Labs are the perfect example of unconditional Love. While they do thrive on Love and attention, they require little maintenance. No long hair and curls to worry about and shedding is minimal. At Happy Lab Kennels, we focus on producing dogs that are healthy, friendly, gentle and full of love! While our dogs are mainly loving companions, they do come from hunting stock. With proper training, they would make a great hunting partner. About Happy Lab Kennels Our love for dogs has been growing for over 30 years We both grew up with a family dog, and knew we would always have a dog or two when we were older. Well, our love for dogs have been growing for over 30 years, with never having just one. Our dogs are a big part of our family. We have them spend time with us indoors, as well as, outdoors. We have them sleep inside when the weather is cold and to take a break on those very hot days. In our dog journeys, we have taken our dogs to field trials and have been active members of a K-9 Search and Rescue Team. What is A Silver Labrador? Loving companions, with the outgoing, friendly personalities Silver Labrador Puppies for Sale NC Silver labs were first created by a breeder in the early 80s and were officially recognized as a subset of the chocolate lab breed by the AKC in .While some think the unusual color comes from outside the breed, these dogs are verified by the AKC as percent Labrador retriever. Male labs grow to an average of .Our silver labrador puppies are bred as loving companions, with the outgoing, friendly personalities that have long made labs one of the most popular family dogs. These rare purebred, pedigreed pups are registered with the American Kennel Club. The Silver Labradors are registered as chocolates. Like other lab variations, silver labradors need lots of exercise. Get ready to play endless games of catch and take long walks around your neighborhood, where your pet is sure to make friends with other dogs and humans alike. These dogs respond well to training and easily adapt to new environments. They also tend to be great with children, although younger labs can be quite boisterous and may be excitable around those younger than 5. Our Other Labrador Retriever Colors Silver, chocolate, yellow, and black Labradors available for sale Black Labrador Puppies Black labs are sometimes considered the original Labrador puppies, brought to Newfoundland in the s. Because black is the dominant color gene for these dogs, they are more common than yellow, silver and chocolate labs. We offer an impressive selection of purebred chocolate labrador puppies for sale. This chocolate color comes from a gene variation on the classic black lab. Their golden hue occurs when both parents carry the gene for yellow fur rather than the dominant gene for black. Our love for dogs have been growing for over 30 years, with never having just one. Labrador Litters. Thank you David for all the joy you have given us. We love our beautiful dogs! He is just perfect! My vet said he has never seen a better put together Lab. He is the hit of our community and has to say hello to everyone he meets. Hidden Ponds is just the best place to purchase a Lab. David is so kind and informative. His dogs are gorgeous and well mannered. They treat their dogs with kindness and it shows. They are smart, their costs are beautiful! He has a great personality and is wonderful with the kids! He is lbs and thinks he is a lap dog. We would definitely buy from Dave again!! Lindie is an incredible athlete, as you can see by the photo. Lindie also volunteers at our local hospital in Glens Falls, NY comforting anyone that needs fur therapy! She is an amazing ambassador for the Labrador breed! Thank you! He hiked his first mountains this weekend in the Adirondacks. He is such a wonderful addition to our family and we will be back for a companion for him next year. Read more testimonials Bentley Bentley is almost 4 years old and is absolutely amazing! She is the happiest, cuddliest, wiggliest ball of fur, and I love her more than I can say. She is super smart, very curious, and a little mischievous. She has already learned to walk very well with my wheelchair. Thank you, Hidden Pond! At 9weeks she has accomplished stairs,swimming learned to sit and give paw. Play time and eating remain 1 LOL but,she is full of kisses and love all the time too. My sweet service dog, Rhett, came home in October of and has been the biggest blessing in my life. This breeder not only breeds for confirmation and health but for perfect personality and temperament. They are perfect in every sense of the term responsible breeder. I cannot imagine life without my Labs. And not to mention how welcoming everyone was when we went to pick Rhett up. They care about each puppy they welcome into their home. And they strongly support several forms of care to keep the puppies happy and healthy in their new homes like food and supplements! I cannot thank them enough or recommend them enough!! Savannah Stevens Read more testimonials Chip Chip is a crazy, funny, lovable gem. He is the most gorgeous dog. He has the most regal head. Everyone who sees him stops to tell us what a handsome dog he is. Thank you to Hidden Pond for letting him be ours. We picked her up in early July , and she made our family complete! She is such an amazing dog: sweet, gentle, loving, and playful. It is wonderful to see how much she loves our three young boys. We love how much she loves being outside — especially swimming and playing in the snow. Thank you Dave and your family for bringing her into our lives. She was exactly what our family needed to be complete. She is the sweetest, spunkiest and most wonderful dog we could have asked for. We picked him up this past September. He is a joy, fully housebroken, and so very funny. Everyone who meets him always comment on how handsome he is. He is really beginning to look like his dad, Thunder. He loves walking and meeting all his dog friends in our community. Thanks, David, for this wonderful dog! He has made our house a home again!! She brings so much joy to our home. She is loyal, smart and a lot of fun. She loves going on walks or long hikes in the woods and is a big snuggler in the house. Scout has a very sweet disposition and people comment on what a beautiful girl she is. She enjoys people and dogs of all ages. Thank you Dave, we are enjoying every day with one of your Hidden Pond pups! Courtney Hundley Read more testimonials Raemo This Lab is truly a best friend to everyone that comes his way. Very kind and affectionate. Raemo is now 6 months old and is great with the family, friends and the neighborhood. He is great with other dogs too! David and his Labs are simply the best and worth the wait! Rob Amurao Read more testimonials Daisy We got Daisy in June , but Dave introduced us to her the day she was born; it was love at first sight!!! Dave kept us updated with pictures and short videos as we anxiously awaited the day we could pick her up. She has been an absolute joy in our lives! She is incredibly smart, a sweetheart along with being an active puppy. She was swimming at 10 weeks with our other dogs. She is now 10 months old; everyone she meets loves her. Thank you, Dave, for such an awesome new family member!!! Marilyn Morey Read more testimonials Mabel Mabel is 6 months and we thank you for this blessing. She is a wonderful addition to our family. We love going on adventures with our little girl. Highly recommend and reasonable pricing! He has an amazing temperament, his favorite activities are long walks and swimming! Marlana Broderick Read more testimonials Chip Chip is the best dog we have ever had. He is funny, silly, smart and so handsome. We get stopped on the street every 5 feet. Everyone asks where he is from and tells us how gorgeous he is. Thank you Dave. This photo is with his sister Cocoa. Chip on the left Cocoa on the right. She has such a great personality. Gets along so well with the grandkids ,and so adaptable she took to the crate and house breaking so easily. Accepts new experiences so calmly. Dave has been great to work with a fountain of info. We also went with the dog food he recommended an love the results that we switched our cat to it as well. She is the most beautiful, sweet tempered, smart lab. We could not be happier having her as part of our family. Romy Ziegler. We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us.
