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When you mix a husky with a bulldog, you get a mixed breed called a Buskdoggy. What are these dogs like? Are they a good fit for your family? Are they prone to health problems? How much do they cost? What is a bulldog husky mix? Bulldog husky mixes or Buskdoggy are wonderful family dogs and great with kids. They are a patient, loving dog that is inherited from its line of loyal dog breeds. This mix can be stubborn. One word of caution though, the bulldog husky mix is prone to health issues. The tough part about trying to explain the nature of a mixed dog breed is most mixed dog breeds come from two completely different breeds. This means your bulldog husky mix might have more husky or bulldog in them. This guide describes the most common personality traits in a bulldog husky mix. They are excellent guard dogs, but their overprotective nature can lead to reactivity towards unfamiliar dogs. Since Buskdoggies are mixed with huskies, they sometimes have a tendency to howl. Both breeds are pack animals. If you travel a lot or go on a lot of long vacations, you might want to rethink adopting a Buskdoggy. Uncovering the Facts Many husky bulldog mixes end up inheriting a long, thick, fly-away coat from the husky side. Knowing how to properly groom your Buskydoggy will help keep your house tidy as they shed. If your husky bulldog mix ends up inheriting a short, flat coat, then you get the bonus of a cute dog with less shedding! While a husky bulldog mix is widely praised and sought after, if you are a beginner dog owner, you might find your hands full with this breed. Buskydoggies are known for being gentle, loyal, loving, playful, and good with children. However, they can be pretty destructive if left to their own devices. Bulldogs and huskies are extremely different when it comes to their exercise needs. Huskies are one of the most active breeds and need consistent, high-impact exercise. Huskies have a lot of energy because they were initially bred for pulling sleds and working long days. Bulldogs, on the other hand, despite being originally bred to bait bulls, are some of the laziest dogs in the canine world. If your husky bulldog mix has more husky in them, then your Buskydoggy needs your commitment to a regular exercise schedule. The rule of thumb is to go on two walks a day and schedule some playtime either at home or at the park. Both breeds also have a habit of overheating. If you get a husky bulldog mix breed, then make sure to watch them in the hot sun and at mealtimes. Speaking of bad habits, huskies are also known for being little escape artists that can leap over a fence in a single bound or dig a hole underneath when that proves futile. If your heart is set on owning a husky bulldog mix, then just make sure your backyard is a fortress against an intelligent Buskdoggy. In fact, bulldogs are among the most expensive dogs to adopt, buy, and own. If you do decide to adopt or rescue a dog instead of buying a puppy , then the cost is going to be a lot cheaper. After you buy your husky bulldog mix puppy, there will be other associated costs that can be expected. A generalized list of some expenses to expect are as follows: Bulldog Service and Supplies. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Pinterest Email When looking for a Bulldog mix, it is essential to know that just because a particular breed of dog has different traits from each parent does not mean that the offspring will look like either of those traits. Like any other hybrid animal , Bulldog mixes are usually produced when dogs from two completely different breeds are mated. The goal then is to get the desirable characteristics from each parent and create a hybrid that has the desired traits. If the goal is to have a Husky look like a Bulldog, there are some specific considerations that you will need to take into consideration. Siberian Husky Mix. Siberian Husky mixes are some of the most popular dogs across. Their striking eyes and eager to please attitudes are attractive to many potential dog owners. Where does the Husky Bulldog Mix come from? In the gold rush of , dogs from the Anadyr and nearby areas were brought from Alaska as sled dog breeds. Huskies helped entire tribes. The exportation of Huskys from Siberia to the United States was in .Byrd took fifty Siberian Huskies along on an expedition. The American Kennel Club ranks the Husky at number twelve today. Around , the term Bulldog was used in literature as Bondogge or Bolddogge. A Preswick Eaton man first mentioned the modern period in .The Husky Bulldog Mix Buskdoggy is a powerful designer breed that has been created from cross-breeding of the Siberian Husky with the American Bulldog. Although not much information is available about its history, it is much more recent than pure breeds. Look at the health records of parents. One thing to consider is whether or not the Bulldog mixed with the Husky breed of a puppy has an excellent prognosis. To produce a healthy hybrid, both parents of the mixture should produce healthy puppies. The best way to check for this is by looking at the health records of both of the parents. It is also essential to ensure that both parents have excellent breeding records and show common traits that the hybrid can share. Huskies have a long, dense double coat, including an undercoat and top cost, that helps them endure freezing weather. In addition, as their name suggests, they are from one of the coldest parts of our planet, Siberia. On the other hand, Bulldogs usually have a short, silky, flat coat. It is hard to predict the coat type of Husky and Bulldog mixed breed. Consequently, they can have a long thick, or short and silky coat or something between these. In addition, Both Husky and Pitbull are medium to heavy shedders, and their offspring inherit it. You may like: Husky Akita Mix Grooming needs. The next thing to consider is whether or not the Bulldog mix with the Husky breed of a puppy has suitable grooming needs. These dogs do need to go regularly to the veterinarian to be groomed. Therefore, you will want to purchase grooming equipment such as brushes and nail trimmers. These items are less expensive than veterinarian bills and can provide excellent grooming needs for your Bulldog. Bulldogs are generally 14 to 15 inches up to their shoulder, weighing between 40 to 50 pounds. They are small to medium-sized dogs. Huskies are between 20 to 24 inches tall, and their weight is in the range of 35 to 60 pounds. A mix breed of Husky and Bulldog will be 14 to 18 inches up to shoulder and weigh between 45 to 55 pounds. The temperament The temperament of the bulldog mix with the Husky breed of puppy is critical. Huskies are very determined dogs, which means that a certain amount of obedience training will be required before being housebroken properly. A Husky is very friendly, attentive, and easy to train. In addition to being a great pet, they also make excellent watchdogs. However, they can become quite possessive if they feel that a member of their family is threatened, so you will want to take steps to ensure that they are safe when your bulldog terrier is out of your property. The activity. It is important to remember that this breed is very active and hard to own as a single dog. They require a lot of exercises and a daily dose of grooming. The average size for a French bull terrier is between ten and twelve pounds, but this can vary. The average age for this breed is four to five years, but this can vary based upon genetic factors. If you have two people in your household who do not share the same taste for animals, then this breed makes an ideal puppy for you and your spouse. As a puppy, they are pretty independent. They can live in their own home, in a group of up to four dogs, or a large group of ten to twelve. A French bull terrier is very protective of its owner and has a robust and devoted personality. It requires some prior experience and interaction to handle its temperament better, including the drive to hunt for prey. Well known for its gentle nature, the Siberian Husky makes a great loyal companion. It does well in cooler areas due to its double coat and requires large living spaces to exercise frequently to use up its high energy. The Husky Bulldog Mix might end up inheriting more Husky than Bulldog or vice versa; either way, you end up with a loving, friendly dog. Due to their obedience and alert nature, they make excellent guard dogs with the proper training. They were bred as sled dogs due to their high endurance and powerful traits, which made them ideal for pulling sleds through snow and ice. In Alaskans brought the Siberian Husky to the United States to participate in sled races, where it became an undefeated winner. This breed gained widespread popularity in when it transported antitoxins to Nome during the diphtheria epidemic. They are friendly, loving dogs that have gained popularity as excellent family dogs registered and recognized by the AKC in .They helped around the farms by protecting property, handling cattle, and hunting. This bloody sport, where an angry bull is pitted against another animal, like a dog, was considered entertainment. In English Bulldog cross breeds were created to maintain the breed resulting in the American Bulldog. Even though they were originally meant for hunting and working, they make family-friendly companions for most dog lovers. Husky Bulldog Mix Physical Characteristics Like all hybrids, the Husky Bulldog has a standard appearance for all dogs of this particular breed. The difference in appearance is something you should expect even from the same litter of puppies. Size and Weight Husky Bulldogs are medium to large-sized dogs measuring 14 to 18 inches to the shoulder and weighing 45 to 55 pounds. Coat Type and Color Variations From their parents, the Bulldog gets a coat that might be thicker or lighter in a single or double coat. The coat color can mix copper red and white and gray and white, but black and pure white are the most common color variations. Check out the following video to get a better sense of what