cute labradoodle puppies
For those who know me well you are aware that I adore pugs and have fantasized for years about adopting a little girl and naming her Vera Wang so imagine my surprise when I arrived at a "Meet and Greet" to go over details about caring for their FOUR pugs to find FIVE more.Chante had just given birth four hours to three boys and two girls before I arrived and I was astonished, overjoyed, and overwhelmed with joy! Even though I've been a professional pet sitter for years I've never had the opportunity to see ANY newborn pet and I must say that I could barely make myself leave their side! As you can imagine, I wanted to hold all of the puppies but the worried look on Momma's face while holding her little man made me stopped me from asking to hold the others. Look at those faces! I daresay that this picture is my favorite! Chante's owner told me that puppies are very cold when first born and their eyes stay closed for 12 days. I was in awe of this mother's love for this little one! Can you imagine how many times I said goodbye before I really and truly left the house? When I said my final goodbye I told her to take care of her babies and I'd be back next week for 7 glorious days! I can't wait and I will be sure to post updates and lots of pictures! Posted by. Anyone who has ever held a newborn pug will confirm that these cuties absolutely tug on your heartstrings. And that's exactly what happened to Paisley. View the original article to see embedded media. Could this possibly be any sweeter? This tear-jerking minute-long video showing her daughter, Paisley, receiving a plain brown box. The text reads, "Paisley fell in love with pugs 4 years ago.She scans the TV behind her, she looks at her mom and kneels down to open the plain brown box. The text on the video changes. She thought this was her 15th. You can see her face change as she realizes that there is a live puppy inside the box. Paisley immediately starts crying and, luckily for us, her mom continues to film the precious reaction. We assume Paisley's heart starts to well up with love for her new furry friend. She pulls out the adorable Pug , who is dressed in a large, pink, velvet bow. Our hearts!!! We really can't imagine what an amazing surprise this was for her. Even better, Paisley happens to be wearing a matching pink shirt and high ponytail, making them look like immediate best friends. TikTok responders were as touched as we were to see this heartwarming scene. Unconditional love. I'm over here bawling," to which the original poster responded, "The whole family was crying. Save this one for the next time you need an uplifting puppy store to brighten your day.
Some Final Words As you may already know, it is all about genetics. Even in the animal kingdom the birth of a puppy, what they look like, and their breed is all dictated by genetics. Black human parents in Africa have been known to give birth to albino children. It is not a rare event and the same goes for Labradors. Dark-colored parents can give birth to Yellow or light-colored puppies. However, for white and yellow labs, they may not give birth to black puppies. The reason for this is that they do not have the gene that produces the black color in their offspring. If the gene is there, by some miracle, then yes, they can have black and even brown puppies. But that is the only way for white and yellow labs to have darker-colored pups. You can mix the parents and that would be one way to get the right gene to produce the black color. Did your puppy start out as a white lab, only to turn yellow later? Yes, they can. It all depends on the genes that the two black parents carry. The gene for the black color is B and the gene for the brown color is b. If the genetic code of the parents is BB then they can only have black puppies. If it is Bb or bb, then there is a chance for brown puppies. If one of the parents has the E gene, then it is possible for the parents to produce yellow puppies. Then there is the ee gene. This is the one that is needed for black parents to produce white puppies. The color of the puppy you get will depend on what genes the parents have and there is no real way to guess which ones they have until the puppies are born. This is a very simplified explanation as there are more details involved in this breeding process. What do you know about White Labrador Retrievers? You get two wonderful parents that produce a very unique set of puppies. In reality, the color of the coats will not matter as Labradors are capable of producing puppies with different colors. The color of the puppies you see will depend on the type of genes the parents have. A black dog could have a BB gene or BE gene while the white dog should have an ee gene. Those genes can combine and produce some colorful results. There may be a red or silver lab, a yellow, brown, or black lab in the litter. This has happened before as there have been litters with just about every possible Labrador color in it. As long as they are healthy, all colors of the Labrador will have all the characteristics of the normal black, yellow and brown labs everyone is familiar with seeing. Are White Labradors Good? Click here to learn more. The most common result will be with yellow labs. They on carry the E or e gene and not the B or b gene in most cases. When you mate two yellow labs with the EE or Ee gene, etc. These parents do not carry any genes that would produce darker puppies. The same goes for the brown and black Labradors. If the latter only has the BB gene, they can only produce black puppies. The brown Labrador parent needs to have the b gene to produce more brown puppies but there is a possibility that they will produce black puppies as well if they have the Bb gene. When you start mixing those genes, that is when you start to see litters with a variety of colors including red fox, white, and silver. Some Final Words To get the color of Labrador puppy you want, you need to make sure the parents have the genes to produce that color. Then not everything is certain that your preferred color will show up. When it comes to breeding, it is all biology and genetics. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. Among the three colors of Labrador Retrievers, black, yellow, and chocolate, black Lab pups are the most popular in both the U. Because black Lab pups are so popular, many people decide to get one, and head for a pet store or answer a classified ad. One Small Problem One small problem with hunting black and white lab puppies is that there is not much information about them. The store is, after all, selling them as such, and why would they do that if the puppies were not purebred? You scan the book rack at the pet store, and find nothing. You go to a nearby bookstore in the same mall, and look at books on Labrador Retrievers. Black and white Lab puppies in info given by store clerks or breeders are Lab pups of mixed breed. They may look much like a Lab pup, but any puppy with more than a little white spot on the chest is not a purebred Labrador Retriever. Consider the standard for Black Labradors. Black Lab puppies must be black from head to tail. There should be no brindle markings, no streaks or flecks of different colors. The same standard applies to chocolate Labs and yellow Labs. A true Labrador Retriever is never black and white. Just A Pet If you just want a Lab pup as a pet, and do not care about its bloodlines, a little black and white, part Lab may be just what you want. Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. Lab health and care Labradors can have white marks on their chest, feet, and tail. Although it may prevent your pup from registering as a show dog. Do you have a black Lab with a white chest? Click the links above to jump straight to a section that interests you. Or, keep reading to find out everything about black Labs with white chests! The Labrador breed coat color is the result of gene interaction, and the presence of certain alleles. We will look into the genetics of coat color in more detail a little later. This old breed had a thick black coat. In appearance, it is similar to the modern Lab, and the modern Border Collie breed! This is because it had an abundance of white markings amongst its darker fur, predominantly on its chest, face, and feet. In fact, initially, white markings on black Labs were more common than the other fur colors, chocolate and yellow. Until all Labs were black, but some had white markings. You might be thinking, does this mean I have a mixed breed? Not necessarily! Mixed breed puppies will inherit random characteristics from either parents. But, purebred Labs can have white markings too. Even yellow Labs! White markings on yellow Labs are just a little harder to see. Labradors with these white markings on their fur are often called mismarked Labs. But, because this marking was present in original Labrador ancestors, they are also possible in modern purebred Labs. Is My Lab Healthy? If you have a black Lab with white chest markings, you might wonder if there is something wrong with your puppy. Is it healthy? They will be just as healthy as any other Labrador puppy! We will look in more depth at Labrador health a little later on. The only difference between a mismarked, black and white Lab, and a standard colored one is your ability to show them. So, a black Lab with white chest markings may not be right for you if you only want a dog to show it. But, white markings on a working Lab or family companion are absolutely fine. But, there are actually lots of other markings that are common on Labs! Black and Tan Markings Some Labs have white markings, but others can have black and tan markings! This is pretty rare. But these puppies can have tan points above their eyes and on their ears and muzzle. Some people think this trait is the result of early cross-breeding with Gordon Setters. Brindling Brindling is a distinct pattern where brown fur has flecks of black and red throughout. This mark has a really interesting history! Many people believe that dogs with this mark are descendants of the first dual champion dog, called Banchory Bolo. Even if puppies are born with this mark, it may fade over time. Or become covered in black hairs. But, like the Bolo mark, this can also be covered by fur as your puppy grows up. Mosaic Labrador A Mosaic Lab will have patches of yellow and black. These are perhaps the most unusual markings! Lab puppies will come in one of the three:.
For the complete list please see our Listings of Breeders page. In the case of boxers from a reputable breeder, you will usually pay more than what an owner is charging since these breeders usually have to pay higher licensing and insurance fees as well as build kennels and other facilities that would be suitable for breeding dogs. In addition, reputable breeders will allow you to take the boxer home with a signed contract that prevents them from breeding their dog or selling it to other people. However, there are usually people who breed boxers as a side hobby and will be quite willing to make a deal with you. Although it is not recommended that you buy from these people, they usually give the dog away for free or for a very low price because they are trying to get rid of their dogs. In addition, buying from someone who breeds boxers as a side hobby may be cheaper. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Missouri To find a responsible boxers breeder in Missouri, the best thing to do is consult your veterinarian. Since there are many reputable breeders in this state, asking people who live nearby would be advisable as well. If you cannot ask anyone locally for help, then using the Internet will also allow you to look up lists of accredited dog breeders which may give you some leads on finding reputable breeders. Another important factor to consider if you want to buy a boxer puppy in Missouri is where the dog will live. Although Missouri does not have any requirements for the living conditions of dogs, it is always best to find out how big the kennel or barn will be and what the weather conditions are like in order to make sure that your boxer puppy can adapt to its new environment. Visit Your Missouri Boxer Breeder in Person In order to find boxers for sale in Missouri from a reputable breeder, it is important that you visit their kennel or farm. Although there are many breeders who advertise through the Internet and will ship a boxer puppy to your home, it is always best to buy a dog from a local breeder since they can ensure you good customer service. Visiting your Boxer breeder in person will also give you a chance to see the kind of environment your boxer is living in. This will allow you to determine if their breeding practices help promote good health and temperament as well as how they treat the dogs. It also allows you to connect with the breeder and makes it easier for you both to establish a strong relationship. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Missouri When you are searching for a Missouri boxer breeder, making sure that the boxing breeders in your area are trustworthy is just one of the most important factors to consider. You must know that not all reputable boxer breeders would be aware of how to raise their puppies correctly. References will be of great help in making sure that you will only be dealing with the most reliable boxer breeders in Missouri. For these reasons, asking for references is one of the best ways to ensure that they are professional Missouri boxer breeders. Ask Your Missouri Boxer Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Asking your Missouri boxer breeder to introduce you to their past clients is one of the most effective ways in order to determine if they are professional or not. If possible, you can also ask for referrals at this time. If these references and referrals are promising, then it basically means that they are reliable boxing breeders in Missouri. However, always keep in mind that not all reputable boxing breeders would provide these things right away especially when it comes to the safety of their puppies. Take note that responsible and trustworthy boxers breeders would look out for the welfare of their pets before anything else. This is why you must always make it a point to trust the boxer breeder in Missouri only when they are willing to hand over these things. Does the boxer breeder in Missouri that you are considering working with have a good relationship with their veterinarian? This basically means that they are responsible when it comes to taking care of their pets and not just looking at them as a source of income. You just need to remember that not all reputable boxer dog breeders would be easy to work with. In fact, you should already know this when looking for boxers in Missouri since not everyone has the same standards and expectations. This is one of the most common signs which point out that you might be dealing with an unethical Missouri boxer breeder at this time. They ask for payment during the process of the transaction. Before getting to work with Missouri boxer breeders, they must first know what kind of payment they are looking forward to accepting. If they immediately ask for payment even before doing anything, then this is one discouraging sign that points out that you might be dealing with an unethical boxer breeder at this present time. To them, money comes first and not the welfare of their pets. What good does a verbal agreement do? There are a lot of people who would prefer written contracts since these things hold both sides accountable. This is the kind of question which you should ask your breeder even before anything else. If they keep on telling you that nothing is wrong with them, this is yet another discouraging sign which points out that there might be something wrong with their facilities right now. So make sure to ask this question before agreeing to any contract. Remember that this is not just another pet since they are known to be quite destructive. So if you want them to do this somewhere else, make sure that you give them something which they could use for this purpose like chew toys and bones. But at the same time, it will also depend upon their age. If they are still young, then it might take some time before they would chew on things other than their own toys and bones. Just keep in mind that these pets would eventually grow up one day, and they will start exploring your house. This is the only way for them to learn what kinds of things are appropriate or not. You must never forget about this since this would have a long-term effect on their behavior later on in life. Just be patient when it comes to training them so everything would go according to plan. If these pets go to the bathroom inside your house, then this can lead to a lot of serious problems for both you and them. Remember that training your pet is essential because it helps strengthen your relationship with each other over time. They need enclosure crate training:Crate training works hand-in-hand with potty training which is why you should not forget about this one thing above all else. They would give you some good advice which will help improve the overall relationship that you have with your pet. Just have patience with them since they will eventually learn what you want them to do regardless of how long it may take. Enjoy your brand new Boxer puppy. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Parents imported from Serbia and Montenegro. Sire is 4 time Champions in Montenegro. All puppies are sold on contract with 3 years health guarantee by breeder. Buy Now Boxer puppies available now Boxer puppies available now very playful For more info and pics please text us at: xxx xxx-xxx8for faster response. They are not registered. They will be vet checked and cleared and ready for their new home. Shipping is also available at your own expense. If you or anyone you know are interested please reach out to Nathan or Ivet xxx. Questions, let us know! Puppies for sale!!! Seeking a good home for my puppies. They have great temperament towards people and gets along with big dogs and pets at home. They are registered. Contact through my website at xxx. My puppies are well socialized, up to date on all age appropriate shots. I have excellent references and would be happy to give them to you at your request. Excellent bloodlines behind my dogs. I have a one girl and three boys available at this time. They are very socialized with kids and other home pets around them. These puppies very intelligent and will adapt easily in a new environment. Contact for more information. Sweet boxer puppies ready. Give us a call or text at xxx xxx-xxx3 View Detail Need help? Please contact contact petzlover. Welcome to the Kansas state page on TrustedPuppies. Situated in the heart of America, Kansas boasts a unique blend of breathtaking prairies, rolling hills, and thriving cities, making it an excellent destination for Boxer aficionados. Our mission is to connect you with the best Kansas Boxer breeders and puppies for sale throughout Kansas. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Ranking 28th in dog ownership among the states, Kansas is home to an estimated thousand dogs. Kansas offers an array of dog-friendly amenities, including numerous dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events that cater to the canine community. Immerse yourself in the lively dog show scene by attending events like the Sunflower Cluster Dog Show, where dog enthusiasts gather to celebrate their love for their cherished companions. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders offer secure and affordable flight delivery, with a dedicated flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable trip as they travel to their new home in the Sunflower State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option ensures your Boxer puppy is brought to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet travel. Begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy today on TrustedPuppies.
