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What Is a Black Pug? The black Pug is a purebred dog with black pigmentation. It is not a subtype of the Pug breed but rather one of the color variations. There are only two officially recognized coat colors for the Pug breed, and they are black and fawn. Black Pugs, although not considered rare, are less common than fawn Pugs. Black Pugs look identical to other Pugs except that they have overall black coloration. Their whole body is covered with black fur, although some may exhibit white markings. In terms of personality, black Pugs remain to be the adorable and playful Pug that we all know. They are friendly, and they get along well with children and other pets. Surprisingly, black Pugs have only gained popularity recently. Back then, they were disliked because many thought that their coloration was caused by a genetic anomaly. Are Black Pugs Rare? Black Pugs, although not rare compared to other dog breeds, are less common than other Pug varieties. There are fewer black Pug pups that are born compared to fawn Pug puppies. This does not mean, though, that black Pugs are unobtainable. You can still find black Pug pups for sale from reputable breeders through thorough research and an ample amount of patience. Black Pugs are rarer than fawn Pugs because of lower demand. Pugs with black coloration are often overlooked because of their supposed unhealthy conditions. This, in turn, affects the demand for black Pugs. Since black Pugs are less in demand than fawn Pugs, breeders tend to focus more on breeding fawn Pug pups. Nevertheless, the rarest coloration for the Pug breed is brindle. This coat color, though, is not officially recognized by any major kennel club. In terms of appearance, the black Pug looks identical to other Pug varieties except for the fact that it has a black coat color. A black Pug has a black, short, shiny, dense, double coat. The intensity of its dark coloration can either be jet black or obsidian black. Some have overall black pigmentation, while others may exhibit a few white markings. The black Pug also exhibits one of the defining features of the Pug breed — a round head with a flat face. This feature is common for brachycephalic dogs. It also has a wrinkly face and bulging globular eyes. Its ears are small and folded, while its muzzle is short, blunt, and square. Its legs are strong and straight. It should also have a short and cobby body with a wide chest. As for the tail, a curly appendage is desired. Black Pugs with double curled tails are adorned by Pug enthusiasts. As per the breed standard , the black Pug is a small-sized dog with a height ranging between 10 and 13 inches and a weight ranging between 14 and 18 pounds. It has a lean square body structure. You can expect it to become a fully grown dog after nine months. However, it can still gain a few pounds and centimeters depending on its diet and lifestyle. Canine coat color genetics can be quite puzzling for beginners. Fortunately, there is an easy way to understand the color genetics of black Pugs! Black Pugs and other dogs have two basic pigments in their bodies: black eumelanin and red pheomelanin. These pigments are produced by cells called melanocytes. Through the help of various genes, other colors such as fawn, blue, gray, brown, and coat markings exist. In the case of black Pugs, the K locus or the dominant black gene is responsible for the black pigmentation. Since the black gene is dominant, you only need to breed two black Pugs to produce black Pug puppies. Breeding a fawn Pug with a black Pug will also result in black Pug puppies since the gene for fawn color is recessive. It is normal for black Pug puppies to show changes in their color while they mature. The coat colors of black Pugs can either lighten up or darken as they grow old. This nuanced change in the intensity of their coloration is normal, and this usually occurs when their topcoats start to grow. Most black Pug puppies change color between 6 and 12 months old. However, others may change coat color later up until 18 months old. While coat color change is pretty normal, some color changes may be brought about by extreme sunlight, poor diet, skin disease, or medications. If your black Pug changes color abruptly and out of the blue, consult a vet immediately. There are only two recognized colors for the Pug dog breed: fawn and black. This means that you can register your black Pug in any of the mentioned kennel registries. Black Pugs are not one of the most popular household pets in the United States for no reason. They are adorned and sought after as companion dogs because of their befitting personalities. These dogs are highly affectionate to their owners. Although they are not as jolly as other toy breeds, they do love bonding with their family. Aside from these, black Pugs are also known to be calm and relaxed. In addition, these adorable small dogs are friendly. They get along well with children and other pets. They are also calm and gentle towards strangers, making them unfit to be guard dogs. They are also not loud dogs. You may only hear black Pugs bark on an occasional basis, like when there is a stranger in front of your door. However, black Pugs can also become anxious and stubborn sometimes, especially when they are left alone and bored. This is why early socialization is also important in raising a black Pug. Black Pugs are quite long-lived. They have lifespans that range between 12 and 15 years. Some can even live for more than 25 years with proper maintenance and care. Although they are generally healthy dogs, black Pugs can be predisposed to certain health issues, just like other dog breeds. Here are some of the common health issues for black Pugs: Respiratory Problems: Black Pugs are predisposed to a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS , which is common for dog breeds with short noses or flat faces. Black Pugs with BOAS can develop multiple respiratory abnormalities, which could negatively impact the quality and length of their lives. Eye Problems: The skull structure of black Pugs can also lead to several eye problems. The eye sockets of most brachycephalic dogs are shallow. Hence, their eyeballs bulge out. Some of the common eye problems that black Pugs may develop include proptosis , distichiasis , and progressive retinal atrophy. Hip Dysplasia: This crippling joint-related condition is caused by the abnormal growth of the joints in the hip. Hip dysplasia is highly debilitating. Black Pugs with hip dysplasia may experience excruciating pain and show symptoms such as limping and weakness. Legg-Perthes Disease: This is another common joint-related disease common for toy breeds such as the black Pug. This condition usually affects one of the hind legs. A black Pug with this condition may show limping when it walks. The dog may also put no weight on the affected legs when it moves. However, you should have known by now that black Pugs are moderate to heavy shedders. Hence, brushing and bathing are important parts of their grooming sessions. They shed throughout the year, although they heavily blow their loose hair during the shifts of seasons. Their short, smooth coats only need weekly brushing to remove the loose hair and danders and keep them healthy and clean. Bathing can be done once a month or when needed. In bathing your black Pug, make sure only to use pet-friendly soap and shampoo to avoid irritation. You should also be careful not to let the suds and residue drip on the bulging eyes of your Pug. The wrinkly folds of skin should also be cleaned thoroughly, including the ears, paw pads, and pits where dirt might accumulate. These spots are also the favorite hiding places for ticks and fleas. If you plan to take home a black Pug for a pet, you should also be mindful of the expenses associated with owning one. Here is a breakdown of the initial expenses of owning a black Pug puppy: Type of Expense. Final Thoughts The Ideal Pug Owner Before jumping straight into the different Pug dog colors, let's look at this toy breed in more detail and see if you would be the right fit. As mentioned before, this is such a dainty breed; they're perfect for an apartment. If you know an older person who wants company, they're even better suited! Unlike some dogs, most Pugs only require one hour of exercise daily. This can be achieved through play or a walk. Their playful personality makes them great entertainment for kids, and they are highly affectionate. If you're the type of person who loves to kick back and watch Netflix, then a pug will easily climb into your lap for a cuddle. They do have some comical moments and sleep a lot when they get older, being relatively low maintenance. However, their coat sheds regularly and requires frequent grooming every 6 weeks. So, if you suffer from allergies, especially dog hairs, the Pug breed may not be the best to have in your home. They also state the unrecognized clubs for competitions also. All The Pug Colors Many more Pug colors exist in addition to the ones recognized by the kennel clubs, which are: Black Black pugs have a dark rich coat that is solid in color. They also have a black mask, ears, and nose also. Sometimes there may be small white markings that occur on their chest, but this does not always happen. When a black Pug ages, it may be prone to having gray hairs on its face or body. For a Pug to have a black coat, only one of its parents must carry the black gene. Unlike some genes, black is the most dominant gene and overpowers other colors. However, black Pugs are the second most popular coat type, first is fawn. Fawn Out of all the Pug colors, fawn is the most common. To describe this color, it closely resembles a lightly toasted marshmallow or a milky coffee. A fawn Pug is not always solid; there can be slight variances. Sometimes fawn Pugs can have a stripe of hairs that are black on their tips, running down the back that break away the fawn color. This is because Fawn pugs can have coat color temperatures ranging from light to medium. The major difference between an Apricot Pug and a fawn Pug is the orange in their coats. Often they will have richer orange hues that are deeper than the ones seen in a fawn coat. This color contains a shiny gray sheen on the coat and is also the lightest coat color for a Pug. Many kennel clubs do not recognize the silver fawn Pug, so they may request the Pug to be registered under fawn. White A post shared by Truffle the White Pug trufflethewhitepug In extremely rare situations, you may come across a white Pug. If you do find this, then the Pug is most likely to be an Albino. They will have a light pink nose, paws, lips, and ears alongside their coat. Their coat hair will look in between white and cream. On the contrary, white Pugs may also exist due to a genetic mutation called Leucism, making the melanin in their DNA difficult to form. These colors tend to be black, ranging to grey, and are often seen in other dog breeds like the American Bull Dog, Boxer, and Bull Terrier. Compared to other Pug colors, this coat is not accepted and is often heavily disqualified in the show ring. Like a Panda, they have a smooth black and white coat. This coat color is believed to be created by a Pekingnese and a Pug. However, this coat color is rare, and many breeders will charge extremely high prices for them. Merle A post shared by Rebecca Schmidt happypug. They also have patches of blueish grey and blue in the coat. As opposed to coat color, merle is more like a pattern seen in the coat. Often Merle Pugs are not purebred and are associated with many health problems like hearing impairments, hip dysplasia, skin infections, vision impairments, and risk of skin cancer. Black Pugs Overview Pugs are found in two basic colors, black and fawn, plus silver-fawn and apricot-fawn standard with clubs other than the AKC. Black is a very interesting coat color with the Pug; distinctive markings seen with fawns do not show on black Pugs, however, an all black Pug is extraordinarily beautiful. This article will dive into the details about black Pugs including popularity, variations, possible markings, photo examples, mistaking brindle for black, coat aspects, questions regarding behavior, and origin. Black Pugs in Kennel Club Breed Standards Though there are variances in regard to non-black Pugs with all major kennel clubs, there is agreement across the board regarding black Pugs. How Common Are Black Pugs If you've noticed that there are generally fewer photos of black Pugs than fawn Pugs or that you don't see black Pugs in person very often, this is because there really are fewer of them. To determine more precisely how many black Pugs there are, we presented the question of 'What color is your Pug? This polling suggests that a bit less than one-fourth of Pugs are black or in other words, 1 in 4 Pugs have black coats. Variations with Black Pugs In conformation show rings, all major kennel clubs expect black Pugs to be solid black. And, this is indeed what many black Pugs are, but there are some exceptions. Black Pugs can have small markings, sometimes referred to as a mismark, which can occasionally be seen with Pugs of all colors. If this occurs, it is often a small white or light patch on the chest. Aside from this, there can be larger markings, seen as faults in the show ring, which may include a larger area of white on the chest or a scattering of lighter hairs throughout the coat. This doesn't stop her from being active with her family, Jerry, Shelly and Taylor Koltz in Frisco, Texas Just like humans, dogs can develop gray hairs as they age. It does not happen to all Pugs, but to a majority of them to some extent. While this will not be very noticeable on fawn Pugs, gray hairs on black Pugs stand out quite a bit. In some cases, graying will only be seen around the face, but other seniors can grow gray hairs on any other areas of the body. The appearance of gray hairs with black Pugs may start as early as the 8-year mark, but is most commonly seen with those age 10 and up. Mistaking Brindle for Black Brindle is a pattern of interlocking striping colors and is not an accepted standard color for the Pug with any of the well-known kennel clubs. In fact, many wonder where this color came from or if it can even truly exist in the Pug bloodline. Other breeds were used to develop the Pug which is where the pattern most likely came from; however, since it is not a color called out for in breed standards, most breeders do not aim to produce this and it is only seen sporadically. As you can see with Luna here photo below who is a brindle, there is a lot of black in the coat. Yet, it is woven in with fawn as part of the brindle pattern. While she may have an overall appearance of a dark coat, this should not be confused with a true black coat. This may lead you to wonder why there are more fawn Pugs than black ones. The main reason is that breeders choose more often to produce fawns. If both colors were equally represented within all breeding programs, there would be many more litters of black Pug puppies than there currently are. Each pup's color is determined by a pair of color genes, one comes from the dam, the other from the sire. If both genes in the pair are black, the Pug will be black. If one gene is black and the other is fawn, the pup will be black since it is the dominant gene and overpowers the fawn. If both genes are fawn, the Pug will be fawn. Interestingly, despite their coloring, black Pugs carry the fawn gene, known as SS, though it is a recessive gene. The B gene produces the black coat color. Generally, it is not acceptable to breed a black Pug to a fawn. Crossing colors will not improve the coat or color of either type. Therefore, with no benefit to the pairing, most breeders will focus on one certain color. This said, due to recessive genes, a litter can consist of both fawn coats and black coats. In most cases, there will be more fawns, with a ratio. Size, body structure, ear set, bite set, tail shape , and eyes are all the same for all colors with this breed. While you may see black Pugs that are smaller than fawns, there are just as many that are larger. And while you may spot more fawns with double-curled tails, there are just as many black-coated Pugs with the double curl. Any physical differences that you may see are just a matter of those particular dogs. Non-black Pugs have black ears and a black mask black over the muzzle and around the eyes , and of course technically this is there with black Pugs but is part of the dog's overall coat. The toe nails on Pugs of all colors can be black or white, though black is preferred in conformation events. Differences - The one and only difference between the two colors is that some but not all black Pugs often have a single coat versus the double coat seen with most fawns. The double coat consists of both a soft and dense inner layer and a short, shiny outer layer. Black Pugs that have just the single layer will be missing the inner layer. While you may not notice much of a difference by eye, you can often feel the difference when petting a Pug and this does affect how much a Pug sheds. With double-coats, there will be more shedding since the inner layer rapidly cycles, especially in the fall and spring. There is generally more upkeep needed with grooming tools to remove the dead hairs. Personality Differences There is much debate on whether coat color determines a Pug's personality. Some may say that black Pugs are better behaved, are more relaxed, or are less vocal than fawns. Yet, just as many will say the opposite. The question of personality traits is one of nature versus nurture. Is behavior inbred or does a dog's environment and type of care received shape the personality? It has been our experience that while genetic traits regarding temperament can be passed down, it is how a Pug is raised, trained, and treated that will have the biggest impact on that dog's overall behavior. The Origin and Popularity Spread of Black Pugs Unlike many other breeds whose development was meticulously recorded and those documents are preserved as part of history, the Pug's early development is shrouded in mystery. General consensus is that the Pug originated in China thousands of year ago at least B. Chinese drawings, carvings, and statues depicted dogs that were, most likely, ancient ancestors of the Pug. But, unfortunately, documents covering the very early development of Pugs was essentially erased from history when some time around B. Yet, of course, moving further ahead in time, evidence and record-keeping started up again, including those connected to the appearance of black Pug dogs. Black Pugs are known to exist as early as the 's thanks to William Hogarth's painting of one in House of Cards .The artist was an owner of Pugs and portrayed many in his paintings so there is an exceptional visual record of this breed's appearance from over years ago. House of Cards, a painting by William Hogarth showing a small black Pug [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons Note that this far back in the breed's development, the body was more slender and the face was not as flat. It was in that black Pugs first appeared in England which allowed them to eventually spread to other parts of the world including the United States. It is believed that Lady Annie Brassey, a Victorian author who traveled extensively, is responsible for this introduction. On one of her trips to China, she brought back a pair of black Pug puppies and decided to show them at the Maidstone Dog Show that was held that year. Due to her efforts, black Pugs where shown more and more and started gaining acceptance and popularity. Black Pugs actually became recognized as a separate variation of the Pug in by the Kennel Club in London. Do you have a Pug? This comprehensive care book guides you through every step of your Pug's life. Are you part of the PetPugDog family? Join us by becoming a free PetPugDog Member ; this will allow you to receive newsletters that announce new articles and help you stay up-to-date with care tips and other information. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Can a non-standard colored pug still be registered with a kennel club? For example: the AKC recognizes two pug colors as breed standard, fawn and black. These are the colors required for a pug to be a show dog and compete in the ring. They are the breed standard. However, a non-fawn or black pug can still be AKC registered — they will just not be allowed in the show ring. Silver-fawn, apricot, and even rare and controversial colors like brindle, can be registered with the AKC and listed as an alternate color. So, if you see a non-standard colored pug listed as registered with the AKC, it is entirely possible. You can read it here. The pug breed standard is the blueprint for the breed, and the target for which breeders should aim. The Pug Dog Club of America firmly states that: All reputable breeders of pugs are not interested in the development of any color of pug other than fawn or black. The most common pug colors: Fawn Pug Fawn is the most common pug color. Their muzzle or mask, and ears, should be as black as possible. Black Pug Even though fawn is the most common color of pug, the black gene is dominant. Black pugs have a rich, dark coat, and their muzzle or mask, and ears are black too. Silver-fawn and Silver Pugs Silver-fawn is oftentimes labeled as a type of fawn. They have a shiny gray sheen to their coats and are the lightest color a pug can be. Silver-fawn pugs are pretty rare, and many who have them categorize them as fawns, instead of silver-fawns. Apricot Pugs Apricot pugs have warm undertones of orange in their coats. The hues of orange are richer and deeper in color than the common fawn coloring. They include:.