Welcome to Glory Dawn Goldens! Hello, we are Steven and Kaitlyn Miller. We also have a one year old daughter Nevaeh Sue. We are located near Orrville Ohio. We have been breeding golden retrievers since and launched Blue Chip Companion in with the idea of expanding our reach outside our local community and friends. We are however excited to be switching gears and partnering with Jeremy and Glory Dawn Goldens to promote this amazing breed further than we ever could on our own. I, have always been in love with golden retrievers and when the opportunity came to partner with Jeremy, I knew that this was exactly what I want to do for the rest of my life. Why Choose Us? We Are Family Our Dogs truly are family and we care for them as God's creation with love and respect. We invite you to come visit our home and get to know us. Our dogs are no exception. They are fed top quality dog feed and 5 supplements and immune boosters. Selective Breeding We have a high standard of breeding qualities that our dogs meet before they enter our breeding program. Travel Experience As much as we love meeting our puppies' new family we are happy to say we've had great success with with our puppies traveling all over north America. Clean Bill Of Health It is rare to find Goldens with a complete clear sheet on all genetic disorders. We have been blessed that many of our dogs cleared all genetic testing. They've been willing to share testimonials. Thank you! Transportation We will provide transportation for your puppy if needed and have had great success with our puppies traveling all over the USA. We handle all travel arrangements and details. Pet Nanny flights may be more expensive depending on location. Contact Us. He is beautiful, loving, funny, and smart, and comes from a strong and healthy lineage. Marcellus was wonderful and supportive throughout the whole process. We love Buckeye Golden Retrievers so much! Marcellus is very responsive and professional! The facility is very clean and cozy. I would recommend Buckeye a million times over! Our Charlie girl is smart, cute, and such a joy in our lives! He is a spirited, loving, and playful boy who has brought so much joy to us all. I knew we were going to get a great puppy from the first time I spoke with them. Thank you so much! The 1 year health guarantee covers any major genetic defects such as a heart murmur. It does not cover treatable health issues. The remaining balance is due at pickup. We find great satisfaction in raising healthy, happy Goldens and placing them in your loving home! One of the most popular breeds in the United States, Golden Retrievers are eager to please and are great with children and other dogs. Additionally, Goldens are intelligent and skilled in whatever they do, whether serving as a therapy dog, aiding search-and-rescue, or being a devoted companion. Max Max is our handsome boy, an imported Jr Champion from Ukraine. Top of the line genetics and champion bloodlines make him an incredible addition to our breeding program. Max is intelligent and friendly, complementing his incredible physique and beautiful white coat! Max is available for stud service to qualified females. Skye comes from a long line of champions and is genetic tested clear. Skye has a happy go lucky personality and is a wonderful mother to her beautiful little snow white babies! She is truly a stunning European Golden Retriever! This mama is really great with children and other dogs and has been a wonderful asset to our breeding program. We kept two of her girls Maple and Bella to continue her incredible bloodline. Zoey loves nothing more than exercising and getting belly scratches! Zoey Zoey has been such a good dog and mother, but we thought it was time for her to retire and take it easy. She has has had some of the cutest pups and we are so glad that we got to share her with you all through them! She is a beautiful dark red color, very active and loves attention! She is also a great mother to her puppies! Roxie is AKC certified and she has been Genetic tested and is clear in everything, but has one copy of ichthyosis mutation. Our son Benson has claimed her as his own. She is a playful dog and loves nothing better than a good race! As soon as she hears Benson start the 4wheeler she is right there to see if she can keep up with him! Bretta is AKC certified and she has been genetic tested and is clear of genetic disorders. Maci This is Maci! She is the darkest of our red dogs and is an excellent mother when she has puppies! Maci is AKC certified and she has been Genetic tested and is clear in everything, but has one copy of ichthyosis mutation. She is sweet tempered just like her mother Zoey. Chloe is AKC certified and she has been Genetic tested and is clear in everything, but has one copy of ichthyosis mutation. There are 6 boys and 2 girls! All the puppies have been vet checked and are clear. Please text or call Carol at or email troyercarol90 gmail. They puppies will be ready to take to their forever homes on Sept. Anya has found her forever home! Meet Magnum. Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Buying a puppy is a big decision. We made that decision easy. Not knowing where your puppy has come from could lead to genetic health and socialization issues, and ultimately disappointment. There are even tons of puppy scams on the internet, some of which even try to imitate us! We believe dogs are not like family — they ARE family! Unlike other puppy adoption agencies in Ohio, we allow and actually encourage you to meet our Golden Retriever puppies for sale before you agree to take one home. Remember, too, that when it comes to getting a puppy, ultimately, you get what you pay for. You get a Golden Retriever you love, vetted for good health, from a breeder you trust. He has a very fun loving spirit and has made our family complete. Marcus and his family are very gracious and great to work with. We would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a Golden! She will be turning 9 months in a few weeks. I had a wonderful experience getting her through your company! So glad I got her. All Rights Reserved. If you would like to have the puppy held for you, make a deposit online. You are certainly welcome to select your puppy this way without a deposit, but please note that availability may change on a daily basis. If you come and see the puppy, make your purchase and take the puppy home if the puppy is 8 weeks old or older. Skip to 6, unless you need to arrange travel for your pup. Connect with us and we will get the right information to deliver the puppy to you and set up the exact date and time. Enjoy the new puppy that you have adopted into your family. If you have any questions, please reach out to the breeder for help! How much is a Golden Retriever puppy, and why do the prices on the website vary? The price depends on the credentials of the parents and the number of puppies available at the time. This allows you to set up an appointment that fits both your schedule and that of our breeders. Our golden retriever puppies are all raised by families in the Northeast Ohio area, conveniently located about an hour and a half from both Cleveland and Columbus. This makes it easy to come visit our puppies and spend time playing with them in a home environment. How can I get puppy travel arranged if I am out of state? A little-known fact about golden retriever puppies is that they actually do very well with travel. Check out our puppy travel page here to find out more about how we go the extra mile. How do you raise your dogs? When buying a golden retriever puppy, the people who bred and raised them can have a big impact on the health and sociability of the dog! Because of this, we are dedicated to choosing caring, dedicated golden retriever breeders in Ohio who will get your pup started on the right track. Our small network of breeders in Ohio all are dedicated to the same principles. This starts by providing carefully-planned breedings to ensure the best pedigree for our pups. They raise healthy, socialized pups that can make a smooth transition to a new home. Most of our breeders actually have young children at home who help raise the puppies and play with them so they can become socially adjusted. How do I leave a review of my Golden Retriever experience?
Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Check with the breeder for up-to-date information on puppy availability. But it could be time-consuming to find breeders of healthy, well-behaved Poodle puppies from good lines. However, we can save you time and from the trouble of finding a reputable Poodle breeder. Leverage our experience and expertise for your peace of mind. She will discuss with you what to expect when expecting a Poodle and prep you for Poodle parenthood. To get started, email your name and zip code to FindMeAPuppy bestpoodle. However, when looking for a puppy from a breeder, we recommend that you do your due diligence. Do not just jump into buying a puppy from a breeder. Take your time to research the breeder. Note that in addition to the price you pay for a poodle puppy, owning a poodle comes with the cost of taking care of a poodle. And owning a poodle can be expensive because poodles require frequent grooming because of the nature of their coats. Learn about how much it costs to own and keep a poodle here. We wish you the best of luck as you are about to embark on the beautiful journey of owning a Poodle! He is black with a silver under coat. He has a very friendly, outgoing personality. He is being raised with our children and is puppy pad trained. He will be mini at about 10lbs. He is up to date on his dewormer and shots and will come with records. Very Playful and friendly. These puppies are beautiful and they will come with their first set of shots and will be dewormed. AKC papers with registration, shot records, and a nice puppy package. Buy Now Teacup Poodle 3 pounds and getting ready to turn 4 yrs old. This little guy will spend all day laying in your lap or in his bed. He has not been neutered and that has not been an issue. Up to date on shots, etc. Normal Optigen test. Very playful who will melt your heart with his cuteness along with his sweet loving temperament. Great with children and other dogs! If you are looking for a best furever friend or a perfect addition to your family I would love to hear from you. He is up-to-date on shots and dewormer. Contact me today if you would like to give this bundle of joy a home filled with lots of love, hugs and cuddles. Payment methods Cash, Zelle or cash app. One red mal; 3 females: a chocolate, black, and apricot. Born Feb. To see more pictures and videos go to face book and go to Patricia Collins page. I post dailey photos. And I've posted a few videos, too. Puppies will be up to date on shots, wormed, and health checked. I also have a circle of friends who help socialized my puppies, and I've also been exposing them to grooming as well. They get their nails and sanitary clips once a week. They have just started on floor time, which is play time on the matt. For more information call or text xxx-xxx-xxxx. Vet checked, 1st shots, AKC registration. Colors are Cafe Au Lait and brown. Mom is Red Toy Poodle 2 ur old. Vaccines UTD. Pad training in progress. Mom is a Terripoo and weighs 14 lbs and Dad is Chipoo and weighs 11lbs. Cercei is the smallest. She is very sweet and playful and stares into your soul View Detail Cute Luna looking for lovely owner Luna is a3 month-old toy poodle looking for a new home. She is potty-trained, crate-trained, playful, and happy. If interested, please text. I'm moving and I can't take her with me. Looking for a loving home for her. View Detail Beautiful toy puddle This is energetic 7 month, beautiful young puddle and in good health with up to date record. Due to too much responsibility in house with little kids, it is hard to take care of him further here. We need him to have a fully dedicated owner View Detail Molly toy poodle She was born March 18th she's almost 10 weeks old she can go home any day now she is precious cute and the baby of the family lovable loves to play View Detail Locations Where Toy Poodle Puppies are Available in Virginia. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Virginia? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Virginia. Poodles come at different prices. Different things to consider are their height, size and weight, color as well as experience of the professional breeder. You will be able to afford one! Can breeders arrange travel for Virginia Poodles out of state? Yes they do! The breeders, companies and businesses in our network know that perfect families do not always live close by, and sometimes far-distance travel arrangements have to be made. You may even be able to pick up your pup from an airplane close by or even around the corner - it all depends! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Virginia? We really care about puppies and their well being, so it is of the utmost importance that anyone who wants to be connected to us is screened under strict rules - and then they have to take our Breeder Pledge. The health of your puppy-to-be, its wellbeing, the way it is taken care of, the place it is brought up in - all of this matters to us. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Virginia? The internet is available to absolutely everybody - and that includes scrupulous breeders who are out there just wanting to cash in by selling puppies. We care deeply for dogs and puppies and we love connecting good and honest breeders with families who just want to open their homes to a new and wonderful puppy. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Virginia? A puppy mill is an awful place that is unfortunately legal. Dogs are treated terribly and all their owners want from them are their puppies which they make money out of. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Virginia for sale now? We just need to know a little bit about yourself and exactly what you are looking for. Then begin your search and find the Poodle of your dreams. There are breeders, companies and businesses out there that are really excited to place their beautiful puppies in your home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Virginia? Poodles are actually part of a group of formal dog breeds. The Poodle is available in Toy size, Miniature size and large, regal, Standard size. They are highly intelligent and their origins belong to both Germany and France. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Virginia? It is hard to monitor all the puppy scams that happen daily on the internet so we make sure that we have a secure Breeder Pledge and a strict screening process, in order to create the best of relationships between our customers and our breeders, companies and businesses. Our reviews reveal all! You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Toy Poodle, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Poodles". It's written by experienced Poodle owner and dog trainer Tarah Schwartz. The book contains a lot of really useful insights that can help a new owner avoid common mistakes that most Poodle owners make. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Toy Poodle puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Toy Poodles young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos!
boxer puppy schedule - Choosing a reputable breeder, however, can be rather difficult. The answers you receive will help determine the quality of your breeder and puppy and provide you with information you need to help raise your puppy. Important Questions to Ask a Breeder 1. Study up on your specific breed to see if there are common genetic problems worth discussing. Is that the size dog you want? Can I meet the entire litter? View and interact with the entire litter. This will allow you to evaluate the cleanliness of the environment and the size, personality, energy level, and health of the puppies. The puppies should interact and be playful with other dogs and comfortable around people. They should not cower when you approach or touch them and not resist when you roll them on their backs and hold them in that position. Make sure that they appear to be in good health and evaluate their overall temperament. Are they shy, aggressive, or well-adjusted? What preventative care do you provide to the parent dogs? A measure of the quality of care provided for the puppies can be evidence by the care delivered to the parent dogs. Optional vaccines include Lyme and the canine flu, which depend on disease risk. Have the parent dogs had health problems? What health problems have the parents had to date? When did they develop and how were they treated? This will help guide you as to what to look for and take preventative measures for your dog. How old are the puppies? What age can I take my puppy home? Puppies ready for adoption should be between 8 and 12 weeks old. It is important that the puppies socialize with their litter mates and other dogs early in life. Taking them away too soon can be a problem. Puppies not taken by other buyers over 12 weeks old or puppies that have been returned can indicate problems as well. Have the puppies been socialized? Have the pups been around other dogs and people? Socialization is critical in puppies ages 6 to 16 weeks. Proper socialization consists of positive experiences with other dogs and humans of varying ages, race, and sizes. Have vaccines been administered to the puppies? How many shots have the puppies received and when are they due for their next round of shots? Puppies generally start their vaccine series between 6 and 8 weeks