All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. You should take your puppy outdoors and let him exercise his socialization potential at a young age. Visiting friends and family is one way to go about it. You can also spot a dog park and carry him there. Remember that your pet is still learning to follow directions and walk with you. You cannot expect him to cover long distances. The best way to avoid this is to take them far enough from the house and ensure they have a positive outside experience. It is worth noting that you should do this as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training It would be best to start potty training your Lab puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. A good idea is to cordon off a small area and add some bark chippings. Next, you need a potty training schedule such as first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, and hourly for young pups. Many owners use dog crates to help with house training. I have a step-by-step guide on Labrador puppy crate training where you can learn tons more. Discourage Biting If you follow my blog, you know I am against punishment-oriented training. If you train your dog young enough to avoid harsh bites, you will not need punishment-driven discipline strategies. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can cause aggression in your dog. You can also check out my article, How to Discipline a Labrador , for greater insight into this topic. Instead, you can wait until your Labrador bites during a positive activity and then discontinue it. It will anchor the consequence better. Follow up using positive reinforcement by rewarding the correct behavior with a treat. Your Labrador will quickly learn that displaying good behavior reaps nice things. Puppies need to learn their bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the excellent work their mother and siblings taught them. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You must use your best judgment when training your dog to be patient. Generally speaking, your Labrador will be mature enough to learn self-control by the tenth week. You can use a clicker or a whistle to teach your puppy to assume the natural heel position. Chances are, at first, your Labrador will try to change his pace to be behind you because of the force of habit. Walking in areas familiar to your dog will eliminate this problem. While you previously trained him to assume a heel position, you can also teach him these techniques. You may notice that your puppy can tell your words apart by the thirteenth week. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included whistling, clapping, or saying a specific word to indicate that your Labrador is doing a good job, typically followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! Where you previously whistled when your Lab ran towards you, now you must whistle, so he begins his run. This is the start of his Labrador recall training. Teaching good recall is an ongoing process. My dog was around 12 months old before seeing a noticeable improvement in her recall. Please avoid forcing the dog, as that only introduces confusion. Build Comfort With Crowds — Work on Socialization You have trained your Labrador to acknowledge close friends and family in the past few weeks. While this enables the puppy to be more social when you have visitors, a grown dog must learn to walk outdoors without acting out. This transition must be gradual, and try to keep experiences positive. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training , for example, to touch a target with a specific part of his body. Remember that your Lab may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. Here, I recommend teaching your Labrador to touch your hand with his nose. Ultimately, this is an excellent replacement for bites! Hand targeting is fun to teach, helps your pup build trust, and gets him using his brain! You have laid a strong foundation of discipline and positive reinforcement, making it easier to train your dog to follow more complex commands. In these weeks, you will introduce him to assuming different positions, obeying your commands as he moves away from you, and reacting to more nuanced anchors. Remember, 4-month-old Labrador puppies have a short attention span, so avoid long training sessions. Teach the Sit and Stay Teaching your Lab to sit and stay is a useful command for him to learn. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your Labrador to public parks and he has seen other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your Labrador may not bring the toy back to you for a second round, but he will soon get the idea of retrieving it. You can gradually turn it into a game of fetch over the next few weeks and reward your doggo with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of Labrador training, you will continue potty training with a degree of independence. Continue with a good schedule and sync your walks with his natural cycle to align with the times he needs to go. You can use it to control your Labrador and later to test his ability to execute a command off-leash. A harness is also a good idea and is used for outdoor training and walks. Many owners will opt for a rear-attaching harness. Related: Harness vs. Collar for Lab Puppy: Which is Best? How to Train a 5-Month-Old Lab Puppy A five-month-old Labrador puppy is ready to be tested for his general obedience and the ability to deal with distractions, whether other dogs, people, or other animals such as squirrels or birds. Earlier, I mentioned that you could not expect an eight-week-old puppy to delay gratification. Your puppy can deal with distractions at five months old if you introduce them slowly. You must be prepared for your dog to run ahead of you now! However, suppose you have developed a solid relationship with your pup and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay within a reasonable distance, remaining by your side and showing loyalty. Once your Lab puppy has reached his 6-month milestone, it also marks the point where you introduce him to advanced obedience training. The good news is that all the training you have previously given will make it easier for your dog to follow your lead. Conclude Potty Training Your dog has had months to learn how to communicate his need to go potty. He has also likely refined the patience to hold it instead of relieving himself on the floor. Therefore, you can communicate your disappointment with your body language if your dog makes a mess. Avoid physical punishment and even verbal chastising as it impacts your dog negatively. All dogs can still have the odd accident up to 12 months old. Moreover, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened, known as either excitement or submissive urination. Increase Exercise Now that your Lab puppy is six months old, you can increase his exercise to thirty minutes twice daily. Energy levels, especially for larger breed dogs, escalate during this time. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old Labrador can be out for one hour if you split his walks into thirty minutes a day. To train your 6-month-old Lab puppy, start with two commands with the most practical use. From six months onwards, until your Labrador is a well-trained adult, you can teach the following commands or tricks in any order. How to Train a 7-Month-Old Labrador As your Lab progresses to seven months old, a lot of the previous training needs to be kept consistent as you gradually teach him to comprehend more commands. Maybe there is a trespasser, and you want your dog to scare them away. You will need to continue training your dog to hold things or release them on command, but you can also proceed to add distance and even more background distractions. Ironically, you need to teach him to bark on command before learning to be silent on cue. Over this month, he will learn to associate the respective commands with barking and silence. This is quite tricky, but your Lab will eventually get there if you practice and stay consistent. The eighth month is ideal for training your Lab to go to different places upon hearing the command word. Either way, do not overload him with place commands, and stick to no more than two per month. Or you can use the ninth month to teach a cool party trick! After a week, you can remove the treat and teach your Lab to follow your finger. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he follows the command. By the third week, you can cue your doggo to spin and see if he does so without your finger guiding him in a circular motion. It might take an extra week or two, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your pet to learn previous commands better. You can teach him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now progress this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your 1-year-old Labrador only learns to comprehend more at the same pace as he has since the 6-month mark. You should also audit previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. How to Train an Month-Old Labrador You will not have to alter your training regimen dramatically if you have trained your Labrador properly from eight weeks onward. If anything, this is the period where you customize his training to your convenience. Now is when your dog must learn to be compatible with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your dog to be harmonious with modern adult life within reason. It is sad to see dog owners having to give away their pets because of behavior issues. Such things are avoidable if you train your dog correctly and sufficiently exercise him. It would be best if you simply established authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your dog acknowledges your authority and sees you as a guide, you can merely treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. Your job becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule and stick to your routine. This month-by-month Labrador puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and turn him into the beloved companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:. Puppy training development after 6 months It is very tempting to get carried away with puppy training. Your young do is so willing to please and such fun to be around. It is important to go at a happy pace for you both. Positive reinforcement training is the right choice for your puppy because there are no negative consequences to getting something wrong. But you can still both suffer from burnout and frustration if you try to reach the later puppy training stages without totally aceing the earlier developments. Your Puppy Training Schedule This may not be exactly the same for each puppy, especially with retrieving which is more Labrador specific. However, it gives you a rough idea. Constantly changing direction. Stopping frequently for cuddles and rewards. This means I blow the recall whistle whenever the puppy runs towards me, no compulsion, and no whistle unless the recall is already underway. Socialisation: Lots almost daily of outings to different places rural and urban carried Visits to family and friends. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow mouthing. Working with food: Learning how to take food gently without snatching or grabbing at the treat pot. I still give the puppy lots of encouragement by running away as soon as I blow the whistle. Socialisation: More socialisation, at least twice a week to busy public places. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow gentle mouthing. Retrieving: Encourage chase and pick up retrieve drive. Hand touch: I teach all new puppies to touch my hand with their noses. This is a great foundation for other skills. Recall: Puppy recall continues, reduce my run to a walk, avoid any distractions. Still frequently blow the recall whenever the pup runs towards me of her own free will. Socialisation: From ground level after vaccination. No other leash walking at all Bite inhibition: No biting, gentle mouthing allowed. Retrieving: Continue to build drive. Positions: I introduce three positions — sit, stand, down. What to expect from your 3 month old puppy Most three month old puppies will be sleeping through the night. And will be having less potty training accidents in the house. There are a few potty training problems that arise at this age, and they are all covered in 15 potty training problems solved. Biting is a big shock and a big problem for many new Lab puppy parents so do check out our complete guide to biting , and join the forum for help and support. Help encourage your puppy to stay in their bed while you are eating. I have a pot of dog treats on our kitchen table, and whenever we sit down to a meal, the puppy gets a treat each time she steps into her basket. Just a treat for stepping in there. What to expect from your 4 month old puppy Your 4 month old puppy will be pretty much potty trained, but accidents still happen if they are left alone too long. Biting is usually starting to subside now, and many four month old puppies will be able to mouth at your hand without hurting you. At this point I start to discourage all mouthing. I teach every puppy to let me touch her face or approach her with my hand, food, a leash etc while holding eye contact and not grabbing at me, or at what is in my hand. This is the age at which people often start to push forward with training. Your 4 month old puppy is capable of quite a lot. There is nothing wrong with teaching your puppy different cues and even some tricks. I recommend you still avoid long duration activities at this point as they are a common stumbling point with puppies young enough to have a short attention span. A ten second sit is ample. Add mild distractions Recall: Fade additional cues. Begin to whistle the pup and stand still. Add mild distractions. Clicker train to polish this in more mouthy puppies. No commands are needed for this. Gradual introduction of distractions. Advanced puppy training begins in earnest This is where I start a programme of sporting training with my Labs. You can begin raising your standards and expectations, asking for longer and more complex behaviors. Teaching your puppy to walk to heel nicely for longer distance and past all kinds of distractions and temptations. Or teaching your puppy to sit and stay for longer periods of time, and even while you go out of sight or while other dogs play nearby. What to expect from your six month old puppy Six months is a common time for people to have a lot of questions and to be struggling with a few challenges. This is now a very bouncy, quite powerful and rapidly maturing young dog. And you may need to patch up a few holes in his training or manners. We have a great article for owners of six month old Lab puppies. Print Preparing for the teething stage If you have been following my puppy training program since the beginning, you will have some down time for the next month or so. This is not to mean that you will not be working with your puppy at all, but only means that you will not be adding any new training. For the next month or two, you should continue working on basic obedience. I will discuss this more later in the post but Here is the training for your 4-month-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post eight of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba Training and socialization for four-month-old Labrador puppy Here are the things we worked on during the past two weeks while training Bubba. Working on self-control and restraint If you have ever been pushed out of the way as your large dog rushes to get outside or inside ahead of you, you know how that feels. It can be downright dangerous, and there is no reason to allow it. You can start eliminating these future problems by spending time now, teaching your 4-month-old puppy to have self-control and restraint. There is a vast array of situations that you can use to teach your puppy self-control. The first and easiest one to teach is sitting before eating. Simply do not give your puppy their food until they SIT calmly. Here are some other opportunities. Sitting before getting a leash on and off Sitting by door, waiting to go outside or inside, until released from SIT Staying in crate or kennel until released, even with door open All these training opportunities work toward the same thing — self-control. There are probably many more situations that would also apply, use your imagination, and teach your puppy to listen and exert restraint in all situations. Bubba has learned all these lessons well. She understands that she must wait for a release command and that if she SITS very still the release comes sooner. Obedience training your 4-month-old puppy We continue to work on obedience training using a chain collar and heeling stick. Bubba has come a long way regarding heeling. She is not perfect, but she does understand the command. However, remote SIT is not going well. Bubba really struggles to SIT still, even for a few seconds. I had to be reminded that Bubba is a chocolate lab. Chocolate labs tend to mature much slower than blacks or yellows, and Bubba is proving that to be true. Given this, Bubba will probably need some more maturity before I can expect too much from her on obedience. Well, let me rephase. Bubba knows the HERE command but still struggles to respond to it consistently. This is a huge source of contention for me, but again, Bubba is a chocolate and is very immature. A halt on retrieving Up until now we have been doing retrieving daily with Bubba, but as she enters the fourth month, we are increasing aware that she will be teething very soon. Because of this, we will be stopping retrieving until we can confirm that all her adult teeth are in. This concerns a lot of owners; they are concerned that their puppy will forget how to retrieve or will stop wanting to retrieve. We have never had this happen. Final thoughts on training for your 4-month-old Labrador puppy As your puppy approaches four months of age, it is good to take a moment to reflect on all the progress you have made in terms of training. These are important steps that will lead your puppy down a path of becoming a happy, healthy family dog and hunting companion. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Training your 4-month-old Labrador puppy?
We are located in beautiful Port Orange, Florida approximately an hour east of Orlando International airport. We are exclusively devoted to raising golden retrievers. The temperament and demeanor of these dogs stole our hearts long ago. In our opinion there is no dog that has a more kind gentle personality than Goldens. We are committed to only raising healthy dogs! Collectively almost 30 years of experience working with golden retrievers and still going! For that reason our dogs are only fed top quality dog food, supplements, and immune boosters. Our breeding dogs also have to meet a high standard of genetic qualities before we even consider breeding them. All of our dogs are genetically clear of Muscular Dystrophy, all eye diseases and free of ICH the skin disorder that is well known to Goldens. Our puppies are all well socialized spending time daily with our family. We utilize and follow the Puppy Culture Program to raise our puppies. Puppies all go to their forever homes with vaccines and wormer up to date. Our veterinarian approves and certifies all puppies with a clean bill of health before you take them home. Additionally our puppies are microchipped before leaving for their forever homes. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. She has very rare hazel eyes and an amazing demeanor. Dixie lives with her Guardian Family in Key West! She comes from amazing show dog lines and will be continuing those genetics to her puppies! Pearl will be getting her CGC very soon! Pearl lives with her Guardian Family in Jacksonville! She has the same parents as one of our foundation girls, Kaya! Tahoe is a dark rich red color and throws that color into her puppies as well! Sansa and Tahoe come from the same litter with the same parents as Kaya! She is the sweetest girl, always wanting to be by your side getting love. She loves fetch and lives with her Guardian Family here in Cocoa Beach! She comes from amazing lines and we can't wait to see how she grows! She is a sweetheart and lives with her Guardian Family here in Jacksonville! She is a gorgeous girl with a big blocky head. She is such a great representation of the breed. She is like a nanny to her Guardian Kids and doesn't have a mean bone in her body. She lets the kids climb all over her. She is also a through and through water dog! She is truly bonded to her family and is such a loyal dog. She loves a good adventure but can also curl up on the couch all day. She has an amazing temperament and loves to explore with her family! She lives with her Guardian Family in Tampa! She is such a cuddle bug and is obsessed with going to the dog park with her friends! She lives with her Guardian Family in Jacksonville! One of the most gorgeous dogs I have ever made! She is the sweetest girl and the best friend of her two human sisters! Maggie lives with her Guardian Family in Jacksonville! Whether your work is based on text, images, videos or a different medium, providing a brief summary will help visitors understand the context and background. Then use the media section to showcase your project! She goes to work with kids everyday with her Guardian Mom and is truly an amazing girl! We can't wait to see what she produces this year! She is a female with a blocky head which is my goal to produce here at Salty Goldens! She is a sweetheart and loves to swim! We have been breeding and showing Golden Retrievers for over 20 years. Many of our Goldens have gone on to win numerous awards at competitions throughout the U. Some of our pups even starred in Disney movies! Eagleridge has been recognized multiple times for our outstanding achievements and dedication to breeding outstanding Golden Retrievers. We are proudly registered as a Breeder of Merit by the AKC, as recognition for our dedication and passion of breeding beautiful, healthy Golden Retriever puppies. The AKC has also rewarded us with their Silver Medallion as recognition of our success over the years. Baby Francis 3 arriving January ! Testimonials Gus "Good morning! I wanted to reach out and send some photos of Gus who is now a little over a year old. He has gotten into Dock Diving in the last few months and has earned his Dock Senior title. Thank you for a great dog! When I tell you that he did it with no effort, I'm not exaggerating. He did it all on his own! I think he would have passed the test when I received him in July. I think you and your staff should be very proud of the training you provide your puppies! Please thank everyone who worked with Dwayne. In two weeks, he will become a therapy dog with Easter Seals of Alabama. Jen was so helpful, knowledgeable, and professional throughout the whole adoption process. She communicated regularly with us, providing so many updates and videos along the way. We are so fortunate for her and her staff! Thank you Jen and Eagleridge Golden Retrievers!! Jen was always super responsive, knowledgeable and able to answer our many questions. We have had Kevin for about a month and a half now we got him in September and he is settling in perfectly. The training program was a great addition, he is able to follow commands and is very well tempered and so smart. From the adoption process to the training program, we would absolutely recommend this breeder to anyone looking for a great experience! This FL boy is definitely enjoying the Northeastern Autumn! Furthermore, being a client since , I could honestly compare the experience from four 4 years ago to this present time. It was as stress free working with Jen Francis as it could possibly be! Her knowledge about this variety of a K9 is remarkable. The quality health , temperament and of course breed beauty and more are on full display at EagleRidge! We have answers. Golden Retriever puppies or sale Orlando prices vary based on a number of factors, like breeder experience, puppy pedigree, and much more. What if there are no Golden Retriever breeders nearby? Can you make travel arrangements for my puppy? Businesses and breeders in our network can send your puppy to your nearest major airport, in any state excluding Hawaii and Alaska. How do you screen breeders with Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Orlando Florida? Our strict vetting and screening process covers every facet of breeding experience and puppy care—have a look at our detailed Breeder Pledge for more details. We made a place to help families like yours cut straight to the best breeders and the best puppies, making your quest for the ultimate dog easy and fun. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are places that mass produce puppies like a factory in dirty, cramped, inhumane conditions. When you purchase a dog from a puppy mill, your pup has a higher chance of getting sick, acting aggressively, costing you more money at the vet thousands of dollars, on average , and dying early. Are there any Golden Retriever breeders Orlando Florida near me? How do I know I can trust you? We know how tough it is to find a breeder you can trust, and how heartbreaking it is to bring home a puppy that gets sick because of unethical breeding. Every puppy we connect with a family like yours helps us put an end to puppy mills and inhumane breeding practices—just take a look at some of our alumni to see the difference a loving breeder can make.