Poochon vs Shih Poo Comparison If you love small doodle breeds and want to add a fluffy and cute puppy to your family, we have just the right candidates. Meet the Poochon and Shih Poo designer doodles. They are among our favorite doodle puppies here at Premier Pups. The Poochon and Shih Poo dogs are smart, happy, and ready to love you to the moon and back. They enjoy games, cuddles, and attention, and they are more than happy to keep.Welcome to the exciting world of doodle puppies! If you're considering adding a new fur baby family member, you're in for a treat. Doodle puppies are simply amazing. They are friendly, loving, and playful dogs that are perfect for families with children. With so many different types of doodle breeds available, one more adorable than the next it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. But don't worry, we're here to help! They are loyal and devoted, have adoring personalities, and are always ready for a cuddle session. Poochon puppies are joyful little fluffs with bouncy paws and wiggly tails. They are lively and happy pups who love to jump around and they are excellent training students. Sturdy and small, Poochons have an average height between 9 to 15 inches and an average weight between 6 and 17 pounds. This breed is a mix between a Toy Poodle and a Bichon Frise. The Bichpoo originated in the s in Australia and was bred specifically for families that were searching for an active dog that was calm enough to be around children and other pets in the household. With an upbeat, lovable, and friendly personality, the Poochon is a joy to be around. They inherited their warm temperaments and easy-going personality from their parents. They are also very intelligent dogs, many thanks to their Poodle parent. This kid-friendly dog makes a great family pet and even does well with other pets in the home. The Poochon can be found in a variety of stunning colors. The most common are solid tan, apricot, black, grey, and cream but can also be found in different blends and variations of these colors. Making sure to take the time to properly groom the Poochon is very important. Daily coat brushing will prevent matting and knots from occurring. Should his coat begin to form knots, consider applying a small amount of dog anti-tangler spray and gently work the mat out. Bi-weekly baths will also help keep his coat looking its best. Pooches, especially when puppies, are very energetic and need a lot of energy. Feeding him high-quality dog food two times a day is a good way to properly fuel his growing and active body. Many Poochon owners tend to serve their dogs meals every twelve hours. This has shown to be a good balance of nutrition. Proper teeth cleaning for your puppy is also very important for his health and should occur three times every week. Poochons have an average height of nine to twelve inches tall. At maturity, they average weight of this breed is seven to fifteen pounds. The average Poochon has a life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years. Australia breeders bred the Poochon in the s in Australia. Pooches are considered a very intelligent dog capable of easily learning new tricks with ease. Petland is honored to offer the highest quality Poochon puppies who will be an instant in your family. How much exercise do Bichon Poos need? Every dog needs their daily exercise and the Bichon Poo is no exception. You could exercise them for 20 to 40 minutes daily. How often should a Bichon Poo be bathed? You could bathe your dog once or twice a month if you are up for it. They do need enough grooming. How long can Bichon Poos live? The average lifespan of a Bichon Poo is 12 to 15 years. What diseases are Bichon Poos prone to? One of such is the progressive retinal atrophy which is hereditary because the Poodle is susceptible to this. This disease causes progressive blindness in the eyes of the Bichon Poo. Another such disease is the patella luxation which causes dislocation of the dog bones. This could be very painful for the dog. Are Bichon Poos hypoallergenic? Yes, they are. Are Bichon Poos known for barking? The Bichon Poo mostly barks to get the attention of its owner or when there are strangers around. When will the Bichon Poo get to full size? This dog attains its full size when it is about 12 to 18 months old. Are Bichon Poos good dogs? Naturally, these dogs are friendly and affectionate and loyal too. How much food can Bichon Poos eat daily? Well, this naturally depends on the owner. You could choose to feed them 4 to 5 times daily or just twice. Are you interested in purchasing a Bichon Poo? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
For this reason, we included these online Boxer breeders for you to check as well. Thus, you can also check a Boxer breeder here. The great thing is that it has an online marketplace to search for a Boxer puppy from any of the states. Since they cover all kinds of breeds, you may find an available puppy through this website. Another thing to note is that you also need to prepare for other costs. In short, aside from the actual cost of the puppy from a breeder, you still need to spend money on other items. Like a new baby in the family, your pup needs some items and some changes. A new puppy at home is a concern for all the family members. Thus, they need to prepare for it as well. As you have your meeting, try to make a schedule of tasks and distribution of responsibilities. Prepare your home. Preparing a home for your Boxer puppy means making it a safe place to play and live. Thus, you need to secure every item that can potentially harm your pet. Moreover, you need to secure your items that your pet can damage, such as shoes, carpets, floor mats, and so on. Shop for supplies. Like all other puppies and babies, Boxer pups needs items for its daily life. The essential things it needs would be beddings, food, and food bowls. You also need to buy a leash and collar for identification. Create a schedule. Besides your pet, you also have your responsibilities. Try to schedule how your pup should do for the day and when you need to pay attention. The great thing about creating a schedule is that it will benefit both you and your pet. Choosing a Good Boxer Seller and Breeder The best Boxer puppies only come from those who take an extra mile in caring for them. Below are certain qualities that you should look for in a Boxer puppy breeder. The Boxer breeder should only breed Boxer puppies. A single breed should be the first thing to remember when searching for a reputable Boxer breeder. Every breed has a mating season to which they breed. If the Boxer breeder sells quite a lot of pups but only has a pair of parents, you can think that it forces the parents to mate so they can have puppies to sell. The Boxer breeder should train pups in their first weeks. Every reputable Boxer breeder gives all the pups around eight weeks at least to stay with their parents. In such a time, the breeder should train the pups before it moves to its new home. The Boxer breeder would continuously be in touch. Other states. We provide a full range of rescue services including the intake of boxers from shelters or owners, a thorough interview and adoption process and continuous follow-up with our adoptive homes, as well as providing assistance to any boxer home or other rescue that reaches out to us. NJBR, incorporated in November of , is comprised of volunteers with many years of experience in performing rescue work with other established groups. After careful consideration, we have made the decision to become an independent rescue group. We believe the establishment of New Jersey Boxer Rescue will enable us to concentrate our efforts within the state, and to better serve both boxers and owners in New Jersey and neighboring communities. Our volunteers include individuals who have rescue, dog training and behavior experience. Most importantly we are boxer owners who cherish and understand the breed. Adoption Policy Thank you for considering to adopt a rescued boxer. The adoption process is outlined in the steps below. Please note, each step is contingent on the successful completion of the one before it. Read our Adoption Policies than complete an Adoption Application The adoption application may seem long, but please understand each question is designed to assist in placing our beloved rescues in their forever home and to determine if the applicant is the best match for a particular dog. Our only reward is to ensure each dog is placed in their forever home. Telephone Interview A telephone interview will be conducted, in order to review points on the application, answer any questions or discuss a particular dog. If the interview goes well a home visit is then scheduled. Home Visit A NJBR volunteer will conduct a home visit in order to meet the family members, and other pets and to ensure that the home environment is suited for a boxer. Whenever possible a boxer will be brought along for the visit. Approved for Adoption After the home visit is conducted, and of course if all goes well, you will be approved for adoption. At this point we will do our best to match a boxer with your home and in the ideal case coordinate the adoption of the dog you selected on your application. If we do not have the right dog for you and you do find a dog with another rescue group, we will be happy to share our approval information. Follow Up A follow-up schedule is a part of our adoption package. We request that you keep in touch with us on a regular basis and we are always available to answer questions and provide support if needed. We especially love receiving pictures and updates on how your new family member is settling in. Please understand that all the steps are administrated by volunteers many of whom work full time, so your patience is appreciated.
Character: The English Bulldog is affectionate, uncomplicated, gentle, intelligent, sensitive, and fearless. It is known for its loyalty; its happy-go-lucky attitude is in sharp contrast to its sour face. English Bulldogs are active, alert, and playful, but not unduly boisterous. Temperament: English Bulldogs enjoy mixing with other dogs and household pets. They are great with children, well behaved, adaptable, comfortable companions with an affectionate nature and even disposition. Some English Bulldogs are cautious with strangers, but most are friendly to everyone. They are likely to drool or snore. Care: When the English Bulldog is shedding, use a rubber brush to remove dead hairs. A special lotion will occasionally need to be applied to the facial and tail folds to keep them clean; soft tooth brushing with an approved toothpaste is also recommended. The English Bulldog has a lifespan of years. Due to its facial features, it is susceptible to breathing problems and skin infections, and many are delivered via Caesarean section due to their large heads. Most English Bulldogs cannot swim and are averse to hot weather. Training: Consistency is important, but the English Bulldog is highly sensitive to the tone of its handler's voice, making training a fairly simple process. It is inquisitive and quick to learn simple tasks, yet unpredictable as it is a bit stubborn on occasion. Activity: The exercise needs of the English Bulldog are uncomplicated. It will adapt itself to the activity level of your family. Sufficient rest is key to development of healthy bones, muscles, and joints—do not expect your English Bulldog to run long distances or jump down from tall ledges. English Bulldogs are well suited to apartment life. We are pleased to be a top English Bulldog breeder. We can assure you that our breeding department breeds top quality English Bulldogs by adhering strictly to the English Bulldog Standard. WHY US? With over 20 years of experience our kennels are kept immaculately clean and are staffed by dedicated trained full time kennel techs. Each and every bulldog and their puppies are given the best individual love and attention. All of our puppies come fully vaccinated and with a full nose to tail warranty. We offer stud services as well as puppy placement. Though Meaty and Ms. Beefy are probably our most famous dogs , we have placed many other high quality bulldogs. Please, come on in and look around!! Are you really interested in breeding the healthiest litter of puppies possible? If you can answer YES to the above questions then feel free to learn more about our stud services or browse our studs gallery via the links below. Hollywood Bulldogs also provides a Nose to Tail Warranty for the first year, along with accidental death coverage. I was adopted out from Valley Animal Center as a puppy but was returned a few years later when my owners were moving and couldn't keep me. Each year, I turn older and older as I wait for my furever home. I love to play with toys and absolutely adore when people give me attention and love. I'm generally a calm boy who would love to just lay with you on the couch and be smothered in love. Of course, I enjoy a good play time that has me using all my energy! Male dogs it takes me a while to adjust. I do require a meet and greet with other dogs that i will be going home with and come with some skills i learned from my dog trainer. If you have treats and a pool, we'd be best friends! I'm also the pawfect dog to take out on little trips down the lake or anytime you want to explore the outdoors! If you are my furever home, come visit me at Valley Animal Center's dog adoption center. To get a head start on the adoption process, you can also fill out the online pre-adoption application! After you fill it out, a dog care associate will contact you shortly.
Sometime, a German Shepherds puppy has a slights overbite at 8 weeks, when the teeth are not in a tight scissors bite, as they should per breed standard. As the puppy continued developing, this slight overbite usually resolves itself, as puppy gets through teething stage and has their adult teeth. Because overbite is a fault, breeders should never use dogs with any less-than-perfect teeth in breeding. Luckily for us, humans, an orthodontic treatment exists and even those of us with the most un-perfect smiles, still able to reproduce. Dogs in a show world aren't that lucky. We have never seen an under-bite in this breed. While to many pet owners slight overbite might not seem like a serious condition, but a cosmetic defect, it is very important that your puppy's teeth are aligned as close as possible. Severely misaligned teeth can lead to difficulty eating, gum injuries and bruising, bad breath and different types of dental problems, including tooth decay and gingivitis. Fortunately, there are ways to help fix the problem before it becomes irreversible. An overbite is a genetic, hereditary condition where a dog's lower jaw is significantly shorter than its upper jaw. This can also be called an overshot jaw, overjet, parrot mouth, class 2 malocclusion or mandibular brachynathism, but the result is the same — the dog's teeth aren't aligning properly. In time, the teeth can become improperly locked together as the dog bites, creating even more severe crookedness as the jaw cannot grow appropriately. This problem is especially common in breeds with narrow, pointed muzzles, such as collies, shelties, dachshunds, German shepherds, Russian wolfhounds and any crossbred dogs that include these ancestries. Treating an Overbite Dental examinations for puppies are the first step toward minimizing the discomfort and effects of an overbite. Puppies can begin to show signs of an overbite as early as weeks old, and by the time a puppy is 10 months old, its jaw alignment will be permanently set and any overbite treatment will be much more challenging. This is a relatively narrow window to detect and correct overbites, but it is not impossible. Small overbites often correct themselves as the puppy matures, and brushing the dog's teeth regularly to prevent buildup can help keep the overbite from becoming more severe. If the dog is showing signs of an overbite, it is best to avoid any tug-of-war games that can put additional strain and stress on the jaw and could exacerbate the deformation. If an overbite is more severe, dental intervention may be necessary to correct the misalignment. While this is not necessary for cosmetic reasons — a small overbite may look unsightly, but does not affect the dog and invasive corrective procedures would be more stressful than beneficial — in severe cases, a veterinarian may recommend intervention. There are spacers, braces and other orthodontic accessories that can be applied to a dog's teeth to help correct an overbite. Because dogs' mouths grow more quickly than humans, these accessories may only be needed for a few weeks or months, though in extreme cases they may be necessary for up to two years. If the dog is young enough, however, tooth extraction is generally preferred to correct an overbite. Puppies have baby teeth, and if those teeth are misaligned, removing them can loosen the jaw and provide space for it to grow properly and realign itself before the adult teeth come in. Proper extraction will not harm those adult teeth, but the puppy's mouth will be tender after the procedure and because they will have fewer teeth for several weeks or months until their adult teeth have emerged, some dietary changes and softer foods may be necessary. An overbite might be disconcerting for both you and your dog, but with proper care and treatment, it can be minimized or completely corrected and your dog's dental health will be preserved. Basset Hounds Is your basset hound showing symptoms of an overbite? Perhaps he has the condition already, thanks to his long and narrow nose. As a matter of fact, this breed tends to suffer from dental issues of all kinds. It starts with the build-up of tartar before a full-on infection takes over the entire mouth. Whippet Nothing makes a whippet happier than taking off at full speeds or just curling next to you in bed. He can chase any moving thing out of instinct and his desire to flex his muscles. Taking care of him is easy, thanks to his short coat. As long as you provide a warm surface to relax and sleep in, your Fido will be happy. However, when owning one, always be cognizant of the fact that he can suffer an overbite. He is one of the dog breeds with a predisposition. Afghan Hound The Afghan hound is rather rare among the hound family dogs. He is very sweet, sensitive, gentle, and quiet. His temper is even and his disposition gentle. His agile, muscular, and strong body makes him a great hunter. If you are looking for a good hunter and companion, look no further than the Afghan. Sadly, he tends to suffer from dental abnormalities especially overbites. His long muzzle plays a huge part in this. Fortunately, the issue can be done away with medically. Greyhound Greyhounds are low-maintenance and docile but they have challenges of their own. With their signature Roman nose, this breed is at high risk for an overbite. Thankfully, he is not bred for looks but rather for speed. This is why you will find differently-colored dogs on the race. Borzoi Just by looking at the Borzoi, you can easily tell that he is prone to an overbite. He looks like the typical greyhound wrapped in a long, silky coat. We are talking about slender legs, a narrow body, tucked abdomen, and a long narrow muzzle. Because of the shape of the nose, his jaws can easily overlap. As a racing dog, the overbite may not disqualify from participating in dog races. However, it can cause the dog to be a picky eater or worse, lead to mouth injuries. Saluki Skinny and fast as the wind, the Saluki is a real supermodel. This breed is affectionate, easy to groom, and very active. As long as you have a big yard he can run around in, he will be a very happy and content dog. His shape looks like that of a whippet or Greyhound with a long and narrow muzzle. That means one thing: he is predisposed to overbites. An overbite is a medical condition with treatment options. If caught early, the problem can be dealt with. As a matter of fact, some cases self-correct as the puppy grows. Typically, you will see symptoms of alignment anytime from 8 to 12 weeks of age. Although some will go away on their own, it is always a good idea to visit the pet. After 10 months, the overbite is permanent and medical help becomes a challenge. Speaking of medical help, the vet can recommend tooth extraction or use a number of orthodontic accessories to take care of the misalignment. Final Thoughts Overbites in dogs can be troubling. They compromise the look of the dog but most importantly affect his dental health negatively. To make sure your dog lives a rich life, be sure to have the vet examine an overbite as early as possible. Related Posts:. Tweet on Twitter An overbite might not seem like a serious condition for your dog, but severely misaligned teeth can lead to difficulty eating, gum injuries and bruising, bad breath and different types of dental problems, including tooth decay and gingivitis. Fortunately, there are ways to help fix the problem before it becomes irreversible. What Is an Overbite? An overbite is a genetic, hereditary condition where a dog's lower jaw is significantly shorter than its upper jaw. This can also be called an overshot jaw, overjet, parrot mouth, class 2 malocclusion or mandibular brachynathism, but the result is the same — the dog's teeth aren't aligning properly. In time, the teeth can become improperly locked together as the dog bites, creating even more severe crookedness as the jaw cannot grow appropriately. This problem is especially common in breeds with narrow, pointed muzzles, such as collies, shelties, dachshunds, German shepherds, Russian wolfhounds and any crossbred dogs that include these ancestries. Treating an Overbite Dental examinations for puppies are the first step toward minimizing the discomfort and effects of an overbite. Puppies can begin to show signs of an overbite as early as weeks old, and by the time a puppy is 10 months old, its jaw alignment will be permanently set and any overbite treatment will be much more challenging. This is a relatively narrow window to detect and correct overbites, but it is not impossible. Small overbites often correct themselves as the puppy matures, and brushing the dog's teeth regularly to prevent buildup can help keep the overbite from becoming more severe. If the dog is showing signs of an overbite, it is best to avoid any tug-of-war games that can put additional strain and stress on the jaw and could exacerbate the deformation. If an overbite is more severe, dental intervention may be necessary to correct the misalignment. While this is not necessary for cosmetic reasons — a small overbite may look unsightly, but does not affect the dog and invasive corrective procedures would be more stressful than beneficial — in severe cases, a veterinarian may recommend intervention. There are spacers, braces and other orthodontic accessories that can be applied to a dog's teeth to help correct an overbite. Because dogs' mouths grow more quickly than humans, these accessories may only be needed for a few weeks or months, though in extreme cases they may be necessary for up to two years. If the dog is young enough, however, tooth extraction is generally preferred to correct an overbite. Puppies have baby teeth, and if those teeth are misaligned, removing them can loosen the jaw and provide space for it to grow properly and realign itself before the adult teeth come in. Proper extraction will not harm those adult teeth, but the puppy's mouth will be tender after the procedure and because they will have fewer teeth for several weeks or months until their adult teeth have emerged, some dietary changes and softer foods may be necessary. An overbite might be disconcerting for both you and your dog, but with proper care and treatment, it can be minimized or completely corrected and your dog's dental health will be preserved.