of age. Ideally, vaccines are administered by a licensed veterinarian rather than a feed-store vaccine. Have the puppies been dewormed? All puppies are born with worms and routine deworming is recommended. This often begins as early as 2 weeks of age and most puppies have at least one dose of dewormer by 6 weeks of age. How many veterinarian visits have the puppies had? Have any puppies in the litter been sick? Have the puppies seen the vet, been examined, and declared healthy? If not, what problems have they had? If any of the puppies were sick, what were the signs, the diagnosis, and treatment measures? Have they been on any medications? Have any puppies had parvovirus? Ask for medical records that includes examinations, weights, deworming treatments, and vaccines. What is your guarantee? What guarantee does the breeder give with their puppies? If the puppy is found to have a severe illness, what will they do to compensate? How long does the guarantee last? This is a difficult topic, but one that is a lot easier to cover up front rather than after the fact. When do I need to go for the first vet visit? How soon is the first vet visit? Consider it a probationary period to see your vet and get the puppy evaluated before finalizing the contract. Do you have any references? Ask the breeder for references from puppy owners that they have sold to within the past year. Call their clients and find out if the breeder was fair, if they were happy with their pets, and how any problems were handled. If so, what is in it? Is the breeder willing to take the puppy back at any time if you are unable to keep it? Do you require puppies to be spayed or neutered by a certain age? If that is the case, it may not be an issue, but it is best to know before you get your puppy. Ask if the breeder has information about the breed line. For example, ask how long most dogs in the breed line have lived and what they typically die from. What are you currently feeding the puppies? Regardless of what they are feeding, it is ideal to continue feeding the same food for the first few days at home to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal distress. Learn how much and when they are feeding to keep your puppy on the same schedule for the first few days. Will you supply a health certificate and certificate of sale? Ask the breeder if they will supply a veterinarian-issued health certificate for your puppy. Also, be sure to ask for a certificate of sale, which may be required depending on your location. Are there any required certificates if you are shipping out of state? Do you belong to a breed club? Do they have any training tips that have worked well for their puppies? One of the most challenging things a new puppy owner has to deal with is housetraining their puppies. Breeders have a lot of experience training and may have useful tips that have worked well for other puppies. Do you offer support? Top breeders are passionate about their puppies and adamant about finding them the best homes. In fact, they usually want to interview you more than you want to interview them. Many want to track the lives of their puppies and are willing to answer questions and help you navigate small issues as you raise the dog. What do you provide with the sale of the puppy? When you are finally ready to pick up your puppy, what will the breeder provide? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. What Does a Good Breeder Do? A good breeder is without doubt the best place to get your Labrador puppies. They will usually have a demonstrable love of the breed and are usually active in a competitive discipline such as field trials or showing. Breeding responsibly takes a lot of dedication, time and considered, reasoned processes. Good Labrador Retriever breeders: Carefully select and match a sire and dam to breed Labrador puppies with particular traits and temperament. Take the utmost care of the welfare and living conditions of their dogs and puppies. Perform many health checks on their breeding stock to cut the risk of inherited diseases. Can provide certificates of pedigree for both parents. Will provide information and help to you throughout the life of your Lab. Matching The Sire and Dam For Breeding Good Labrador breeders will usually be involved in a competitive discipline and will selectively breed their Labradors to improve the breed for a particular purpose. Some will breed for field trials, some for conformance to show in the ring and some for obedience. In each discipline, different qualities and temperament are bred for. Although most will also breed for their dogs to become good family pets. A good breeder will carefully consider the strengths and weaknesses of the parents, hoping to achieve a higher level of perfection in their next generation of dogs for the purpose of which they are bred. Contrast this with a less responsible breeder. They will often throw together any two dogs of the same breed purely to produce a litter of puppies for sale. No consideration given to the pedigrees of the parents and how compatible they may or may not be. Welfare and Living Conditions A good breeder will want to meet you and will give you the chance to see the parents of the puppies and the conditions in which his breeding stock lives. This is a very good opportunity for you to screen out some less reputable ones. A good breeder will either raise their Labrador puppies in the home, or in clean and well maintained kennels. Of utmost importance is the puppies early socialization to different experiences, surroundings and human contact. A responsible Labrador breeders stock, from puppies through to adults, should look healthy and be friendly and sociable. If you find they have health or temperament problems, you should walk away. Health Checks Good Labrador breeders will have put their dogs and bitches through an array of health checks before deciding to use them in their breeding programs. A bad breeder may say his stock has had a vets clearance for health. This is not at all sufficient and a breeder should be able to produce certificates that you can verify online or by phone. The two main health clearances you should ask to see: Are the parents free of hip dysplasia? These checks should be performed once a year. But a responsible one will be aware of these common ailments and will be honest about his stock being prone. In contrast to a good breeder, a bad breeder will not have put his puppies through any such health checks. But if you get your puppy without such checks, you would be supporting bad practices, gambling with your dogs future health…and gambling with potentially high future vets bills! If a breeder cannot offer certifiable proof of the health of his stock and is unwilling to discuss genetic diseases, then you should definitely walk away. Ongoing Help to Care for Your Puppy Good Labrador breeders will provide you with lots of information on how to raise and care for your dog, both before you take your puppy home and throughout the lifetime of your dog. They will be extremely knowledgeable and because they truly care about their puppies, no question will be too simple or too small for them to answer. They will often help with dietary advice, training advice, health and care advice and be able to offer contact details of important organizations. Some will even go so far as to give a promise they will take your puppy back if it displays unmanageable health problems or your circumstances change and you can longer care for your Lab. A bad breeder will not provide anything like this level of service. The 12 Questions You Should Ask of a Labrador Breeder In order to help you filter out the good Labrador breeders from the bad, I have prepared a list of 12 questions that you should ask a breeder. They are questions they will expect and should be happy to answer: How are you involved with the Labrador breed? If they are seriously into their breeding, they have some involvement in field trails or showing their dogs. How many different breeds of dog do you breed? They are more likely in it for the money and not just for the love of the breed. Are the sire and dam registered? Will the puppies be registered? Of course, when buying a pedigree dog, you will wan this to be proven and traceable. Most good breeders will also register their puppies and will hand them over when you collect your puppy. Where are your Labrador puppies raised? The perfect answer is in the home. Some kennel bred puppies are still well socialized and given lots of human attention. Can you provide check-able certificates of the parents health screening tests concerning hips and eyes? Good Labrador breeders will health screen their stock and