a Husky Bulldog mix looks like: Husky Bulldog Mix Temperament The Husky Bulldog is a good-natured free-spirited dog, making it one of the most beloved dogs. Additionally, it has a gentle, friendly, affectionate nature, a trait of the Siberian Husky. If a guard dog is what you are looking for, the Bulldog is a great option as it is an alert, instinctively protective dog. It might be tricky since it makes the dog overprotective if it senses or suspects a family member is in danger. This territorial nature is a trait passed on by the American Bulldog, including courage also partly contributed by the Husky , making the offspring a brave dog. The bravery can become a problem if the dog is not socialized, as it will get into fights with other dogs. Since both parents are stubborn, this is a trait they generously pass on to the hybrid. But this should be fine because, with proper training, the Bulldog should develop desirable characteristics making it a good pet and valuable companion. The designer breed gets along well with children and other dogs and enjoys their company, making it an ideal family pet. However, due to the inclination to hunt for prey, it might get along poorly with smaller pets like cats. Care and Maintenance The level of care is determined by the type of coat the Husky Bulldog inherits; it can range from low to high maintenance. Combing the coat is recommended, as well as dental care you should brush the dogs once every day , and bathing the dog is advised to keep infections and a foul smell away. After every three weeks, you should have the nails trimmed, the eyes and ears appropriately cleaned, and routine dental treatments. Grooming and Shedding Because of the flyaway coat that the Husky Bulldog might inherit from the Husky parent, you will need to figure out how to groom and take care of the excess hair it sheds massively. If the dog inherits more of its coat from its other parent, you will not need to worry about excessive shedding. Exercise Requirements Image Credit: Instagram Exercise is necessary for the Husky Bulldog as it helps train and get the dog on a potty schedule. Forty minutes of exercise or two walks daily should be sufficient. Husky Bulldogs are prone to overheating, especially during summer; when you notice it, you can cool down the dog by hosing it down with cool water. Applying ice packs or towels dipped in cool water not iced also helps. Due to their need for regular exercise, Husky Bulldogs are ideally suited for homes with a yard. While taking the dog outside for exercise when living in an apartment may seem sufficient, they will do better, be happier, and be healthier in areas with plenty of space. However, they have a stubborn streak you can overcome with patience and early training. As with all dogs, positive reinforcement and a reward system are recommended to get desirable results. Since Bulldogs are intelligent, they will listen and be cooperative during training, granted the proper training techniques are used. Socializing the Bulldog prevents it from being overly aggressive and territorial with other dogs. Potty training your bulldog can be a successful process if done patiently, consistently, and with positive reinforcement. Obedience Training Obedience training is crucial for a Husky Bulldog due to its independent and determined nature. It also helps with the aspect of house training. But this should not be a concern as you can tackle it early with the proper training and socialization. Instead of barking, the Husky Bulldog howls a lot when left alone. It can be due to separation anxiety which you can solve using the crate training method. Because of their protective nature, they tend to be aggressive. Socializing and slowly introducing your Bulldog to other canines and strangers helps work on their aggressiveness. Advanced Training In addition to other basic training sessions , you can incorporate other forms of training to help the dog adapt and live well in society. You can include sessions covering leash walking, crate, and agility training. Feeding and Nutrition Image Credit: Instagram Before settling on a diet plan for your Husky Bulldog, you must factor in its age and activity level. Husky Bulldog Mix Health Problems and Care When getting a hybrid dog, you want to go for the one with an excellent healthy prognosis, achieved by reaching a dog bred from healthy pedigree parents. Because of their short nasal passages, Bulldogs are prone to respiratory problems. Another health issue they are likely to suffer from is cataracts, which can lead to blindness if not treated by surgery. Vaccinations and Preventive Care If you want your Husky Bulldog to stay healthy and happy, regular vet visits are recommended to catch the health issues on time and have them treated. The Husky Bulldog has a lifespan of about six years, which is short compared to other dogs. Husky Bulldog Breeders and Adoption You will want to get a Husky Bulldog from a reputable breeder, not any puppy mill with unethical practices or unverified pet stores. It will help you avoid too many health problems and veterinarian costs in the future. How to Choose a Reputable Breeder Finding and choosing a breeder who specifically breeds Husky Bulldogs might prove challenging. But with an increase in interest and popularity of designer dogs, you are likely to come across this hybrid dog. However, it might be harder to get this mixed breed since it is not the first option from the Husky mix or Bulldog mix breed. The local vet or animal control officers would be an excellent place to get information on good breeders. Look at getting a pet with fewer health issues. The price of rehoming a Bulldog from a shelter or rescue center is usually a fraction of the initial cost at a reputable breeder and also an excellent opportunity to provide a loving home for an abandoned dog. Other additional costs vary from one dog to another. The Bulldog is a great family dog that requires plenty of space preferably fenced, as they tend to wander off to cater to its need for activity and exercise. Share this post:. They inherit a decent amount of their physical appearance from both parent breeds. Depending on the inherited genetics, your Husky Bulldog mix may have a face like the American Bulldog — with its smooshed nose and bat-ears — high-set, triangular shape, and pointing outwards. However, your Husky Bulldog mix may also inherit the physical appearance of a Husky, with a long snout, black nose, and triangular ears that point upwards. Being an active breed, you can expect your Bulldog Husky mix to inherit the endurance of a Siberian Husky, with muscular and powerful hindquarters resembling that of the Husky. In contrast, it may have the chest of an American Bulldog. This highly energetic breed is well sought-after among designer dog breeds because of its physical prowess. Buy Now Disclaimer — This website uses affiliate links and gets a small commission at no additional cost to you. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. Since the outlawing, the Old English Bulldog was preserved by new immigrants to the United States shortly after , who would go on crossbreed English Bulldog mixes that would maintain the breed, renaming it the American Bulldog. The American Bulldog has a slightly different physical appearance from its English progenitor. This includes body length and overall physical activity levels. As the name might suggest, the American Bulldog is a very popular dog within the United States, first brought over shortly after and recognized as a breed in .Given their popularity, the American Bulldog is clearly seen by American society as a great dog for almost any owner. Despite being small and somewhat frumpy, Bulldogs still require plenty of exercise. Bulldogs also make great family pets, as they are generally gentle and good with children and other pets. How Did Bulldogs Come About? The Old English Bulldog would eventually become extinct, making way for the American Bulldog to become popular in the New World after Americans bred their English Bulldog immigrant pets. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in .American Bulldogs are also named differently to the French Bulldog, which has a much different history than their American counterpart. The detailed history of crossbreeding the American Bulldog to create an American Bulldog mix is a little sketchy. We are still determining when the first mixed-breed American Bulldog was made, what it was crossed with, or by whom. Crossbreeding became popular in the United States in the s and early s. Popular Bulldog crossbreeds include:. This dog is a high energy dog with a lot of love and affection. This is a big dog with an even bigger heart. They are incredibly loyal and love to play. But do they also make a good family pet? The Siberian Husky, Samoyed, and the Alaskan Malamute are all breeds directly descended from the original sled dog. The descending breeds were once found throughout the northern hemisphere. Dogs from the Anadyr River and surrounding areas were imported from Alaska in to be used as sled dogs during the gold rush. Huskies helped entire tribes. Byrd brought about fifty Siberian Huskies with him on an expedition. Today the Husky ranks at number twelve with the American Kennel Club. The term Bulldog was mentioned in literature around as Bondogge and Bolddogge. The modern term was first mentioned in by a man named Preswick Eaton. Over the centuries, dogs used for bull baiting developed stocky bodies and bigger heads and jaws. This also made them grow a savage and ferocious temperament. The Husky Bulldog mix is a combination of these two breeds. You can find information all over the internet about purebred dogs and mutts. Which one is right for you? Some people believe that mutts are better than purebred dogs, due to them being healthier with longer lifespans and lower incidence of disease. Although mutts seem to suffer more from infectious diseases at the time of adoption, since more purebreds are purchased than adopted. Statistically speaking, mixes win out. Bulldogs have a jaw strength of psi. Huskies can change