How to brush a puppy Labrador puppies should only bathe when they are 12 weeks old or older. Bathing depends on various factors, and one of them is coat type. Some breeds are double-coated, and therefore they need extra care and a bath a couple of times a year, While a smooth-coated breed such as Rottweilers only needs a bath only once a year. But yeah! If they smell bad , then you need to bathe them. And we will also discuss, how do you bathe a lab puppy and much more. When can puppies have their first bath? Young puppies cannot regulate their body temperature which is a significant drawback. Not only age, but you should also focus on the weather. Is it summer or winter? How often to bathe a Labrador puppy? You can bathe your Labrador puppy once a month. But, if your puppy plays in the mud a lot. Then you should wash them more often to maintain good hygiene. Also, make sure to select a good dog shampoo for your puppy, which is good for their skin. Many people make their puppy bathe regularly, and if you are one of them then you immediately need to stop. You need to understand that they are not humans. We can bathe regularly but, they cannot as it can affect their skin and the natural waterproofing of their coat. Their body is different from our body. Regular bathing can disrupt the natural oil balance in the body. How often should you bathe a labrador? As first-time Labrador puppy owners below is a guide on when to bathe your puppy. Until 3 Month Old When a puppy is very young you might be wondering if you can bathe a puppy at 8 weeks old. If your dog is young, such as 8 weeks up to 3 months, it is ok to wash them once a week. Six Month Old Then there is no need to make them bathe often. Instead, you can wash them once a month, which is sufficient. But, if your dog rolls in the mud a lot. Then you can consider washing them more often. More Than Six Months You can wash dogs that are six months or older once a year using a gentle shampoo, which is suitable for dogs only. If your dog is outside a lot and often gets dirty you can wash them more often. Labradors are very popular , friendly , and water-loving breeds and have a unique water-repellent coats. Their coat helps their undercoats to stay dry even after swimming in the water. So, particularly for Labrador puppies , you can make them bathe once every four months. Always remember to use a good-quality shampoo. How often should you bathe a labrador puppy? You need to know everything from when to wash your puppy to how often you need to wash your puppy. Now, what are the steps to bathe your Lab puppy? Follow all the steps given below: 1. Get puppy shampoo supplies You can not wash your dog with the basic soap you have at your home. You have to get a special shampoo, only meant for dogs. The reason you can not use human shampoo is the detergent used in it. Those detergents can easily wash away natural protectants and making them vulnerable to several diseases and infections. So instead, go and get a dog shampoo. Along with that, also get a brush, towel, and a dryer if possible. Dog Comb Please make sure you comb their coat significantly. Make sure you do not use hot water or cold water. Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and use it to wash your puppy. Be Gentle Some puppies are afraid of water, so never forcefully spray water on puppies. Instead, make it easier on your puppy, and slowly pour the water on them. Also, make sure you do not let the water go inside their ears or eyes. As the ear folds in their ear canal can easily trap the water, which can later lead to several bacteria that can grow on the water. It can lead to ear infections and many other complications. How to prepare the dog bath After pouring lukewarm water over your dog, you can go ahead and prepare the puppy shampoo. You can do this by mixing the soap with water. Now, with the help of a soft sponge in your hands. You can evenly spread that shampoo all over their body and do not let the shampoo go into their eyes. You can use one hand to pour water, and with the other hand, you can cover their eyes and ears so that the water can not get there. If your pet has a thick and dense coat, then I suggest you repeat this process several times. Also, give some treats to your puppy and praise them for cooperating with you. So, next time they might cooperate with you even more to get the reward. How to dry a puppy after a bath After you wash them, your next step is to dry them. Now, you can use the towel and dry them out. You can also use hairdryers if you want to. Tip: Some puppies are not used to the sound of a hairdryer. So, make sure you carry out this practice from an early age. This way, they will slowly get used to it and would not be frightened next time. How to brush a puppy After you have washed your puppy, you have to comb it once again to keep its fur in good condition. Getting dried off Our guide to bathing and grooming your Labrador will help you to keep your dog clean and fresh, without the fuss. Sit your dog in front of you, outdoors if they are shedding a lot. Have a pot of treats next to you and pass them one every few seconds if they are nervous or reluctant to stay put. I usually begin at the base of their body near the tail. Make short gentle pulls downwards with the brush, and after each groom pick out the loose fur that the brush has collected and set it down next to you to dispose of later. Work your way slowly up the body and around their flanks, stopping at the neck as you reach their head. They usually have a handle strap on the back and if you find one that fits your hand comfortably they are great. For a more intensive brushing I use a slicker brush. The slicker brush gets right into the coat and does a good job of removing dead hair on a daily basis. However, sometimes the dead hair situation calls for a more assertive tool! An ordinary brush quickly gets clogged with dead hair and you will struggle to make much progress without a special tool for loosening dead hair. You can also buy a useful tool made by Kong. It is a great way to loosen the dead hair so that it falls away easily. Somewhat more controversial, are special rakes with a blade incorporated. These shedding tools can be very effective if used with care. Because Labs might be gorgeous, adorable friends. But they are also rather mucky pups. There are Labradors that are bathed every week, and other Labradors that are almost never bathed. I tend to bathe my Labs when they get a bit smelly, or if they have rolled in something unpleasant. Something which many dogs have a huge enthusiasm for! Dead animals, and fox poo, are some of their favorites. Labradors also love mud. They will go out of their way to find some, especially if you have just bathed them, or had new carpets fitted. Paddling around in muddy puddles and the edges of boggy ponds can result in a filthy and smelly coat, again a hose down may be sufficient. Dog Bathing Schedule Bathing as and when they need it is absolutely fine for most Labs. But if you want to have a routine then once a month is a nice easy schedule for most people to remember. It is a little different with puppies however. If you want to give your puppy a bath, by all means do so. It is not a good idea to shampoo your older Labrador regularly unless you really need to. Especially in the winter. This is because the shampoo strips out the natural oils and reduces the waterproofing and cold repellent qualities of his double coat. Best Shampoo For Dogs I have used a variety of shampoos on my dogs. The main thing is to avoid shampoos intended for human adults. Your alternative option is to make your own shampoo. You can do this in nice weather, outside in the backyard too. Have a couple of large towels ready before you begin. Use a glob the size of a coin, and rub with your fingers working it into the coat. Especially where he is mucky. Then hose her down and repeat. Work up into a good lather and rinse very thoroughly. Remember that dogs lick their coats so thorough rinsing is particularly important. Lay a few towels on the floor to walk him to the bath room, and lift him into the tub. Use a shower nozel to rinse and wash just as you would in the back yard. Just choose a room with a wipe clean floor if possible, and stand away from the furniture. The mechanism is similar to a carpet shampooing machine, and it makes a similar level of noise to a vacuum cleaner. They save you bending over for ten minutes at a time and eliminate any problems you might have leaning down for a prolonged period. These are also useful if you struggle to lift your dog, or if they have joint problems. Towel dry until your first towel has absorbed as much water as it can, then move on to towel number two. These are basically hair dryers for dogs. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. In this article we give you step by step instructions on the basic of Labrador Retriever bathing including how frquently you should bathe your Lab. These steps are vet recommended to help your Labrador stay healthy and super duper clean. How to Bathe a Labrador Bathing a Labrador Retriever take multiple steps, and unfortunately means you will probably end up just as wet, if not more wet, than your Lab. Typically Labs love water and will work with you through the process. When done with a positive vibe, bath time can actually be a great bonding time for you and your dog. It works great and has helped reduce dog dandruff as well. Have everything you will need ready and close by the bathtub before you even put your dog in the tub will be a lifesaver. You will need a mild shampoo and conditioner, petroleum jelly, a scrub brush, a slicker brush, and a hand-held sprayer a pitcher will work here, too. Do not forget to have plenty of towels within reach. Next, to remove tangles from the fur you can use a scrub brush. Then, use the slicker brush on the undercoat to remove additional loose hair. This whole process will be easier if ou get rid of as much loose hair and dirt before starting the bath. A cotton ball in the ears helps keep the water out. For indoor baths, you can lure your dog into the tub using a treat or toy. Hopefully, your Lab will love the water experience and jump in on their own after the first encounter. Using either your hands or the scrub brush, use a mild dog shampoo working it into the coat from front to back, or head to tail. Remember your Lab has a double coat which means you have to do double the rinsing to make sure you got all of the soap from the skin and hair. Do not stop rinsing until the water is running completely clear with absolutely no signs of bubbles or streaks. This is so important; leftover soap will dry up and cause skin irritation and itchiness. Spray-on conditioners can be applied at this time, leaving a few minutes for them to penetrate the coat. Your dog will probably shake a few times to help with this step of the process. Use a brush to gently dry the in its natural direction. Using these easy steps, bathing a Labrador can become a very routine and pleasant experience for both you and your dog. You can also check out our picks for the Best Dog Shampoos to see what is the best option for your dog. This breed is highly prone to developing ear infections which are often caused by bacterial growth in the ear canal due to moisture, wax, dirt, or parasites. When you bathe your Labrador, that is a perfect opportunity to clean their ears as well. Start with the inside of the ear and work your way to the outside to remove any debris. Gently massage the base of the ear for about 30 seconds. Allow the cleanser to get into the folds of the ear and loosen dirt. Then, let your dog shake their head to remove any excess cleaner from their ears. Dry the Ears Using a cotton ball or soft towel, wipe out the ear canal. Only use the towel or cotton ball on the visible areas of the ear. Praise and Treat Your Dog After cleaning the ears, praise your dog for a job well done and give them a treat. Let them associate this experience with a positive reward. Regular ear cleaning is a must for Labrador Retrievers. How to Bathe a Labrador Retriever, Final Step: Drying After a Bath Labradors need to be as dry as possible after their bath to prevent skin irritations, hot spots and flaky skin. So the final step in our How to Bath a Labrador step by step instructions is drying. Start with the top of the head and back first, then dry off the belly, legs, and tail. However, if the weather is cool or very humid, a hand-held dryer is one of the fastest ways to get your dog warm and dry. When should a Labrador puppy have its first bath? The earliest you should give a full bath to a Labrador Retriever puppy is about 8 weeks of age. Prior to 8 weeks spot cleanings can be done as needed. The ability of the puppy to regulate its own body temperature is the primary reason for waiting. After 8 weeks old, you can bathe your puppy with lukewarm water. Remember to use a gentle or mild dog shampoo; never use human shampoo on a dog. Also, avoid using flea shampoo on any puppy younger than 12 weeks of age. How Often Should a Labrador be Bathed? Labradors who like to play in the grass or dir, swim, or roll in the mud will likely need a bath every week or two. Parasites, ticks, and fleas are far more common in muddy and swampy areas making baths more frequently required. Skin infections and dandruff may result. Of course, Labradors will be Labradors, and there are occasions where unscheduled baths will be a necessity. The same goes for Labradors who decide to leap into algae-filled ponds or those who revel in racing through mud pits at the local dog park. In these situations, you will need to bathe a Labrador Retriever as soon as possible. Conclusion While bathing your Labrador Retriever is an involved process, it is well worth the love, loyalty, and companionship these wonderful dogs provide to their owners. Perhaps more importantly, bathing your Labrador Retriever is necessary for their current and future health and well-being. To keep your Lab smelling pleasant you will need to bathe a Labrador on a routine basis. Your Labrador will be much happier if they are clean and dry, and so will you. If you need tips on cleaning your dogs teeth, be sure to check out our article on Labrador Retriever Teeth: Care and Cleaning. She is a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of vets and scientists are working to develop new medications for pets. Recent Posts.