Are you worried about the growing prevalence of designer dogs? As a dog parent, you want to be as well-informed as possible about your new family member. With this information, you can be confident that the Labrador puppy is purebred. Visual Assessment The most obvious way to identify a purebred Lab is by looking at its physical characteristics. The American Kennel Club establishes those standards. A black Labrador must be completely black, while a chocolate Lab should be anywhere from light brown to dark chocolate brown. A wider range of colors is allowed for yellow labs, from very pale cream to fox red. Thus they are less likely to be disqualified. Do purebred Labrador retrievers have white markings? Small white spots on the coat are still permitted. Unfortunately, a fully grown Labrador with brindles, color markings, or color panels is ineligible. Male Labs should weigh between 65 and 80 pounds, with female Labs weighing slightly less at 55 to 70 pounds. Their muzzle should be long, wide, and deep with a slightly set-back nose. The top of the muzzle should be straight or gently arched. However, this color does not last into adulthood. The noses of yellow and black Labradors are typically black, whereas those of chocolate Labradors are often brown. Dudley Labradors are the only dogs in the breed to keep their pink noses into old age. It has an oily outer layer to protect the pup from water and cold temperatures and a soft, wooly undercoat that helps to trap body heat. Their dark, pure lustrous black fur coats make them so gorgeous and appealing to all dog lovers. However, not all Labrador retrievers belong to the black variety. Some of the mutts had white patches on their black fur because of a gene disruption that occurred when they were descended from the St. Like a lemon, they can be anywhere from a tan to a bright yellow. Included in this range is a yellowish-brown color called fawn Labrador. This is a deeper yellow but not as dark as a red Labrador. It is common to find cream-colored labs among yellow labrador retrievers. With six distinct labrador colors to choose from, yellow Lab offers the most color variation. Most people enjoy this chocolate-like covering on their fur as they are lustrous and appealing. Nonetheless, there is a wide range of shades of chocolate in labradors. Their hue ranges from light brown to a blend of brown and black lab coats. Although their ear and paw fur are typically white, certain animals may have lighter brown fur in other areas. Red labs are at the dark end of the yellow spectrum, opposite the white labs. In light of this, red fox labs are just yellow labs with darker coats that are mistaken for the reddish kind. In direct sunshine, the silver tone pops out more clearly. Scientists have found that silver labs and chocolate labs share a color spectrum. They may have been born chocolate, but their DNA can subtly overcome all the other colors, producing an incredible silver covering instead. Therefore, silver labradors are distinct from other labrador coats because they have recessive genetics. Natural Instincts Labradors possess certain natural instincts that set them apart from all other breeds. These include retrieving and water-based activities, a strong desire to please their owners, and an affinity for training. They are also known to be very loyal, friendly dogs who enjoy being around humans and other animals. This information can be important for people interested in purchasing a Labrador retriever puppy, as it can help them make an informed decision about which puppy to choose. You can also use the pedigree paper to track the health and temperament of the Labrador breed and identify any potential genetic defects present in the puppy. Therefore, if you are considering purchasing a Labrador puppy, it is important to ask for a copy of the pedigree papers. A DNA test can be done with a simple cheek swab or blood sample and then sent to a laboratory for analysis. This test amplifies the DNA so that it can be easily analyzed. You can usually obtain the results of a PCR test within one to two days. However, this type of test is less commonly used than the PCR test. A DNA test can provide valuable information about a labrador puppy. Buying a Purebred Labrador Puppy Ensure the puppy you acquire is a purebred Labrador and that its papers are in order. It is important to verify that the breeder registered the litter before selling the puppy to new owners. Make sure you meet the mother and that you like her appearance. Do not buy a puppy from the breeder if it has markings that you find offensive. True black Labradors sometimes sport white patches. Finally, make sure to ask the reputable breeder if they have performed any health checks on the puppies. This is an important step in ensuring that the puppy you are buying is healthy and free of any genetic defects. These dogs are born with two copies of a gene that causes them to have a diluted coat color. The result is puppies with grey, silver, or light blue coats instead of the traditional black, yellow, or chocolate colors. Dilute Labradors may also have a lighter eye color than traditional Labradors. While these dogs are still considered purebred, they cannot be registered with the American Kennel Club due to their unique genetics. While the dog may have done nothing wrong, most dogs end up in shelters owing to issues with their owners, such as financial constraints, lack of time, changes in the family dynamic such as a new baby, divorce, relocation, or marriage , or allergies. Read up on breeders who have good reputations and ask for references from owners whose dogs you admire. Ask about their breeding practices, how their puppies are socialized and raised, and whether or not the puppy is registered with an organization such as the AKC. Make sure that the breeder provides you with proof of health checks and that all puppies are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Reach out to previous customers and find out what their experience was like. Finally, remember that a purebred Labrador is one of many types of dogs worth owning. Mixed breeds can be just as wonderful and loving as purebreds and may even be healthier. Take your time when selecting a puppy, and make sure that you find one that is right for you and your family. A: Mixed breeds may not have all the same characteristics as a purebred Labrador, but they can still be just as loving and loyal. Mixed breeds are also often healthier than purebred Labradors due to the lack of inbreeding. Q: What is the best type of Labrador to get? A: The best type of Labrador depends on your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a pet. If you want a show-quality Labrador, then a purebred would be best. However, if you just want a loving and loyal companion, then a mixed breed might be the right choice for you. This is because they have unique genetics that does not match the breed standard. However, they are still considered purebred dogs and can be registered with other organizations. Q: How can I find a reputable breeder? A: Start by searching the internet for reviews and recommendations from other dog owners. Once you have narrowed down your search to a few reputable breeders, ask them for references and reach out to previous customers. Make sure the breeder provides you with proof of health checks and that all puppies are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Q: How do I know if a Labrador puppy is purebred? A: The best way to ensure that a Labrador puppy is purebred is to purchase it from a reputable breeder. Ask for proof of registration, health checks, and breed history. If the breeder cannot provide these documents, then it is best to look elsewhere. Additionally, it would help if you look for physical traits typical of Labradors, such as a broad head and short muzzle. Q: Is it possible to train a Labrador puppy? A: Absolutely! Labradors are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them excellent candidates for training. Start by teaching basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Then move on to more complex behaviors, such as walking on a leash and responding to hand signals. With patience and consistency, you can have a well-trained Labrador in no time! Final Words Selecting a purebred Labrador puppy is a big decision. Make sure to do your research and select a reputable breeder who can provide you with all the necessary paperwork and proof of health checks. You should also remember that purebreds are not the only type of dog worth owning — mixed breeds can also be just as loving and loyal. Finally, once you have a puppy in your home, be sure to provide them with the proper training, socialization, and care that all puppies need to grow up healthy and happy. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed , times. Labrador retrievers are an adorable and popular dog breed that can make a great addition to your household. Aside from a physical examination, you can do a professional DNA test on the dog to check its genetic makeup. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Does the fur appear short, and have a thick texture? The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Did you know? There are silver labs, but silver is not an acceptable color in the breed standard as this color is believed to have come from a cross with the Weimaraner. However, dogs with this coat color may still be registered with certain kennel clubs. If the dog is a yellow or black lab, check that the puppy has brown eyes. In the case of chocolate labs, check for brown or hazel eyes. Check to see how long its legs are; while a Labrador should have longer legs than a Dachshund, its legs should be shorter than a Husky. Purchase a dog genetics test, which will give you a specialized testing kit. Some DNA tests will look for genetic markers, while cheaper tests focus more on the different breeds. Tip: Try to keep the puppy from sharing food or playing rough with the other dogs, as this might hurt the integrity of the saliva sample. Package the saliva sample according to the instructions given by the company. Seal the envelope or package carefully, so the sample is completely secure while it travels to the lab. Generally, you can find the test results listed by breed, followed by a percentage; however, this might differ, depending on the company. If this is possible, use a cotton swab to collect saliva samples from 1 or both parents. Store these samples carefully, so you can send them to a professional company. Seal the envelope or package carefully to secure the sample, and keep it safe in transit. Go to source Seeing a CH or confirmation champion title on the pedigree certificate means that the dog is close to the ideals in the breed standard and is related to a dog that was able to win over other dogs at a show with at least 15 conformation points. Go to source A dog with this lineage can make a great candidate for showing. If your dog has documented parentage with the American Kennel Club, you can search their database and purchase a certificate that affirms this. You can also register your dog through the American Kennel Club once you have proof of their pedigree. Go to source Fees for pedigrees very depending on the type. This is a little bit of a testy area. People believe they have some little gimmick that will help them find the best pup in the litter. That does not mean that there is not some procedure that will help you get a Lab pup. There are some things that you can and should be doing if you are looking for a Labrador puppy. How to Identify a Good Labrador Puppy? These four steps will help you get the healthiest and happiest puppy possible. All you need to know to identify a good Labrador puppy. Everyone wants to get the best dog possible, and, if you ask, you will find that some people have definite opinion about how to identify a good Labrador puppy when you are looking at the litter. This is because there is only so much you can tell from genetics when you look at a group of puppies. Is a Labrador the Right Dog for You Before you worry about choosing the right Labrador puppy, you need to make sure that a Lab is going to fit into your family. There are so many things that go into providing the perfect home for a Labrador Retriever. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and not one that you should take upon yourself or your family lightly. Is your family ready for the challenge? One of the difficult things we have run into in our family is that I am not the only person that takes care of the dog. There are times when my family has to step in and help out with Lady. I have 7 children that love dogs. But, my wife does not. That has not been a little difficult for us. You need to do more than just identify a good Labrador puppy. It is important to make sure that your family is ready for a dog. As my children have gotten older, I have found that they are excellent helpers. A Labrador Retriever can become a serious burden on your relationships if you rush into a purchase. Is your home ready for a good Labrador puppy? Everyone knows that Labrador puppies are adorable. They may be in the top 5 cutest things on the earth. You can cuddle them, and your kids can carry them around or lead them on a leash. That does not last! A Labrador puppy will grow up and get bigger. Some people have suggested that if you live in an apartment there is no way for your to successfully raise a Labrador puppy. I totally disagree. I really think that there are things you can do if you want a Labrador and live in a confined space. There is no reason that you cannot find a good Labrador puppy that will thrive in your small home or apartment. I spent some time thinking about Retriever breeds in confined spaces and put together some ideas that will help you and your dog enjoy small spaces. Potty training a Retriever when you live in an apartment or a small house without a yard can be very difficult and time consuming. You are going to spend a lot of time carrying your dog to a place where she can relieve herself. Just plan on it. You also need to consider the kind of apartment and the people that you live around. Are they going to be as receptive to your Lab? Even if you identify a good Labrador puppy, some people are going to flip out the first time they hear it bark or whine. Also, make sure it is okay with your lease that you have a dog in your apartment or house if you are renting. Even best Lab or Golden Retriever will get you kicked out of a living space if the fine print forbids pets. Obviously, you have considered the fact that a grown Labrador or Golden Retriever will need a lot of exercise. So, before you purchase a good Labrador or Golden puppy, you have already committed yourself to several periods of exercise outside as the pup grows. Finally, finances matter when you identify a good Labrador puppy Finances are not as exorbitant as my wife thought they would be when I brought home my first dog. For the most part, if you identify a good Labrador puppy, you will have a dog that is healthy and only requires regular checkups and vaccinations. The big expense will be the food bill. If you go with the really expensive stuff, it will shoot up from there. Additionally, there are those unexpected costs that can blow a monthly budget. Just before Christmas last year, my 6-year-old Lab, Lady, was hit by a car. It was a horrible night for our family. She was not killed, but we knew that she was hurt really bad. I took her to the hour vet. Then, I had to pay for a follow up visit to a different vet. As a dog owner, you will have to prepare for those kinds of surprises. There are lots of other things to consider before you purchase a puppy. Dogs are a long-term, big-time commitment. Remember, Labradors live to be 10 to 14 years old. When you pick out your Labrador pup, you are making a commitment that lasts almost as long as your children will be in your house. Identify a good Labrador puppy that will fit in with everyone in your family. It will flip your considerations upside down and help you reevaluate where you are on getting a Lab puppy. They cannot see any good reason to purchase a new puppy. I know people that have adopted great dogs. It is easy if you do your homework first and find the right breeding pair of dogs. Once you have found the litter, it does not matter what puppy you pick. There are several tests that supposed-dog experts do before picking a dog. I learned that you consider the feet and the tail. Some people like to hold the dog on her back to see how much she fights back. There are a number of different strategies to try and decipher what dog is going to be the calmest or the best hunter. To be honest, those might tell you the finer points of the dog, but the real issue is the DNA that the dog starts with. So, research the parents of the litter. Ask questions about the parents that will help you get an idea of the gene pool your puppy comes from. You should definitely go see both parents and watch how they behave around new people, in the house, and out in the field. Look at how big they are and ask how much time they spend hunting only if you intend on hunting with your dog. Questions for the Breeder If you find the right breeder, most of the effort in trying to identify a good Labrador puppy is finished. Here are some other questions you should ask a Labrador Breeder if you want to find the best breeder and litter available: Are the sire and dam registered? Will I have full or partial registration can I breed the puppy myself? You may or may not have any desire to breed your dog later on, but I think you should still pay a little extra and get full breeding rights. I did not do this one time and the male ended up being a beautiful dog and an incredible hunter. But I could not do anything even when good, reputable breeders inquired about using him for a litter. You will pay a little more to get this, but it is worth it. Where will the puppies be raised until I get to take him home? How will the puppy be socialized before I bring him home? Socialization is a big deal. Although the mom will provide all the essential needs, your puppy needs to be around people, sights, and sounds. The more socialization your puppy gets before you pick him up, the easier the transition to your house will be. Will the puppy be up-to-date on vaccinations with the dew claws removed before I pick him up? This is a game-breaker. If the breeder does not remove the dew claws and take care of vaccinations, then he is not a breeder that you EVER want to do business with. In addition to the vaccination, a good breeder will also provide you with a schedule for future vaccinations. Do you breed other breeds besides the Labs? I prefer a breeder that sticks to one breed; someone that loves this breed. Sometimes you can find a reputable breeder that runs two breeds, but I would never go with someone that does more than that. How long have you been breeding Labs? How many litters has this female had before? This will give you an idea of how much experience the breeder has. Not to say that a first-timer cannot have good puppies. Everyone has to start somewhere. But, you can feel more confident with a breeder that has been around the block. If the dam has whelped previous litters, you can often find what those dogs look like today. Do you have official certificates of health for hips, elbows, and eyes? This is another must-have. Unfortunately, Labradors are known for having health problems—especially in the elbows, hips, and eyes. A good breeder, that really cares about her dogs, will make sure that her breeding stock does not have health issues that will be passed onto the puppies. How old does the puppy have to be before I can take him home? Most breeders will tell you between 8 and 12 weeks old. Your puppy has to be on dry food, but he also needs time with mom to learn lessons that will help him be successful at your house. Do you offer a health guarantee and a contract affirming that guarantee? Some really well-established breeders actually offer a health guarantee. You need to read the contract to see what exactly it entails, but it is great if you do get a dog that develops hip dysplasia early on in life. Will you give me the contact information for people that have purchased puppies from previous litters? This can give you an idea of the temperament of your dog as he gets older. You will also see potential physical attributes that you may, or may not, like in a dog. Would you be willing to take the dog back if my circumstances change and I cannot keep him? Heaven forbid anything change in your life that requires you to give up your dog, but it happens. Some breeders are willing, for the well-being of the dog to take the dog back and then place it in another home. Every breeder that offers this is a little different in how they do it. What requirements do you have of families and individuals that purchase your puppies? You want a breeder that has a list of expectations for anyone that is going to purchase one of their pups. This tells you that they are not just in this breeding business for the money. Meet the Prospective Parents Just like when you were dating, you learned a lot about your significant other the first time you went home to meet mom and dad. There is a reason why the invitation to come home was such a big deal. The same is true when you are trying to identify a good Labrador puppy. You want to see mom and dad. Seeing them on site will give you an idea of what physical features your puppy will likely develop. Will she have a big, square English Lab head, or is your puppy going to go the way of the slenderer American Labrador? You can see the colors—this is important especially with Yellows where there is a significant amount of variation from Fox Red to basically White. Hopefully, if your breeder has children, you can get an idea of how mom and dad act with children. Also, if you are going to do any hunting or AKC events with your Lab puppy, you should ask to see the parents do some retrieving. I like to ask for videos of the parents working a field if possible. If you are really lucky, and the breeder seems open to the idea, ask if you can follow him around on a training session or even a live hunt. That will give you a really good idea about the potential in this litter to help you identify a good Labrador puppy. After all, when you identify a good Labrador puppy, what you are really looking for is potential. You are now ready to identify a good Labrador puppy to take home. Step 4 is to simply close your eyes and grab one. Okay, that may be a little too simplified. But that is really about how simple it is. Lady and her litter of puppies. When you have great parents it is easy to identify a good Labrador puppy. Ask yourself if you are looking for a male or female. Some people believe that the gender will determine the temperament. I have seen some pretty high-strung females and mellow males. Whether you get a male or a female will depend on what you hope to do with the dog later on. If you are hoping to run AKC events, you will need to keep in mind that females in heat are not allowed to run the events. I have seen some sites suggest that you neuter or spay your puppy as soon as you can unless you are going to breed later on. If you want to see why I am so adamant about keeping your dog male and female intact until later in life, you need to read this article on the best age to neuter a Labrador. Does he seem confident? Is her coat shiny? Are his eyes bright and curious? Is she about the same size, bigger, or smaller than other pups in the litter? As you consider these various factors, keep in mind that every puppy in that litter came from the same gene pool. You have already put the work into finding the best gene pool possible. Once you have done that, then the intelligence and ability of the puppy is already in place. That is why I joke but kinda not that you can just close your eyes and pick one. There are so many things that you cannot predict even with all of the little tests that people try when they look at a puppy. The best Labrador I ever owned was the last pup left in a large litter. At least 8 other people looked at this Labrador puppy and chose a different pup. He ended up being the best dog in the litter. He was smart and obedient. He progressed through our training lessons extremely quickly. And, looking back, the choice was easy because there were no other puppies available. When you are trying to identify a good Labrador puppy, the early steps in the process are the most important. How do you pick a good Labrador puppy from a litter? Other characteristics include a moderately-sized muzzle, medium-sized and well-spaced eyes, and a thick and water-resistant coat. Physical Appearance And Features Breed standards may vary. As per the American kennel club, A labrador retriever should weigh about pounds. They should be .While dilute colors can be AKC registered, they are unacceptable in the show-ring business. Other physical traits include a dense, short coat, otter-like tail , broad skull, and kind eyes. How To Identify pure breed yellow lab 2. Personality And Temperament Labrador Retriever has a gentle personality. They like to cuddle and are loyal to their owners. These dogs love activities like fetch or swimming and are playful. However, temperament can vary depending on the individual dog. Some Labs may be more laid-back and easygoing, while others can be hyper. An aggressive labrador can be tamed with socialization. One common behavioral trait is their strong sense of wanderlust. If given the opportunity, these dogs run off searching for adventure. A secure fence or leash is needed when taking them outside. Overall, labs make wonderful family pets. They have high energy and make good working dogs and sporting dogs. No wonder they are the most popular breed of dogs. Their love for food can sometimes cause obesity. How To Identify pure bred labrador 3. Health Considerations Labrador Retrievers are generally healthy dogs but can still suffer from breed-specific issues. Some examples include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy PRA. DNA testing can detect genetic abnormalities that might not be visible yet. Another crucial health consideration is its nutrition and exercise requirements. Regular exercise helps burn off excess energy, which keeps them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Opt for high-quality dog food brands recommended by veterinarians. Avoid harmful additives or fillers that could harm its overall wellness. Researching The Breeder Reputable breeders are transparent about their breeding process. Ask for referrals from a fellow dog owner or veterinarian. Look out for red flags such as unresponsiveness or reluctance to let you visit their facilities. You can identify reliable breeders via the AKC directory. Conducting A Physical Examination Conducting a physical examination can help you identify potential red flags. It must have a sleek appearance. Eyes: The eyes of a purebred Labrador should be medium-sized. A chocolate or black lab typically has brown eyes, while yellow Labs