their metabolism. A team of Huskies saved an entire town by delivering a medical serum to Nome, Alaska in the midst of a diphtheria outbreak. They come in various colors and patterns, usually with white paws and legs. The most common coat is black and white. Other colors are copper-red and white, gray and white, and pure white. Huskies stand anywhere from eighteen to twenty-four inches tall, weighing in around thirty-five to sixty pounds. They have a long nose and big ears. Unlike the Bulldog, Huskies have a long thick coat of fur, whereas the Bulldog has a shorter flat coat. The Bulldog characteristically has a wide head, loose skin, and broad shoulders. The color coat on the Bulldog can vary from red, fawn, white, brindle, and piebald. This dog weighs, on average, fifty to fifty-five pounds and stands around fourteen to fifteen inches tall. Mixed breeds are a random assortment of their parents. Because of this, mixed breeds can look evenly like both parents, mostly like one, or anywhere between. It should not be vicious or aggressive. Despite this, Bulldogs can be aggressive towards other dogs. Bulldogs can be stubborn and impatient. The Bulldog tends to be cooperative and intelligent. They generally get along well with children and families. They instinctively are protective animals so that they can make a good guard dog. The Husky howls rather than barks and has been described as an escape artist. If they have been raised in a family setting, they are usually gentle with children. Huskies tend to have very high energy and can be destructive without proper care. They also are very outgoing, intelligent, and friendly. The Husky also tends to be adventurous and playful. Due to their intelligence, they tend to cooperate and listen very well. Lastly, the Husky is quite alert and intelligent. Mixing the Husky with the Bulldog can produce a dog with any of these traits. Training Your Husky Bulldog Mix One of the first steps in training your pet is making sure you house train them. This will prevent any unwanted accidents in the house. Crate training your Husky Bulldog is a great idea if they are experiencing any kind of separation anxiety or just trying to get used to a new environment. Exercise is a huge role in training any puppy. The Husky Bulldog needs at least forty minutes of exercise each day. Taking them on two daily walks will give them plenty of exercises and will get them on a healthy bathroom schedule. These scheduled walks will also mean fewer accidents in the house. This breed tends to be a little stubborn, so treats can aid in the training process. The Bulldog has a tendency to overheat. If this happens, you can hose them down or apply an ice pack or wet towel to them. Use cool water, not ice water. This will keep from constricting their blood vessels and a loss of blood flow. Husky Bulldog Mix Health One of the most common health problems with Huskies is cataracts , affecting around ten percent of the breed. This can lead to blindness later on. Another health issue with the Husky is hip dysplasia. This is very common in Huskies and can lead to severe changes in the hip joint. Luckily, this disorder can be detected by an X-ray. Bulldogs do not live very long. Height: 20 - 23 inches at the shoulder Weight: 35 - 60 lb. Lifespan: years Siberian Husky American Bulldog Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could have obviously make for a very powerful dog that might be a little tough to handle. They might be an alpha with a strong personality and needs a strong owner with experience who can set themselves as pack leader. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The mixed with the Bulldog might be prone to cardiac and respiratory disease, hip dysplasia, cherry eye, and other concerns. Highly prone to heat problems. Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. The Husky mixed with the American Bulldog is going to shed all year round. So get ready to have a vacuum ready and brush him a few days a week. Give him baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out his skin. Other than these requirements he is a pretty easy keeper. What are the exercise requirements? This could be a very high energy dog as the Husky has a ton of energy. Plan on exercising them daily to keep their energy level down. A tired dog is a good dog. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the training requirements? All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. As the dire wolves on the TV screen interested viewers, so did the demand for these artic dogs. Consequently, they have a thick double coat that protects them from the weather. Their pointing ears and long canines give them a wolf-like look , which further draws in enthusiasts of the wild. They weigh between 35 to 60 pounds with a height of 20 to 24 inches. Also, they are friendly pooches. Although they have the severe looks that can scare an intruder, Huskies are poor watchdogs and guard dogs. They have no reservation against strangers and would rather get acquainted than attack. Training is for the firm, experienced leader. One may wonder why breeders opted to mix these dogs, though the crossing did produce intriguing offspring. Unfortunately, it has a fighting past as it was used in the bloody sports of bull-baiting. After the Second World War, this breed almost got extinct. It was saved by some breeders and is now a popular feature in many homes. This bulldog is stockier than the Husky with shorter legs and a thicker head. They also have a shorter, single coat. They weigh 60 to pounds with a height of 20 to 28 inches. This dog breed makes a good companion because of its friendly nature and affection towards family members. It is common in many American families and has made its way to popular shows, including the character Spike in Tom and Jerry. Popular dogs like the American Bulldog get poorly bred, so it is more likely to get one with health problems and behavioral issues. You just be extra diligent when getting a Bulldog or any Bulldog mix. Huskies once saved a town Besides having popular parents, our designer doggy friend also has a heroic parent. The Siberian Husky once played a vital role in the survival of an Alaskan town named Nome. This happened in , during a diphtheria outbreak that threatened the people in Nome, especially children. With air transport being impossible, sled dogs were used to deliver serum to the town. Amongst these sled dogs, there was Togo, who was praised for traveling miles. There are no uniform standards for appearance, size, or temperament. The best way to know how is to observe the parents. Some of these designer dogs will look and act like the Bulldog, others will favor the Husky. The third group will rest on the fence and blend traits. The mixed breed is energetic and love space Regardless of which parent dominates more in a particular offspring, it has energy and needs regular exercise to be okay. The Bulldog needs less than the Husky, so the hybrid may fall in between. This also means it does better in a house that has a yard. While this breed can relax indoors after an exercise, it is not a good choice for apartment dwellers. It is scarce The Husky Bulldog mix is not easily found, and it is not the first option people will look out for when they want either a Husky mix or a Bulldog mix. It takes some work to locate one of these dogs. You should be ready to see many differences in look, even from puppies of the same litter. The hybrid can either be with slim legs and long ears like the Husky or have the stocky build of the Bulldog. Usually, you may find a combination of both, giving you a dog with the looks of a Husky but the body of a Bulldog. Size Like appearance, size is also determined by the parents. This makes it a medium to a large-sized dog breed, and some of these dogs will be bigger than others. This is a major reason why you need a wide space to own this mix. Apartment dwellers will do better with a smaller, calmer pooch. Colors and Coat Type The wide difference between the parents is also evident in the coat type. There may be no middle ground in coat type, so a mix may have a thick double coat or a lighter single coat. They have a potpourri of colors to choose from. These include black and white, brindle, fawn, gray and white, red. Having parents free of behavioral problems will give the offspring a better chance of being a well-mannered puppy. To ascertain traits your particular mixed dog will have, understand the personality of the parents. The Siberian Husky is notably friendlier than the Bulldog, even extending it towards strangers. Bulldogs have a guard dog wariness towards strangers and may be territorial in their bid to protect their families. The mix may either be accepting or reserved for strangers. The courage makes them brave, but do not let your pet get into a fight with another canine. That would be encouraging aggressive behavior. Realted: In addition, the designer breed may be stubborn and sometimes show independent thinking. This is common in both parent breeds. That said, you need to be a veteran pet parent to handle this breed. Overall, this breed makes a valuable companion. Regardless of what traits it gets from its parents, it turns out to be a good pet and worker when well trained. The Husky Bulldog has parents who have both proven themselves as good family dogs, so it has a good path to follow. A good buddy of adults and a playmate of kids, this mix integrate well into household settings. The environment, lifestyle, and experience of the owners influence the choice of this crossbreed. The relationship of this mixed breed with other dogs is complex. While the Husky parent is a pack dog who enjoys canine company, the Bulldog is territorial and may even get aggressive towards dogs. Introduce the mix slowly to other dogs and gauge its reaction. Its high prey drive may make it a poor choice for homes with cats and other smaller pets.