will not breed dogs that have poor scores for health. They will care more for the quality of life of their potential puppies and for the overall health of the population. Is there any history of other diseases common to Labrador Retrievers in the ancestry of the puppies? Unfortunately, many pedigree dogs have an array of inherited, genetically linked diseases. A good breeder will be happy to discuss this with you. Should my circumstances change in such a way that I can no longer care for the dog, would you be willing to take it back? The majority of good breeders will be happy to do so and will provide a written guarantee. However, a deal is a deal and if the breeder seems good in many other ways, do not place too high an emphasis on this one. May I contact you with any questions that I have about the dog once I have him in my care? Every single breeder should say yes and will be happy to help. At what age am I able to take the dog home? No breeder will let a puppy go before it is 8 weeks old. These first 8 weeks, the puppy is learning a huge amount from its mother and litter mates. Taking a puppy from its mother too soon is tantamount to cruelty. Is it possible for me to meet the parents of the puppies? You can learn a lot about both the potential looks and temperament of your chosen puppy by meeting the parents. If the sire cannot be seen, you should at least be able to get its name and the name of the owner so you contact them and try to arrange a viewing and check its certificates for health etc. Can you provide references of previous adopters of your puppies? The experiences had by people who have previously dealt with the breeder are invaluable. They can tell you how their dog is doing, whether any health problems surfaced and the way the dealer dealt with them both during the sale and throughout the lifetime of the dog. From the answers they give, you should be able to instantly spot the bad breeders and cut them from your short list. You should try to make a personal visit to the remaining ones to further check that they are reputable. For more information, please see:. I visited my latest puppy at four weeks. She was still boring. I was far more interested in mum and dad. With my previous two who are litter mates , I helped to whelp them and spent a lot of time days at a time with them and the rest of the litter before they came home with me. Their personalities even at six and a half weeks - even at 14 weeks - wasn't indicative of what they eventually grew into. For me, I'd rather the breeder made the decision of which puppy went to which family. They are the ones who are best placed to do so based on what you are looking for in a puppy and what you can offer them, and it shows a keen interest in the puppy's ongoing welfare. Even having spent so much time with Willow and Shadow in those first few weeks, I couldn't have predicted what they would be like as adults, so expecting to do so after a couple of hours is asking a bit much. You will get the puppy you get. You will bring him home and you will love him. He will be easy or he will be challenging. Either way, you won't know what it would have been like with any of the others, so it really doesn't matter which you choose. Click to expand.I'm ready for a challenge to be honest. My first 2 were lab x collies and were an absolute dream in the house but Ben was terribly dog aggressive and both pulled like trains even pulling my sister straight off her feet. The last 2 originally belonged to my brother which he had from pups and they were a dream for him, never pulled did everything asked off them, when I took over their care due to his circumstances changing they were little devils, jumping up pulling like crazy, and wouldn't do anything I asked but I was a pushover with them and they were right up till the day they were PTS excitable and puppy like, but I loved them regardless even when Simba got overexcited and bit my lip when giving me a kiss. I'm prepared to put in the work needed to have MY idea of a dream dog, which is maybe not everybody else's idea of a dream. I said so confidently I'm ready for the challenge bet I'm on here crying at his naughtiness in a few months haha. What an exciting time! After a short phone call, arrange a visit by yourself. No matter how tempting it is to bring the kids along to visit a room full of puppies, you have to make the first visit on your own. To make sure you're prepared, here's our handy check list of the 15 questions you'll need to ask your puppy breeder. How old are the puppies? It may seem like a silly question but you want to make sure they are between weeks old. Are you able to see the puppy with its mum and dad? You want to assess the temperament of the mum and the puppy and how they interact with each other. Is she aggressive or caring? Is the puppy hyperactive or docile? These answers will help you decide whether this is the right puppy for your family. Are you able to see and handle the full litter? The average litter will be between five and six puppies. By handling a few fluff-balls, you will be able to see whether they are all of similar size, character and health. You can also see how they interact with other dogs and you. Are they weaned? What social experiences have the puppies had so far? Most modern breeders ensure that every puppy has had ample interaction with people and their puppy siblings before they are ready to be sold. What should I feed my puppy? Do you have a diet sheet to take away? A lot of breeders even keep a diet sheet that you can take home with you, letting you know when to feed them and how much. Pretty handy! When am I allowed to take the puppy home? Puppies should not be allowed to leave their mothers before 8 weeks because it can affect their development. The majority of breeders will let you take the puppy home after 8 weeks but some choose to keep them until 12 weeks. Which vaccinations has the puppy had and when is the next dose due? Puppies should receive vaccinations between weeks old and another dose at weeks old. If you are keen to take the puppy home at 8 weeks old, you need to know what vaccinations they still need to have before they can go and explore the big wide world or the local park. Has the puppy received any other treatments such as worming? Similar to vaccinations, around the same time, puppies should be treated for worms and fleas. Did you know all puppies are born with worms? Poor things! Do you have any copies of health certificates for the parents? Depending on the breed, some pedigree dogs have hereditary conditions that can be passed down to their puppies. Can I return the puppy if there are any health problems? Is the puppy registered with the Kennel Club? If you are looking to buy a pedigree dog, the breeder should have registered the puppies with the Kennel Club and be able to provide a certificate to state that they are, indeed, pedigree. If the application is still pending, it might be worth asking to see the certificate of the mum and dad. Are you able to get references from any previous puppy buyers? If they are a professional breeder, you might be able to contact previous buyers and visit their dogs. This way you can get a second opinion about the breeder and discuss openly whether their dog is everything they hoped for. Will there be a contract of sale? All reputable breeders should provide you with a contract of sale. This will state the responsibilities of both you and the owner and as well as an official document for your records. Does the breeder place any caveats or guarantees on the sale of the puppies? Occasionally, a breeder may require you to have the puppy spayed or neutered or you might not be able to show the dog. It is essential you know this before deciding to buy to avoid any disappointment. And of course, if you're about to purchase a brand new puppy of your own, they're going to need somewhere to sleep! Don't forget to check out our excellent range of luxury dog beds available here in the UK and here in the USA! Related Blog Posts. Tweet on Twitter Getting a healthy, pedigree Labrador puppy requires planning. In this article we are going to share with you 8 steps that you can follow to ensure that you are buying a healthy Labrador puppy. There are potential problems that many new puppy buyers are not aware of. The litter of puppies next door, or in your local newspaper, might not be the right one for you. So you need to be cautious as you set out on this exciting journey! Plan in advance Good breeders do not usually struggle to get puppy buyers. On the contrary, they often have waiting lists. So, if a litter of eight week old puppies is still unsold, be wary. It pays to plan in advance. Six