may have lighter-colored eyes. Ears: The ears of a purebred Labrador should hang down close to the head and have a slightly rounded tip. Its color will depend on the color of its coat. Teeth: Check that all teeth have erupted properly by age. Body structure: Purebred Labradors should have an athletic build with well-proportioned muscles and limbs. They are suited for work in water or outfields. It is thick and tapers toward the tip. Behavior: Observe how the puppy plays and interacts with other puppies or older dogs. Genetic testing can reveal potential health issues like hip dysplasia early on so that preventative measures can be taken. A CH Conformation Champion on the certificate means the dog is close to the breed standards. However, they indicate potential health problems. Despite their unconventional coloring, some Lab variations, such as the Silver Lab and Fox Red Lab, are still considered purebreds. If the potential dogs look smaller than usual, it might point towards some degree of mixed-breed heritage. Labrador retrievers are the least aggressive dogs. Their behavior matches the cuddling kind. If a lab shows aggressive behavior, it may not be pure. An aggressive labrador is due to inadequate training and socialization. A responsible and reputable breeder should be open and transparent. Breeders must be able to answer whether they conduct genetic testing on their breeding dogs. This allows for better management. Ask for referrals from friends who have purchased a purebred Labrador. Ask for references and testimonials from prospective breeders. Ask if they have been screened for genetic disorders. Observe firsthand how the puppies behave and interact with each other. You can also assess whether they look healthy or not. During your visit, note how clean the breeding grounds are and whether or not they have access to food, water, and bedding materials. Breeders committed to producing healthy purebred Labradors always give OFA certification. Ask your breeder if they have conducted specific veterinary checks on the puppy. This includes checking for parasites like worms or fleas and ensuring the new puppy has received vaccinations. It means using both objective information alongside subjective feelings to make informed decisions. DNA tests or pedigree papers are the best ways to identify a pure labrador retriever. A visual evaluation is also beneficial, but you cannot depend on it entirely. How does a pure Labrador look like? If you see labrador retrievers with coat colors other than yellow, black, or chocolate, they are not purebred. A purebred lab can have a small white mark but nothing other than that. Do purebred Labs have white on them? The current breed standards are clear on what labrador retrievers should look like. However, some labs may not meet the breed standard. A mismark occasionally appears, indicating they are not purebred. A small white spot is acceptable, though. What is the difference between pure Labrador and Labrador? A purebred labrador adheres to the standard breed characteristics in terms of height, weight, coat color, temperament, etc. They may exhibit the same behavior with slight variations. How should a Lab puppy look? A lab puppy must have a strong build, broad skull, high energy, deep chest, etc. Their broad skull usually has a defined stop. They have powerful jaws of medium length. Their cheeks are not fleshy. What color eyes does a purebred Labrador have? Labrador eye colors should be brown yellow and black labs. Chocolate labs can have brown or hazel eyes. Some labrador retrievers can have green or greenish-yellow eyes. Silver labrador retrievers have gray eyes. Research is essential before purchasing a puppy from a litter. Enquire about their appetite, elimination, etc. Consider their health and pet parents before making a decision. About The Author Sarah Sheikh Labradors have an extraordinary capacity for love and companionship, and my mission is to help you unlock their full potential. Hi there! I'm Sarah, a proud contributor to Labradorandyou, the go-to online resource for all Labrador Retriever enthusiasts. As a lifelong owner and avid admirer of these remarkable dogs, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to our readers. One of my strongest beliefs is in the power of positive reinforcement training. I'm truly passionate about helping our readers build strong, positive relationships with their Labradors. Whether you're a first-time owner or a seasoned Labrador enthusiast, I aim to provide you with the resources and guidance to cultivate a bond that will endure a lifetime. Purebred dogs can be identified in three possible ways: Can you tell by looking? Purebred dog characteristics are not a certainty when it comes to identification. I have a steady stream of people coming to my forum, posting questions in the comments boxes at the foot of my articles, and writing emails to ask: is my dog purebred? The question is very often accompanied by photographs, or detailed descriptions of the characteristics of the dog. A visual assessment is what most of my readers are hoping I will give them when they send me photographs. So what exactly is a visual assessment of a purebred Labrador? Purebred Dog Characteristics A visual assessment of pedigree involves looking at a dog and comparing his appearance with the breed standard. This involves a detailed knowledge of the breed standard. Purebred Lab Breed Standard Breed standards vary slightly from one country to the next. So, here, we will just be focusing on the AKC breed standard. This standard says that a purebred Labrador Retriever should weigh between 55 and 80 pounds, growing to between .The three recognized colors are yellow, black, and chocolate. But, yellow is accepted in a variety of shades. Dilute colors and mismarks can be AKC registered but are disqualified from the show ring. I want to give you a couple of examples to illustrate the problems involved with this approach. She has a thin, whippy tail with an upwards curve, overlong ears and a long narrow face. These features, combined with her ginger coat mean that very few people recognize her as a Labrador at all. I have been asked if she is a Vizsla cross, a Lab x Greyhound, and other unlikely combinations. In fact this purebred Labrador Retriever has an impeccable pedigree full of noble ancestors with famous names. But if someone made a visual assessment from a photo of her, unless they were familiar with working line Labs, they might well put her down as a crossbreed. The father is a show line lab, and his looks have dominated in this particular dog. A visual assessment would wrongly put him in the purebred category when he is actually no such thing. Mixed breeds like this can inherit any blend of traits from their parents. Are Visual Assessments Any Good? I hope you can see from these examples how worthless visual assessments usually are. While I can point out that your dog may have faults that will eliminate him from the show ring, I cannot possibly tell you whether or not he is purebred by looking at him. Purebred Dog Colors Can you tell if you have a purebred black Lab or a purebred chocolate Lab from their color alone? Unfortunately the answer here is no. So, a mixed breed could easily have a solid coat in one of these colors. Do purebred Labs have white on them? The current Labrador breed standard is very clear on what a purebred Labrador should look like. But not all Labradors meet that standard. But equally a mismark can occur in purebred Labrador Retriever puppies too. Common Lab Mismarkings Big white chest patches are fairly common in mismarked Labs. It is even possible to get a purebred Labrador with tan points like a rottweiler or patches of brindle fur. These types of puppies are genetic accidents and the puppies are usually sold as pets to owners who appreciate their unusual friend. Purebred Dog Pedigree Papers If you buy a purebred dog, the breeder should give you the registration document with the names of both parents. Most breeders will also give you a copy of the pedigree which lists the ancestors of those parents, together with any titles they may have, back through five generations. Pedigree Papers Have Limitations If you have the correct pedigree papers, then your puppy is probably a purebred dog. I say probably because there is room for dishonesty with this system. It is possible for a dishonest stud dog owner to mate his female dog to one stud dog and register the puppies to another. Which brings us to our final method, DNA identification. There are various laboratories offering this service. The laboratory will examine the sample you send in. This greatly reduces the chances of your dog being cross bred. Ask to see the registration documents! Do not accept any excuses, your breeder must have registered the litter in order for you to be able to register your puppy. Meet the mother and make sure that you like the way she looks. There is always another litter. Let someone else who loves unusual markings buy that puppy. It is possible to find a purebred black Lab with white markings, or a purebred chocolate Lab with brindling. After Buying Your Purebred Puppy Once you have purchased your puppy try not to worry about whether or not he is purebred. Remember that many purebred dogs have mismarks or poor conformation, so if you have pedigree papers for him, he is probably purebred no matter what he looks like. Try to ignore any other people that criticize your purebred dog, or try to convince you he is not a purebred. After all, the most important thing is that your dog is happy, healthy, and a great addition to your family. Even in modern days, the Labrador boasts the thick, sometimes wiry coat that helped its ancestors to stay warm when fowling in the freezing Canadian sea. Due to this selective breeding, the Labrador breed still retains many of the characteristics that made the dog a valuable asset: vigor, strength and powerful love for retrieval. Labradors come in three main variants: chocolate, yellow and black. Though there are many differing opinions on the defining characteristics and traits of each type of Labrador, generally the chocolate lab is seen as a bit of a lush with an affinity for the show ring. The yellow lab is famously the first choice as a guide dog for the blind, and the black lab frequents television and movies as an astute hunter and birding dog. There are many things to consider prior to making the leap into Labrador ownership, however; as with any new pet, the responsibilities associated with owning a vivacious dog like a lab cannot be understated. Labrador retrievers are excellent companions for many living situations, including both single owners and large families with children. However, it should always be a decision that involves every member of the family; agreeing to adopt a Labrador is no small undertaking. These dogs are intelligent, high-energy and can be therefore difficult to train. Is the entire family on board with the challenges that come with a puppy? The issue of any other family pets that will be affected should also be given as much importance as kids. Therefore proper socialization is absolutely necessary when bringing a new dog home, and should be researched and undertaken properly to avoid any unneeded bumps along the road. If there is a suspicion that there may be undue prey-seeking behavior or that another pet may be endangered, the correct actions must be taken to prevent this, even if it means re-homing a pet or reconsidering your new puppy. Puppies are well known for their boundless energy and playful spirits, but Labradors are another thing altogether. Through many years of selective breeding, the Labrador has become well known as one of the most energetic dog breeds available, and the puppies are no different. One of the most important things to consider when adding a canine member to the family, regardless of its breed, is the space available for a young dog to roam and exercise. Labradors are generally considered a bad fit for apartments due to their energy levels and occasional fondness for chewing when bored, however, even if your family does not have a few acres for your new family member to run, as long as your puppy will receive exercise in some form or another any situation can accommodate a Labrador. Another important characteristic of the Labrador to take note of is their sense of wanderlust; they are known to be trusting of strangers and curious of new smells, and therefore wandering off can be a real danger. Fences are an excellent way to discourage this type of behavior, although in absence of this a watchful owner, adequate training and a long leash can suffice to prevent escape. Any new pet can be expensive, but Labradors can be prone to many extra expenses that should be taken into consideration before taking the plunge on a purchase. Apart from the normal costs of new dog ownership, including microchipping, vaccinations, collars, leashes, food and boarding where necessary, Labradors also demand an extra level of expenditure to make sure they live long, healthy and happy lives. Veterinary bills can also be steep, venturing into the thousands sometimes for various ailments. It is important to ask the breeder from which you plan to purchase your new Labrador retriever what sorts of medical issues have arisen previously in that particular line, what can be done to prevent their exacerbation, and how best to identify the symptoms to best head the conditions off. Finding a Reliable Breeder Will Save You on Medicines, Food, and Training Finding a reputable breeder with experience in the Labrador retriever breed will make the transition from the dam to home much easier and more comfortable for both dog and owner. Gleaning information from the breeder can help to lessen the cost for things like training and veterinary treatments down the line. A breeder should always be the front line defense for any preventable or hereditary issue. They can also be an invaluable resource on the subjects of food and training; most breeders have experience in both providing adequate nutrition for their dogs to maintain health and longevity and also how to properly train based on requirements and characteristics unique to the breed. Taking tips and suggestions from a breeder can save time and money on professional training programs and less healthy commercially available food. Questions to Ask Your Shortlisted Breeder The most difficult task involved in choosing where your Labrador will come from is selecting a breeder. There are scores of breeders who are active in most countries in North America and elsewhere, and a quick web search or a visit to a breed-specific website is a great place to begin. As with any business, all breeders are not created equal; therefore it is important to take some time and investigate each one before choosing the best fit. Some breeders do not recognize hygienic or safe environments for their litters, and many will falsify information in order to prey on the uninformed or inexperienced. Often a visit to the facility or home of the breeder is a good way to differentiate between the predatory or dishonest breeders from those who are honest, forthcoming and diligent regarding the health and quality of their lines. Once a breeder is chosen, there are several questions that can be asked to ensure that you go home with a puppy who is healthy, happy and bound for success: Will the parents get registered? What rights will I own on the puppy? If a breeder is reputable and breeding Labradors for confirmation or agility as well as pets, most, if not all, the dogs that the breeder owns, including dams and sires, will be registered with the AKC or one of its constituent. This provides information on specific bloodlines and guarantees that your new dog is indeed a purebred Labrador. The paperwork on such animals should be readily available for inspection and verification prior to purchasing a pup. Many breeders will try to retain breeding rights or a certain number of litters, or demand that you refrain from spaying or neutering if your Labrador will be a pet only. If this is a source of discomfort, the best time to say so is prior to purchasing when arrangements can still be made. What kind of socialization and environment puppy get during his breeding time? Labradors are social animals, and their socialization should start young; much like human children, their earliest environmental and social exposure will go a long way toward determining what kind of dog he or she will grow into someday soon. Another good indicator is the behavior of the adult dogs in the facility. Are they skittish or nippy? Do they seem frightened of interaction both from dogs and humans alike? When in doubt, always trust your instinct! Can you get the vaccinations chart which shall be given to the puppy? Puppies get their first vaccinations around the age of four to six weeks and will receive frequent boosters and shots until they leave their mothers at the age of twelve to fourteen weeks. Therefore in most cases, when a puppy is purchased from a breeder, many of the necessary shots have already been administered. However, it is important to note any continuing needs for further vaccinations and booster until your dog is old enough to go a year or two between necessary shots. A reputable breeder will provide you with a chart or a list of the prior vaccines, what type of prevention and when the next ones are needed in an easy to read format. Keeping your dog healthy does not end in adulthood, but it certainly begins before then. If no vaccinations have been administered or notated, this can be a red flag. Distemper, parvo, and rabies are deadly to Labradors and easily contracted, though very preventable. What all other breeds are handled by the breeder? Not all professional breeders specialize in a single breed of dog. Many experienced breeders will have experience in many different types, which seems to be a natural result of gaining experience in the field and branching out. If the number of breeds currently being kept in a single facility is too high, or if there are too many different types of dogs, this can bode ill. What is the experience of the breeder in breeding Labs? Any major cases or complaints? While many breeders have been at the game for long enough to be able to differentiate between the traits of a good dog and one who will run into issues later in life, some breeders are still wetting their feet in the art of breeding dogs. Labradors in particular, due to their popularity, seem to be an easy target in the creation of puppy mills, or facilities who breed dogs only for the financial gain that it entails. Moreover, careless breeding between two-parent dogs with serious health issues can perpetuate those problems into later generations, causing a much bigger issue with dogs who continue to fall ill to the same problems. The AKC can be a valuable resource in the selection process, due to its exquisite record-taking track record and capacity for suggestions and comments. Will you provide the initial instructions on how to handle the puppy and his pet supplies for the initial days? When purchasing a Labrador puppy, the prospect can seem overwhelming. There are so many specifics and rules to owning a young dog, including which supplies you will need, how initial training will go and what to expect from your new family member in the first few days. Tips for keeping your new Labrador puppy happy and comfortable while adjusting to his or her new digs is key to starting a new life together as smoothly as possible. Ask for testimonials and references for getting feedback from previous buyers? When we want to try out a new restaurant, where do we go first? Yelp, of course, or a similar place where we can see firsthand experiences and reviews. Again, a breeder is a business owner, so this should be a no-brainer for them; the better the service, product and plan of care, the happier his or her customers will be, making them not only likely to purchase again but also to rave about the quality of the services they received. Many breeders keep details on every puppy sold, so this should not be an issue unless the breeder has a great deal of negative feedback to hide. Is there any refund in case of fraud or insurance of any kind for the purchase? The puppy may not get along with the family cat, perhaps, or maybe a startling health problem manifests itself, such as seizures or signs of distemper. This also gives the buyer some peace of mind if there is suspicion of fraud occurring during the transaction, such as a promise of delivering the puppy personally once the payment is rendered, or raising the price abruptly. Documentation with witnesses can help alleviate the concerns of both parties and keep the transaction simple and to the point, therefore beneficial for everyone, including the puppy. Any special processing or agreement for the new owners who adopt the puppy? Again, many breeders will sell their puppies with a litany of stipulations circling around which benefits and rights cease and which persist after the puppy is purchased and taken away from the facility. Many times this has to do with breeding rights, be it a litter with the first pick of a puppy or a siring of their choosing later on. Documenting these quid pro quos is very much advisable even if the agreements seem fairly simple and straightforward, and witnesses to such an agreement can also help to keep everyone honest. Sometimes the temperament and physical skills are also passed down to the progeny. This is especially important if there are plans to use your Labrador in confirmation or agility, as both these sports require a great deal of talent; most of this talent will come from hard work and training, but not all of it. If the personalities or temperament of either parent strikes you as unbecoming, it may be a good idea to walk away and find another breeder. There are many criteria to remember when choosing your new friend; would you like a black lab? A yellow lab? Perhaps a chocolate lab? Are you looking for a companion or a sporting dog? Would a high-energy animal fit better into your household than a calm one? The best way to see if the fit is right is to bring the family to the ceremony of choosing your Labrador. Meeting each individual puppy can be useful in gauging how their personality seems to be, but just as important is observing how the pup behaves among his or her siblings. Does he or she seem like the most dominant personality there, jumping on the other puppies and causing a ruckus? Or is he or she more reserved, sticking to the outskirts of the commotion and seeming much more interested in the humans? An affinity for cuddles, or a more aloof puppy? There are many options to consider, but in more situations than not, your puppy will choose you. As dog parents, you may have personal reasons for preferring purebred Labs and you want to know as much as you can about your furry family member. In this article, we tell you all you need to know to determine if a Labrador is purebred. The Embark dog DNA kit helps ascertain everything about your pet, so you can provide them with the right mix of nutrition, environment and lifestyle, and help them live a long and healthy life. We can see traits of the different breeds in our pup. It is a wonderful tool to learn about the puppy, what to expect from a breed and how to train. Knowing what our dog is, is a great tool!!! Sarah H Collecting the dog spit was easier than I expected and the results came back pretty soon. Mikayla P Great customer service! I got the results within 17 days. We were kept updated every step of the way. I got a lot more than what I paid for. Buy Now Visual Assessment Firstly, specific visual standards must be met for a dog to be considered a purebred Labrador retriever. The American Kennel Club sets these criteria. Black Labs have to be entirely black, while chocolate Labradors should fall within the range from light to pure dark brown. Yellow Labs have more flexibility because light cream to fox red is still acceptable hues and will not disqualify them. Do purebred Labs have white markings? White markings on the coat are still acceptable, but they should be small. Unfortunately, brindles, color markings, or color panels are causes for disqualification, especially if the Lab is already fully grown. Coat Your Labrador should have a slightly dense, short, and straight waterproof coat to be considered purebred. The exterior coat should be a bit stiff when you touch it, whereas the undercoat should be soft. Silky and wooly undercoats are not acceptable. Weight Range Considered as medium-sized dogs, standard purebred Labrador retrievers are naturally athletic, weighing between 55 to 70 pounds with a height of .Any measurement beyond these dimensions is outside the set standards of the AKC. Tail Structure The traditional tail of a purebred Labrador retriever is thick, and it tapers towards the end. Unlike the other retriever breeds, Labs have minimal to no feathering on their tails. Yellow and black Labradors usually have black noses while chocolate Labradors have brown noses. The only exceptions are Dudley Labradors who retain their pink noses throughout their life. Natural Instincts The Labrador retriever was originally bred to look for waterfowl for hunters. This breed has a powerful instinct to retrieve, run through overgrown terrain, and swim in the water. They also have impressive athletic and physical skills, making them excellent working dogs. Also Read: Types of Labradors Conformation Standards Labrador retrievers have a trademark broad head, naturally floppy ears, and expressive eyes. They have a strong build with a well-balanced conformation that makes them one of the best retrieving gun dogs. One of their most distinctive features is their webbed feet. The skin between their toes, together with their ottered tails, helps them when swimming. Do you want to know how long do purebred Labs live? They have a relatively long lifespan, at an average of 12 years. This is why most owners and breeders opt for a second and even third method for accuracy and documentation. Pedigree Papers Secondly, another way to identify if your Lab is purebred or not is through its pedigree document. Your reputable, AKC-registered breeder should hand this certificate to you on the day you bring your puppy home. There are many dishonest breeders out there, and a certificate is not enough to ensure that your Lab is purebred. DNA Test Lastly, given the reality that even pedigree certifications are not foolproof, there is a final method for identifying a purebred Labrador: DNA testing. You can have your Lab undergo a DNA test through local laboratories offering this service. Also, there are test kits that you can purchase online. DNA testing is the most accurate way to determine if your Labrador is purebred. You can get a sample from your dog in two ways. One is a simple swab on the cheek, and the other is through blood collection. The results will show how closely the parents and ancestors correlate to the set standards of the breed. Labradors are friendly, intelligent, gentle, and even-tempered.