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. He made the long trip to Maryland with no complaints. He is such a happy and confident pup. He has acclimated beautifully to his new kingdom. He has his own room with all the amenities that two empty nesters can give. My friends know how much I have been looking forward to having a pug in the house again and have basically given me a "puppy shower. She has had him on a training schedule and he is adapting beautifully. He has not had any accidents and has plenty of playtime vs nap time. I have to share my FaceTime moments with my 4 year old Georgia twins. They get on the phone saying, "We love you GramTam, can we see Moses? Thank you again. We truly feel blessed to have a pug in our home again. As soon as he has finished his shots, he will be visiting my father's nursing home. My Dad is the one that started me on my lifelong love of pugs and he is looking forward to meeting Moses. Peace to you and your family, Tammy D. Frank is settling in quite nicely here. He is eating and drinking well. His favorite thing to do is follow people around the house. If someone is moving then he want to be moving too. He and Laverne have also developed a bit of a friendship. Laverne enjoys playing with him and helping herself to all the chew toys that arrived with him. Thank you so much for creating this adorable pup! A long journey home and they were so good. They are adjusting really well! They love their new toys and their new big brother Gatsby. He is taking his time interacting in small doses and observing them from outside the pen as they try to nurse on him lol. They have a 90 percent accuracy rate on potty pads too! I just wanted to thank you once again for bringing Pearl into the world! She did great today! Thank you so much puppy. I love him so much. He is very comfortable at home. He plays with my dogs and is not scared of anything. Thank you for the snacks and everything you give. Thank you so much! My recommendation of your program could not be more glowing. Check Wesley is all settled in at his new place and is doing really well! He's slept through the night, has been peeing and pooping mostly on the pee pad and is really playful and snuggly. Hi Tammie and Anthony, I wanted to let you know that Charlie is doing great and settling in well. We gave him quiet time and a dark room last night when we got home, and he ate and drank and has been using the pee pad. He whimpered a couple of times but mostly slept great through the night! He's been more active today--lots of snuggles and licks, a really happy guy. We've been giving him lots of rest time too, though--we know it's a big transition. Quick update on Gizmo. He is doing great and is loved by everyone. He is the healthiest and happiest little guy ever. Everything you said to do when I got him worked. He never, ever whined at night when I put him in the Dark to go to bed! Thank you! Good morning! We have decided to name him Angus and we think it suits him so well! He is a perfect fit for our family and everyone adores him. He is fitting in so well and is eating regularly! He weighed in at 9. Here are some fun pics of him! Victoria Adams Izzy is the most beautiful, sweet and silly little girl! We put her in her room for 2 hours yesterday and she seemed very calm when we introduced her to her new family! Such a little love! She has been eating and drinking! She is pure perfection! They are all ready laying next to each other: So sweet! Kelly K. Just wanted to send some pics! Gus is such a love bug and is such a fun play mate for our girls. They call him Gussy. Just wanted to give you an update. We decided to name him Bean! He plays so well with my daughter and loves to follow her around the whole house. I just wanted to thank you so much for everything. She ate some wet food and potty outside right after! Wanted to thank you! You made this awesome and we already love this girl! Below are pictures of pugs that are examples of our past baby pugs and adult pugs. Pictures are either taken by us or sent to us from adopters. They are some of our favorite pictures we wanted to share with you! This page is a work in progress so check back for updates. Sometimes calm and dignified. Always sturdy and stable, good-humored and amiable. This is the Pug. Though peaceful with all the world people and other animals , the Pug will sound off with his rather odd-sounding bark when visitors arrive. Then he will welcome them inside with snorts, snuffles, and grunts. As is the case with most short-faced dogs, his large expressive eyes, wrinkled forehead, cocked head, innocent expression, and strange sounds bring out parental feelings in many people. Indeed, a Pug is very childlike and always wants to be with you. If not spoiled too much, he can be depended on to maintain his sweet, comical, charming personality. Though stubborn, Pugs seldom get into real mischief. Adults spend much of the day sleeping. Gassiness can be an embarrassing problem, and housebreaking can be a challenge, especially in the rain, which Pugs detest. The biggest concern with this breed is their many serious health problems. If you want a dog who.Is small, yet sturdy and blocky Has a short face with large expressive eyes Has a short coat Is usually polite with everyone, including other pets Doesn't need much exercise Seldom gets into real mischief A Pug may be right for you. If you don't want to deal with.Snorting, snuffling, wheezing, snoring, some slobbering Gassiness flatulence Slowness to housebreak Constant shedding — every day! Lots of potential health problems due to his deformed build — yes, it might look cute, but it is badly deformed A Pug may not be right for you. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Pugs have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up. More traits and characteristics of the Pug If I was considering a Pug, I would be most concerned about.Health problems. Unfortunately, breeders deliberately breed these good-natured dogs to be deformed. As such, they suffer more than their share of health problems — not only with their breathing, but also eye diseases, joint diseases, and a devastating fatal neurological disease called Pug Dog Encephalitis. Read more about Pug Health. Gassiness flatulence. All short-faced breeds gulp air when they eat, and that air has to go somewhere, after all. However, commercial diets make flatulence worse by including fibrous or hard-to-digest ingredients. Pugs who are fed a homemade diet of real meat and vegetables have much less trouble with gassiness. Constant shedding. It usually comes as a shock to new Pug owners just how much a Pug sheds. Most dog breeds have two shedding seasons per year where they shed the majority of their dead hairs. But Pugs are constant shedders who drop a moderate amount of hair all year. You need to be sure that you're okay with this! Pug "sounds". Pugs snort, snuffle, wheeze, grunt, and snore loudly. The sounds are endearing to some people; nerve-wracking to others. Pugs can be slow to pick up the concept of housebreaking. Expect several months of consistent crate training. Read more about housebreaking your Pug. Though they seldom get into real trouble, most Pugs are at least mildly stubborn. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say. Food is a great motivator with this breed, but too many cookies equals a fat Pug. Also you don't want a dog who only obeys when you're waving a biscuit at him. Instead you should establish the right relationship between the two of you, where you are the leader and he is the follower. In other words, you must teach your Pug to respect you. Read more about Pug Training. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. Should I buy a pug puppy at a pet store? Before you start: Before you start looking for pug breeders, there are a few things you should do to improve your experience. Understand breed standards — Not all pugs are created equal. Some are show quality and bred to match breed standards, while others may be off on a few aesthetic details. Have patience — The process of finding a pug breeder, waiting for a litter and bringing your puppy home can take months! How to find pug breeders Finding breeders to reach out to is step one. There are a number of ways of find reputable breeders: Reach out to friends — Have a friend or acquaintance with a pug? Reach out to them about their experience and breeder info. Slide into their DMs and ask about their breeder. Attend one to get the low down on litters. More on this below. Be prepared to do your research and ask lots of questions. Here are questions the breeder should be prepared to answer: What requirements do you have of people looking to take home one of your puppies? Breeders should be as interested in you as you are in them. They should ask about you, your family and your household. Can I meet the parents? Plus, seeing the parents will give you an idea of what their puppies will be like both in terms of temperament and looks. Have health tests been performed on the parents? This will ensure both parents are healthy and free of genetic diseases common to the pug breed. How long have you been breeding and what is your experience with this breed? Breeders should have a deep understanding of the breed and a history that includes either showing dogs or being part of a breed club. How do you socialize your puppies? Puppies should be well socialized in a home environment so they grow to be well-adjusted dogs. When will I be able to take the puppy home? Responsible breeders will not allow puppies to be taken home until they are at least ten weeks old. Puppies should be up-to-date on vaccinations and come with a health guarantee and contract for you to sign. Many breeders will also require you to agree to spay or neuter the dog, unless you plan to show them. A breeder should welcome back any dog that you can no longer care for. Can we speak to references and your vet? The breeder should be willing to provide references from others who have purchased their puppies, as well as the contact information for their veterinarian. Are you available as a resource after I take the puppy home? They should provide care instructions and be available as a resource. Reputable breeders are interested in you, your family and your