to twelve months ahead of when you want your puppy is not too soon. The structured approach below is designed to help those with no contacts in the dog breeding world, find the right puppy. Step 1. Those bred for the show ring or as pets, and those bred for work as gundogs. You can read about these two types of Labrador, and their characteristics in this article: which Labrador is right for you? In the UK we call these two strains working type or field type and show type. They look and are, very different dogs. In the USA, working bred Labradors are often referred to as field type or American and show bred gun dogs as bench type or English. The split is the same in both countries, whatever they are called. And you need to know which is which and which you prefer. Step 2. This article looks at all the different places and ways in which you can buy puppies and explains the pros and cons of each. Finding a reputable breeder if you have no contacts in the doggy world, is not as easy as walking into a pet shop, but it is worth every bit of the effort that goes into it. One way to start your search, is by looking at your local Labrador breed club. This will lead you to some experienced breeders. You will then need to do some further checks to find out whether or not the breeders meets the standards you are looking for. Many people that are involved in the committee of their breed club are themselves breeders. If they no longer breed, they will be able to put you in touch with someone that does. One will be labelled FT secretary. The FT stands for Field Trial and suggests that this person is involved with working type labradors. If someone is showing their dogs, the dogs themselves are more likely to be show type rather than true working type. Step 3. Contact some Labrador breeders Make a list of contacts to approach, you can then phone them or email them. Let them know that you found them on the Kennel Club website, and are looking for a pedigree Labrador puppy. Tell them which type work or show you are interested in. Have a separate list ready, to enter details of any litters. So the second question is often the best way of getting a puppy from one of her dogs. If you have a colour preference, let the breeder know. He or she will ask you plenty of questions later if you want one of their puppies. Step 4. For several reasons. They may not have any puppies at the moment, or they may not meet the criteria you have set for the breeder of your puppy. They will however, be able to give you more contacts to add to your list. What you are aiming to do, is to make a list of half a dozen or so litters of puppies that you can then check out and narrow down. One of the best ways to find a litter of puppies, either before or after they are born, is to find a nice stud dog, and track down all the female dogs he has been mated to over the last month or two. A reputable breeder will be happy to email you photos and may even let you visit her stud dog, so that you can decide if you like him. This trail will also lead you to some smaller, less experienced breeders so you will need to do your homework carefully to make sure that the mother of your puppies has the right credentials. Checking those out is our next step Step 5. Checking credentials It is up to you to check the credentials of the litter. This is something that people are often unaware of. A pedigree does not guarantee very much at all. The Kennel Club pedigree is simply a statement of ancestry and contrary to popular belief, does not imply that the puppy it belongs to or his parents have met any standards. The three credentials you need to personally check and verify are Temperament Abililty Temperament The most crucial of all credentials has to be temperament. An adult Labrador may weight in excess of 70lbs. These are large powerful dogs that everyone expects to be friendly. You cannot take any chances with poor temperament. He will inherit tendencies to friendliness or unfriendliness, nervousness or confidence etc, from both of his parents. Never buy a puppy without meeting his mother. And if you can meet the stud dog, so much the better. If you cannot meet the stud dog, make sure that someone who has met him, can vouch for his good nature. This may not be quite as crucial with a show champion as any successful show dog will have proven itself happy to be handled in the most personal manner by total strangers. Working dogs are a different matter, and occasionally dogs with poor temperaments do succeed in competition and are used at stud. Health Health credentials are essential. Follow this link to read all about inherited diseases in Labradors and read our article on health checks. I cannot stress this too much. You must physically check certificates or copies of certificates way in advance of collecting your puppy. It is very hard to turn down a puppy once he is in your arms. Ability Ability is important if you have an activity in mind for your dog. If your aim is to compete in working trials, you might want to choose a puppy whose ancestors have been successful in that sport. Choosing a litter Narrowing down your choice to a single litter can be tough. Unless you have your heart set on a puppy from a particular dog, you may find it difficult to decide. In many cases though, there are not that many litters that meet the right criteria. You can narrow down your choice further by looking again at the breeder. How friendly and helpful is she? Do you think she will be supportive if you get into difficulties with your puppy? Has she offered to take the puppy back at any point in his life if you cannot cope? If you can answer yes to all three, then that is a real bonus point for that litter. This person is important and you need to feel that you can trust her. A breeder with a lot of dogs may have her pups in an outdoor kennel, but they should still spend lots of time with the family. Check out this article: How to spot a good breeder , and this one How to spot a bad breeder for more information. It pays to be picky. Step 7. Choosing gender Should you buy a dog or a female dog? Some people simply prefer one gender over another. And it is very hard to generalise about the sexes. Male Labradors are no more difficult to train or control than female dogs. And though entire males may be more likely to roam if not supervised in an unfenced property, female dogs can do this too. Females come into season twice a year at which time they may need to be confined to washable floors. They will also need to be kept separate from entire males with vigilance for a period of around three weeks. Neutering a female is more expensive than neutering a male. And older, un-neutered female dogs are prone to a serious and potentially deadly condition called pyometra. These are all things to consider. But overall, it often just boils down to personal preference. Step 8. Choosing your puppy And now for the final and most exciting step Choosing your puppy. Which one of these gorgeous bundles of Labrador loveliness should you take home? One of the very best things you can do when choosing a puppy from a litter, is to take someone experienced with you. Another good reason to choose an experienced and dependable person well in advance. If there is a choice, a good breeder will be able to guide you in this. All they can tell you is what you can hope for from the pedigree, and that the puppy seems OK physically. Check out this article: Choosing the right dog for more information. To make sure all is well, you will need to have your new puppy checked over by your own vet, within a day or two of bringing him home. Health and temperament problems in a large dog can be devastating. Now available in most countries, the handbook is already a bestseller in the UK. Finding the perfect Labrador puppy can be daunting, and asking the right questions when dealing with breeders is essential. Did You Breed the Puppy Yourself? This is a crucial question, as it helps ensure you work directly with the breeder rather than a middleman or broker. That said, Labradors typically have a friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited temperament. Labradors are also highly intelligent, easily trainable, and often used as service dogs and in other working roles. They can adapt to different living conditions, including apartments or rural areas. However, Labradors require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and mental well-being. A lack of exercise and mental stimulation can lead to behavioral issues. Socialization is a vital process for puppies, as it helps them develop positive associations with people, other animals, and new experiences. This process begins early