No Puppy Mills. What We Do Our desire is to create a place where people connect with their new in-home raised puppy, in-home breeders can show off their healthy and thriving puppies for adoption, and dog families can locate reliable services to care for their dogs. Homemade Puppies is your one-stop shop for puppies for adoption that have been home-raised and are ready to find their forever home. We feature a range of puppy listings from comprehensively screened and interviewed breeders in order to provide you with the ultimate source of happy, healthy dogs that your family will love for a lifetime. Not all of our furry friends come from the Lancaster region, but you be confident that every single puppy—and their moms, too! We also offer dog breeding services with our stud, Watson, our ACA registered family miniature poodle who has successfully sired many litters for our clients. There are still too many puppy mills, and the big players care more about their bottom line than happy, healthy puppies. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive listing service for puppies for adoption that offers peace of mind that your new family member is happy and thriving. Our dog breeding services are provided for people who will raise the puppies in their home, and we never work with puppy mills. With us, you know that your puppy from Lancaster, PA is always coming from a happy, clean home. Browse our listings today to find your new pet or contact us about our breeding and puppy listing services using our web form. If you are looking for a healthy, happy, home-raised puppy from Lancaster, PA, then welcome to the Homemade family. Come today or delivery additional xxxxxxxxxx View Detail Beautiful Fox Red Labs Adorable puppies that are family raised and loves to play with children. They are up to date with shots and dewormer. They also are vet check and come with a 30 day health guarantee. They can be registered. Call today to take yours home with you. We have them all dewormed, vaccinated, and a health certificate from our vet. Let us know when you would like to pick one. Buy Now Puppies for sale! Here is more about the pups. Maggie is a silver lab and our family pet and the male is from Nolts Silver Paws. They have a Facebook page you can check out Dad - Moose. The puppies will be 8 weeks on June 25 so they able to go to their new homes anytime during that week! We have 1 silver and 1 champagne female and 2 champagne males available. We have them scheduled to be vet checked on June 23 where they will have their first round of shots and full work up. They are ACA registerable. Please let me know if you have any questions! Buy Now Lovely and friendly Lovely and friendly 6 weeks old Labrador retriever puppies for sale call Lydia xxx xxx xxx5 View Detail Loving n friendly They are 6 weeks old loving and friendly they are so cute call xxx xxx xxx5 if interested View Detail Loving and friendly Shes 5 yrs old she had 2 litters of puppies loves children and also loves attention is not house trained come get her View Detail ACA Registered Labs ACA registered with 3 generation pedigree certificate, current on vaccines. Beautiful coloring the parents are yellow and red labs, our family pets. Born and raised in our family home. Worked with daily. Very well socialized. They love children and other animals. Born August 30th. He was born Jan. He loves being around people and other dogs. He also loves the outdoors. He was ready to go to his new home, but the buyer did not check out. He has been born and raised in our home. He is well socialized and has his first round of shots. She is very loving and just wants to be with people. View Detail silver labs We have 2 male silver lab puppies still for sale. Akc register-able. Up to date on shots and de-worming. View Detail Cute puppies ready for there forever home They where born they are deform im asking I have 3 boys and 2 girls they are black lab yellow lab German shepherd and American Stanford terrier mixed contact me at xxxxxxxxxx View Detail 13 week old male I have a male 13 week old Labrador retriever he is sweet and lovable and very rambunctious we are still working on potty training he finally is used to going up and down the stairs to go outside he would make a great family pet He is used to children and other pets View Detail Labrador Retriever Puppies Registered We are looking for wonderful loving families for these amazing loving puppies. These puppies have been loved since day and they have lots of attention and cuddles throughout the day! They come vet checks, first shots , and are dewormed and de-flead. They are currently 6 weeks old , and will be ready for new homes after November 4, .Zip .View Detail Loving lab Loving 18 month old lab thats needs a good home. Just di not have time for him sue to my job. Needs caring person that has the time to spend with him. This is a hard decision for me but it is whats best for him. I am in the Lancaster, Pa. Contact xxx-xxx-xxxx. There is a re homing fee. Mom and dad live in house with us and sleep on our bed. These little guys have been loved since day 1. We give them daily attention. They will come vet checked with papers , up to date dewormed and first shots. Pleas reach out if you are looking for a sweet fur baby to join your family! They are currently 4 weeks old , and will be ready for new homes around may 5. The puppies have been vet checked, dewormed, and up to date with Vaccines. The puppies run and play with our children and are not familiar with being kept in a kennel View Detail 30 Week old Black lab Black Lab for prices message me! In Lancaster PA For more pictures let me know. Charlie is super playful and loving! I have to sell him because my son is starting school and i am working so we can have him! We are asking for we bought him for if interested please let me know! The mother is my personal pet and the father is a first generation champion, so they have a great bloodline. There are 4 females and 1 male remaining. The puppies have been very well socialized and love playing with people, if you are interested please contact me! My number is xxx-xxx-xxxx and my email is xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Life Span Did You Know? There is a reason that year after year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the United States. The history of the Labrador Retriever dates back to the early s in Newfoundland, just off the Atlantic coast of Canada. Had these families not played a vital part in the continuation of the breed, the loving and affectionate Labs we have all grown to love may not exist today. The first recognized Yellow Labrador Retriever was born in .One of the friendliest breeds out there, Yellow Labs are great companions and love to be a part of the family. While the color yellow is part of their namesake, their coats range from fawn or cream to butterscotch or a deep golden hue. Coming into popularity during the midth century, the Yellow Labrador Retriever has been a staple for hunters and family homes alike ever since. These dogs are patient and kind when faced with energetic young ones. Yellow Labs delight in big spaces, opting to run and play wildly. However, they will happily lounge on the couch after having a long, hard run outside. When given a little training, they can easily learn to control barking habits and restrain themselves from digging. Their double coat also makes them a good fit for just about any climate. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Generally speaking, Labradors are healthy. They can develop certain inherent conditions, along with cataracts and kneecap displacement, but will remain healthy overall. As long as they are taken to their vet appointments with regularity, Labs will usually feel just fine. Yellow Labs are loyal companions with few drawbacks. Treats never hurt, of course. This, paired with their eagerness to please, makes them a highly trainable dog breed that is a good fit for owners of any experience level. With minimal training, these dogs can control their barking and digging without much trouble. Labs have very short, double-layered, and water-resistant fur. Its density protects them from the cold, so they will often try to swim any time of year. They experience heavier seasonal shedding twice a year and slight shedding throughout the year. Giving them a good brush once a week or a few times a week should keep their coats shiny and healthy. Other grooming tasks include nail trimming, ear care, and dental care. Proper dental care for dogs includes brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day. This helps prevent the tartar buildup that causes dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with dental hygiene chews, a special dental care diet, and more. This breed tends to be very active. They were bred to be working dogs and need exercise. A few daily walks and some time to run should help assuage their energy levels. Yellow Labs also need a fair amount of mental activity as well; they like to stay sharp. Yellow Labs are classified as medium to large dogs. They reach an average height of 23 inches and an average healthy weight of 75 pounds. A Yellow Labrador Retriever generally lives years. It was traditional in Newfoundland for every fishing boat to have a Labrador Retriever that would help retrieve the fish as they came in off the trawl. Featured Yellow Labrador Retriever Article.
You can expect moderate shedding from this crossbreed. Be prepared to use a vacuum cleaner often. Most German Sheppits will come in a variety of colors like tan, black, white, fawn, and gray. Some have beautiful multi-colored coats like the GSD, while others inherit the brindle coats of their Pittie parents. Because of its moderate shedding, the German Pit is not the ideal dog for people who suffer from allergies to dander. Is a Shepherd-Pitbull mix dangerous? As we mentioned before, this breed is often negatively associated with being aggressive. A Shepherd Pit Bull mix is a loyal, intelligent, protective, and bold dog that likes spending time with his family. This canine has a calm and loving personality toward its owner, but it can be an attention-grabber, too. She loves nothing more than to run, play Frisbee, and roll around all day. Just make sure that your German Pitbull mix puppy is introduced correctly to small kids. Proper socialization and training are crucial because these dogs tend to chase down smaller animals. They may also have a dominant personality and may try to be the alpha to other dogs. Being raised with other pets will help this crossbreed co-exist with them. With early training and socialization, this naturally friendly and affectionate dog is an excellent choice for a family pet and the perfect companion for children. How much activity does this crossbreed need? A Pitbull German Shepherd hybrid has a strong and robust physique and he requires plenty of physical activity. You can take your dog on a one-hour jog or run in the morning and a minute walk in the evening to keep him in the excellent physical condition and as release excess energy. Without a proper exercise regimen, he may exhibit unruly and destructive behaviors like excessive barking, hole-digging, or chewing on slippers. Remember to keep it slow with a German Pit puppy because his legs are shorter. After that age, you can increase your speed as long as he can keep up. He can also have some playtime, like romping in the dog park. Or maybe play some fetch and let him catch a frisbee so his brain gets a workout, too. These crossbreeds require a high level of physical and mental activity to be in their best form. How to train Pitbull German Shepherd mix puppies The unfortunate truth is that this hybrid is not easy to train and is not suited for first-time dog owners. You need to be a firm and confident alpha , or he will try to control you. Be patient and try not to give in. Socializing him at an early age helps him interact better with other animals and encourages a better sense of adaptability in the dog. Socialization also fixes anxious and timid behavior and will help your pet get along with your family members. This breed may be intelligent, but he has a certain level of stubbornness when it comes to training. This hybrid tends to bark quite frequently, too, so you may want to include a routine that will help you control excessive barking. Try including crate training and leash training in your sessions. Starting it young is the best way to train a German Sheppit. The best age to start would be at seven weeks old. An adult dog can still receive training, although it will be more difficult. These are the most common health concerns to watch out for in your German Sheppit:. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Video Temperament They have a calm nature and somewhat affectionate nature that can be enhanced with proper training. The German Pit is loyal to its family, enjoying spending time with them. Though they may not need your attention always, contented enough to spent some time on their own, leaving them alone for prolonged periods might make them destructive. Since they take on the genes of the German Shepherd and Pitbull, the Pit-German Shepherd mix may inherit their guarding instincts to a certain extent, being protective towards its family and exhibiting wariness towards strangers. It could even be territorial with other dogs and get into a chasing mode on encountering smaller pets. While allowing them to interact with children ensure there is proper parental supervision and the dog has been well socialized. Care Exercise It has a high exercise need, requiring two brisk walks a day, along with sufficient playtime. Keeping its excessive energy levels in mind it is not recommended to keep it in an apartment or enclosed space as it might get restless. Remember to leash it while taking it out. Grooming Though it does not need excessive grooming, brushing your Shepherd Pit with a brush having hard bristles on a weekly basis would be sufficient enough. It might resent grooming in the beginning, so you need to handle it gently and use positive reinforcements if needed, to help it get accustomed. Bathe it when it gets dirty and also check its ears and eyes once a week to keep any infections at bay. Brushing its teeth and trimming its nails are also essential. Health Problems Though healthy, the German Pit might inherit some of the conditions suffered by its parents like bloating, hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, hypothyroidism and heart problems. Training Training the German Shepherd mixed with Pitbull since its puppy days is mandatory, though an experienced master is preferred over a novice trainer. Socialization: Having the genes of German Shepherd and Pitbull, it might exhibit aggression and biting instinct, for which early socialization is a must. Teach it to differentiate between a threat and a pleasant situation so that your pet understands that a crying baby or playful kids playing in the yard is not bad. Feeding Feeding it cups good quality dry dog food in combination with a nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. Conclusion 1. What does a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix look like? It is impossible to tell with certainty what the dog will look like when it is a mixed breed. What we do know is that this breed is more likely to have the face of the Pitbull, with a broad head and a short muzzle. As for coloring, this breed comes in a variety of colors: black, white, brown, tan, gray and fawn. Given that both the Pitbull and German Shepherd have strong physiques, it is not surprising that this mixed breed does too. Fully grown, these dogs are large , as mentioned in the first paragraph their average weight between lbs 29 — 38 kgs , so it is important that you have her under control. You can do this by properly training and socializing her. What characteristics can I expect? As with all crossbreeds, it is not easy to say precisely what temperament this dog will have, as it will always be a different combination. In my experience, however, they tend to have the following traits: High energy All dogs need regular exercise to stay fit, and this large breed usually needs a whole lot. I recommend at least a one-hour walk a day, providing you have an outdoor space where she can release excess energy for the rest of the day. By giving her the exercise she needs, you will avoid undesired behaviors such as slipper-chewing, hole-digging or nuisance barking. As long as she gets her exercise needs met, she will be happy to settle down and relax with you. Loyal and loving Pitbull German Shepherd mixes are very affectionate dogs when raised right. While they are good at entertaining themselves, they still love to be around you and make a good family dog. This dog can have a very protective nature. This is due to its German Shepherd relatives , who were bred to herd and guard livestock. To prevent this from the outset, you should socialize her with people as much as possible from an early age. Intelligence Both the Pitbull and the German Shepherd are incredibly intelligent breeds. It is no surprise, then, that this mix is no exception. These dogs learn quickly and respond incredibly well to training and commands. Just as you exercise her body, it is important to keep her mind stimulated, too. You should start training at the earliest possible stage. It is important to keep a close eye on this type of behavior because, if it gets out of control, it can turn into aggression. What are the common health problems? Providing that she has a healthy lifestyle, as we mentioned above this breed can live for up to 12 years. Every dog breed is susceptible to certain health difficulties, however, and it is good to be aware of these so that you can treat your dog accordingly. In the meantime, it is worth knowing that this breed can suffer from the following diseases: Skin irritation The Pitbull German Shepherd mix can be prone to skin irritation, which they inherit from the Pitbull side of its family. They tend to have more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites as well as to fleas and ticks. To prevent this reaction, make sure you use a high-quality tick and flea treatment. Diet also plays an important part in maintaining the health of the skin. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition that can begin in dogs as they grow and results in an unstable or loose hip joint. While weight management is essential for any dog breed, it is highly important that this breed maintains a healthy weight to avoid stressing the hip joint. How much will I need to groom her? This mix has a coat that can range from short to medium in length. I recommend starting your grooming regime when she is a puppy so that she can get used to the routine. I do not advise over-bathing these dogs no more than once a month due to their tendency to skin irritation. It may also be worth buying a shampoo specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin. German Pits are usually floppy-eared, which means they get less air circulation and are therefore more prone to earwax build-up and ear infections. I advise that you get her ears checked at least monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. So is the German Pit the right fit for me? After all the information you have read, it is now important to put this question to yourself. As you can see, these dogs have the potential to be lovely, loyal dogs that are ideal for a family. Yet they require a lot of attention, walking and training, so they need a dedicated, and preferably experienced, dog owner. Conclusion Here are the main points to consider before committing to owning one of these dogs: Are you an experienced dog owner? Are you dedicated to walking your dog at least an hour a day? Do you have a spacious house with a yard, or can you walk her twice daily? Are you able to provide a rigorous and dedicated training routine? If not, it might be time to reconsider getting a different breed of dog. Do you own a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? Leave a comment below and tell me all about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. I have worked with various large breeds all my life. The German Shepherd is my favorite. I recently brought home a mixed breed. .Our Puppy is high energy at 8 weeks old. Highly intelligent and very affectionate. I have a large family with lots of boys and 1 girl. So our family is definitely the right fit! In my opinion every family member should have an caring active role in raising the family dog. Parent Breeds The parent breeds of the German shepherd pitbull mix include the German shepherd and the American pitbull terrier. As these breeds are both large dogs, the resulting mix is a large dog with unique physical and personality traits from both parent breeds. German Shepherd The German shepherd was originally selectively bred from shepherd dogs in 19th century Germany, where it was used as a herding dog. The breed was developed to be intelligent, strong, agile, and protective of flocks, all qualities that made it successful in its line of work. Horand von Grafath was recognized as the first German shepherd dog in .Today, the breed is still regarded as one of the best working dogs in the world because of its loyalty and eagerness to please. The German shepherd is used in police work, detection, service work, and search and rescue. German shepherd pitbull mixes often inherit the protective, hardworking temperament, strength, and wolf-like features of the German shepherd. The dogs were bred from terriers and bulldogs and used in blood sports like bullbaiting and dogfighting. American pitbull terriers were later selectively bred in the United States to have the muscular builds, sizes, and affectionate temperaments seen today. With proper socialization, American pitbull terriers make loyal, well-behaved companions. Lifespan A German shepherd pitbull mix has an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years if the dog follows a nutritious diet and exercises daily. Regular vet checkups help reduce the risk of health complications in German shepherd pitbull mixes. This mixed breed comes in shades of tan, white, gray, or black. Height and Weight German shepherd pitbull mixes are considered large dogs, with a height at the withers of 18—26 inches, and a weight of 30—90 pounds. Males are typically larger than females. Most German sheppits are lean, muscular, and slightly taller than their pitbull parents. Colors German shepherd pitbull mixes are typically tan, white, or black with bicolor markings. The coat color depends on the genes they inherit from their parents: German shepherd colors: Most common color combination is black and tan. Other colors include solid black, gray, red, and white. American pitbull terrier