It is important to get your Lab under the care of a veterinarian quickly so that it can get treatment. Call your veterinary office and tell them about the situation. They should get you in immediately on an emergency basis. If your veterinary clinic is not open, take your dog to an emergency dog clinic or hospital. Gastric torsion and bloat are very, very serious. This is because the dilation of the stomach and subsequent twisting does not only affect the stomach. It can compress big arteries and veins in the abdomen, which can drop blood pressure and affect the liver. This can lead to shock and a serious, sometimes deadly, condition called disseminated intravascular coagulation or excessive blood clotting. Your veterinarian may want to do additional testing to get a better sense of the overall health of the dog. Dogs that are suspected of having GDV will have blood work done at the veterinary clinic, which will include a complete blood count and blood chemistry tests. In addition, radiographs, or possibly an ultrasound, of the abdomen will performed. The immediate goal of treatment is to restart circulation through the stomach. It will then be taken to surgery to decompress and untwist the stomach. Even after surgery, the dog will not be out of danger for a few days, due to the severe intestinal and circulatory problems this condition causes. Inability or unwillingness to settle or lie down Increased heart rate Pale mucus membranes the tissue around their teeth The appearance of a wide stance with elbows extended Not all dogs with GDV will exhibit all of these signs and symptoms. Most of these are very serious and life-threatening conditions, including GDV. And because of this, it's fair to say that any dog that "looks bloated" should always be taken to the vet ASAP. As you'll see, and as they highlight in the voiceover, the poor dog in the video is exhibiting many of the dog bloat symptoms. Luckily, he was rushed to an emergency vet and survived. For more detail about each dog bloat symptom and what GDV is, read our dog bloat prevention article. To chat with a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has a bloated stomach, Click here What to Do If You Think Your Dog is Bloated Take your dog to a veterinarian for immediate evaluation and treatment. If your regular vet isn't open, seek immediate attention at another veterinary practice or find your closest veterinary emergency hospital. Do NOT wait to see if it will pass or improve. It will not. Within 1 to 2 hours, without treatment, a dog suffering from GDV will go into shock. Their heart rate will rise, and their pulse will get weaker, leading to death. Prepare for the Outcome This may be hard to read. But you should also start to have a frank and honest discussion in your head, or with other family members, about your goals for your pet's condition. It is also important to discuss what your time, emotional, and financial resources are and if they will allow you to realize those goals. Things are going to move very fast once you get to the veterinary hospital, and you'll be asked to make major decisions quickly. I know this sounds crass and cold, so I'll apologize now, but I would be misleading you and not helping if I didn't tell you that this truly is "gut check" time. Such exploration and discussion are truly in your dog's best interest — as well as yours. You should start getting a sense of "how far you are willing to go" with medical treatment. Sadly, though understandably, for many people, this often translates into how much money they are willing or able to spend. I know this is sad and that it sucks, but it is the reality. So, it truly is best for you to at least be thinking about these factors before you arrive at the hospital. Treating GDV is possible, but the outcome isn't. As GDV is considered a serious emergency, hospital staff will want to take your dog to the back right away for initial diagnostics X-rays, blood pressure, EKG traces, and more , particularly if you called ahead to notify them of your arrival and suspicions. You will need to be patient while diagnostics are obtained, but someone will update you as soon as possible. Though that will seem like an eternity to you, please know that the veterinary team is diligently working hard to stabilize your dog and get you the information you need. Know whether you want to resuscitate perform CPR. If your dog with GDV suffers a cardiac arrest — which is not uncommon — the hospital staff can begin CPR, but they'll need your permission to do so, and they'll need it quickly. Upon check-in, there will be forms and paperwork for you to complete. Use the time that your dog is in the back being stabilized and evaluated to complete these steps so that your dog can be entered into the system as efficiently as possible. GDV requires surgery to correct, specifically a procedure called "gastropexy. If you do not or aren't able to move forward with the surgery, euthanasia is likely the only other option. While devastating, relieving your dog of their suffering is a humane and compassionate thing to do, albeit gut-wrenching. If treatment progresses, your dog, once stable, will need to go to surgery to derotate the stomach into its normal anatomic location. At the same time, the health of the stomach wall, spleen, and other organs and intestines will be evaluated. As with any surgery, complications can arise. Your veterinarian will be sure to discuss these with you. Gastropexy Surgery During a gastropexy or "pexy" for short , the stomach is surgically "tacked" or sewn to the inner surface of your dog's abdominal body wall, the idea being to make a permanent adhesion that will ultimately prevent a future episode of torsion. You should be aware, however, that a stomach that has been tacked can still bloat or dilate; it just can't rotate or torse. It must be noted, however, there have been the occasional cases where tacking has failed and GDV has recurred, though these cases are rare. This surgery may involve a splenectomy in some cases. A splenectomy complete removal of the spleen may be performed in some instances of GDV. This results in a compromise to the blood supply of the spleen and to the tissues of the spleen itself. A dog can survive perfectly fine without a spleen but not with a spleen that is dying or compromised. A gastropexy can be done as a preventative surgery. If you have a dog that is predisposed to GDV, for example, if they're a barrel-chested breed, then you may want to consider this procedure as a preemptive move. If your dog isn't spayed or neutered yet, you may want to consider scheduling this procedure at the same time while they're under anesthesia. Don't hesitate to discuss this with your veterinarian. Read our article on bloat prevention for more ways to help avoid this devastating condition from happening. Is surgery the only option? The short answer. The only appropriate treatment for GDV is surgical correction. However, this does not mean that the issue has been solved, and your dog can now go home. It could result in putting a tube in your dog's lungs and killing or severely injuring your dog, or getting injured from a dog bite. This procedure must be done by a veterinary medical professional. The stomach tissue itself needs to be assessed to ensure that it is healthy and the tissue is not dead necrotic or dying. And the only way this can be done is by physical assessment and visualization, thus, via surgery. Additionally, your dog will still be experiencing the effects of shock. So they will need to stay in the hospital for a while. This is not going to automatically improve once a stomach is decompressed or derotated. Intravenous fluids, medications, and skilled monitoring are needed to immediately recognize and correct any abnormalities or imbalances noted while your dog is hospitalized. In fact, the struggle of trying to get oral medications into a dog when they have a potentially twisted stomach may worsen their discomfort and distress. It delays treatment and also carries the risk that the medication will wind up going down their trachea and into their lungs or that you could be bitten. The only correct way to treat bloat is to get your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible! Even if it turns out not to be a case of GDV, you and your dog will be happier for the peace of mind and relief a veterinary evaluation can provide. The time wasted trying to give at-home treatments will unnecessarily delay the proper veterinary evaluation and care needed to give your dog the best chance of survival. Within 1 to 2 hours, without treatment, your dog will go into shock if they're suffering from GDV. Tweet on Twitter Bloat in dogs occurs when the stomach of the dog becomes dangerously distended and even rotated. It is potentially fatal, however there are things that you can do to help prevent it happening to your Labrador. Symptoms of bloat include hard stomach, retching, strange behavior, and more. Knowing the symptoms of bloat in dogs will enable you to be best placed to protect your Labrador. And to spot the signs that treatment is needed, before it is too late. Products included in this article were carefully and independently selected by the Labrador Site team. If you decide to make a purchase from one of the links marked by an asterisk, we may earn a small commission on that sale. This is at no extra cost to you. What Is Canine Bloat? Canine bloat is a term used to describe gastric distension in dogs. This refers to a condition where the stomach swells in an abnormal way. When gastric distention is accompanied by the twisting or rotating of the stomach itself. GDV is the condition we are particularly concerned with when we talk about bloat in Labs. Now the dog may no longer be able to vomit. The twisting, plus the pressure of the large stomach on other internal organs, sets in motion a chain of events. Ultimately, this will end in the death of the dog if prompt veterinary treatment is not initiated. Once blood supply and therefore oxygen has been cut off to your dogs stomach, cells begin to die. There is no coming back from this stage. So, every minute counts when it comes to seeking medical attention. Having said that, it is also true that if you act quickly enough you have a good chance of saving your dog. If a vet can perform surgery in good time your dog has a hugely increased chance of surviving. What Causes Bloat in Dogs Some breeds are more susceptible to bloat than others, and unfortunately Labradors are fairly high up on this list. Any dog can bloat. Larger, deeper chested dogs as well as middle age or older dogs are the most susceptible. The causes of bloat in Labs and other dogs are not certain. We do know that there is a genetic element. That is to say, bloat in dogs is more likely when a close family member has suffered from it. Dogs that have recovered from bloat should not be bred from. This will reduce the likelihood of passing the tendency to suffer from this horrible condition onto future generations. It will also alleviate the risk of injury to your dog. It is thought that overfeeding, over hydrating and exercising your dog too close to mealtimes could contribute to your dog suffering from bloat. However, some of the sources give conflicting information. It could be caused by an increased amount of air being inhaled in anxious or over exercised dogs, or as a result of a diet which releases too much gas. The AKC state in their webpage on bloat that it typically develops after a dog has eaten a large meal. Or, he has had a big drink or been exercised vigorously after eating. Reducing the Risk of Bloat However, we do have some studies we can look to which give a clearer picture of some practical ways to prevent bloat which might make a very real difference. A study of dogs that suffered from bloat was carried out at Purdue University from to , and found that there were two key factors to avoiding bloat. Prevent Fast Eating In Labradors Labradors are notoriously fast eaters, and so the risk of bloat from their feeding speed makes sense as a contributing factor. Fortunately, there are things you can do to slow down his eating. These have raised bumps or mazes that your dog must navigate with his tongue in order to pick up the individual pieces. However, they are quick to stress that there is no evidence that the dogs want their eating slowed. Feed On Ground Level When a dog stands to eat they put their head and body at an unnatural level, which may allow more air to be taken in during the process. Raised feeders are popular for older and arthritic dogs, so you will need to discuss the potential pros and cons of these with your vets before making a decision. However, if your dog has no other medical ailments to consider, then it would be inadvisable to use a raised feeder due to the potential link with bloat. The Purdue Study The Purdue Study also found some types of dry dog food posed an increased risk of bloat. You can read a summary of the information here. However, with the best will in the world you cannot be certain of preventing a condition. So we must be sure that you know the signs of bloat in dogs, and what to do next if you spot them. Although it is worth bearing in mind that this was just a single study. So, you should be vigilant for any signs of bloat in dogs at all times. Some signs of bloat in dogs may not be so easy to recognise. Unlike many other Labrador stomach problems, bloat does not cause the usual visible external symptoms like vomiting or an upset stomach. In fact, a sign of bloat is the absence of your dog having been sick when he appears to need to be. Symptoms of Bloat The following are symptoms of bloat in dogs. Treating Bloat Quickly Speed is of the essence when it comes to treating bloat. Take him to your veterinary surgery or nearest emergency vet care immediately. Get in the car, and use your car phone or get a friend to make the call whilst you are on your way. Because treatment works best earlier on and the fatality rate of this condition is so high, it really is a case of better safe than sorry. How To Diagnose Bloat In Dogs Although you can spot visible signs of bloat in Labs without testing, your veterinarian will need to carry out a few procedures to be sure that this is the cause of his illness. They will most likely take an x-ray to see whether the stomach is rotated, and then run a lactate test. This will let them know whether cell death, or necrosis, has begun in earnest. When it is advanced past a certain point there is no return for the dog. A moderate score will suggest some damage which may be repairable. If the veterinarian believes that the dog can be saved, they will immediately begin treatment. Dog Bloat Treatment Treat for bloat in Labs involves making sure that they are hydrated with IV fluids, and given something for the pain. Methods of treating bloat can include first feeding a tube down their oesophagus and into the stomach to relieve the air pressure. But these are both also followed by surgery to fix the rotation. Have you had experience of bloat as a Labrador owner? Why not share your thoughts in the comments box below. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Shallow breathing Pale gums Puppies experiencing bloat will appear visibly uncomfortable and usually have a distended stomach. The pain may make your puppy act restless, pace, and whine and cry. Puppies may also wretch without producing vomit, as the blocked stomach entry will prevent regurgitation. The gums may appear pale, demonstrating a lack of oxygen, accompanied by shallow breathing and a rapid heartbeat. If your puppy is not treated, it will collapse and die. Causes of Bloat Several factors can contribute to your puppy experiencing bloat. Breed: Large and giant puppy breeds are three times more likely to experience bloat than mixed breeds. Large and giant breeds have wider, deeper stomachs that can hold more air, putting them at higher risk. The deep, narrow chest conformation of certain breeds creates a more acute angle where the esophagus connects with the stomach, making bloat more likely. Still, puppies of any size can develop bloat. Ingesting too much food or water quickly: When puppies eat food or drink too fast, they can inhale and trap large amounts of air in their stomachs and create bloat. The food or water itself can sometimes cause bloat, as a too-full stomach can press on other organs, no matter what is filling it. Exercising after eating: If a puppy partakes in strenuous exercise too soon after eating, its stomach can twist and swell, causing bloat. Anxiety: Irritable, anxious, and aggressive puppies are more prone to bloat. Weight: Dogs of any breed that weigh over pounds have a 20 percent risk of developing bloat at some point in their life. Diagnosing Bloat in Puppies To diagnose your puppy with bloat, your vet will examine clinical signs, medical history, and perform blood analysis and imaging tests like an ultrasound or X-ray. Imaging tests will reveal the extent of the bloat, and blood analysis will evaluate the level of oxygen loss. A speedy diagnosis is ideal, as an operation should happen as soon as possible. Treatment If you notice your puppy has symptoms of bloat, it needs to be taken to an animal hospital immediately. First, your vet will stabilize your puppy by administering IV fluids and oxygen. To treat bloat, your veterinarian decompresses your puppy's distended stomach by passing a tube down its throat to empty air from the stomach and allow the return of normal blood flow. When the stomach is twisted, your puppy will need surgery to properly reconfigure it. Sometimes, part of the stomach or the entirety of the spleen will need to be removed. If your puppy's surgery is successful, your surgeon may perform a gastropexy the suturing of the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent future twisting. Prognosis for Puppies With Bloat The prognosis for puppies with bloat varies based on how early treatment is received and the extent of the organ damage. After surgery, your vet will monitor your puppy in the hospital for several days. Some puppies treated can return to normal shortly after treatment, while others will die regardless. The mortality rate for puppies who have received treatment for bloat is 20 to 40 percent and rises with every organ injury sustained. How to Prevent Bloat Although you can't completely prevent bloat, there are measures you can take to reduce its likelihood of occurring. Gastropexy surgery may be recommended preventatively, particularly in Great Danes or other puppies predisposed to bloat. Gastropexy doesn't prevent air from being trapped in the stomach, but it does keep the stomach from twisting. You can take many at-home measures to minimize the risk of bloat. These include lowering your puppy's food bowl, feeding smaller quantities of food over multiple meals throughout the day, separating multiple dogs at feeding times, and waiting several hours after eating before exercising your puppy. Positive puppy socialization that reduces anxiety can also help prevent bloat as it ages. FAQ Why does eating too fast cause bloat? Often if your puppy eats too much or too fast, its belly can be overfilled with food and gas, press on other organs, and cause bloat. How common is puppy bloat in a small breed dogs? Bloat most frequently occurs in large and giant breed dogs, but all dogs are able to experience the condition. How fast does it take for bloat to set in? Bloat sets in within two to three hours after your puppy begins experiencing symptoms. If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. Article Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Feel weak Collapse Sadly, even with treatment, as many as 25 to 33 percent of dogs who develop GVD die. An unnecessary vet bill is much better than losing your four-legged friend. What Causes Bloat In Dogs? According to vin. This study followed almost 2, dogs over five years, and found a correlation between increased likelihood of getting bloat and the following factors: Chest size and shape: Dogs with deep and narrow chests have the highest chance of developing bloat. Weight: Slimmer dogs have more chance of suffering gastric torsion than overweight dogs, possibly because fat takes up room in the abdominal cavity, making it harder for the stomach to twist. Age: In larger breeds, dogs over five are 20 percent more likely to develop the condition. Genetics: Bloat may have a genetic factor, as dogs who had a first degree relative who had contracted bloat were 63 percent more likely to get it themselves. Eating speed: Dogs who eat their food quickly have a 15 percent higher chance of developing GDV compared to slower eaters. Eating position: Although previous thoughts suggested the opposite, raised food and water bowls actually increase the risk of a dog getting bloat, by as much as percent. Temperament: Dogs whose owners described them as being fearful, anxious or aggressive were more likely to get bloat than those who were described as having a happy temperament. Stress: Dogs who have recently been through a stressful event, such as a move or a stay in kennels, seem to be more likely to contract bloat. Sex: A higher percentage of males suffer from bloat compared to females. Dry food: Dogs who eat just dry kibble are more likely to bloat than those on a wet food diet or those who eat wet food or table food mixed in with their kibble. Meal size: Eating a single, large meal a day increases the risk of bloating, compared to dogs who eat two or three smaller meals a day. Drinking too much water with their food. How Is Bloat Treated? GDV has a high fatality rate and will almost certainly result in death if untreated. The American College of Veterinary Surgeons explains a few of the treatment options: If the bloat has gone far enough that your dog has gone into shock, the first step will be to stabilize your pet, which involves oxygen therapy and administering IV fluids. This should relieve the pressure. Sometimes water is also used to wash any remnants of food from the stomach. How to Prevent Bloat in Dogs? Of course, the ideal situation is your dog never contracting bloat at all, so owners should do everything they can to help prevent it. According to experts, such as those at the ASPCA , to help prevent bloat, you should: Feed your dog two or three small meals each day, rather than one big one. Put food bowls on the floor, rather than using a raised feeder, unless otherwise advised by your vet. Avoid feeding your dog too soon before or after exercising. Use a slow feeder bowl if you have a dog who bolts their food. Encourage normal water consumption with meals. Limit the risk of bloating by taking the preventative steps above, but always be on the lookout for symptoms and take your dog to the vet at the first sign of any trouble. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Bloat in Labradors: Risks, Symptoms and Prevention was last modified: January 9th, by Lauren Corona 1 comment Lissette June 30, at pm Thank you so much for taking the time to thoroughly explain this important on Labrador Retriever bloat. I had an 11 year old huge Chocolate Labrador Retriever big chested who developed bloat. At the time I never head of it. After 5 hours later, she was operated and saved!! Unfortunately, my 6 year old medium size Chocolate Labrador Retriever not big chested did not make it. Prior to the visit to the Vet, she was happy and playful. As soon as we entered the Vet Office, she was very shaken and scared. The Vet never tested her yet he administered a Depo-Medrol for infection since we mentioned she had mild shortness of breath which had been going on for many months. She died 15 minutes after that vaccine! It was later determined she had Bloat. It breaks my heart that she was only 6 years old :. The severity of the case determines the treatment recommendation for the affected dog. At VMC, we aim for rapid confirmation of diagnosis, attending to patient comfort by release of as much gas pressure as possible and with pain medications , and for rapid stabilization and preparation for surgery. Dogs that are bloated without volvulus can normally be treated non-surgically. There are some definitive diagnostic indicators that can tell us that we are dealing with a high-risk surgery with a low probability of success. We want the pet owner to be able to make an educated decision about proceeding with surgery in those cases. The surgery also allows the veterinarian to assess the amount of damage caused by the lack of blood flow due to the twisted stomach. If there is any tissue that is damaged it will be removed. In extreme cases where the condition has been left untreated for a longer time period, there may be too little live tissue to salvage. With appropriate pre-surgical diagnostics, pet owners can be informed of this risk in most cases prior to pursuing surgery. Generally, a gastropexy is also performed during the surgical procedure. During a gastropexy, the stomach is sutured to the abdominal wall. This is designed to keep the stomach in place and prevent twisting of the stomach if bloat occurs again. Dogs especially those with any of the risk factors above may also require intensive care after surgery, including the possible need for blood transfusions and other specialized care. Preventing Bloat Preventative measures can be taken to reduce the risk of bloat. Some strategies that are currently recommended are: Feed smaller meals more frequently, and restrict activity for hours after meal time. Do not use a raised food bowl. Never let the dog drink a large amount of water all at once. Avoid strenuous exercise on a full stomach. To lessen the severity of bloat, a gastropexy is an excellent preventive. Many owners of large breeds of dogs routinely opt to have the surgery done when their dogs are young. This procedure is often performed at the time of neuter or spay, and this procedure can now be performed laparoscopically at the Veterinary Medical Center of CNY. None of these measures will guarantee that the dog won't bloat, but they may help reduce the severity of the problem if it arises. Without treatment the condition is fatal. Pet owners should be familiar with their nearest veterinary emergency facility in the event that their regular veterinarian is not available after hours or does not have experience handling this condition. If possible, call ahead and tell them you suspect bloat. Time is of the essence when dealing with cases of bloat, and the sooner your pet receives veterinary care, the better chance of a full recovery. A true GDV is a condition that must be treated surgically in order for your dog to survive. Surgery and post-operative care are costly, and euthanasia is the only alternative that will prevent suffering for the dog. For those who own breeds in the high risk pool, we recommend budgeting for a preventive gastropexy rather than risking an expensive emergency surgery with an already compromised pet. Many pet insurance companies will also provide coverage for this preventive surgery. We offer pre-screening triage services by partnering with VetTriage! Visit Us. There is, of course, a difference between your pup gradually gaining weight around their belly due to overeating and lack of exercise versus truly being bloated. When is a Swollen Stomach Dangerous for Dogs? If you notice this, call your veterinarian immediately. Some reasons for bloat can be fatal if left untreated. Reasons Why Dogs Get Swollen Stomachs There are a number of reasons why a dog can get a swollen abdomen, and some are more serious than others. This particular disease can have detrimental effects or even kill your pup within hours. It has been linked to swallowing air and intense exercise after a meal. If you only feed your dog once a day, use elevated bowls, consume dry food, or eat too quickly, then they are at a higher risk. Some other additional risk factors include having a family history of bloat or are of a certain breed. Deep chested breeds like St. Finally, older dogs between 7 and 12 years of age are at risk. You absolutely have to take your dog into a vet as quickly as possible. Treatment generally includes removing excess gas from the stomach, stabilizing the heart rate, and managing shock. The vet can go in for surgery as soon as your dog is more stable. It is recommended that you feed your dog twice or more daily rather than once and incorporate canned food into the mix. There is also a preventative measure surgical procedure called a gastropexy that you may speak to your vet about if your dog is a predisposed breed. This can be done at a younger age as well. Usually this happens because of ulcers, tumors, or bone splinters. Urinary bladder or gallbladder ruptures can also cause peritonitis. This condition is extremely painful so you will notice bloat and your dog may be unwilling to move. The vet will need to repair the puncture, remove infected fluids, and flush out the abdomen. The sooner he is taken to the vet, the better. Some dogs will also start to lose hair or show an increase in panting. If the reason is a tumor, it can be removed via surgery. There are many reasons why your dog may experience ascites. Common reasons include heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, or intestinal diseases. Puppies can get it from various infectious diseases. Because of the nature of the above diseases and conditions, there is no time to waste. Quick action can be a matter of life and death. By staying vigilant and keeping a watchful eye, you can protect your pup from further complications.