and should continue throughout puppyhood. Before bringing a new puppy home, a responsible breeder will have initiated the socialization process. This should include exposure to different people, animals, and environments, such as car rides and walks in new areas. The breeder should also have introduced the puppy to common household sounds like vacuum cleaners and TVs. Exposing the puppy to these experiences teaches them to adapt and become more confident in new situations, reducing the risk of fear or anxiety issues later in life. Ask the breeder how they continue socializing their puppies after they leave their care. A good breeder will provide advice and resources for continuing the socialization process at home. For example, they may recommend enrolling the puppy in puppy classes or obedience training or providing you with exercises to practice at home to help the puppy develop positive associations with new experiences. While seeing the parents in person and observing their demeanor and behavior is ideal, some breeders may have reservations about in-person visits, or an in-person visit may not be practical. You can ask for photos or videos to understand their temperament and habits in such cases. This can still provide a glimpse into their personality and traits. They should be healthy and free from any genetic issues that could be passed on to their offspring. Ensure that the breeder has conducted health screenings and can provide supporting documentation. Labrador puppies can usually be brought home at around weeks. Removing a Labrador puppy from its mother and litter mates too early can negatively affect its development and behavior. Labrador puppies learn crucial socialization and communication skills from their mother and litter mates during their first few weeks. If removed too early, they may develop behavioral problems such as anxiety and aggression, affecting their long-term well-being. Additionally, if a Labrador puppy is taken away from its mother too early, it may have a weaker immune system and be more susceptible to illnesses. When considering adopting a Labrador puppy, ask the breeder if it has received its first set of vaccinations and deworming treatments. Puppies, including Labradors, are vulnerable to various diseases, so early vaccinations are essential to protect their health. Some of these diseases. I had a lot of questions about choosing a dog breeder. Getting a new dog is a huge decision and I wanted to make sure I was doing everything right. Several of the photos in this post are from my recent visit to the Westminster Dog Show where I got to see some of the best labradors in the world! How do I find a good Labrador breeder? One of the best places to start your search for a wonderful lab breeder is at the park or on a local trail. Keep your eyes peeled for labs and their people and ask where they got their puppy. In my experience, people who have worked with responsible breeders are more than happy to pass along a recommendation. When you get recommendations this way you can also see the size and temperament of their lab and get an idea of what their breeder specializes in. Another perk of getting recommendations in person is that they probably worked with a labrador breeder near where you live. When I started my search for a second dog who ended up being Lucy! I was hiking with my other lab Lola. We came across another beautiful English Lab on the trail. I complimented the dog and asked the owner where she got him from. Turns out, he was from Morgan Kennels, just a few hours south of where I live. Are you labrador obsessed? What kind of genetic testing is done on Pure-Bred Labradors? The OFA has a list of recommended tests for Labradors. Based on their list, other genetic tests you might see referenced by a labrador breeder include: EIC Excercise Induced Collapse : This is a genetic syndrome most commonly seen in retriever breeds. If a dog has this syndrome they will struggle with strenuous activity, but can still make great pets. HNPK Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis : This is a genetic defect that affects cells of the nose and can result in the formation of a crust with cracks over the nose area of young dogs. This is a recommended test for Labrador Retrievers. ACVO American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists : This references a test done by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist to determine if dogs have any genetic eye diseases that could be passed on to puppies. PRA Progressive retinal atrophy : This references a group of genetic diseases that cause deterioration of the retina and can lead to vision loss or blindness. If you have any questions about the tests done on your puppy and their parents, just ask your breeder. They should be more than happy to explain each one to you and what the results mean. If your breeder is worried about germs they might offer to send you photos instead. Because of that, they may not have both parents available to meet in person. Ask if you can see photos or video of the dad. Their size, coloring and temperament are all important things to look for. Does the breeder have a contract? Your breeder should have a contract for you both to sign. A responsible breeder will always take back a puppy if anything happens that prevents you from taking care of the dog. Their priority is always the health and wellbeing of their pups. Will my labrador breeder help with questions I have a few years down the road? Any responsible breeder will also answer any questions as they come up. When Lucy was about 2 or 3 years old she started to have a bladder leaking issue. Do Labrador Breeders have requirements for new Puppy families? Just as you have a ton of questions for your potential labrador breeder, they should have a ton of questions for you, too! A good sign of a responsible breeder is someone who treats all of their puppies like their own. Your breeder will probably ask you about where you live, your yard, your lifestyle, working hours, etc. My breeder also wanted to know about past dogs I had and any issues we had over their lives. How much does a pure-bred Labrador Puppy Cost? Getting a puppy whether from a breeder or a rescue is a big investment for the next years. They also have a great deal of expertise in raising healthy puppies that uphold the breed standard. Did you love this post? Check out these links:.
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boxer puppy schedule - JackPug Description The Jug is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Jack Russell Terrier and the Pug. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of thecharacteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She takes after the JRT and is very high energy and very intelligent. Jugs should have access to a fenced yard as they love to run and dig. They will chase squirrels , rabbits, etc. He has lots of curiosity and play drive, but is equally interested in lap time with Mommy. He also enjoys time with our other mixed breed dog Terra whose mother was a purebred Golden Retriever and we believe a black Lab father. In Ollie's case, he requires a lamb and rice dog food, and I must ensure no one gives him anything with pork in it. I love watching Cesar Millan's the Dog Whisperer and have taken lots of tips from the show in regards to being the pack leader. I was a dog trainer with the local county 4-H program and have been around all types of breeds for many years; Cesar's principals are phenomenal. Ollie can have an attitude when he does not get what he wants when he wants it, so I really do have to use the firm assertive-dominant role with him. He has a super high drive to watch for squirrels and chipmunks and will bark very aggressively toward them. I sometimes let him outside on the enclosed deck to chase them away, HA HA. He thinks it's great. I also developed a toy that he really has a drive to play with; it is a hard plastic ball, large enough not to get stuck in his jaws which can really be strong and it has two metal ball bearings inside it. I let him chase it all over the 1st floor of our home. I just close off sections with lots of places for it to get stuck. I also have the main play area pretty well ball proofed. If it gets stuck somewhere he will usually come and get me but you have to keep an eye or an ear out for him since he takes out his frustration on anything nearby. This includes extension cords, patio door blinds or the ottoman. Having consistency on the rules of good behavior during playtime keeps the house from being taken over by this little character. So overall, this breed is a joy to have around. He is my constant companion, loves attention