colors: Common colors are brown, black, and tan with various markings. Rare colors include solid white and brindle. German sheppits shed minimally to moderately throughout the year, depending on coat type. Double-coated dogs blow their coats twice a year. Personality and Temperament Photo by spcaofnorthernnevada German shepherd pitbull mixes are smart, affectionate, and protective dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They get along well with kids, and their intelligence and athletic stature make them well-suited to agility classes and fieldwork. Socializing and training this mixed breed from a young age will help it grow into an outgoing, obedient, and even-tempered adult. These dogs can be trained with positive reinforcement from an early age to not bark excessively. Left alone, German sheppits often experience anxiety and engage in destructive behavior, like barking and scratching, to cope. While smart and not fussy over food, these dogs need plenty of exercise, training, and mental stimulation to stay happy. Food Needs A German sheppit adult should be fed 2 to 3. Grooming Needs The German shepherd pitbull mix should be brushed weekly, or a few times per week if it has inherited a double coat, to distribute natural oils and keep its fur tangle-free. Bathe the dog once every few months and ensure its nails are well-trimmed. Exercise Needs An adult German shepherd pitbull mix requires at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, split into two separate walks, to remain physically fit. A two-month-old puppy needs 10 minutes of exercise per day, while a four-month-old puppy requires 20 minutes. German sheppits do best in homes with large, secure backyards where they can run freely. Certain states, cities, and territories have laws in place that restrict or ban pitbulls and pitbull mixes. Check local laws before exercising this mixed breed in new areas. Mental Needs German shepherd pitbull mixes need 60 minutes of mental stimulation per day to prevent aggression, boredom, and anxiety. Suitable mentally-stimulating activities include obedience training, scent work, herding, puzzle toys, agility classes, and interactive games like fetch. Depending on the severity, the condition can be managed with medication and surgery. Bloat : When the stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid, and then twists, causing severe abdominal pain. Bloat is often fatal if not treated immediately. Hip dysplasia : Abnormal formation of the hip joint that causes pain and mobility issues. Treatable with surgery and lifestyle changes. Degenerative myelopathy : Degeneration of the spinal cord that causes leg weakness, incontinence, and eventually paralysis. The condition is managed and treated with lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory medication, and in some cases surgery. Symptoms include lethargy, weight gain, exercise intolerance, and coat changes. Hypothyroidism is treatable with medication. Cataracts : Cloudiness of the eye lens that causes vision issues. The German sheppit is particularly prone to food and skin allergies. Take these dogs to regular vet checkups to reduce their risks of health complications. Use positive reinforcement and be firm and consistent when training this mixed breed. Never use punishment-based training methods because these can cause anxiety in dogs and exacerbate their aggressive behaviors. These dogs need plenty of training and socialization throughout their lives to keep their dog aggression in check. German shepherd pitbull mixes are often available for adoption from rescue shelters. This price includes expenses such as food, treats, vet checkups, toys, and training. First-year costs are higher than subsequent years because of the costs of first-year puppy vaccinations and neutering or spaying, and initial supplies like bedding. The German shepherd pitbull mix is an affectionate and loyal dog that loves pleasing its owners. The mixed breed is playful, energetic, and well-suited to people that lead active lifestyles. German shepherd pitbull mixes are suitable for people that are active, have a large backyard, and can dedicate lots of time to socializing and training the dog. The best owners for these dogs are people that use positive reinforcement measures and stick to set boundaries. First-time dog owners should also avoid these dogs because the breed is difficult to manage without proper socialization and training. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: German Shepherd Mixes. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepherd Pit Bulls are prone to weight gain. They also have high energy levels. About three hours a day of activity is recommended. Agility training, hiking, walking, running, or playing around a yard will keep them happy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs when caring for a German Shepherd Pit Bull is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as many breeds are prone to dental issues. Vets or groomers are good at performing this messy task. You should consult your veterinarian or professional pet nutritionist for advice on what to feed your German Shepherd Pit Bull and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Their German Shepherd parents grow very rapidly between the ages of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. Overfeeding your German Shepherd Pit Bull and letting them pack on the pounds can cause joint problems, as well as other health conditions. Limit treats, keep them active, and serve them regular meals rather than leaving food available at all times. The main colors of German Shepherd Pit Bulls coats are brown, black, white, grey, tan, and fawn. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors. They usually have short thick coats, and this mixed breed is not recommended for people with allergies. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require at least three good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. German Shepherd Pit Bulls may be able to handle some extreme weather conditions for short periods of time. These dogs must live indoors with their families. However their size could put them at a disadvantage around smaller children. They could easily accidentally knock over a toddler. No matter how friendly, no dog should ever be left unsupervised with a small child. German Shepherd Pit Bulls can get along well other dogs, especially if raised with them. Socialization early on is a must for this mixed breed. For a better understanding of this breed read more about their parent breeds, the German Shepherd and American Pit Bull Terrier. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or American Pit Bull Terrier breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Temperament: It depends. A German Pit dog can be gentle, loving and protective of its family. It will like to be top dog and may challenge authority but with proper training it will learn who the master is. It gets bored easily. They cannot be left alone for long periods of time, or they can become noisy and naughty. Feelings and signals: Dogs communicate in many ways from playing to barking. Never approach a dog with its tail way down! How should you train a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? With patience! There are several types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility and socialization. Each is important to help this type of puppy learn to socialize and behave. This looks like a dangerous dog so it is important to train it to challenge perceptions and show people the best of this breed instead. How do you begin puppy training? It will take time, patience, with positive reinforcement, using praise and small treats as a reward for success. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer — Here are some tips to begin: 1 Develop your basic command words: Find the keywords you think you will use most like Sit, Stop, and Fetch etc. It will become its nest and it will feel safe and sleep there. Any mix from purebred dogs, could have congenital health problems. A German Shepherd and an American Pitbull Terrier cross breed could develop: Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a mal-formation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog. This active dog could have hip problems, causing pain when moving. Early warning signs are — stiffness when getting up or walking, reluctance to get up when prompted and its usual walking style can change. It can occur early or later in life. The only way to check is to trace the health history of the birth parents. There is no cure but a Vet will help with medication to manage the pain. Skin problems Atopic dermatitis They can develop allergies causing skin conditions and itching — from grass, mold, pollen etc. Bloat Gastric Dilatation-volvulus Affects many deep-chested, larger dog breeds that like to eat large volumes quickly, drink too much water after eating or even eat too close to exercising. Early signs are: restlessness after eating, a bloated stomach and an inability to reject excess air or food through ineffective retching. In each case it is important to seek medical help! Exercise: This will be a very active dog, with lots of energy and need lots of exercise. They like to play chase and fetch. A puppy needs hours of exercise every day and more when older otherwise it will get bored. It will love running around and adventures but not adapt to small spaces. Therefore not suited to apartment living. Remember: Puppies should not be exercised too much on hard ground as their paws are still delicate so a mix of hard and softer ground is recommended until they are at least 2 years of age. Leash training is strongly recommended for discipline, safety and control in the early years. Feeding: Feed as an active large-sized dog with a recommended type of specially-formulated dry food. A Vet will advise the food type, exact amount, how often and if they need extra mineral and vitamins. Puppies should have their daily amount split into 3 daily feeds. Be careful not to over-feed them as weight gain can put pressure on their hips. Grooming: This dog has a short to medium length coat of hair that does shed but not too much so it only needs to be brushed times a week. A good brush is recommended. Bathing: This dog has short hair like the Pitbull so bathing is only recommended when needed, but not too often as their coats contain natural oil; which can be stripped with over-bathing. Certain shampoos have the double effect of cleaning the coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites. Chewing helps, so use doggie chew toys, bare bones, soft tooth brushes and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed regularly, say once a month, and checked for infection. Their floppy ears need to be regularly checked for dirt build-up or infection. Anything unusual should be checked by a Vet. What is life like for a GSPM? Otherwise, with their high energy levels they may show their boredom through destroying or chewing things and barking. They can make a great family dog. Remember just how active this dog is before choosing one. How much does it cost? Always best to adopt rather than buy if you can. Adopting a German Shepherd Pitbull mix from an adoption center is the best thing you can do. It can be life changing — not only for the dog but to you as well. He requires a low-to-medium maintenance level due to its short coat and a moderate amount of shedding. Brushing his coat can be done weekly, or three times a week if you are the type of person who is greatly bothered by scattered dog hair. Make sure to clean his ears often since this area is common to accumulate dirt, moisture, and bacteria. Nail trimming should be accomplished every few weeks to keep his paws clean and healthy. Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd Health Problems Provided that he is given the proper care and is living a healthy lifestyle, this crossbreed can live up to 12 years. Every breed is susceptible to specific health issues, and so it is essential that as a dog owner, you are aware of these things so that you know how to take care well of your dog accordingly. It is worth remembering that the Pitbull crossed with German Shepherd may suffer from the following diseases. Hip Dysplasia: The German Shepherd breed is genetically susceptible to this condition, and the possibility of passing it to its offspring is highly possible. The disease is characterized by malformation of the hip joints which may cause lameness and ongoing pain. Atopic Dermatitis: It is an inflammatory skin condition which may be triggered by exposure to certain environmental factors such as grass sprayed with pesticides and mold spores. To avoid this condition from affecting your pup, make sure to keep your house clean. Also, keep an eye for increased use of pesticides at dog parks. Skin Irritation: The Pitbull German Shepherd is prone to skin irritation, which it inherits from the Pitbull side of the family. They have a more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites, such as fleas and ticks. Generally, feeding him cups of good quality dry food daily in combination with nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. A well-balanced diet covering all the essential nutrients, including an appropriate protein and calorie intake, is vital in an active breed like the German Sheppit. On average, the German Shepherd Pitbull needs calories for males, while calories for females. Its core ingredients include ground brown and white rice, lamb meal and chicken meal. It has all-natural ingredients infused with additional minerals and vitamins. Its main components include chicken, real beef and salmon meat products. Blue Buffalo Wilderness: If your Pitbull German Shepherd has food allergies, this dog food is the right choice for you. It is a grain-free turkey and potato recipe dog food supplemented with antioxidant-rich kibble. This dog food is formulated to minimize food sensitivities while maximizing the nutritional value dogs receive. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient: This dog food is formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs. If your pooch is still a munchkin, you should go through best puppy food brands. Senior, gray-coated dogs require different diets. Your pooch takes genes from two parents. This means you could also take into account buying the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Pitbull Crossed with German Shepherd Exercise Requirements The Pitbull German Shepherd mix is an active and high-energy dog, so it might get destructive if he gets bored. This breed love to move around and therefore enjoys doing exercise activities. It is recommended to exercise him at least 90 minutes daily. Their exercise requirement is not just a guideline, but it is crucial that they are met. Without enough exercise, this breed may fall into a pattern of aggressive and destructive behaviors, such as excessive barking, unwanted chewing, and digging. Mental stimulation exercises should also be part of your routine to keep them from getting bored and further improve its social interactions. You can provide your pet with interactive dog toys. While it is true that they come from parent breeds with remarkable high intelligence, you should be warned that training them can be a bit overwhelming. Patience, attention, more time and positive reinforcement are the key components that owners should abide by in training this crossbreed. This is for your dog to learn the proper etiquette at a young age and avoid developing unwanted behaviors when it grows up. Remember to keep the pace of the training slow as your pup is still young and its body might still be fragile. After a year or two, however, you can increase the pace. Moreover, take note that an experienced trainer is better than a novice trainer. You need to be strong and authoritative. Otherwise, this dog will try to dominate you. Gentle yet firm treatment is the way to go with the German Sheppit puppy. Use Positive ReinforcementEven if this mixed breed has a tendency to become stubborn, avoid taking extreme measures. Using negative punishment-based training will not do any help, he might just end up not respecting you as a leader. Make it a regular routine to reward him whenever he does something right. Implement simple rules that they can follow and in return, give them praises and treats for obeying the rules. Training your German Sheppit consistently in a positive method will provide you with pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Puppy socialization has been proven to reduce developing aggressive behaviors, anxiety, and fearfulness later on in their adulthood. You just have to introduce and desensitize your dog to different people and environments. You can try doing the following: Puppy classes Playing at dog-friendly parks Make him attend doggy daycares The above activities ensure that your dog interacts with a range of fellow dogs and people as well on different environments, which may include on and off leash interactions. Include Mental Exercises on Their TrainingThe Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing aggressive and other unwanted behaviors. Mental stimulation activities can be in the form of games or puzzles. German Shepherd Pitbull and Families With consistent proper training, exercise and correct socialization, the German Shepherd Pitbulls are incredibly loyal, friendly and affectionate towards family members, making them an excellent choice as a family pet. This crossbreed can even be the perfect breed for children, especially that its parent breed Pitbull was previously known as a nanny dog. Young kids, especially those under 8 years old, may play rough with dogs and they may tire them out or provoke them unknowingly causing the dogs to react in aggressive behaviors. Children should be taught to love and respect all members of the family including your four-legged family companions. This dog loves to spend time with you and other family members. So give love lots of affection to your German Shepherd crossed with Pitbull and expect an unconditional love in return. They are still prized working dogs on ranches or farms, but can fit well into active families with older kids. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies need lots of socialization, training and exercise. They require regular grooming despite their short coat, and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone. However, when you give them everything they need, this mix can be an amazing companion for experience dog owners and working dog trainers too. A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd was developed with the hopes of creating the perfect herding and service dog. Because of the cold and wet European climate, the German Shepherd had to be very hardy to handle long days in often brutal conditions. At that time, it became popular with military, police, and service work. Early Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create an athletic, bold dog primarily used for hunting. This is a practice where the dog would grasp a bull, bear, or other large animal around the head. Today, Pitbulls are still very agile dogs that make excellent contestants in agility, weight pulling, and tracking tests. This mix will be tall with a medium build and a coat that will range in length from short to long, depending on their parents. They will have a relatively long muzzle, dark eyes, a long tail and pointed ears. The German Shepherd Pitbull mix is probably going to be a large dog. You can expect a German Shepherd-Pitbull hybrid to grow up to 17—24 inches tall at the shoulder. If a hybrid puppy takes after its German Shepherd parent, then they may mature to between 80 and 90 pounds. When they more closely resemble their Pitbull parent, then they may reach anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds. Additionally, hybrids may look more like one parent than the other, or they may appear to be a lovely mix of both parents. Both breeds are commonly associated with territorial aggression and biting, both of humans and other dogs. Of course, with mixed breeds, you cannot say with much certainty how much the offspring of two purebred dogs will take after their parents. This goes for looks, health, and temperament. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies are no different. The Pitbull was first bred to fearlessly attack large animals and later to work, hunt and protect. This means that they are strong and agile enough to chase after such animals as cattle and hogs. Also, if needed, they can grasp and hold a moving animal with their powerful jaws. They can also be territorial. Furthermore, fewer Pitbulls in the study had attempted to bite their owner or a strange human than those who had attempted to or had attacked a strange dog in the past. Socialization As we mentioned earlier, proper training and socialization with other dogs and humans from an early age can help to prevent a puppy with German Shepherd lineage from developing aggressive behavior later in life. This is especially important if your dog has hypothyroidism in its genes. Additionally, both Pitbulls and German Shepherds are working breeds that are high energy. German Shepherd and Pitbull Health Your puppy has the potential to inherit the following conditions from one or both of their parents: Allergies — Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and dust cause itchy skin on the feet, belly, folds of skin, and ears. Hip dysplasia Patellar luxation — When the knee cap pops out of place while the dog is in motion. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis — Progressive nerve damage that results in weakness of the legs and sometimes blindness. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — An inherited disorder in which deterioration of the retina leads to eventual blindness. Bladder stones —Pitbulls can inherit Hyperuricosuria. The urine is too acidic, which causes precipitation of solid masses called bladder stones or kidney stones depending on where they form. Lifespan The average life expectancy of a German Shepherd is about 11 years. Similarly, the Pitbull typically lives between 11 and 13 years. This means that you can expect a German Shepherd Pitbull mix to live to be approximately 11 or 12 years of age. A Shepherd Pitt may mature to be a large dog with lots of energy. In addition to the energy outlet, exercise is also important for this hybrid due to the high probability of it developing hip dysplasia. As a family dog, this hybrid may not be ideal for homes with young children or other dogs. Make sure that you meet both parents. They should be relaxed and confident around strangers, if not overly friendly. Make sure the breeder also shows you evidence of clear health test certificates.