What are Phantom Poodles? Overview While it is the solid Poodle that is the most common, there is much to discuss regarding Phantom Poodle coloring, which is different than mismarks, the Tuxedo, and parties. What Phantom Coloring Means A phantom Poodle is not a different breed or type of dog, this is simply a term to describe a particular coloring of the dog. This type of coloring, while extremely beautiful and preferred by many Poodle owners, is not yet accepted by the AKC in regard to confirmation. The AKC standard indicates that the Standard Poodle coat is an even and solid color at the skin: Blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-aulaits, apricots and creams and the coat may show varying shades of the same color. This is much different than parti colored Poodles, even though both parti and phantoms have a mixture of 2 colors. This term only refers to Poodles that have specific markings on a solid background. Many refer to these markings as Dobie markings short for Doberman , however this pattern also appears on Dachshunds, certain Spaniels, Yorkies, Manchester Terriers and certain Coonhounds. These markings must be: Above each eye On the sides of the muzzle also referred to as the side of the cheeks Across the dog's chest Down the legs Under the tail All phantom Poodles are born with their markings. This does not occur as the dog ages. Phantoms are genetically similar to brindle Poodles. For this reason, a phantom Poodle dam or sire can produce a litter of brindle puppies and likewise a brindle Poodle dam or sire can produce a litter of phantom puppies. With most dog breeds, brindle is a term that means the coat that is striped, with intermingling dark and light hairs making a striping pattern. However, with Poodles, brindle means "sable". Sable is a term that means that the coat is one color yet the tips of the hairs are black. With most dogs, the sabling black tips fade out or completely disappear with age. That price is just about twice as much as what you can find a solid-colored Poodle for. Apricot poodles are the rarest in the world. Caused by a recessive gene, this color comes off as a very light red that borders on cream. As dogs have been genetically bred for generations to have certain characteristics, apricot is hypothesized to be the last color developed in poodles. Red is dominant to apricot, so two red poodles can have apricot puppies, but not the other way around. White is one of the most popular and most common colors for Poodles. A white Poodle isn't the same as an albino, however, as the former has black skin whereas the latter will be pink. Tri Female from Cappi and Derry Tango's Haus almost always has poodles for sale, but since we do not breed our females on every heat sometimes we do not have the poodles for sale in the size or color that you are wanting. We can however, give you a very good idea of when we will have the poodle puppies in the color and size that you want. You can put up a deposit for a future puppy, which is refundable if we do not produce the color and size of puppy you are requesting. We offer Miniature Stud Service. We are very proud of our Poodles that we have raised for so many years. We breed Miniature and Moyen Poodles in all colors. We have no favorite color, but love them all equally. We welcome all to our kennels and if you are too far away to come to visit, then we make sure that you are comfortable in your choice BEFORE you are asked to put up a deposit on a puppy. Deposits are refundable or transferable up to when you decide on a puppy. If you decide to put up a deposit on a puppy that is already born, then that deposit is non-refundable if you later decide to not purchase that puppy, but you can apply that same deposit towards a different puppy at a later date from a different litter or a different puppy in the same litter. If you put up a deposit on a litter that has not been born yet, the deposit is refundable if I do not produce the sex or color that you have decided on or you can decide to leave the deposit for a future litter. This is the only way that a deposit is refundable. Final payment is due when your puppy reaches 7 weeks of age unless prior arrangements are made. All puppies are scheduled to be picked up at 8 weeks of age, unless it is a very small puppy or it is a holiday and prior arrangements have been made. The amount of time that I will hold a puppy for any individual is governed simply by the amount of space that I have available in my kennel and is not set by any other standard. If you fail to fulfill any of these requirements within the alloted time limit then the money that you have put up on the puppy will be considered forfeited, the sale will be considered null and void and the puppy will be put back on my website for adoption. If we have pre-arranged a late pick-up date for your puppy, then you will also have to pay a slight pre-arranged fee for that service. This service fee will vary with the amount of time and work involved.
Location: Jacksonville, Florida 5. Leah, the owner and operator of Lucky Pup Ranch, has decades of experience. Golden Retriever puppy with a red collar lying on a comfortable pillow. This breeder was established in .Located in Spring Hill, Lucky Pup Ranch ensures that its dogs get plenty of exercise and stay happy and healthy. Of course, they thoroughly socialize their puppies, and the dogs get used to people of all ages. Call or email this breeder for more information. Ask them how to get on a waiting list and about the process of purchasing a puppy. Contact Details: Email: [email protected] Location: Spring Hill, Florida This highly recommended breeder may not be producing puppies at the moment, reach out to them and let us know if you have any luck! Paradise Golden Retrievers Paradise Golden Retrievers recognizes how much love and attention each and every puppy litter needs. The AKC has inspected this facility, and they found that it lives up to every standard and expectation. This breeder prides itself on providing healthy and happy puppies. Golden Retriever puppies sit close together. Paradise Golden Retrievers has successfully bred Golden Retrievers for more than 15 years. As a reputable and top-notch operation, Paradise only raises between two and four litters each year. That is important, as it ensures that every puppy gets outstanding care and attention. Sadly, this breed is particularly prone to cancer. As many as half of all Golden Retrievers will get cancer. The Goldens from Paradise, however, have a much lower rate. The breeder explained that they have only ever heard about one dog from their facility having this disease. That is an outstanding achievement. Contact Details:. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Florida Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Florida? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Florida? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We stand by our pups, which is why we work alongside licensed veterinarians to ensure that our puppies are healthy and always up to date on their deworming and vaccination protocols. We also offer a 2-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. That way, you can rest easy knowing your puppy is healthy and free from genetic defects and congenital diseases. Our mission is dedicated to connecting healthy, beautiful puppies with their forever families. No Puppies of this type are available right now, to see the puppies currently available visit: Our Puppies About Show Golden Retrievers Dog Group: Sporting— meaning, they are especially trainable and good natured. Size: inches tall and lbs— so essentially a very large Teddy bear. Lifespan: of the best years of your life! Energy Level: Active Coat: Thick, long, and luxurious. Shedding: Moderately heavy. Hypoallergenic: Unfortunately, Show Goldens are not hypoallergenic. What is a Show Golden Retriever? These dogs are sought after for their lovely appearances and how well they perform in dog shows. Basically, a Show Golden is a natural variation of the Golden Retriever breed. Show Goldens gained their namesake as a result of, well, their competition standards. They are quite remarkable in appearance and have wonderful coats. The original Goldens came to be as a result of cross-breeding between various different breeds including: Water Spaniels, Yellow Retrievers, Irish Settlers, and Bloodhounds over several generations. In other words, all Golden Retriever subtypes including the British Golden subtype , are members of the same family, or breed. The Show Goldens belong to any of the 3 of the Golden subtypes. Because their temperament is friendly, fun-loving, and obedient just like normal Goldens. These pups are known for being loyal, eager to please, and attentive. Like all Goldens, they are playful and excitable. In short, their great, balanced temperament makes them a great addition to any home! Oftentimes, cheaper golden retriever puppies can ultimately cost you a LOT more money in the long run because they are more likely to have health issues. Are Show Goldens more expensive? Because of their desirable coats and specific standard, Show Goldens can be more expensive than certain other subtypes of Golden Retriever. What is the difference between Show Goldens and Golden Retriever? A Show Golden is a type of Golden Retriever. The Show Goldens do tend to sport slightly longer coats overall and have bigger bones on average. The main difference is easily their care requirements. Their long coats must consistently be maintained and brush to keep their appearance. How big is a full grown Show Golden Retriever? The weight range for these sweet pups can be from pounds for full-grown males, and pounds for full-grown females. Additionally, these babies tend to stand at about inches tall, with males being on the taller end of the spectrum. They are typically large-boned and have a more broadhead than an average Golden. Do Show Goldens shed? Yes, all types and variations of Golden Retrievers shed, and this is entirely normal for the breed. However, it is worth noting that because the Show Goldens often have a coat that is slightly longer than Standard Golden. More brushing is required to maintain their lovely coats. Are Show Golden Retrievers aggressive? The good news is— no, Show Golden Retrievers are not aggressive dogs by nature. In fact, due to their training they are very obedient. Just like standard Goldens they are sweet, calm, and lovable. They make a fantastic addition to any family including yours. Are Show Goldens more calm? When compared to other subtypes of Golden Retrievers, the main difference is simply their training and appearance plus care requirements. Due to their training they are more eager to please and faster to listen to commands. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. I have combined the two for easier navigation of all of my services and breeding program. I welcome you to my home on the internet and encourage you to browse around to see all that I have to offer. My name is Chrissy Harp, I have been in business for 18 years now. I want everyone that purchases a golden to have the same great experience of owning a well mannered, healthy, lovable puppy as I have. Everyone should own a golden retriever once in their lives, there is nothing like it!! My line has been in our family for 26 years, so I know the health history and it speaks for itself. I stand behind every puppy with a 2 year health guarantee. My whole mission behind spending all this time and money finding the perfect breed able dogs, is so an average family can have a high quality, healthy pet. As it becomes available, I will post information about my puppies as well as dogs that I have available for sale. You may sign up for my email newsletter. I try to send one out when I have a litter expected, a dog that is trained and ready to be placed, a possible therapy dog, a retired dog needing a retirement home, or if something is new. Additional photos are always available. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me by e-mail at puppies opkgoldens. We have been breeding and showing Golden Retrievers for over 20 years. Many of our Goldens have gone on to win numerous awards at competitions throughout the U. Some of our pups even starred in Disney movies! Eagleridge has been recognized multiple times for our outstanding achievements and dedication to breeding outstanding Golden Retrievers. We are proudly registered as a Breeder of Merit by the AKC, as recognition for our dedication and passion of breeding beautiful, healthy Golden Retriever puppies. The AKC has also rewarded us with their Silver Medallion as recognition of our success over the years. Baby Francis 3 arriving January ! Testimonials Gus "Good morning! I wanted to reach out and send some photos of Gus who is now a little over a year old. He has gotten into Dock Diving in the last few months and has earned his Dock Senior title. Thank you for a great dog! When I tell you that he did it with no effort, I'm not exaggerating. He did it all on his own! I think he would have passed the test when I received him in July. I think you and your staff should be very proud of the training you provide your puppies! Please thank everyone who worked with Dwayne. In two weeks, he will become a therapy dog with Easter Seals of Alabama. Jen was so helpful, knowledgeable, and professional throughout the whole adoption process. She communicated regularly with us, providing so many updates and videos along the way. We are so fortunate for her and her staff! Thank you Jen and Eagleridge Golden Retrievers!! Jen was always super responsive, knowledgeable and able to answer our many questions. We have had Kevin for about a month and a half now we got him in September and he is settling in perfectly. The training program was a great addition, he is able to follow commands and is very well tempered and so smart. From the adoption process to the training program, we would absolutely recommend this breeder to anyone looking for a great experience! This FL boy is definitely enjoying the Northeastern Autumn! Furthermore, being a client since , I could honestly compare the experience from four 4 years ago to this present time. It was as stress free working with Jen Francis as it could possibly be! Her knowledge about this variety of a K9 is remarkable. The quality health , temperament and of course breed beauty and more are on full display at EagleRidge!