from anyone and of course thinks he's the best. I really fell in love with his looks on first sight but his personality has truly taken my heart. She can do that and she can stand and spin in a circle. She loves kids and other animals; she has never hurt a fly. She loves everyone. Her name is Zoey. She was the only white Jug out of the litter. We love her very much. Bugs is four months old. His mom is a Jack Russell Terrier and his dad is a Pug. My husband bought Bugs for me as a Christmas present. Bugs is wonderful and smart, however he demands a lot of attention and exercise. When we are not working we walk Bugs a couple of miles a day. When working, we take him with us and walk him every time we are on a break. He wasn't too difficult to housebreak.I took him to the vet yesterday for his final puppy series and first rabies.He may be a small dog, but he has a big dog attitude. He fears nothing. Bugs is so very sweet. He is very affectionate, but enjoys roughhousing as well. He sometimes bites when playing and we are working on that. He does not like to be told "No. When you tell him No, he looks at you quizzically and then barks at you to express his annoyance. I love him and he is awesome. He loves going through drive-throughs at restaurants where people will tell him how adorable he is. Although, he is very hyper Jack Russell. I got Nugly when he was 3 months old from a pet store. It only took me 2 weeks to have him housebroken and 3 weeks to have him sitting, lying down on command and giving me paw. He is very intelligent. She can be quite greedy and has the tenacity of a Jack Russell Terrier. She loves to play and has been complimented on how placid she is around people. She has been a great delight to have in our home. Tootie is extremely intelligent and energetic. It was love at first sight with her and my son 4 years old. Everywhere we take her we are literally stopped by people off the street because she is just sooo CUTE. At times she can be sneaky and tries to get away with things she should not be doing. She fits in well with my kids. We love Tootie very much! Photo courtesy of kobethejug on Instagram When fully grown Jack Russell Terriers are 10 to 15 inches tall and weigh in at between 13 and 17 pounds. Full grown Pugs are 10 to 13 inches tall and weigh between 14 and 20 pounds. Because both the Jack Russell Terrier and Pug are about the same size, Jugs are about the size you would expect. They stand between 12 and 15 inches tall and weight between 13 and 20 pounds when they are full grown. With an average lifespan of 13 — 17 years, the Jack Russell Pug mix tends to live a relatively long time for dogs. This is right in line with the lifespan of a Jack Russell Terrier and slightly longer than the average life of a Pug. This is where owning a small dog saves money over other dogs as you will spend less money on dog food. As a rule of thumb, you should feed your adult dog 1 cup of food per day for every 15 to 20 pounds of body weight. For most Jugs, this works out to one cup of dog food per day. It is best to spread it out over two separate meals throughout the day. While all Jugs are half Jack Russell Terrier and half Pug, there is a relatively large variation between individual dogs. Some Jugs look more like Jack Russells, while others maintain features more closely resembling a Pug. What Colors are Jug Dogs? Jug dogs can be a variety of colors Jug dogs can be a variety of different colors including tan, caramel, brown, and black. They often have one primary color and sometimes have a secondary color that can be any of those four or white. One thing that makes Pugs so cute it their curly tail. Many Jack Russell Pug mixes will inherit a curly tail, but not all of them. How Many Jug Puppies are in a Litter? The litter size for Jugs is anywhere between 3 and 8 pups. Usually, there are between 5 and 7 littermates. Do Jug Dogs Shed? Both Jack Russells and Pugs are shedders, so as you would expect, Jugs also shed. However, their short coats make them relatively easy to maintain. Daily brushing is recommended to reduce shedding and keep their coats healthy. Are Jug Dogs Hypoallergenic? Due to their moderate shedding throughout the year, Jugs are not hypoallergenic dogs. Jack Russell Terriers are a breed known to bark a lot. Pugs on the other hand are not known as barkers, but that may just be due to the fact that their bark is just not as loud. Jugs seem to take their barking gene more from the Jack Russell. They are alert dogs that tend to bark when they hear noises and make great watch dogs. For the most part, mixed breed dogs tend to be healthier than purebred dogs. Even though Jugs are relatively healthy dogs, all breeds have their own health issues. Some health issues for Jug owners to watch out for are dry eyes , skin allergies , hip dysplasia , and respiratory issues. Jugs were originally bred to elongate the Pug nose to eliminate respiratory issues, but the effort has not been entirely successful. If you have concerns about your Jug dog, be sure to seek professional veterinary advice. Are Jug Dogs High Energy? While Jack Russells are an energetic breed and can be hyper dogs , Jugs also take a cue from their Pug heritage who are more calm dogs. It can be difficult to judge the exact energy level a Jug puppy will have as they get older, so if you are adopting a Jug you should be prepared for the possibility of a highly active dog. Yes, Jug dogs can make excellent apartment dogs. However, it is important to make sure they get their daily exercise as detailed below. Jugs need between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise per day Jugs are not the most athletic dogs, but it is still important for them to exercise. Jugs need between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise per day. Because of respiratory issues, walks are the best form of exercise for Jugs. However, they will also benefit from traditional games like fetch as long as they do not get tired to the point of labored breathing. Can Jug Dogs Swim? They are not very good swimmers, but Jug dogs can swim Yes, Jugs can swim, but they are not very good at it. Jack Russells are not the greatest swimmers , and Pugs are poor swimmers. It is important to exercise caution if you take your Jug swimming. If you choose to take your Jug into the water, it is a good idea to use a doggy life jacket. Are Jug Dogs Prone to Obesity? Like Pugs, Jugs gain weight easily and love treats. As a result, if their calorie intake is not monitored and they do not get enough exercise, they can quickly become overweight and suffer from obesity. Are Jug Dogs Aggressive? Jack Russell Terriers are hunting dogs, so they may be aggressive towards small animals like squirrels and chipmunks. However, outside of the hunting instinct inherited from the Jack Russell, Jugs are not considered aggressive. Yes, Jugs make excellent family pets. Like with all dog breeds, extra caution should be taken by families with young children. Are Jug Dogs Smart? Larger dog breeds are usually at the top of most dog intelligence rankings. However, Jugs are a relatively intelligent dog and have about average intelligence for canines. Are Jug Dogs Stubborn? Both the Jack Russell Terrier and Pug breeds are known to be stubborn from time to time, so it makes sense that the Jack Russell Pug mix can also have a stubborn streak or suffer from Small Dog Syndrome. Like all dogs, they need a strong pack leader owner to teach them right from wrong. Are Jug Dogs Easy to Train? Even though they can be stubborn, Jugs are definitely trainable. Like with any dog the keys to successful training are starting young, using positive reinforcement, and staying consistent. Photo courtesy of hugojughug on Instagram Jugs are generally friendly dogs that get along with both people and other animals. Many Jugs inherit the Jack Russel hunting instinct. They always seem to be on alert and keep an ear out for any strange sounds. Like their appearance, the personality of Jug dogs can also vary with some acting more like Jack Russells and others more like a Pug. Do Jug Dogs Smell Bad? The main culprit is their skin folds that can trap dirt as well as more powerful scent emitting glands. The best way to reduce any dog smell is to take care of their coat with regular brushings. Photo courtesy of 3fur. The Jug dog can make an excellent family pet that will even get along with other pets. However, like all small dogs, they are not immune from small dog syndrome and so it is important to make sure they are trained and socialized early in their life. If you are thinking about adopting a Jug puppy, I hope this post was able to answer some of your questions. Recent Posts.