Fully Health Tested. Townedale Standard Poodle puppies are Kennel Club registered, from champion lines and generations of health tested dogs. Our breeding bitches and stud dogs have excellent hip and elbow scores, clear eyes and have been DNA tested for inherited conditions. They are all in the best of health and have outstanding temperaments. They are not confined to a specific area and are free to roam and rest where they please. Working from home allows our dogs to have constant access to our two acres of land and we are lucky enough to have the South Downs National Park on our doorstep. We are often found walking alongside the river, on the beach or up on the Downs. Our dogs live a stress-free life, with plenty of exercise, stimulation and socialisation. Happy dogs make happy families and we believe that the fantastic temperament and health credentials of our dogs should be preserved for generations to come. We have up to two litters a year which allows us to enjoy and nurture every one of our puppies so that they are fully prepared for life with their new families. How do you know if a breeder is legitimate? Here are a few basic ways to determine if a Poodle Breeder in the UK is worth looking at. Not all are required to be a great Poodle breeder, but one or all are good signs. They should: Be Kennel Club certified Perform health screenings Mention socialization of puppies Being Kennel Club certified assures that the breed operates professionally and adheres to all breeding regulations and laws. Good Breeders Prioritize Health Good breeders also account for the health history of all of their dogs. Breeders should screen their health. They should also have puppies thoroughly examined before sending them to new homes. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! See Poodle Puppies Available Not only does a great breeder account for the health history of their Poodles, they consider the future as well. Poodles need adequate exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. Additionally, the socialization of puppies with other dogs, puppies, and people of all ages is essential and is the foundation for a great dog. Then, decide what your priorities are. Do you want companionship from your Poodle? Do you plan on taking it hunting? Or are you excited to break into the dog-showing world? Certain breeders will select traits that support different activities. Lastly, go with your instincts. If a breeder gives you a great impression and you are comfortable with them, that is a good sign. They have walked alongside both hunters and royalty. It is no wonder there are some excellent Poodle breeders in the UK with beautiful dogs for sale. To make your search for your new furry friend easier, we have compiled a list of the best Poodle breeders in the UK. All of these breeders have an up-to-date website and contact information, so you can move forward on your journey to finding the perfect Poodle for you and your family! These two women run this special operation out of their homes, with Sara taking care of the studs and Michelle taking care of the ladies. They breed their Poodles for health and temperament , and only those with a clean bill of health reproduce. Since then, Sara says that her life revolves around Poodles. Along with being a Poodle breeder, Sara works in Poodle rescue. Sara met Michelle 25 years ago. She was looking for a new groomer to take care of her Poodle Louise, and they have shared their love for Poodles ever since. Life Span Did You Know? Although the Poodle is the national dog of France, they actually originated in Germany over years ago where they were commonly used as a duck hunter. Their curly coat protected them from the elements and they were bred for their excellent swimming skills, high intelligence, and incredible retrieval skills. The Poodle comes in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Throughout history, this dog breed has served many purposes. From living in the lap of luxury as companions to nobility to working out in the field as a valuable hunting companion to entertaining people in circuses around the world, the Poodle is right at home. Although they are more popular as a companion dog, the Poodle still maintains their athleticism and working dog instincts. Poodles are known for their intelligence, cheerful disposition, and sensitive nature. They are versatile dogs that make great family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their sensitive nature, they tend to be a better fit for older children who understand how to approach and interact with a dog appropriately. These dogs prefer peace and harmony in the household, so very young children that are too loud or rough can stress them out. The Standard Poodle also tends to be quite energetic until they are about two years old and may be prone to knock over small children in their excitement. Standard Poodles also tend to make great watchdogs and have some protective instincts. Without proper socialization, they can become skittish, nervous, and wary of strangers. Making sure any puppy is socialized early and often helps them grow into a confident, well-rounded dog. Standard Poodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their energy level tends to make them better-suited for larger homes with room for them to run. But, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive the exercise, mental stimulation, and affection that they need. They tend to do well in most climates. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to very hot and very cold weather. These dogs are in-tune with their owners and thrive on human companionship and affection, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Poodles are a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. Because of their larger, barrel-chested body type, the Standard Poodle is also at risk for bloat. Responsible breeders will screen and test their stock to ensure the genetic propensity for breed-related conditions is not passed along to the puppies. Poodles are highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please their owners. They are highly trainable, pick up things quickly, and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are sensitive and in-tune with their owners, they respond best to consistent, positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Poodle coats are curly or corded and come in a wide variety of colors. Although Poodles are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats, their coats still require a lot of maintenance. Keeping your Poodle in a short clip can help reduce daily maintenance, but still requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks to maintain it. A longer coat requires daily brushing in order to prevent matting in addition to professional grooming every four to six weeks. Regular professional grooming often helps with this as nail trimming should be done monthly, at least, to keep nails from growing too long. Dental care for dogs , like brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, is essential to protecting them from painful dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You, your dog, and your groomer will thank you for it! Who knows? If you ensure these experiences stay positive, they could even become a bonding time that your dog enjoys. These are high energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation every day in order to be happy and healthy. They love to stay busy and may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, taking trips to the dog park , hiking with you, and more. They also tend to be a good fit for several dog sports, such as agility, dock diving, obedience, flyball, tracking, and more. A fully-grown Standard Poodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They can be slightly smaller than the usual as the Standard size is denoted by being more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. A Standard Poodle generally lives years. Featured Standard Poodle Article. They run a registration service for all breeds of pedigree dogs and are the only organisation recognised by UKAS the UK accreditation service to certify dog breeders as part of their Assured Breeders Scheme. They can advise you on all aspects of owning their breed of dog, both the positives and the challenges, so if you want to know more about a breed, please do get in touch with them. They also often have puppy co-ordinators who can help you find members of their club with puppies for sale. A full list of all the breed clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website, and a link to the national breed club can be found below. An insight into The Poodle Standard personality We asked Poodle Standard owners to sum up their dogs' personality in a few words.Create your own webpage, or link to an existing website. You can unsubscribe from these notifications at any time and the instructions will be included in each email. Join Mailing List We would also like to send you relevant information and news by email. To join our mailing list please tick the box below. You can unsubscribe at any time.
french bulldog puppies for sale in mo - Pug Shih tzu These breeds will snore more than those with longer snouts like Labradors or golden retrievers. However, this does not mean that dogs with longer snouts that snore are fine and do not have underlying conditions. It also does not mean you need to rush your brachycephalic dog to the vet to get surgery to open their airway. There are differing degrees to which the soft palate blocks the airway, and most dogs are perfectly fine without medical intervention. If you notice your brachycephalic dog snoring, seemingly stop breathing, then start snoring again then taking them to the vet is a good idea as their soft palate may be too big for their snout. What Factors Make Snoring Worse? Obesity If your puppy is overweight, they will have excess flesh around their internal organs and their airways, as well as cute little pudge belly rolls. This means the excess fat will press on the airway and make it more difficult for air to travel unimpeded, which will cause snoring. Obesity can also lead to sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a very rare diagnosis in dogs; however it is not unheard of. Sleep apnea happens where your dog will suddenly stop breathing while they are asleep and then start breathing again a couple of seconds later. A sign of sleep apnea is interrupted snoring. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is a common ailment in dogs. This happens when the thyroid gland which sits around part of the windpipe does not produce a specific hormone that regulates metabolism. If this hormone is not regulated, labored breathing while sleeping may happen, causing your puppy to snore. If the cause of the snoring was hypothyroidism, then it should go away as soon as your puppy starts treatment. This will lead to snoring. If your puppy suddenly starts snoring out of the blue and they do not usually snore or snore as badly , then check their mouths for signs of redness, plaque buildup, or a bad odor. If you suspect a rotten tooth or gum disease, get your puppy to the vet. Secondhand Smoke If there is a smoker in the home, your dog is breathing in secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke irritates the lining of the nasal passages and lungs, inflames them, and dries them out. This can all contribute to your puppy snoring. Do not smoke around your pup, ask guests to not pat your dog while they are smoking, and treat your dog as you would a small child around smoke. When you are preparing your home to bring your new puppy into it, carefully examine what cleaning products you use, what plants they may have access to, and whether there is a lot of sand or dust where they will be playing and sleeping. The dust or allergens such as pollen, chemicals, grass, and pet hair will irritate the lining of the airway and cause it to become inflamed and dry. This in turn will interrupt the flow of air and cause them to snore. If you notice nearly everyone in your household, including your pets, snoring, then you may have a dry atmosphere. Reflux If your puppy suffers from acid reflux heartburn , the stomach acid could be pushing up against their lungs and causing them to snore. Obesity and a very acidic diet both add to acid reflux and make it worse. Watch your puppy when they relax and have a nap after eating: Is their snoring better or worse than when they have not eaten in a while? If their snoring is worse when they nap after eating, they may have an issue with acid reflux and will need to see the vet. Sleeping Position The most common cause for snoring is a funny head position. Puppies will often fall asleep mid-play time in the most unusual positiuons, which may put pressure on their airway and cause them to snore. If you think their position is the cause of their snoring, gently turn them so they lay on their side, where there is minimal pressure on their throat and snout. Rather be safe than sorry. However, there are certain things you can rule out before an expensive vet visit. If they are overweight, this is the most likely cause for their snoring. Put a humidifier in the home and see if it makes a difference in the way in which your dog snores. If it does, then their airway is quite dry. If you notice your dog snoring, stop breathing, and then carry on snoring and even making choking noises, then take them to the vet as there is something blocking their airway. Why does my puppy sleep with a toy in its mouth? Your puppy may have figured out that they have something blocking their airway all on their own and will intentionally go to sleep with a toy in their mouth to prop their jaws open. If you notice that your puppy goes to sleep with a toy in its mouth, take them to the vet to check that their airway is unobstructed. However, snoring may be a sign of an underlying condition so it should never be ignored. If you want to figure out why your puppy snores, go through our list and try to rule out as many potential causes as you can at home before taking them to the vet, so your vet will have a better idea of what could be wrong. 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. Why Does My Puppy Snore? They have an abscessed tooth. They have allergies. The rest of this article will talk about these potential causes in more detail, as well as what you can do to prevent snoring in your labrador. When air tries to get past the tongue and into the lungs, a snoring sound can occur. If your lab loves you, they might be more than happy to wake up to your face. You should know that this might be an exercise in futility. Sleep apnea in dogs generally takes the form of obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the throat muscles relax and make it difficult to move air into the lungs. If you suspect your labrador is suffering from it, you should schedule a vet appointment right away. Excess weight If your lab is overweight, that can also contribute to their annoying snoring habit. If enough fat collects in the neck area, it can partially block the airway and cause your pet to snore. Being overweight can also make snore-inducing health issues like sleep apnea more likely to occur. Signs that your labrador has hypothyroidism include: Hair loss on the rear legs and tail A diminishing of coat luster. The skin will be flaky and potentially have patches of black. Their pulse will be noticeably slower. They might appear tired and sluggish in their movements. If you suspect your labrador has hypothyroidism, a vet appointment is in order. Fortunately, the solution for a lack of thyroxine is pretty simple. Your lab will just have to take an inexpensive hormone replacement pill every day. Abscessed tooth An abscess is basically a collection of pus that forms around an infection. In addition to redness and swelling, there are a few other telltale signs that your labrador has an abscessed tooth. Avoiding chewing on one side of their mouth. Swelling around the eye. This can occur if the infected tooth is in the upper part of the mouth. Using their paws or other objects to scratch the side of their face. Consistent bad breath. The potential consequences of an untreated abscessed tooth are pretty bad. Mass tooth loss, serious eye infection, and potentially fatal internal infection are all things an abscessed tooth can cause. And even if you do get your lab the proper medication in time, it still might need to get a root canal or even a total tooth removal. Because the consequences can be so severe and costly, the best way to approach an abscessed tooth is to prevent it from ever forming in the first place. Here are a couple of easy prevention tips: Many abscessed teeth are caused by tooth breakage from biting on hard objects. This will prevent your lab from getting canine periodontal disease, which can contribute to the formation of an abscessed tooth. Allergies Allergies are another common cause of snoring. The two most common causes of allergies in labradors are dust mites and second-hand smoke. Dust mites Dust mites are tiny little creatures that live in couches, beds, carpeting, and other fabric-based furnishings. Here are some signs that your labrador is dealing with a dust mite infection: Sneezing. And his snoring only comes when he is very very contented. But last night was almost as bad as the night before. I was woken up by his very loud snoring at AM, only to have my spouse start in with a duet with him. My spouse says I snore loudly too, except that he can sleep right through anything, and I cannot. I have discovered if I kick the dog"s not my spouse crate gently he stops. If I stand next to it for about 30 minutes, and kick it gently every time he snores, he finally finds a position where he doesn't snore. I'm thinking of making a rope that I can pull that will gently drop something on the top of the crate, so I don't have to get out of bed. It makes a rattling noise that causes him to change position. With my spouse, I just pull off the covers and she changes to a position where he doesn't snorecant do that with the dog. The dog sleeps in a crate in our bedroom, and will always do that, except that eventually it will be a bed but not our bed , not a crate. BTW, he probably won't grow out of it, since our 14 year old Lab also snored but not quite as bad as the 14 week old puppy. Any suggestions to make him stop snoring at night. Dental Problems Decaying or abscessed teeth can also cause your dog to snore. If your dog has a teeth problem, it can cause swelling or growth in the oral cavity and block his airways. If left untreated, an infection in the teeth can spread to other parts of his body and cause more severe health problems. Physical Obstruction If your dog only just started snoring recently, it could be due to something blocking his throat or nasal passages. Sand, sticks, and other foreign objects can get lodged in his nose, windpipe, or throat area and cause temporary obstruction. Snoring that results from physical obstruction may be accompanied by nasal discharge. Besides physical objects, tumor growth in the nose or neck area can cause snoring. Usually, a trip to the vet is the best way to be sure. How To Stop Your Labrador Puppy From Snoring Whether your Labrador only snores softly or sounds like a woodchipper when sleeping, you need to know how to help him put a stop to it. Here are a few things you can do to help your furry friend sleep better. Talk to Your Vet Some cases of snoring in dogs may be medically related. Help Your Dog Sleep Comfortably If your Labrador puppy is snoring because of his sleeping position, provide him with a round bed to allow him to sleep in a curved or curled-up position. This position helps to keep his airways wide open and lets him sleep more comfortably. You can also get your dog a small pillow to raise his head up above his chest when sleeping. If he still prefers sleeping on his back, try gently rolling him to a different position every day until he completely adjusts. Your vet can suggest the best weight loss approach for your lab puppy based on his current weight and any underlying health conditions. Also, dust and vacuum the house regularly to reduce the level of allergens. Bath your lab with hypoallergenic shampoo every time he goes to play outside and reduce his walks when pollen levels are high. An anti-allergy cover can also help to eliminate dust mites buried in his bed. If your dog is sensitive to smoke, avoid smoking around him. Final Thoughts A Snoring lab puppy can be frustrating. If your little lab is snoring, check with your vet to ensure it is not a result of any underlying health problems. If your dog is obese, helping him lose weight can put a stop to snoring. You can also try changing his sleeping position, providing him with a round bed, adding a humidifier to his sleeping area, keeping his sleeping area clean, and regularly dusting and vacuuming the house. Related Articles. Medication Dog Snoring Due to Narrowed Airways The interior of a healthy dogs throat is cleverly designed to keep him oxygenated and cool. Too much tissue, or tissue that is too floppy may cause a narrowing of the throat. Brachycephalic Snoring Over the years, humans bred dogs for different traits to suit different jobs. This inevitably means that these short-nosed breeds have shorter breathing passages. We call these breeds of dog brachycephalic and they are much more likely to snore. Brachycephalic dogs have shorter snouts, but the soft palate at the back of their throat remained exactly the same through the generations and can appear enlarged. Owners of these breeds should be particularly aware of dog snoring and what it can mean. This leads to loud snoring, sometimes even when awake, which we will talk about later. The condition is called nasal stenosis, a congenital condition that can obstruct nasal passages and restrict breathing. These are called turbinates or sometimes a naval concha and create a large surface area. Turbinates have lots of interesting functions: Add warmth and humidity to the air we breathe in and protect the lungs from cold, dry air Provide a filter to remove pathogens including bacteria, viruses, and dust Give a larger surface area for smell sensors As you can imagine, in dogs, these turbinates are extensive to give a great sense of smell. The spongy bone plates also provide a great heat exchange mechanism for the body, helping dogs and other canids conserve water. Turbinates let them chase for a long time and live in dry deserts or the cold arctic. Bad breathing difficulties can be distressing for the dog and you might think about visiting a vet. One thing we should clear up, before we go any further, is that for the purposes of snoring in this article, we are talking about dogs who are asleep. Sometimes people ask about why do dogs snore while awake. It could be because you have a brachycephalic dog, as described above. However, there are many other reasons why dogs can make snoring sounds when awake. Again, most of these are due to restricted air flow. Any dog that is making snoring sounds while awake needs to be thoroughly checked over by a qualified vet within the next day or so to have him checked over. And, if he seems unwell or his breathing is labored, take him in right away. An obstruction may be a symptom of a nasty infection or more serious type of blockage. Sometimes, your dog may have a foreign body wedged up its nose. These could be grass seeds or other plant materials he picked up on his walk. These will block his nose and make him snore. If your dog is sneezing a lot or rubbing his nose with discomfort, he could have something stuck up there. A blockage may also be accompanied by nasal discharge. Take a look and, if there is something is stuck up his nose, maybe it is time to see the vet to have it removed. In most cases, a blocked nose is the result of a build up of mucous as a result of a respiratory infection, together with inflammation of the airways. Dog Snoring Caused by Infections Like people, dogs are susceptible to upper respiratory infections. Infections like Kennel Cough — a kind of canine flu — may cause airways to become blocked and inflamed, and can trigger temporary snoring. If that is the case, the snoring should clear up once the dog recovers. Snoring and Dog Allergies Just like people, some dogs suffer from allergies. This is often accompanied by a clear and watery nasal discharge. If it is an allergy, your vet can prescribe medications to relieve her symptoms and, in turn, reduce the snoring. Cigarette Smoke and Snoring Dogs living with cigarette smokers may be more prone to snoring. They are also at greater risk of developing allergies and respiratory infections. Medications That Cause Dog Snoring Sometimes, you might notice that your dog only developed snoring when he started a course of medication. Could the medicine be to blame? It could, because some medicines have side effects including restricted airways. Pain relievers, and some other medicines, may cause the throat to relax more than usual, which can trigger a bout of the snores. If you think that medicines may be the cause, check with your vet whether medication is the possible cause of doggy snoring. If your dog needs the medication, then you will probably have to live with the snoring, although your vet might be able to treat the symptoms. Another very common cause of snoring in dogs is obesity. Just as with humans, being overweight can trigger the condition. Dog Snoring Caused by Obesity Probably the most common reason for snoring in Labradors and many other breeds is a weight problem. Your dog does not have to be grossly obese for this to happen. Just being a little overweight may be enough of a trigger to start a dog snoring In a very overweight dog, pads of fat may be deposited around the throat, and these can interfere with the airflow. And, if your slightly overweight, snoring dog seems otherwise perfectly well, then reducing his weight a little is a good starting point in the battle against snoring. Losing weight can also prevent a range of other health problems, and is usually worth doing. Nasal Polyps and Tumors Just like humans, dogs can get nasal polyps, small pink growths in the nose. They can grow large enough to obstruct air flow and cause snoring. Quite often, they can cause distressing nose bleeds. It is definitely worth getting them checked by a vet. Apart from causing snoring, even when your dog is awake, they can be a sign of tumors. Removing them can stop snoring and, if they were a sign of tumors, might allow your vet to catch the condition early. Nasal tumors commonly affect older dogs and some specific breeds such as German Shepherds. Treating them can involve surgery or radiotherapy, ideally before they become large and malignant. What do you do then? Dogs that Snore for No Reason For many snoring dogs, like my Labrador, Tess, who is slim and healthy, there is often no apparent cause. A bit like humans, really! So,what if your dog is fit and able to run and play normally without breathing noisily. You look and see no no signs of any obstruction in his airway, and no discharge or other symptoms of infection. In this case, there may be no cause for the canine snoring. You may think it is cute or funny to hear your Labrador snoring. You may find it annoying. Especially if he shares your bedroom But what does it actually mean? And why do some dogs snore whilst others never do? The vibration arises when there is some kind of minor or major obstruction in the dogs airway. Too much tissue for example, or tissue that is too floppy may cause a narrowing of the throat. It can and does however, occur in dogs with normal muzzles like our Labradors. As you will know if you have a snorer in your home. Does obesity cause snoring? Probably the most common reason for a Labrador to snore is obesity. Your dog does not have to be grossly overweight for this to happen. In an overweight dog, pads of fat are deposited around the throat which interfere with the airflow. You might want to consider taking a few pounds off him. As a bonus, he will also feel better, be more active and in better general health. Talking to your vet about snoring But maybe your Labrador is very slim and still snores the house down every night. Does it matter? And what can you do about it anyway? There could be a number of other reasons why your dog is snoring, but if you are not aware that he has one of these problems, or if the snoring is unusual for him, or is getting worse, it is a good idea to get him checked over by the vet Allergies and other causes of dogs snoring Just like people, some dogs suffer from allergies. Another reason to get a quick vet check for your snoring dog. It goes without saying that you should have him checked immediately if there is a thick or bloody discharge from either nostril! Pain relievers, and some other medicines, may cause the throat to relax more than usual, which can trigger a bout of snoring. If your dog needs the medication, then you will probably have to live with the snoring. But for some dogs there are ways to improve the situation Remedies for dogs snoring You might find it helpful to adjust the position your dog sleeps in. One of the best solutions for mild snorers, is to make sure that your Labrador is encouraged to curl up, rather than sprawl on his back. A round or oval bed is ideal for this. Some people find that a bed with a raised padded edge helps, as it encourages the dog to rest his head in a raised position. Or invest in a good pair of ear plugs! Never heard a Labrador snore? Does your dog snore? Have you found any remedies that help? Share your experiences in the comments box below More information on Labradors You can find out more about how to keep your Labrador as fit and healthy as possible in the Health section of our website. The Labrador Handbook looks at all aspects owning a Labrador, through daily care, to health and training at each stage of their life.