cute labradoodle puppies - Umbilical cord training Throughout the rest of this guide I will be referring to each of these 4 methods and when you should or could be using them. Once used to using the paper or the pads, you slowly cut the area covered until they reliably use just a couple of sheets and never miss. You then slowly move the paper toward the outside where another set is placed and you begin to encourage your puppy to go outside only, before completely removing the papers inside. At this point they will have made the transition. A top tip when paper training is when you clean away soiled paper, you should hold one piece back and place it as a middle layer of the new papers. Puppy pads have a scent that attracts a puppy, paper does not. Effectiveness: On a scale of 1 to 5, I give it a 3. This is confusing and will make the learning process take longer. Best suited to: Either people who are going to have an indoor bathroom spot long-term, or people who will not use a crate for training yet cannot commit to constantly supervising their puppy when inside the home. Ease of use: On a scale of 1 to 5, definitely a 5. But it does result in more mistakes from your puppy until later in life. Equipment needed: Nothing but stacks of old newspapers! A very cost-effective method. Description: The method takes advantage of the fact dogs have a natural instinct not to soil the area where they eat and sleep. Key to this is making the crate just large enough to stand in, turn around easily and lay down stretched out but no bigger. The rest of the time you watch them and regularly take them outside to potty to teach them good habits. Best suited to: Everybody! This is because you will have to crate train your puppy before you can use a crate for house training which does take time and effort. Click here for my free and detailed guide to crate training your puppy. Equipment needed: A suitable crate. I have a guide to help you select the right size and type that you can read by clicking here. Effectiveness: On a scale of 1 to 5, I tentatively give it a 3. It could actually score higher or lower depending on how committed you are and how successful at supervising your puppy you are. Best suited to: People who are against any kind of confinement and can stay at home to watch their puppy all day every day. Mostly people who work from home and the retired. But this method also forms a part of every house training plan, whether you use other methods alongside or not. This is because when a puppy is free inside a home, they MUST be closely supervised to prevent any mistakes. Ease of use: On a scale of 1 to 5, I give it a 2. It scores low as it requires a lot of input from you as the owner. It is quite draining never being able to take your eye of your puppy. Equipment needed: None. Not a crate, newspapers, puppy pads or anything. The cheapest of all the methods…unless you put a price on your time. But it is highly effective. Description: This technique calls for you to tether your puppy to you by leash and have them follow you wherever you go when inside your home. You will notice and be able to intervene and correct every possible mistake, taking them outside every time they need to relieve themselves. Used correctly, the opportunity for your puppy to make mistakes is completely removed so every single time they need to visit their bathroom spot is a training opportunity you will take advantage of and no mistake goes uncorrected. Best suited to: People who spend all their time at home with their puppy and would also enjoy literally being tied to their pup all day. Further Info: for a detailed discussion of this technique, the benefits, downside, and many more tips, please see my article: Umbilical Cord House Training: What is It? How Does It Work? A Mix Of 3 Methods I use and recommend a mixture of crate training, constant supervision and paper training. I use constant supervision extensively because when a puppy is outside of the crate you have to watch them diligently to avoid puppy mistakes. Admittedly this is somewhat going against my advice because I always recommend to avoid paper training if possible. It encourages or allows your puppy to toilet inside the home, before then training them not to do so. This is confusing to your puppy and harmful to our house training efforts. But even though I recommend against it, using paper training ever so occasionally as a fall back plan works well for me. Most dogs love being outside and will use any excuse to get out there and stay there. You do this by using a cue word and walking them on leash to their potty spot, not allowing them to do anything else and if they do not potty, taking them back inside and trying again in a few minutes. Because a full bladder or bowel is uncomfortable, dogs are happy to relieve themselves, but some may try to hold it if they think they can get to stay outside and sniff around a while. If people use different words, your dog will get confused. This will slowly teach them the command. And this is fine for the first couple of weeks while they have no bladder control and will perform their business very quickly. And some dogs even learn to actively hold their bladder just so they can stay outside to explore for longer. Before you can do this you need to first get your puppy used to wearing a collar and leash. Have You Got Everything Prepared? A Check-list Before You Start Like everything in life, house training runs smoother if you have everything ready before you start, hopefully before you even bring your puppy home. Have you: Decided on and marked out a suitable bathroom spot? Chosen and purchased a suitable high-quality nutritious food? Figured out the times of day you will feed your puppy? Got a collar and leash? Put in place a leash training plan? Bought a suitable crate and set it up in a suitable place? Bought bedding for the crate? Bought chew toys to occupy your puppy in the crate? Decided on the commands you will use if any? Purchased either baby gates, a pet barrier or an exercise pen for longer term confinement? Sourced stacks of newspapers or puppy pads to use in the long-term confinement area? Bought some small but highly tasty training treats to use as a reward? Bought specialized pet stain removing and odor neutralizing cleaning products? Bought a UV light to find hidden spots of urine that must be removed to prevent repeat accidents? Sat and discussed with every member of your household your finalized plans so everybody has the same info? Successful House Training Is All About Schedules And Routine Dogs thrive when living to schedules and routine, doing best when they have set times for eating, going to toilet, exercise, training and play. But because the passage of food through their digestive system stays roughly the same, if you feed your puppy at the same times every day they will need to defecate at roughly the same times every day. This results in fewer mistakes, more opportunities to praise your puppy for going in the right place and so speeds up their learning. Depending on their age a puppy will need to poop 3 to 6 times a day, and wee many more times than that. Can these times be predicted? Mostly they can. When a puppy needs to potty depends on when they last ate, drank and their recent activities. Mostly they need to go: First thing in the morning The instant they wake up from a nap at any time of the day Just before going to bed Within a few minutes of eating or drinking Immediately after a play session Immediately after any excitement But a puppy also needs to go many times per day regardless of recent activities, so you should also take your puppy to their bathroom spot on a consistent schedule such as the following: At 8 weeks old — every 30 mins. At 10 weeks old — every 45 mins. At 12 weeks old — every 1 to 1. At 16 weeks old — every 2 hours. At 20 weeks old — every 3 hours. Some will need to wee within 2 minutes of drinking, others after 20 minutes. Some will need a bathroom break within 2 minutes of waking, others 15 minutes later. You have to determine your puppies own natural tendencies and create a schedule to suit. To achieve this, you need to follow this 5 step process: Feed them to a strict schedule. Decide on exercise, play and training times. Develop a schedule including feeding, exercise, play, training and all scheduled potty times. Use the information gathered in your diary to learn from any mistakes and adjust your schedule for the following week. The more you can stick to schedules and routines, the smoother and faster the process will be. But you can stray from the path when necessary and still find success, it will just take a little longer. You should feed your puppy 3 times a day when 12 to 26 weeks old. From 26 weeks old and onwards, feed your puppy just two times a day For 2 meals a day you need to space them out 8 to 12 hours apart. What works for me is shortly after I get up at and when we have our evening meal between PM and PM. Availability Of Water: You should make sure fresh water is always available but because drinking too much or too little can be a sign of health problems, you do need to monitor their water intake. Physical activity often leads to a puppy needing to potty very soon after. So to encourage predictable potty times for your puppy, you want to schedule their exercise and play. Deciding when to exercise, train and play with your puppy is entirely up to you. You should fit it around your lifestyle and commitments, but try to make it the same times each day if you can. Enter all the following details into a single column in an excel spreadsheet, or write them down as a day schedule with a pen and paper: When you wake and add an instant bathroom break before you do ANYTHING for yourself! Enter the times you will play with, train and exercise your puppy. Enter a scheduled visit to the bathroom spot after each of the activities listed in points 1 to 3. Add scheduled bathroom visits after any length of time longer than your puppy should be expected to hold it according to their age. Write in scheduled sleeps for your puppy, place them in the crate or confinement area. After writing down this schedule, tick off each task as you go through the day with your puppy. This way you will always know what needs to be done and when, and there will be no confusion about whether someone else in the house fed, exercised or took the puppy to the loo. I discuss this further in step 5 below. You should be able to pick up on any patterns and adjust your own behavior to avoid mistakes in future. Was puppy left alone and peed in the living room while you made breakfast? Puppy should never be left alone unsupervised, learn from this mistake. Or maybe puppy peed in the crate after an hour? Learn from this mistake. Well done for watching them closely enough. So increase the frequency. Therefore you should stretch out the time between visits by 10 to 15 minutes for the following day. This is how you find out. And Now House Training is So Much Easier By writing out the schedule as in step 3, you should never forget to feed, train or take your puppy to potty. And by using the schedule as a diary as in step 5, you get feedback on how you and your puppy are performing, and are armed with the necessary info to make changes to your schedule over time. You, your puppy and their needs all stay in sync and house training becomes that much easier. Just make a spreadsheet in excel and print it out, or simply buy some lined paper. Keep it somewhere you can always see and know where it is, alongside a pen or pencil and write entries in it as you watch your puppy throughout the day. After this, continuing with a diary every day is the best advice, although keeping one for 3 consecutive days each week will be sufficient for you to pick up on any changes as they mature. Once your puppy is 5 to 6 months old, they will have sufficient bladder control and experience to make a schedule and diary unnecessary. Just make sure they get access to the outside at least once every 3 hours and all will be fine. Extending The Time Between Toilet Breaks I discussed earlier how a puppy will need regular visits to their bathroom spot, something like every 30 minutes at 8 weeks old, every 45 minutes at 10 weeks old and so on. But every puppy is different and their progress in having longer time between needed toilet breaks will vary too. You do this because as a puppy grows, the size of their bowel and bladder increases, so they will be able to hold more for longer and you want to take advantage of this. This is also teaching them necessary bladder and bowel control. Use your cue word before you take them: By using your chosen cue word every time before you take them to potty, your puppy will learn what the trip is about and what they must do. This eventually leads to faster results as they know what is expected of them. Lead your puppy to the bathroom spot on leash: This gives you the ability to keep your puppy at the bathroom spot and prevent them wandering off, getting distracted and forgetting what they are there for. Make sure you stay with them at their bathroom spot: If you have them on leash, then of course you will be. When they start to go, say your chosen cue word in a soft warm voice. Mix up the reward between play, time off leash and a food reward to keep them guessing, but keep the food rewards to a minimum as what goes in must come out and random feeding promotes random elimination times! Many people pop out, stand for 1 minute and then come back in. Some people recommend to stay out there for 10, 15, 20 minutes, whatever it takes until they go, then praise profusely when they do. I recommend you give them 3 to 5 minutes, saying your cue word every 30 seconds or so but otherwise standing silently still just holding their leash so they cannot wander off. Take them back to their bathroom spot in 10 minutes or so. If using a crate for house training: Pop them back in the crate and leave them for 10 minutes. Then take them back to their bathroom spot. Take them to their bathroom spot after 10 minutes. If not, take them away from their bathroom spot and watch them for 10 minutes before returning them to their bathroom spot. And if crate training, do not leave them in the crate too long else they may be forced to soil in there. Prevent this at all costs. Rinse and repeat the visits to and fro like this until they do potty, then follow the next sections advice. What You Should Do Between Scheduled Bathroom Breaks Between scheduled bathroom visits you should do two things: Allow some supervised free time in your home, and use your chosen house training method. By free time I mean time outside of their crate, or off leash, or out of their confinement area. Time free to roam, explore and live life. When 10 weeks old they may need to toilet every 30 minutes, so they only get 5 to 10 minutes free time. When 12 weeks old, they may need to toilet every hour so they can get 35 to 40 minutes free time. You allow this free time because you are of course working toward a time when they will always be free and trusted unsupervised. To get there they need the experience, to get used to being free in your home and begin seeing it as a place they need to keep clean. They also need social interaction and life experiences. But what are the signs a puppy is about to potty? Heading toward, barking at or scratching the door to the outside. The minute you see any of these signs you should take your puppy to their bathroom spot immediately. There may well be some false alarms, but better safe than sorry. Carefully watch them and you should soon notice what body language means a wee or a poop is imminent. There will be recognizable signs. We do this because the time is fast approaching when mistakes are most likely to be made. If using constant supervision: Carry on as you are. Then at their scheduled potty time, attach a leash and lead them to their bathroom spot. If using a crate for house training: Encourage your puppy into their crate and close the door, leaving them there until their scheduled potty time and then release them, instantly attaching a leash and leading them to their bathroom spot. If using umbilical cord training: Attach a leash and tether your puppy to you, ready to react if they make moves to eliminate. Take them to their bathroom spot at the scheduled time. If paper training: Take your puppy to their confinement area where their papered bathroom spot is and supervise them, ready to intervene if they make moves to potty away from the paper. Not good when you need to be there to encourage them for doing it in the right place. If they do, you can pick them up and carry them, or take them by the collar and gently lead them to their bathroom spot, then encourage them to finish where they should. But to me this seems foolish. Instead of a little pile or puddle, you then have a long line of wee or poop from where you caught them all the way to the bathroom spot that you then have to deep clean instead. Then think how they were able to make such a mistake and tweak your plans so it cannot happen again. But any corrections or punishment now will be futile. House Training For Full Time Workers This advice applies not just to full-time workers , but also if you must occasionally leave your puppy home alone for a few hours. Most importantly, follow all the advice in this guide so far for the times that you are home. Supervise them, correct any mistakes, set feeding and elimination schedules and everything else I have advised. First of all, if like me you use a crate, you simply cannot leave your puppy in the crate for many hours. This is very unfair on your puppy and it will destroy the crates power as a house training tool if they lose the instinct to keep it clean. Secondly, please do your best to enlist the help of a family member, friend, neighbor or hire a dog walker to periodically pop in to visit your puppy, take them to their bathroom spot, give them some social interaction and so on. But I also freely admit to using paper training myself occasionally, for the unavoidable times I have to leave my puppy home alone for a few hours. If you have to leave your puppy home alone for any reason, usually because you work, then paper training in your absence is the only thing you can do. You then have two options available to you: Buy and use an exercise pen, or confine your puppy to a single, puppy-proofed room. As they get used to pottying on paper, reduce the area covered one sheet at a time until just a small area remains covered. Once you know your puppy can hold their bladder for longer than they have to be left alone, remove the paper altogether. By 16 to 20 weeks, they should be able to last the 3 or 4 hours max they will be left alone and somebody comes to exercise them and allow a bathroom break. Between 8 and 12 weeks when weeing seems spontaneous , my puppy spends a fair bit of time in there and I paper train them to use puppy pads. Our kitchen and dining room was separated by an arch where a door used to be, with tiled flooring, making it ideal. I used a baby gate across the arch between the kitchen and dining room, and initially covered the dining area with paper, over time reducing it to just two sheets with the puppy pad holder on top. The dining area is completely empty, with no furniture, nothing in there. Skirting boards, the corners of furniture items, anything within reach is a potential target for teeth and claws. My girlfriend works from home, we crate trained and we had no problem finding house sitters in an evening if we needed one, so we all but had things covered. But this is something you need to be mindful of. Whatever the reason, there just WILL be times you cannot supervise your puppy. The essence of house training is to prevent mistakes and praise your puppy heavily when they potty in the right place. If you cannot watch your puppy, the chances of them making a mistake go through the roof. So even if you choose to use a constant supervision method exclusively, you will still need to confine your puppy sometimes to a paper covered area just in case. I mean literally none at all. One minute they are trotting along, the next they are leaking. No warning signs for you, not even any warning signs for them. I recommend setting up an exercise pen with the entire area papered, or do as I do and confine them to a room with the entire area papered. Use this time to paper train them, to get them used to weeing on paper and gradually reduce the area because you will use this method if you ever have to leave them home alone during the next 4 or 5 months. They will sniff, circle and so on as I mentioned before. At this point you can now move on to using your chosen house training method. Start encouraging them to potty in the right place from the minute you get them home. So the good news is, even at 8 weeks they will be able to last 4 or so hours and you will only need to wake once during the night. Also, make sure to take them to their bathroom spot right before you go to bed so they can empty themselves. Then set an alarm for 4 hours after their bed time when you must get up and take them to their bathroom spot. No excuses, you simply must do this. If you find your puppy has soiled in this time, you should set the alarm for half an hour earlier the next night 3. After a few days of not having a night-time accident, set your alarm for 15 minutes later and increase the time by 15 minutes for each successful night they do not have an accident. If you find they make a mistake one night before you wake, set the alarm back half an hour, make sure they stay dry a few days and then increase 15 minutes nightly again. And by using this schedule, you strike a good balance between a couple of inevitable accidents while stretching out the time at a good pace to lasting a full night. If they soil their crate more than once in any given week, you may have to progress slower add 15 minutes every 2 or 3 days , or perhaps sleep them in a papered exercise pen or their confinement room. Maintaining their instinct to keep the crate clean is of utmost importance. What To Do At The Bathroom Spot At Night When you take them out at night, say your chosen cue word, take them straight to their bathroom spot, praise them gently when they finish their business but do not reward them with anything else. The last thing you want is to teach your puppy that during the night is a time for play or food treats! This will come back to haunt you in a big way and result in noisy sleepless nights. You want your puppy to learn that night-time is for sleeping