household. Pug puppy scams Puppy scams are rampant all across the internet. In many cases, the puppy advertised never even existed. According to the Better Business Bureau, 3. You can learn ways to avoid puppy scams by checking for the following breeder red flags. Pug breeder red flags If you pay attention, you can avoid puppy scams and backyard breeders. If the pug breeder does any of the following things, run the other way. Absolutely not. Pet stores get their puppies from puppy mills, commercial dog breeding facilities that keeps dogs in cruel and unsafe conditions. Remember those sad dog commercials with the Sarah McLaughlin music? Those are puppy mills. There are an estimated 10, puppy mills in the United States. All they care about is money and churning out puppies. Dogs are kept in horrid conditions, receive no veterinary care, and are often sick and underfed. The majority of puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy mills. Click here to learn more about pug prices. Click here to learn more about pug stuff. Pin for later! They believe that they are undercover rottweilers. They are sturdy, love to play, love to sleep on your lap, and love treats and meals. Most pugs will need a diet at some point unless you can withstand those sweet faces! They bond with the entire family and specially treat each family member, puged to what the person needs. I am a hardcore fan. Just remember, you can and should obedience train a pug. But never mistake your pug for a dog. They overheat quickly, so leaving them outside is dangerous for the pug. The have energy if you do, but pugs love hanging out on the sofa and chilling with you. I love her to death, I've had her since she was 6wks. I've always been a lg breed owner and at first didn't know how to being or really what to do or expect. But we learned from each other and it all turned out great!!! They are so easy to train and smart! I recommend this breed. I love my pug! She is so sweet, fun, loving and cute!!!! Rating: Pug Breed Review by MARY HAWK yes i had pug name was lady my baby she live over 17 years old she pass old age i love her a lot she was my little girl she pass over going on six year go i hope to get little girl boy this time no breeding them just for my babys thank you mary you all stay safe for me Rating: Pug Breed Review by June Coombs Both my husband and I are retired. We have our own home with a large fenced in area on the rear of our home which our current doggie, Mia has free access to. Plus both my husband and I love walking her and going for car rides and cuddling! Great dog with so much personality! I just had to put him to sleep and miss him very much. Nemo was the best dog I have had, so very smart and loyal. Never had a problem in training him. If I was home he was with me. If you are looking for dog you should consider a pug. Only problem is shedding. Rating: Pug Breed Review by colleen pronto how much is the pug? He has been a wonderful pet. He will play like no other, and we have become very close to him.There is no cure and I doubt he will even make it to his 1st birthday April 28th. There is a test and percentage system that a reputable breeder should use when breeding their dogs to keep this from happening. At least google it before you purchase on of these sweet dogs. I'm totally heartbroken, don't let this happen to you. I cannot begin to tell you how much love and affection brought to each of us. We loved him dearly and loved taking care of him. I have since lost Gleason, of course; and lost my dear husband four years ago. I am so ready to welcome a new male, fawn pug into my life. I am starting my search today. She has brought us a ton of joy so I am searching for a puppy for my husband for his birthday. She is wonderful, well behaved. My aunt used to show them nationally. I really love the breed Rating: Pug Breed Review by daniel edwards they are definitely a one person pet, i fell in love with this breed 14 years ago,while on a trip visiting a township Helen,Ga. Take it out to make it go to the bathroom. Make sure it eats. They are maybe.I have been blessed with having 3 pugs in my life to date. They are sweet, loving and affectionate. They do shed a lot, however the love they give makes it all worth the extra laundering and roller brushing of your clothes, etc. Each of my pugs has had their own distinct personality, and I have quickly fallen in love with each one. It is important to understand all the health risks before deciding to add a pug to your family, as they are not for anyone who is looking to add a fur baby with minimal vet bills. They are worth every penny, however. If you want a pup that is loving, affectionate, good with kids and makes you laugh, add a pug to your family. You won't be sorry. I used to call mine "snuggle puggle". They have a wonderful temperament and would not harm a flea no really. They are smart and loveable. The best of breeds in my humble opinion. What is the age? They love to cuddle and play. They are great for children. And there face the wrinkles they are so cute. We have a fawn and a black one. They are smart and mine were easy to train. Very sweet and funny to watch. Rating: Pug Breed Review by Virginia. Weiser I bought a 4 month old male fawn pug he will be turning three this year he is my joy he is very well trained. He loves all animal he buddies are Bassett hounds. I can't image life without him. Rating: Pug Breed Review by angela they are great dogs! Not only is this a very intelligent and sweet dog. They are very loyal and are great companions. My pug follows me all over the house. He enjoys anyone who comes to visit. He is extremely sociable. Satchmo enjoys going for car rides. He has a very good disposition with kids and other pets, he even likes cats. Pugs are very trainable and learn quickly, they enjoy pleasing their owner. I would buy a pug over and over again. As a matter of fact, I am in the market for another pug to keep Satchmo company. They have the best personalities of any dog I've ever owned. They are extremely great with children. Most other animals. And are very loyal. They do shed alot, and sometimes are hard to train, however they are the best breed out there! They are very loyal but can at times be stubborn so be sure to train them at a young age. All had lived a loving life as a family member. I have been blessed with all my doggies living 11 to 15 years. Rating: Pug Breed Review by alyssa williams it so cute fluffy!!!!! Mine is no longer with me and I miss her every single day. Rating: Pug Breed Review by Geoffrey ellis About a year ago r family purchased an all black pug which was my first small dog. He was such a fun playful loving dog that my kids instead we get him a friend. These dogs are great with kids they are very playful and funny smart animals, other nice thing about them is they do not run around like maniacs all the time if u want t relax and watch TV they love to snuggle up next to u they are great c OK companies and loving member of the family!!! Very smart. I have owned two pugs in the last 12 years and the both of them captured my heart. Very high maintenance, you must read about and understand the breed Please. You must understand that they are people family oriented. The most important is hot humid conditions and extreme cold. Always treat them as you would treat your own children and they will be fine.

Skinny, sick and extremely weak, Tracy just barely clung to life — and whenever she tried to walk, she nearly fell over. The vet began treating her for pancreatitis, but after two days, she showed no signs of improvement. She was brought to an emergency vet clinic, where more tests were done, but the cause of her sickness still remained a mystery. The day before Christmas Eve, we knew we had to bring her to the only other people who could give her more help. After a few more tests, the vets concluded Tracy was only suffering from one thing: starvation. After four days in their care, she had improved enough to move to an experienced foster home that frequently works with Adopt A Boxer. Although experiencing a house for the first time was scary, Tracy has found comfort in her foster siblings and is getting more confident each day. An estimated 2 million of these puppies are sold through pet shops and other retailers each year. Like the mill where Tracy lived, most puppy mills in America are licensed by the USDA, which enforces only the minimum animal care regulations required under the Animal Welfare Act. These regulations cover only the most basic survival standards like food, water and shelter — which allow licensed puppy dealers to keep hundreds of dogs in cages for the duration of their lives with little to no exercise or human attention. While these standards are in place, some mills continue to fall under the radar, resulting in extremely sick, even starving dogs like Tracy. And now that her situation has been reported, the Pennsylvania SPCA has opened an active investigation into the mill that she came from. In the meantime, giving these dogs the best life really is the best revenge. You can also take a pledge against puppy mills and donate to investigations that help shut them down. By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy. Cookie Settings. How To Choose Your Boxer Dog by: Amy Howells An easier and more pleasant journey with your chosen Boxer starts with checking out the parent dogs for unbecoming traits like aggression, hyperactive and extreme shyness. This is easier to do when you get your Boxer from a reputable breeder or from a pet shop that get their animals only from known breeders. Exercise prudence if you are getting your Boxer puppy from pet stores, which often get their supply from breeders of unknown reputation. These "puppy mills" as they are called are not known to put much emphasis on the quality and health of pups they are producing. Reputable breeders would adhere to the accepted standards for Boxers in terms of uniformity in the breed, good health, temperament, size and color. Professional breeders are also there to produce dog show champions or prospects. But the