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french bulldog puppies for sale in mo - The AVMA encourages the elimination of ear cropping and tail docking from breed standards. Ear cropping in Boxer dogs is widely believed to reduce the risk of ear infections. It also improves their sense of hearing, as sound passes straight to the eardrums with no ear flap falling forward and preventing it. Dogs with cropped ears are less likely to suffer from ear canal infections than natural eared dogs since the development of related severe conditions is linked to having a heavy-hanging ear. According to them, ear infection susceptibility is commonly dictated by breed. Naturally, Boxers have floppy ears that tend to fold over. It prevents adequate airflow and traps a lot of moisture in the ears. As a result, ear infections are increasingly common in Boxer dogs with unclipped ears. Many believe ear cropping allows for better ventilation in the ears, keeping bacteria at bay. The practice of ear clipping, however, does not appear to prevent or successfully treat these infections. Many consider it an alteration that goes against nature or a pointless cosmetic operation with no concrete health benefits. Generally, ear clipping in dogs is a painful procedure. Even if the puppy is sedated, healing will trigger a great deal of anxiety. Cropping is also carried out under total anesthesia, which has associated risks, according to a study. Hence, many of those against the practice see the procedure as a threat to animal welfare. After surgery, Boxers will also experience discomfort as they recover, stretch, re-tape, bandage, and undergo other manipulations. Some Boxer dogs might need bandaging or taping to keep their ears upright, which lasts for days to months. During this time, they are separated from other dogs, and isolation makes a dog prone to loneliness. Clipped ears, like every incision, may become infected. It may also fail to stand or have a skewed form or distorted position, potentially requiring subsequent surgery. Meanwhile, many of those in favor argue that the breed is known for cropped ears for decades. Ear cropping is usually performed on Boxer puppies aged 8 to 12 weeks. The process takes about 30 to 45 minutes, but the healing stage will last for several weeks if there are no post-surgery complications. In most cases, a pre-anesthetic sedative-analgesic drug will help your Boxer relax. The vet or vet assistant will wash the ears. They ensure the ears are sterile before the surgery. The vet will mark the area where the ear will be cut. Based on the selected crop style, measurements and the areas that will be affected are marked accordingly. It will help make the surgery as precise as possible. Only a triangular piece of the ear will remain. It is stitched in such a way the ear does not flap over. Instead, it will stand straight. The same procedure is performed on the other ear afterward. If your dog is sutured, it needs to be removed after 10 to 14 days. Ideally, it would be best if you allotted ample time to take care of your Boxer after the operation. Prepare to spend a lot of time bandaging, posting, and going to the vet for numerous routine check-ups. You need to follow the proper aftercare precisely because if not, scarring can likely occur. Your household must also be a conducive healing environment for your Boxer to ensure your pup will recover well. Remember that a healing animal can feel pain from time to time, so expect grumpiness. Unfortunately, not every procedure turns out to be successful as Boxers have differences in their ears. Luckily, I have a short but precise pros and cons list to help you make the best decision if ear cropping is right for your Boxer. Pros On a Boxer, cropped ears look fantastic. Though floppy, natural ears are lovely on their own, the trimmed ear style complements their square-shaped head and blunt snout. Having cropped or trimmed ears is considered the breed standard in many dogs, including Boxers. It gives them a clean and sharp breed intended look. For many dog breeders and owners, cropped ears turned into a long-standing tradition. The practice is observed in many dogs, and they may even look different or look unrecognizable without cropped ears, as controversial as it may be. Your Boxer dog ears will remain clean. Ear infections caused by yeast or bacteria, ear mites, or ticks that tend to line the underside of the ear would almost certainly never be a problem for a dog with clipped ears. You will need to deal with the solid social stigma connected to ear cropping. As previously discussed, the painful procedure is deemed as animal cruelty by many animal rights advocates and dog owners. For the Boxer, the procedure can be excruciating and stressful. Even during the healing process, your Boxer will be forced to wear an uncomfortable Elizabethan collar. The ears need to be taped in a particular manner to ensure that it results in erect ears. While it is rare, some owners have lost their Boxer puppies due to reported postoperative complications. As a Boxer owner, it is your responsibility to understand the benefits and drawbacks of cosmetic surgical procedures like ear cropping. Ensure that your dog will generally benefit from the surgery before making a final decision. No, ear cropping is not necessary for your Boxers to compete in various dog shows even though it is preferred by the American Boxer Club. A clipped ear does not give a dog the winning edge in the show ring. If anything, that belief is a popular misconception. When it comes to ear cropping or Otoplasty, there is no strict age limit. It can be performed on Boxers of any age. However, a Boxer puppy should ideally have their ears cropped between the ages of 10 and 12 weeks old. Having your Boxer go under the knife at this age will avoid unnecessary damage and discomfort. Hence the operation can cause an older dog more pain and discomfort than it would to a puppy. Included in this estimate are anesthesia, the operation, aftercare medicine, and follow-up visits. However, I strongly discourage you from doing so. For starters, having your Boxer puppy anesthetized is needed to avoid excruciating pain during the procedure. In some cases, it may take a little longer. During the healing period, your Boxer needs to wear an ear rack or tape to hold the ears upright in place and erect. Keep a close eye on the tape or bandages to keep the wounds clean and free of infection. Realistically, it will take about a full 4 to 5 months until your Boxer is fully healed from the ear cropping surgery. The question remains: to crop or not to crop? Other things to consider are the number of pets at home, children, time restraints, financial constraints, and the pain your dog may experience during the procedure. If anything, it can be a painful procedure that requires careful aftercare and frequent veterinarian visits. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. UK What Exactly is Cropping? When a Boxer has their ears cropped, in countries in which it is legal, it is considered to be cosmetic surgery. When does a Boxer have their ears cropped? The general rule is to do so when the Boxer puppy is 10 - 12 weeks old. Although a dog of any age can have it done, a young puppy's ears are small and soft thus making the healing process smoother. The dog is sedated during the surgery. The animal surgeon will mark the area of where the ear will be cut. Just as the name suggests, part of the ear is literally cut off. It is then stitched in such a way so that the ear does not flap over; it will stand straight up. It is the act of cutting the ear that causes many people opt against having this done. However, it must be noted that the dog will not experience pain during the surgery. A dog will have discomfort for up to 3 weeks afterwards while the ears heal. Small paper cones are usually placed on the ears to protect them in this sensitive stage. An owner is given disinfectant from the veterinarian to careful put on the healing ears twice per day. When an owner decides to have their Boxer's ears cropped they must make a commitment to following the very precise aftercare that is needed; if not, scarring will occur. It should also be noted that not all cropped ears will stand up. Why Are Boxer's Ears Cropped? In many countries, the Boxer is known for having cropped ears, something that has been done since the breed was introduced and owners feel that they should maintain the breed standard. The argument being that the Boxer breed does not have controlled ears.Some believe that long, floppy ears can trap moisture which can lead to ear mites and yeast infections. However, this can also happen with smaller, cropped ears. In countries such as the U. However, recent trends have many breeders keeping ears natural. A large number of owners choose this and those that do not can opt to have the procedure done to their Boxer once they obtain the puppy. We urge anyone who is considering to have this done to their dog to choose an experienced veterinarian, as a bad cropping can lead to infection and aesthetic issues such as too much of the flap being removed, etc. Please check with a veterinarian to see if he or she has experience not only with cropping but specifically with the Boxer breed since each breed that does traditionally have the ears clipped has different shaping and size. Some refer to this clipping as a "show crop" and by that, it is meant that per AKC conformation standards, the Boxer's ears should not be an outstanding feature or focal point. Rather, the size , set and shape should flatter the facial features, adding balance and lending to the overall appearance of the head. A couple of issues that can occur are often due to the thickness of the ear flap. Boxer ears with very thick leather may be too heavy too stand and a good veterinarian will be able to let an owner know in advance. In some cases, not wanting to take off too much of the flap, a vet will err on the side of caution, which can lead to needing a 2nd cropping down the road to gain the desired appearance. In some locations, the cost for this procedure is tiered based on the dog's weight. The answer is no. While some may say that the Boxer standard is cropped ears, just about every recognized dog club, including the AKC accepts Boxers with or without cropped ears. This is most certainly a personal decision. Cropping is not clinically proven to reduce ear infections or reduce the chance of a dog getting ear mites. Dog shows allow Boxers with their natural ears. The only valid reason an owner would have is that they prefer their dog to look a certain way. It is a myth that puppies do not feel pain.Is that worth the discomfort that a Boxer puppy will need to endure? While we must stay neutral on this subject, we suggest that an owner carefully think about this issue before deciding. If Ears are Not Standing Correctly Even with cropping, precise symmetrical ears does not always happen. It is not uncommon for one ear to stand a bit more erect than another, or even both may not stand as desired. The experience of the veterinarian has a part in this. But also the muscles at the base of the ears may not be strong enough. In some cases, this can improve with age and improvement may be seen in 1 or 2 months. Owners may have heard about taping ears, which is what it sounds like: a method of using tape to hold ears in a desired position with the hope that this will cause them to stay as so once the tape has been removed. Though this sounds like a great idea, it rarely ever works. While some people do not agree with this procedure, it is common with Boxer dogs. Boxer dogs originally had their ears cropped to help protect them from injury when they were hunting, working, or fighting. Now, the ears are cropped for cosmetic purposes, to improve hearing, or to make care easier. Ear cropping is not required by the breed standard, and many feel it is unnecessary. Does Ear Cropping Hurt Dogs? Ear cropping is a surgical procedure. While dogs are put under for the actual procedure, they can experience pain when they wake up and while the ears are healing. It can also cause ear problems that can be painful throughout their life. Boxers: Benefits of Ear Cropping There are a few benefits of ear cropping. It can help improve their hearing as the ear canals are not covered and sounds can easily pass through them. It can also make the ears easier to clean and help reduce buildup and ear infections. Boxers: Disadvantages of Ear Cropping Ear cropping can be painful and may cause emotional trauma to your dog. Ear cropping also makes the ears very thin, so they can rip easily. Sometimes the ears do not heal properly and can lead to deformities that can affect hearing and cause other ear problems. Most veterinarians who are willing to do ear cropping will only do it if your dog meets the age requirements. Some may prefer to wait until the dog is at least 10 weeks old to do the procedure. The earlier you do it, the better the results. This is the safest and best option. You may also find some breeders or groomers who are able to do ear cropping. No matter whom you choose to do it, make sure they are reputable and experienced with Boxer ears. Boxer Ear Crop Styles There are different styles of ear crops for boxers. Some people have a preference, and other people just allow the person cropping the ears to choose the best option. Short Crop — This is a short crop where the ears stand and are very short. There is some ear noticeable, but the ears are very small. Show Crop — This crop is the most common and preferred. The length is in between the short and long crop, and this is the most common for dogs that are cropped for cosmetic reasons. Long Crop — This is the longest style of crop. The ears still stand, but they are much longer than other cropped styles. Battle Crop — This is the shortest style of crop and leaves hardly any of the ear intact. It was created to prevent the ears from being grabbed by other dogs in a fight. Boxer Ear Cropping Price The price of ear cropping can vary based on the style and the person doing the cropping. Boxer Ear Cropping Procedure During the procedure, the dog is put under, and the surgeon removes a small section of the ear. This allows the ears to stand. The ears are then sewed up the sides and bandaged. When the dog wakes up, they are able to go home with the owner, but care is required for many weeks to ensure the ears heal properly. Boxer Ear Cropping Aftercare It is important to keep the ears clean and allow them to heal. There are kits that include tape and supports, but some people make their own supports using tampons or plastic sticks wrapped in gauze. The incisions heal fairly quickly, usually within two weeks. It can take a while for the ears to be trained to stand, so many people keep the ears taped and supported even after the stitches are out or dissolved and the incision has healed. Most of the time, the ears will start to stand on their own around three to four weeks after the procedure. Sometimes it can take up to nine weeks. Most owners have to remove the support and tape every few days to check the ears to see if they are standing and if they will stand on their own. If the ears do not remain standing, they can be supported and taped again until they do. Boxer Ear Cropping Infection Ear cropping infections can occur. It is important to clean the ears and allow them to get air to scab over and heal. An antibiotic may be needed to help treat the infection. Boxer Ear Taping Ear taping is a way of training the ears to stay in a certain position. This is commonly done with ears that have been cropped, and some people tape the ears with supports to help them stand. The ears are positioned and then taped to hold that position. The tape can be removed every few days so the ears can be cleaned and then taped again. Taping After Cropping Ear taping is done after cropping to help the ears stand. The ears are gently put into the desired position, and the tape is wrapped around the base of the ear to hold them up. The ears are not completely wrapped and are never wrapped tightly. Another method is to use tampons and insert them alongside the outside portion of the ear and then tape the ears around them. This also prevents the ears from flapping as much and can give them a shorter appearance. They are taped to hold their position. Tape is removed every few days so the ears can be cleaned, and then they are taped again until they stay folded forward on their own. Conclusion While ear cropping is a controversial procedure, it is still very common and popular with certain dog breeds. Proper care and the right taping technique will ensure the ears heal properly and look good. Related Posts:.