and for nothing else. Do nothing else. Some will be able to last the whole night without a potty break at 10 weeks rarely , and some may not be able to at 15 weeks also rarely. But certainly by 16 weeks old your puppy will be able to last a 7 hour night without needing to potty if you do not feed them for 3 hours or provide water for 2 hours before bed time and allow them to empty themselves right before you lay down for the night. No Progress? If you are feeding, exercising, training and playing with your puppy to a schedule, and when you look at your diary there seems to be no pattern to the times they need to potty, you should seek the advice of your vet. Common ailments such as gastroenteritis, urinary tract infection and health issues affecting internal organs and the genitalia can lead to a dog needing to potty much more frequently, often leading to eliminating in the house. Again, seek the advice of your family vet. You cannot successfully house train a puppy who is ill because their bodily functions will be too unpredictable. But 6 to 7 months is the ball park figure to aim for. A single mistake in the home can cause a major setback. A puppy may not make a mistake for 2 weeks, then you give them too much freedom, they make a mistake and all of a sudden they are regularly trying to potty in the home again. Also, some puppies just seem to forget everything for a few days now and then while growing up, even after being perfect for a couple of weeks. Just stick to your plan and they WILL eventually get it. Conclusion With house training, the fewer mistakes you allow your puppy to make and the more they are rewarded for doing the right thing, the quicker they will learn and the faster you will find success. Because of this, the more effort you put in and the more time you spend with your puppy at the beginning — supervising to correct mistakes and taking them to their bathroom spot many times each day — the better. But there are many other things you can do to help yourself and your puppy to find success. This guide has provided you with all the theory, strategies, tips and tricks you will ever need to successfully house train your puppy as quickly and efficiently as possible, with the fewest mistakes along the way. Please see the entire series linked to below:. Print Potty train your puppy quickly Housebreaking is one of the least desirable tasks when adding a new puppy to your family. It is never fun but consider it a necessary task. You will never regret having a dog that knows your home is not a bathroom. When to start housebreaking Housebreaking should begin the day you bring your puppy home from the breeder. It is important to establish quickly that there is a right and wrong place for your puppy to go potty. How long does it take to house train a lab puppy? I wish I could give a definitive answer for this, but the truth is that every puppy is different. Most puppies can be completely house broke by the time they are months. But assume there will be a lot of ups and downs through the process. Some puppies learn very quickly and rarely have an accident. Others take more time to make the connection. Here are some things you can do to help the process go smoothly. Have the right attitude! Keep your attitude in check to help this process go quickly and smoothly. Have patience! As already stated, potty training can take some time. It may happen, but it is unlikely. Instead, plan for a long haul and then you will be more patient and understanding when mishaps happen. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Step 1: Establish a place for your puppy to go potty To get started housebreaking your puppy, you must first establish a place where it is okay for your puppy to do his business. Find a place outside that is not too far from your home, but an area where you are not worried about killing the grass or trampling plants that are important to you. Consider this carefully, because once your puppy starts going potty in this area it will be exceedingly difficult to move or change the area. Once the scent is there, it is natural for dogs to continue going potty in the same area over and over. Do I have to potty train outside? In some areas of the country, winters can be very cold. Some new puppy owners wonder if it is too cold for their Labrador puppy to go outside to potty train during these times. The answer is no. Most Labs can easily be outside for a few minutes even during the coldest nights to go potty. A pee pad is a disposable, leak proof pad that is scented to attract your dog and encourage going potty on them. We highly discourage using pee pads because in the long run it is confusing to your dog. If you spend time teaching your puppy to NOT go potty inside your home and then flip-flop and begin letting them go inside your home on a pee pad, your dog will be confused. Besides, eventually you must retrain them to going outside, so the best policy is to never start letting inside be an option. Step 2: Establish a routine and schedule for your puppy Establishing a routine is the single most important step for housebreaking. The more consistent you are, the faster your puppy will learn to go outside for potty. This time will increase rapidly over the next few weeks, but that first week is going to take a lot of time and energy on your part to consistently let your puppy out on a schedule. To make being consistent easier, consider this: Set a timer When housebreaking puppies, we find that setting a timer is helpful. An hour flies by and you hardly realize it. For the first few days at least, set a timer and let your puppy out hourly, especially if your puppy is not in a crate. We will discuss that more in a bit. Timing is everything There are other times when you need to let your puppy outside. Immediately after eating or drinking your puppy should go outside. Eating and drinking will trigger a need to go potty, so to avoid accidents, take your puppy out every time they eat or drink. And if they drink a lot of water, you may have to take them out several times before they are back on schedule. Anything you can do to make going potty a routine will help your dog learn and associate that going outside is where I need to go to go potty. Use a command I know this sounds crazy but using a command can help your dog form an association between the command and going potty. At first this is meaningless to the puppy. And you cannot discipline your puppy for a potty accident in the house that you never saw happen. The solution for this is never let your puppy go unsupervised. This can be exhausting, that is why we suggest using a crate to help. The stern words must be said during the accident or immediately after to have any effect. Using a crate to house train your puppy First, while your puppy may not love his crate right away, if properly introduced and used consistently, Labs usually come to love their crates. As den animals, dogs will view their crate as a den where they can go to sleep or get away from the business of the home. Learn more about crate training your Labrador puppy here. When using a crate to housetrain your puppy, you first want to make sure that you have a very small crate. One that is just a little bigger than your puppy. This is particularly important because you do not want your puppy to be able to move around much in the crate. If they can move around, they can and often will go potty in the crate. So, start with a very small crate and get bigger crates as the puppy grows. Whatever you choose to use to block off the larger area, make sure that it is not something your puppy can chew on or ingest. You will still need to find a way to gradually increase the area that the puppy has access to, so I just find the multiple crate solution easier. You should still set a timer and take your puppy out on a regular basis, and you will want to schedule some time each day for the puppy to run around the house and play while supervised. Step 4: Using praise to speed the house breaking process You can help your puppy more quickly understand that going potty outside is the right thing to do by giving your puppy well-timed praise. But the praise must be well-timed. You should give the praise while your puppy is going potty outside or immediately after. Timing is very important! Lots of people get upset when the dog goes inside but fail to praise when the dog does the right thing. Not all dogs are the same. Some puppies will whine just before they go potty in the house, or whine at the door when they need to go. Some will hide somewhere you cannot see them and do their business there. Still others may scratch at the door. How long can a puppy hold it overnight? With young puppies, weeks old, you will need to get up several times a night to let them out. It can be helpful to limit the amount of water your puppy has access to close to bedtime. We usually aim for every 3 hours and then steadily increase the time as they get older. But each puppy is different. Final thoughts on how to house train your Labrador puppy Remember that housebreaking is a process. It rarely follows a straight line and more often there will periods of success and occasional mishaps. Stick with it and before long your puppy will understand that going potty in the house is not okay. Until next time, happy retrieving. How to housebreak your Labrador puppy. Learn to spot the signs Never punish your Lab after an accident Use potty pads as a temporary indoor alternative Recognize excitement urination Be aware of submissive urination Allow more freedom as your puppy improves The ultimate aim of housebreaking your puppy is to prevent accidents. Control His Environment When potty training your puppy, the first thing to do is to control his environment. Use a long leash and attach your pup to your waist, even when inside the house. This allows you to look out for warning signs. Your pup will sleep in the crate, whereas the playpen provides extra space. Make sure to choose a pen with a door so that you can attach it to the crate, such as the Midwest Homes for Pets Folding Exercise Pen from Amazon. I also recommend the Midwest Homes for Pets icrate. Introduce the Crate Slowly introduce the crate when crate training your Lab over the first few days. When you let your pup out of his crate, immediately take him outside. When he is away from his own room, make sure you closely supervise him by keeping him attached to you on a long leash. Allow Frequent Potty Breaks Give your dog lots of opportunities to go outside. Create a Puppy Potty Schedule Dogs thrive off routines, including mealtimes, exercise, and potty training! You can set an alarm on your watch or phone to remind you to take your dog outside to his toilet area. Your pup will need to go first thing in the morning, after a meal or drinking, when he wakes from a nap, after playtimes, and before bedtime. Look for clues such as sniffing the floor or carpet, circling, restlessness, becoming overexcited, whining, or making towards the door. This includes whether you catch him in the act or if it happened a while ago. Moreso, the latter, as your dog will have no idea what he is being punished for! This is because dogs have a terrible short-term memory and will forget an event in two minutes. Instead, take him straight outside and reward him with a treat and lots of praise if he finishes off his business. Use Potty Pads as a Temporary Indoor Alternative Potty pads can be handy in extended periods of bad weather or if you live in a high-rise apartment and it takes longer to get outside. They can also be useful when traveling. This is when your Labrador gets so excited he will pee a small amount. It may happen when a family member or friend visits. To prevent this, allow your dog to eliminate before a visitor arrives and ensure visitors make their entrance low-key with no fuss, even ignoring the pup for a few minutes. Dogs will usually grow out of excitement pee by 18 months of age. Be Aware of Submissive Urination This is also common, but your puppy will outgrow it. It occurs when your Labrador wants to show submissive status to a person or another animal. He may squat and urinate during specific situations. To prevent it, avoid yelling and physical punishment, appear less intimidating when approaching, kneel down, and stroke under his chin instead of the top of his head. At first, keep his sleeping area small and then gradually increase the size slowly and methodically. Remove the divider in the crate or make the playpen area larger if you arent using a crate. You can use a crate to your advantage as it helps your pup develop quicker bowel and bladder control. To potty train a Lab puppy with a crate, use the crate as a tool. When the door is closed, your Lab will let you know he needs to eliminate by whining or scratching. He will learn self-control quicker. Crates are great when you cannot fully supervise your puppy and are an ideal way to control his environment. However, you still need to keep a close eye on him and spot the signs when he needs to go. Make it smaller using a divider. He will be less likely to eliminate in a smaller sleeping area. Check out my recommendations for the Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens , including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. Just be aware that it will probably take a little longer. Use dog gates to section off an area of the house. When away from his confinement, tether your pup to you with a long leash and establish a strict potty break schedule. If you choose dog gates, there are many styles you can choose to match your decor and configure how you like. This area should contain training pads or newspapers. Potty Training Puppies Between Months Old Most puppies are around eight weeks old when they leave their mother and littermates, but occasionally your pup may be a little older when you first bring him home. You may wonder how to potty train an older puppy and whether you should do anything different. Generally speaking, you should follow the same principles as training an 8-week-old Lab. However, a more mature puppy should be able to grasp housebreaking quicker. Supervise Your Puppy Your second job is to supervise or contain your puppy when his bladder is filling up. You can do this by crating him for a few minutes, or by cuddling him in your arms. I recommend the cuddle option for the first few days, that way you can introduce the crate gradually once he has settled into his new home. Either spend your first day together in the yard getting a feel for how frequently they pee. As you can see, there is some guesswork involved in house training a puppy, but not too much. The secrets of successful outdoor toilet trips Not wanting to pee outside is a common toilet training puppy problem and one we look at in more detail in this article. Keeping your puppy company is the key. You need to go outside with your puppy and wait there with him until he has done a wee. This may take longer than you would like, and you probably have better things to do than stand in your yard while your puppy chases butterflies or plays with your shoe laces. But stay outside you must, until he has done that wee. Coming Indoors Early If you must come indoors before your puppy has relieved himself, you need to supervise him very closely. Hold him in your arms — or put him in a small crate for a few minutes — before going back out to try again. It is a new puppy problem, and it will pass. And if you teach your puppy to pee on command, it will pass even quicker! Rewarding success If you put plenty of effort in, and take your puppy out a great deal in those first few days, he will quickly learn that the place you have allocated to him for potty purposes is the place to pee. You can praise him and give him a little treat for doing so. Have your treat on hand keep them next to your poop bags so you remember to grab both on the way out , and deliver it right after your puppy has completed their business. Rewarding his successes and ignoring his accidents is the quickest way of successfully communicating what you want, and quickly potty training your puppy. Stage 2 — Learning self control During stage 2 your puppy begins to develop some self control. This means he can wait a few minutes before emptying himself when his bladder starts to feel full. Keep an eye on your puppy for the tell tale signs that he needs to use the toilet: whimpering, whining or barking sniffing about, especially sniffing in circles! Using Your Crate If your puppy is now used to his crate, you can start using it stretch out the gaps between toilet trips. Accidents during stage 2 At some point during stage 2, many puppies will be able to last an hour or so between wees. This is when puppy parents often relax their vigilance, and their puppies start having accidents in the house again. Simply go back to shorter gaps between trips to the yard for a few days. Then start to space out those trips again, but more gradually this time. Stage 3 — Extending the clean zone This is where all your hard work starts to really pay off. Once your puppy is confidently and consistently toileting outdoors, and you can further stretch out the gaps between toilet breaks, and start to introduce your puppy to the rest of your home. Take it slowly, and if accidents occur, to go back to shorter gaps between trips outdoors for a few days. Bear in mind that your puppy may be used to peeing in the yard and not in the kitchen by now, but they might not automatically understand which rule applies to the lounge. Method 2: How to potty train a puppy indoors This section has a lot in common with how to potty train a puppy when you work. So follow method 2 if you need to know how to potty train a puppy in an apartment as well. And that means using pads. How to potty train a puppy on pads The simplest way to do this is to restrict the puppy to a smallish room with washable floors. Cover the floor with puppy pads to begin with, with their bed in one corner. How do you train a puppy to pee on a pad? With this arrangement in place, as long as your puppy leaves his bed to pee which his mom will have encouraged him to do , he will pee onto the pads. So over the next few days, reduce the area of the floor that is covered with puppy pads by half. You should find he begins to make an effort to pee and poop on the part of the floor that is covered — but it needs to be a sizeable part to get this good habit established. How to potty train a puppy fast using pads — reducing the toilet area By the end of the first week, you can begin to reduce the part of the floor that is covered with puppy pads right down to a small area, preferably near the back door. It is usually best to do this when you have some time booked off work — or during a long weekend when the weather is fine. But if you choose to crate train your puppy LINK alongside potty training him, the crate can be a useful aid for potty training too. Once your puppy thinks of the crate as their bed, they will be reluctant to soil in it. You Still Need To Watch Your Puppy Always watch puppies closely in their crate during potty training, and whisk them out to the right spot at the first sign they might need to relieve themselves. You can find out a lot more about crate training and the role it plays in rapid house training on this page. As well opportunities to use the toilet, Labrador puppies need company and socialisation while they are small. So, if you are going to go back to work you need to arrange someone to look after him, or to come in at intervals throughout the day to play with him and take him out. Here are some articles which will be of interest if you are thinking of getting a puppy and work full time:. Labrador house training routines. We want them to learn to wait until they are outdoors before emptying their bladder or bowels. It is about maturity too. We need to understand that tiny puppies have immature bodies and are not physically capable of waiting very long. On your side There are two factors on your side in the potty training process. When it comes to bladder control, fortunately your puppy improves with every day that passes, so this factor does not work against you forever. The same applies to the fact that the puppy has been removed from his nest, he will soon learn to accept his new nest. The principles of puppy potty training The puppy is learning the principle of extending the nest area, which he keeps clean instinctively, to include your entire home. Punishment is counter-productive in this process as it teaches the puppy to avoid emptying himself in your presence. Rewards are helpful, but given the right routine, a puppy will naturally learn to be clean without them. The secret to successful house training lies in selecting targets that the puppy can achieve. If your puppy sometimes needs to wee every 15 minutes whilst he is awake and active, you will have to take him outside every 15 minutes. Restricted access Start small applies here too. Allow your puppy access only to a small part of your home. Increase the area he has access to, only when he is capable of keeping the current area clean. Just because he can. And because the sensation of a filling bladder is a new one. Your job is to teach him to wait a little longer. You do this by confining him for a short time, every time his bladder fills. You can confine him in his nest within a crate , or in your arms. He will be reluctant to wee in either location. If he wets himself, you have waited too long! It takes two You need to go outside with your puppy, and stay out there with him, each time he needs to wee. A tiny puppy is unlikely to empty himself on his own. This especially applies in cold or wet weather. Routines Matter When House Training a Labrador Retriever Based around these practical requirements you can create your own house training routine. For a puppy that needs to wee every half an hour, it will go something like this Take puppy outside to the toilet area and wait with him until he empties himself Bring him indoors and allow him free access to your kitchen for fifteen to twenty minutes Crate or cuddle the puppy until it is thirty minute since his last wee Take the puppy back out to the toilet area If at any time the puppy does not empty himself then confine him for another ten minutes and try again. As soon as he is regularly not needing to wee after thirty minutes you can extend the duration of free access to your kitchen. Provided you stick to these principles and strategies, the house training process, though quite intense for a short while, will pass smoothly.