full litter would have had benefited from the same proven bloodlines, nutrition and medical care. So you can choose from among the good-looking brothers or sisters of potential champion for a bargain. Paying the adoption fee is a lot cheaper than the price you will pay to a breeder or pet store, and you will be saving a life. The definition of good stock or purebred must include beauty, and in a Boxer good look means the coat is fawn and brindle, with the white markings or "flash" covering not more than one-third of the entire coat. Sometimes the distribution of the "flash" alone may make the difference between a show champion and just a pet Boxer. The all-white Boxer or "check" is prone to blindness and deafness, and the American Boxer Club members are not to register, sell or use the "whites" for breeding. When it comes to choosing male or female Boxers, there are not much clear-cut differences in their personalities. At times, the male is calmer, more tolerant of other dogs, willing to hold still for those hugs than the female. But at other times, the female can be so. One owner said the female Boxer is hyper and more aggressive especially toward other females, and that the aggression has increased as the female gets older. Find a Boxer breeder with a puppy for sale. If you can't find any dog breeders for a certain breed then place a Boxer wanted ad. Once you find a puppy, shop our pet supplies and dog supplies at our online pet supply store. Remember that reputable Boxer breeders will always require you to answer specific questions ranging from asking you to explain why you would want a Boxer puppy to requesting you to provide a veterinary reference if you already have pets. A reputable Boxer breeder doesn't just sell their Boxer puppies to the first interested buyer! Read more information on how to choose a Boxer dog breeder. The Boxer breeders listed below are not pre-screened nor are any of the breeders listed in our dog breeder directory. Next Day Pets accepts no responsibilty for the dog breeders said commitments, guarantees, reputation or quality of service. We encourage you to interview the Boxer dog breeders and to become knowledgeable about what is called the dog breed standards before purchasing a puppy. Buying A Boxer Puppy? Finding Your Puppy -- Buying From the Breeder The conscientious breeder plans a breeding to reproduce the best characteristics of an outstanding sire or dam. His guide is the official AKC Standard of the breedthe written "blueprint" that helps keep the breed uniform for generations to come. You can find the breed standard, revised in , at the American Boxer Club website: www. The more common disappointments for pet purchasers come from commercial sources--especially pet shops that often buy puppies from the infamous "puppy mills" that take little notice of the quality or health they are producing. The pet store or dog broker will sell you a puppy with a breeder's name attached to the paperwork--but this puppy may easily have been born in a puppy mill. The reputable breeder, on the other hand, will not only be able to demonstrate the pedigree and registration papers, but will also show you either the sire or dam themselves, or pictures of the parent who may be owned elsewhere. Though the mere presence of "papers" does not guarantee good health, conformation, or temperament, you will most often find these attributes in the puppy who has been raised with loving care in the home or kennel of a conscientious hobby breeder. The serious breeder often strives to produce a potential "champion. Sometimes the distribution of white markings alone may make the difference between the so-called "pet" and show-potential puppy. The pet puppy will have benefited from the same proven bloodlines, nutrition, and medical care as its "champion" littermate. His breeder will have health tested the parents and done the best he can to insure good temperament, soundness, and longevity. Here is your best buy. Boxer magazines publish ads from breeders. The American Boxer Club web site www. Usually any time after weeks. Many states have regulations regarding minimum age. However, your individual circumstances must be considered. Do you have the time to spend with a very young puppy? Will someone be home to housebreak him? Would an exuberant 6-month old puppy overwhelm a tiny child? Or would he be better matched with a 6-year-old youngster? Remember too that the puppy under 3 months needs lots of time to rest. Don't forget that adult dogs, already trained, also make ideal pets. While much can be told at six to eight weeks about the puppy's eventual looks, if you are seeking a show prospect you might be better off waiting until the pup is six to eight months of age. At that time, be prepared to pay a higher price for all the additional time and effort that the breeder has spent raising the show potential Boxer. Male or Female? This choice is a matter of personal preference. Both males and females make admirable pets. Breeding is a serious committment of time, energy, and money, and not to be taken lightly. If breeding is not anticipated, it may be appropriate to spay or neuter your dog. This procedure is best done as your Boxer approaches adolescence. Please be aware that these surgeries should be discussed with your veterinarian as to safety of anesthesia and any long term effects other than sterilization. Spayed and neutered animals are not eligible to compete in the conformation ring but may be shown in performance events. Check this list! Tails should have been docked within a few days of birth. Optional removal of front dewclaws fifth toes is done at the same time. The Boxer has no rear dewclaws. Ear cropping is customary and appropriate but not required--it is a matter of personal preference. Uncropped ears are permitted under the breed standard. If cropped, this procedure is done under general anesthesia, usually between six and nine weeks of age. If the puppy is taken before cropping, the breeder usually makes arrangements. The breeder also advises regarding aftercare and taping if ears are not already standing. Sometimes this is a lengthy process. In the male, both testicles should be descended into the scrotum. They should be in place by two to three months of age. A dog with undescended testicles may still make a fine pet, though he would be ineligible to compete in the conformation show ring. Consult your veterinarian for advice. Avoid the unusually quiet, inactive puppy, or the one that might shy away from you. This might mean a fault in temperament or even ill health. Papers the Seller Should Furnish: a. A three or four generation pedigree signed by the seller. There should be no extra charge for this. The pedigree preferably gives the color of the sire and dam, and the AKC registration numbers of each. The registration from the AKC, which is an official document identifying your puppy's individual registration number, sex, birth date, sire and dam, and name of the breeder s. There are two ways to register puppies for the first time: 1 Limited Registration If the puppy is not to be bred, and is being purchased only as a companion pet, the breeder may check off the Limited Registration option. This does register the puppy with the AKC. However, it does not allow any registration of offspring from the mature dog. The breeder and only the breeder can cancel the limited registration should the puppy at maturity be considered of breeding quality. Records the Breeder Should Furnish: a. Date and type of vaccines given. Depending on the type of vaccination program started, your veterinarian will advise you on following through. Vaccination protocols are evolving even among the medical professionals. Date and agent used for worming, if done. Do not worm your puppy without consulting your veterinarian. Avoid store-bought preparations which can be dangerous. Diet your puppy has been receiving. It is well to maintain the regimen begun by the breeder, especially while the puppy is adjusting to his new home. If changes are to be made. When he is an adult it will be wise to maintain your Boxer on two smaller meals a day. The Bonhams have been linked to Petland. Missouri Department of Agriculture 1. Her ribs jut out; her hip bones and spinal column are starkly visible. And just beside her emaciated body is a pile of five tiny puppies sleeping next to an empty bowl. Protect dogs from cruel puppy mills! A Missouri Department of Agriculture inspector documented this boxer, whose name is Lindy Lou, at a breeding facility that is still licensed, not only by the state, but by the U. Department of Agriculture. Lindy Lou was not confiscated; the inspectors required the owner to have her treated by a veterinarian within two days of the inspection. An emaciated mother boxer documented with her puppies at Rocky Top K-9s by a state inspector. Something must be done. Every year in our Horrible Hundred report, we expose problem puppy mills across the U. The cruelty is never easy to witness or read about. But sharing the plight of dogs like that mother boxer and her puppies is essential to correcting a broken enforcement system that fails to prevent animal suffering. We publish the report in the hopes of raising that number every year. Among other things, the Horrible Hundred report concentrates pressure on government agencies to prioritize the enforcement of humane laws, to confiscate animals who are suffering and, where charges are warranted, to apply strong penalties. The report also serves as a powerful reminder for the public, educating them about common problems at puppy mills and urging people to do their due diligence when searching for a new puppy to bring home. Everyone can take a stand against cruel puppy mills by sharing this information with friends and family members about the shameful industry so often behind cute puppies in pet shop windows or pictured in ads online. We want to raise awareness of these problems and spare families from going through this painful and expensive experience. Takeaways from the new Horrible Hundred report show systemic problems with mass-scale breeders: Many of the puppy mills in this report have been featured in five, six or even eight previous years. For the 11th year in a row, Missouri had the most dealers in the report, with 31 dealers on the list, followed by Iowa and Ohio 13 each Pennsylvania eight and Kansas and New York six each. At least 12 of the puppy mills in the report have sold to Petland, the only national chain of puppy-selling pet stores still operating. Horrible Hundred highlights prove that dogs cannot wait for stricter enforcement: At the Rocky Top K-9s property in Missouri, an operation that appears in our report for the eighth time, state inspectors found cockroaches, piles of feces, and many other issues, in addition to the emaciated mother boxer. This adds to the many violations that have been found at the property over the past decade. Large dogs were confined in tiny airline crates and did not have access to water. At a breeding operation in Nebraska Clem Disterhaupt Jr. To underscore the urgency of helping dogs at these facilities, we are releasing undercover footage of some of the dealers listed in the report. You can advocate for better treatment of dogs currently languishing in puppy mills by asking your lawmakers to support the Puppy Protection Act of , which would require greater standards of care at commercial dog breeding operations licensed by the USDA. Animal shelters are full of dogs and cats who would make wonderful companions. And sign this pledge to never buy a puppy from a pet store or online , as you could be supporting puppy mills with your purchase.

Amazing litter born August Pls contact IG. All puppies are born in Ontario, Canada. This is a full hands on kennel with.She is a diva, very smart and sweet, loves to snuggle under the blankets, gets the zoomies and needs to be spoiled. Up to date.Litter is registered- papers, breeding rights at an additional cost. She comes with her shots and deworming x2 and flea and tick.The gas-injected glass-filled polypropylene seat back and chair legs are both rustproof and UV protected. Award-winning and ergonomically designed for comfort lumbar support and tested up to lbs. Antimicrobial available Shipping by seller Senior female English bulldog London I am rehoming my female English bulldog as I am relocating and can no longer take care of her. She is very sweet and cuddly. She loves playing with her toys and getting spoiled. She loves attention.Phenomenal quality litter, purebred French Bulldogs. They come with first and second sets of vaccines, microchip, registered, health guarantee and pet.The puppies are raised in a family home with other cats and dogs. So sweet and cuddly! Extremely smart, fearless and fun loving! Will travel within reason to deliver to the right.Please Contact. Show more How much grooming does an English Bulldog need? English Bulldogs have short fur that generally only needs an occasional brush. They often have skinfolds which require regular cleaning. Speak to your vet for advice on how to do this for your dog. What size crate do you need for an English Bulldog? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully s.English Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. This ter.Are English Bulldogs easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own unique personality and prior experiences. So, every English Bulldog temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They de.Show more Are English Bulldogs good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Dystocia difficulty in giving birth can occur for a variety of reasons. Both affect the English bulldog Johnston et al and lead to a very high rate of dystocia in this breed. Abnormalities of pelvic shape have been investigated in relation to dystocia in the Boston terrier and Scottish terrier Eneroth et al but, as far as we are aware, there have been no corresponding studies in the English bulldog. The foetal factor that is most likely to cause dystocia is a large head Johnston et al .The larger the puppy the greater the risk. The English bulldog is a brachycephalic breed. Dogs with brachycephalic airway disease have a shortened and distorted upper airway, narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and an abnormal larynx voice box. Secondary to these airway obstructions, these dogs can develop collapsed airways, especially involving the larynx and trachea. These defects commonly make it difficult for the breed to breathe adequately whilst undertaking normal activity. Stress caused by exercise, excitement, heat or giving birth can exacerbate this and lead to collapse and death. It is likely that a proportion of the large number of caesarean sections carried out on English bulldogs are elective procedures arranged by breeders to avoid any chance of dystocia and the risk of asphyxiation of whelping bitches as might otherwise occur during the normal birth process Harvey .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Dystocia is a severe welfare problem for the affected bitch and, if untreated, it will usually lead to her death. Treatment of a bitch that is having difficulty giving birth involves transportation of the dog to a veterinary practice for examination and imposes further stressors for a brachycephalic dog with breathing difficulties. Uterine contractions are painful and control of this pain is difficult in the home environment, so any delay in the birth process causes more prolonged and severe pain than usual. Caesarean section is usually required to treat English bulldogs with dystocia. Unplanned, emergency caesarean sections are likely to have a higher welfare impact than either natural birth or elective caesarean, and a higher death rate for the puppies. Caesarean sections are major surgical procedures and anaesthesia presents particular risks to brachycephalic dogs because of their abnormal respiratory tracts and breathing difficulties. It is likely that a significant proportion of caesarean sections in English bulldogs are performed electively. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact If untreated, dystocia may continue for up to hours although, as this time goes on, mortality among the puppies will increase. If a caesarean is performed, there will be pain from the surgery for some days although effective analgesia should be available. A further issue is that if live puppies have been delivered and the bitch is to rear them normally then their sucking on a teat close to the surgical wound may cause her pain in the first week, or so, after the procedure. Return to top 4. English bulldogs were found in a study undertaken in Canada and the USA, to be in the top five of the breeds most likely to have elective and emergency caesarians Moon et al .From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are English bulldogs Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 50, Return to top 5. Diagnosis A normal labour has three stages. In the first stage, the body prepares itself for birth with the cervix relaxing and dilating. During this stage, if left alone, the bitch in the wild would seek seclusion and dig a den. The second stage involves the loss of uterine fluids, progressively more vigorous straining, and birth of the puppies. The third stage of labour is delivery of the foetal membranes and, in dogs, this stage can be concurrent with the second stage, as membranes are sometimes expelled with their puppy. In some cases of dystocia, stage two never starts and dystocia is diagnosed once a dog is recognised not to have progressed from stage one to stage two after about 24 hours. Radiographs can be used to investigate if foetal-pelvic disproportion is the cause and to help in judging if normal birth will be possible. Return to top 6. The part of the canine genome responsible for brachycephaly has been identified and two genes have been implicated Bannasch et al .There are no genetic tests to help determine which dogs are least at risk of dystocia and therefore most suitable for use in breeding. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? All female English bulldogs are at risk of this condition. All puppies have the brachycephalic head shape and many bitches are unable to give birth naturally because of this and perhaps also because of pelvic abnormalities. Thus it is very difficult to find a puppy which has not been born via caesarean section. Ideally only puppies born by natural birth from a bitch that did not have dystocia, should be used for breeding. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem It might be argued that breeding from dogs that had been born naturally would help to select for a strain population able to give birth naturally in the future. However, any advantages that might bring would have to be 'weighed' carefully against the risks associated with allowing all births to progress naturally rather than undertaking elective caesarians to preclude the risk of dystocia. It might be possible to assess the size and shape of the pelvises of prospective mothers, as has been described for Boston and Scottish terriers by Eneroth et al .These authors found that bitches in which the pelvis was larger vertically than horizontally were less likely to suffer from dystocia. Breeding from such dogs, and from those with the greatest pelvic measurements, might be a reasonable approach and may be helpful in reducing the incidence of dystocia. However, this speculative proposal has not been validated and might be hard to undertake in practice. As yet no such scheme is in operation. Given the high proportion of animals that appear to suffer from foetal-pelvic disproportion in this breed, efforts to breed only from a minority judged to have the best chances of giving birth naturally might risk, through diminution of the size of the breeding population, inadvertent selection for other genetic diseases. Selecting for smaller head size in puppies is theoretically possible and, if successful, would probably help in reducing the incidence of dystocia. However, this might result also in unpredictable changes to other aspects of conformation or biology. Efforts directed at reducing the