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cute labradoodle puppies - These puppies were frequently developed for desired characteristics like as softer dispositions, smaller stature, and hypoallergenic properties. The Shih Tzu This ancient Chinese species was intended to serve as a companion to emperors, monarchs, and queens. Shih Tzus loved nothing more than snuggling and being pampered like tiny fuzzy deities by their strong owners. They are famously difficult to train, despite their adaptability. These sociable canines are little, weighing 8 to 22 pounds and about 8 to 12 inches tall. Your Pug-Zu will be full of personality, sweet, affectionate, and headstrong at times. The Pug-Zu will require a lot of your time and attention in exchange for a lot of love. The Pug-Zu requires a moderate amount of exercise, as well as early socialization and training, to get along with children and other animals. The Pug-Zu will prefer to spend the most of the day with his people and will be upset if you leave for lengthy periods of time. Scientists have proven that they are the result of a hybrid between a Lhasa Apso and a Pekingese. For first-time dog owners, this is a fantastic dog. This breed mix of Shih Tzu and pug has a vibrant attitude, minimal aggressive nature, and is extremely welcoming and energetic, according to its human owners, making it an ideal breed for first-time dog owners. This canine breed loves cuddling and spending time with its human companions This is far not the sole instance of dog crossing, albeit it did provide excellent outcomes. Shih Tzus are currently one of the most popular dog breeds on the market. Despite this, individuals continue to attempt to cross Shih Tzu with other dogs, such as pugs. And it is undoubtedly an intriguing combo, as you will see below. Your Pug Zu will get along with your other pets, including cats, and because they are little, they will be good with kids. To prevent your Pug Zu from becoming damaged, you should also educate children on how to handle him safely. People dogs are Pug Zus. If you pick this combination, you should be aware that you will get an extremely reliant dog. Your Pug Zu will try all in their ability to get attention and will remain by your side at all times. They really excellent with Children This dog is as adorable as they are being pug tzus. It has a very caring and loving personality. They get well with others through swimmingly with youngsters as well as other pets. This pug Tzu mix is going to benefit greatly from early adaptation through social mingling and training. Some puppies will appear like their Shih Tzu parent, while others may resemble their Pug parent. Short, stumpy limbs; curled tail; triangular, floppy high set ears; round, almond eyes; short, stumpy limbs; curled tail Shih-Tzu coats are long, flowing, and silky, whereas Pug coats are short and smooth. Brown, fawn, apricot, white, brindle, and black are some of the colors available. With a tiny yet large physique and long silky hair, Pugzu might resemble a Shih, Tzu. With a coiled tail, a robust physique, and a wrinkled squashed face, it can also resemble a Pug. The tail can be straight or curved, and it is commonly curved over the back of the animal. The greatest height is around 28 cm 11 inches , and the weight ranges from 5 to 9 kg 10 to 18lbs. Even though they are quite little and appear to be ornamental, this is not the case Height, weight The Shih-Tzu Pug breed mixes are robust dogs that weigh between 10 and 20 pounds when fully mature. However, like with other mixed breeds, they can fluctuate in size and occasionally fall outside of this range. Coat and Color of Coat White, black, brown, fawn, and brindle are some of the hues available for the Pug-Zu. The most prevalent hues, however, are brindle and black. Cleverness and playfulness are the two most common characteristics in a Pug-Shih Tzu mix. The majority of Pug-Zu owners have stated that their dogs have a lively streak, but that they will not play if they are not in the mood. Pug Zus are believed to be faithful, if not a touch clinging and protective, to their owners. They might not be the ideal choice for households with little children who might damage such small dogs by mistake. Living Style Pug Tzus make excellent companion dogs for lonely or elderly individuals, as well as those who live in densely congested areas. Even so, you should take them for a stroll now and again. Training and Activity As previously said, the Pug Tzu incorporates characteristics from both parents, but on a smaller size. Pugs are the polar opposite of Shih Tzus, who is extremely energetic and require frequent walks. As a result, you end up with a dog who has a modest demand for park walks and other activities. While leaving the dog inside your home for an extended period is not recommended, you can do it for a decent length of time. The Pug Tzu is also considerably calmer than the Shih Tzu again, one of the main traits from the Pugs. This means that you can always bring it for an outdoor walk. Pug Tzu, on the other hand, is far easier to teach than Shih Tzu. This is because they are not as tenacious as the Shih Tzu. Exercise The Pug-Zu does not require much exercise. A quick stroll and some games should keep them entertained for the rest of the day. Pug Zus are little dogs with a lot of energy. Regardless of whether you allow them to exercise inside or outside, make sure they get at least 30 minutes of activity each day. This may be done as a game or as a walk. As a result, the ultimate figure is somewhere between 12 and 13 years. This varies greatly from one dog to the next and is dependent on the surroundings, the amount and quality of care provided, the parents, and diseases, the latter of which may be extremely unexpected. Grooming is the most time-consuming aspect of caring for a Pug-Zu. Brushing is required regularly to keep their coat from becoming too excited. Every six weeks, your dog will need to go to the groomer for a trim. Bathe them only once or twice a week to avoid drying out their skin. Small dogs are prone to tooth decay, so wash their teeth once or twice a week. You will also need to clean their ears once a week to avoid infection. The amount of hair your dog sheds is determined by its DNA. What is the most important factor to consider? Their coat has to be groomed daily and trimmed regularly. You might be asking if a dog breed like this can be left alone while you are away. These adorable tiny potato sofas scream for your attention and want to cuddle on the couch with you. Playful Shih-Tzu Pug breed mix has a sweet and lively personality. It enjoys spending time with its owners, and it has a confident character and playing with children, making it an excellent family pet. When you need a companion, it will adore you and offer you nice, warm cuddles in return. Smart Pug-Zus, like their parents, are intelligent and well-known. Pug-Zus, like their parents, are bright and well-known for their intellect. They are constantly eager to pick up new techniques and participate in fresh and interesting activities. Price of Pug zu Puppy Pug-Zu pups are cute, but they should be handled with caution since they can be delicate. For unskilled or novice owners, a Shih Tzu may be a better alternative. It also requires less grooming and upkeep than a Pug. Pugs can be a little obstinate at times, and they may not always obey commands. Overall, both types are friendly and caring, making them perfect family companion dogs. The Pug-Zu will not enjoy being in the water if the puppy is more like a Shih Tzu. Pugs, on the other hand, are fond of water, but without adequate training, we cannot say that they are good swimmers Does Pug-Zus have a lot of barking? Pug-Zus do not tend to bark and will only do so if something is out of place or if they notice an outsider. As a result, Pug-Zus is easygoing for anyone who may quickly become connected to such a loving dog breed. The Shih Tzu crossed with Pug is an ideal home inhabitant due to his petite stature. Adoption of a Pug Zu Another excellent option for finding a puppy or adult dog is to visit an animal shelter or rescue organization, where you will be required to pay adoption fees. Adopting a dog is usually far less expensive than buying one from a breeder. Avoid buying a dog from a puppy mill or a breeder. If the breeder appears to be pressuring you into purchasing a puppy, you should search for another breeder. Your new dog should be checked for any potential health issues. Conclusion Almost every family will enjoy having Shih-Tzu Pug breed mix as a pet. These little canines would be at home in both apartment buildings and the suburbs. These dogs are excellent companions for first-time owners because of their extroverted personalities. Shih-Tzu Pug breed mix and pug zu puppies are a wonderful addition to any family. They flourish in both the suburbs and apartment buildings. They are an excellent choice for first-time dog owners due to their simple disposition. All they need is a simple walk around the block and a game of pulling to be pleased for the day. The Pug Shih Tzu mix may be the dog for you if you want a distinctive canine that is more than simply a sweet natured and friendly couch potato. For everything related to dogs particularly pugs , our website has it all. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, You may also check out sites like www. If he has the long coat just like his Shih Tzu parent, then he will be needing daily brushing as his coat can tangle very easily. Moreover, other grooming needs of your pet dog such as nail clipping and ear cleaning can also be done efficiently by a groomer. For Shih Tzu Pugs that inherit the shorter coats, they will need relatively less maintenance. Their lifespan is just average for small breed types. For this reason, potential owners of this mixed breed should need to take time understanding both breeds of origin as well as get as much historical information from the dog breeders. The knee joint, most often the hind leg, slides in and out of place which causes extreme pain to your dog. This can be crippling. Hip Dysplasia: The Pug breed is genetically susceptible to this condition, and the possibility of passing it to its offspring is highly possible. The Shih Tzu Pug mix is prone to have idiopathic epilepsy which is characterized by seizures that occur for no known reason. If your Shih Tzu Pug experiences an episode of seizure, take him to your veterinarian to determine what treatment is appropriate for your companion dog. Epilepsy: It is the abnormal formation of the hip socket which causes extreme pain and lameness on your dog. Allergies: This is a common ailment in all dog types. Your Pug crossed with Shih Tzu may suffer from a variety of allergies ranging from food, contact and inhalant allergies. If you see your pup rubbing his face a great deal or licking his paws a lot than what he usually does, then have him check by your veterinarian. Eye problems: Diseases of the eye are not uncommon among the Shih Tzu and the Pug dog breeds because of their large eyes. Some of the eye conditions common to both breeds include proptosis, distichiasis, progressive renal atrophy, and dry eye. The above health conditions can be avoided by making sure that you only purchase from a reputable breeder who is able to present you with health clearances for both parent breeds. Pug crossed with Shih Tzu Food Requirements The Pug crossed with Shih Tzu is a typically small hybrid, so their dietary requirement is fairly minimal too. Here are some of the best dry dog food for small dogs. He will be requiring a nutrient-rich kibble that satisfies his age, small size, and activity level needs. Plan to feed him one-half to one cup of high-quality dog food daily which should be divided into two meals. Opt for dog food or kibble that is low in carbohydrates and fillers that may cause him to overeat to feel full. Always go only for the best dry dog food and avoid the nutrient-deprived worst dry dog food at all cost. For healthy dog food options for your Pug Shih Tzu, here are some more recommendations: Wellness Complete for Small Breeds The Wellness Complete brand is known for creating food formulas that focus on quality ingredients and high nutritional value. This formula for small-sized dog breed is a good option for your Pug Shih Tzu. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food This dog food is formulated with a limited list of premium carbohydrate and protein sources. It supports a healthy, shiny coat and excellent digestive health. Orijen Adult Dog Food Orijen is a dog food brand that works well for almost every breed type. Its ingredients comprise of a perfect blend of chicken, turkey, fish, and avocado. This dog food is made with high-quality and easy-to-digest ingredients rich antioxidants and vitamins C and E to support a healthy immune system of your senior Shih Tzu Pug mix. Since your lovely mixed pooch is a medium-size one, you could also offer them some of the best large breed dry dog food formulas and see how they like them. But you should never experiment like that with cubs and old doggos — here are the best puppy food brands and the best senior dry dog food recipes, respectively. Shih Tzu Crossed with Pug Exercise Requirements Despite his small size, the Shih Tzu crossed with Pug is a relatively active dog and therefore requires a moderate amount of physical activity. A minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day, which includes either an outdoor walk or an indoor play, would suffice. When staying outdoors during the summer months, make sure your Pug Shih Tzu does not overexert himself too much under the sun since this hybrid is very sensitive to heat. Indoor activities are always welcome on these days. The Shih Tzu Pug mix can live quite happily in small spaces, so they are perfect for small apartment living as long as you make sure they still get their adequate need of short walks and lots of playtimes. They are always willing and enthusiastic to learn new tricks, although there are times that they can be stubborn. Be gentle but firm in training your Pug Shih Tzu pup. This is called the positive reinforcement method which will aid your pup in a long way to behave well and eliminate unwanted behaviors. Puppy socialization is known to effectively reduce having aggressive behaviors, fearfulness, and anxiety later on in their adulthood. This is to keep your Pug mixed with Shih Tzu from getting bored and to further improve its social interactions. The cheerful Pug Tzu brings together the friendly personality of the Pug and the confident character of the Shih Tzu for a sweet-natured family companion. His warm and affectionate disposition makes him a fun companion to children and other animals as well. This cute and lovely hybrid is friendly to everyone even to strangers. The personality from both sides of its parent breeds makes the Pug Tzu have a loving as well as trusting nature. With early socialization and proper training, the Shih Tzu crossed with Pug can go along well with children and can be your loyal family pet companion. Be a responsible owner by feeding them the right amount and type of food, socializing and training them early and giving them sufficient amount of exercises daily. If you were able to accomplish those things rightly, expect a Pug Shih Tzu mix that will shower you with lots of affection and loyalty. Should a Shih Tzu Mix take after their Shih Tzu parent, they will be a small, affectionate, and loving companion dog that loves nothing more than being around their favorite humans. Shih Tzus are affectionate, friendly, and social dogs. They are known to have a cheerful disposition and to get along with children, other pets, and other dogs. They are also known to have a mischievous streak at times. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can likely expect the same from a Shih Tzu Mix. You do still want to ask the breeder about them as they will introduce their own quirks and traits. You can also meet the mother in person to see what temperament she has and what she is modeling for her puppies. 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. Shih Tzus are highly adaptable dogs. Although they are sensitive to heat and cold, they do well in most climates. They also adapt well to almost any living situation, but they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The other parent breed will introduce traits that could affect adaptability, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. If they are also a highly adaptable dog breed, then you can expect a Shih Tzu Mix to be highly adaptable as well. They could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, but they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Shih Tzu side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Shih Tzu Mix include eye issues, hip dysplasia, and luxating patella. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure they are not passing issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests, clearances, or evaluations that have been done. Although the Shih Tzu is an intelligent dog that is eager to please, they can also be stubborn. They tend to be a good fit for dog owners of all experience levels, but puppy training classes are generally recommended for first-time owners. The other parent breed could make a Shih Tzu Mix easier or more difficult to train, so you do want to ask the breeder about them and be prepared to enroll in training classes. A mixed-breed can inherit a coat just like one of their parents or a coat that is truly some combination of both of them. Should a Shih Tzu Mix end up with the Shih Tzu coat, they will need to be brushed every day, bathed every weeks, and groomed professionally every weeks. Nail trims once or twice a month keep them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed helps prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, a Shih Tzu Mix is prone to developing dental disease later in life. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste in addition to cleanings as needed at the vet is ideal. Although Shih Tzus may be energetic while they are playing, they are a low-energy breed. Daily walks and some playtime are enough for this small dog. If the other parent breed is also at a low activity level, then you can expect the same from a Shih Tzu Mix. But, if the other parent breed is a higher energy level, then you will need to prepare for that potential in a Shih Tzu Mix puppy. A Shih Tzu is usually inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. Shih Tzus generally live for years. The other parent may affect this slightly, but you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Shih Tzu Mix. Featured Shih Tzu Mix Article.