prevalence and severity of brachycephalic airway disease in the breed eg by out-crossing with dogs that are not affected with this disease would probably have an impact through reducing the severity of the brachycephaly itself. Return to top 9. Return to top .References Bennett D Normal and abnormal parturition. Dog domestic dog The Bulldog is a British breed of dog of mastiff type. It may also be known as the English Bulldog or British Bulldog. It is a medium-sized, muscular dog of around 40—55 lb 18—25 kg. They have large heads with thick folds of skin around the face and shoulders, and a relatively flat face with a protruding lower jaw. The breed has significant health issues as a consequence of breeding for its distinctive appearance, including brachycephalia , hip dysplasia , heat sensitivity, and skin infections. Due to concerns about their quality of life, breeding Bulldogs is illegal in Norway and the Netherlands. The modern Bulldog was bred as a companion dog from the Old English Bulldog , a now-extinct breed used for bull-baiting , when the sport was outlawed in England under the Cruelty to Animals Act. While often used as a symbol of ferocity and courage, modern Bulldogs are generally friendly, amiable dogs. Bulldogs are now commonly kept as pets; in it was in twelfth place on a list of the breeds most frequently registered worldwide. The first reference to the word "Bulldog" is dated or in a letter by a man named Preswick Eaton where he writes: "procuer mee two good Bulldogs, and let them be sent by ye first shipp". This entailed the setting of dogs after placing wagers on each dog onto a tethered bull. The dog that grabbed the bull by the nose and pinned it to the ground would be the victor. It was common for a bull to maim or kill several dogs at such an event, either by goring, tossing, or trampling over them. Over the centuries, dogs used for bull-baiting developed the stocky bodies and massive heads and jaws that typify the breed, as well as a ferocious and savage temperament. Bull-baiting was made illegal in England by the Cruelty to Animals Act .However, emigrants did have a use for such dogs in the New World. In midth century New York, Bulldogs were used as a part of a citywide roundup effort led by Governor Richard Nicolls. Because cornering and leading wild bulls was dangerous, Bulldogs were trained to seize a bull by its nose long enough for a rope to be secured around its neck. Rockstro founded the first Bulldog Club. Three years after its opening the Club ceased to exist, not having organized a single show. Samuel Wickens, treasurer of the club, published this description in under the pseudonym Philo-Kuan. The first English Bulldog entered into the register was a male dog named Adam Adamo , born in .The founders of the club collected all available information about the breed and its best representatives and developed a new standard for the English Bulldog, which was published on 27 May , the same year they held the first breed show. Since , exhibitions of the club were held annually, except during the Second World War. On 17 May , the Bulldog Club was granted the status of a corporation and since then has carried the official name "The Bulldog Club, Inc. It is the oldest mono-breed dog kennel club in the world. King Orry was reminiscent of the original Bulldogs, lighter boned and very athletic. Dock Leaf was smaller and heavier set, more like modern Bulldogs. King Orry was declared the winner that year, finishing the mile 32 km walk while Dock Leaf collapsed and expired. Although not as physically capable as their ancestors, modern Bulldogs are much calmer and less aggressive. Note the "rope" over the nose, and pronounced underbite Bulldogs have characteristically wide heads and shoulders along with a pronounced mandibular prognathism. There are generally thick folds of skin on the brow; round, black, wide-set eyes; a short muzzle with characteristic folds called a rope or nose roll above the nose; hanging skin under the neck; drooping lips and pointed teeth, and an underbite with an upturned jaw. The coat is short, flat, and sleek with colours of red, fawn, white, brindle , and piebald. In the United Kingdom, the breed standards are 55 lb 25 kg for a male and 50 lb 23 kg for a female. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression and behavior". Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. At five to six years old, they start to show signs of aging. Those that died of old age had an average lifespan of 10 to 11 years. Left to right, the skulls are from approximately the s, s, and s. A study by the Royal Veterinary College found that Bulldogs are a much less healthy breed than average, with over twice the odds of being diagnosed with at least one of the common dog disorders investigated in the study. A degree of BOAS has been normalized in the breed, as an inevitable consequence of their distinctive face. Since dogs regulate heat primarily by panting, Bulldogs are very sensitive to heat; they may actually gain rather than lose heat due to their inefficient breathing, leading to a vicious cycle. Bulldogs must be given plenty of shade and water, and must be kept out of standing heat. If not properly exercised it is possible for a Bulldog to become overweight, which could lead to heart and lung problems, as well as stress on the joints. These cause the dog some discomfort, but are treatable either by vet or an experienced owner. Other problems can include cherry eye , a protrusion of the inner eyelid which can be corrected by a veterinarian , allergies , and hip issues in older Bulldogs. Due to the high volume of skin folds on the Bulldog's body, they have high prevalence of skin-fold dermatitis. Opposed by the British Bulldog Breed Council, it was speculated by the press that the changes would lead to a smaller head, fewer skin folds, a longer muzzle, and a taller thinner posture, in order to combat problems with respiration and breeding due to head size and width of shoulders. Among these is a fitness test where the dog has to walk 1 km 0. Its temperature and heart rate has to recover after 15 minutes. They are often used as mascots by universities, sports team, and other organizations.

We were founded to save Houston area German Shepherd Dogs from neglect, abuse, abandonment and euthanization at high kill shelters. We are an excellent alternative for owners who must give up their cherished pets. Our team of tireless volunteers care for our foster dogs as family. We are based on the concept of placing all our dogs into loving foster homes, where they live with and become part of our fosters family until they find a forever home. Every dog in our care receives proper medical care, nourishment and the socialization needed to discover a new life without hunger, sickness, loneliness, or fear. We live to see these German Shepherds blossom as they realize that they are important to someone who genuinely loves having them as family. We are the guardians of the dogs and funds that you trust us to protect. Our entire organization is comprised of dedicated animal loving people who receive no compensation for their countless volunteer hours. We joined this team for the camaraderie and joy we get from working together to help man's best friends in the most important journey of their lives. Let us know! We are always looking for volunteers to help us make our vision a reality. We'll help you find a way to volunteer that best suits you. We're excited to have you join the team! Find out more about volunteering Thank You Whether you help through monetary donations, volunteering your time, or spreading our mission through word-of-mouth, thank you. We couldn't accomplish our goals without the help of supporters like you. Together, we can make a difference. We decided to form Lucky Shepherds from the belief that our society can never have too many animal advocates. Great rescue folks come from every walk of life. Each day gives us examples worldwide of rich and poor alike making personal sacrifices to help protect and shelter the forgotten and unwanted animals sharing our planet. Every political, economic, gender and race recognize equally the need to protect and cherish the joy that saving one dog can bring to each of us. Rescue work is a rare area of our society where we can truly come together and accomplish great works regardless of our worldly views. We will respect, appreciate, learn from and assist our fellow Houston area animal rescues whenever and however possible. There will always be more dogs than we can save as individual rescues. Working together in a collaborative, competent and organized manner benefits the dogs we serve as well as the good natured people who choose to give us their most cherished, non-replaceable resource, the time they volunteer with our organizations. We owe it to our volunteers to work together as efficiently and effectively as humanly possible. Our rescue strives to offer the support structure and organizational planning to ensure that our volunteers can focus on the rewarding side of our rescue without having to recreate the wheel on every mission. We all support each other in the village concept and never forget that it is our responsibility to create as rewarding of a volunteer experience as possible for those willing to give their time to our rescue. We do not have a brick and mortar shelter to house dogs that we take in. All of our dogs live in an approved animal loving foster home. Our foster families welcome each new Lucky Shepherd into their home as a part of their family. The foster families show these incoming dogs the love, nurturing and nutrition that most of them have never known. Our rescue provides the needed medical care, food and ongoing preventative care. All of our dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped and brought up to date on all of their vaccinations and immunizations before we place them up for adoption. Almost every shelter dog rescued will cost our rescue far more than the adoption fee we collect. We need funding to keep this rescue open. Please donate to us if you can. We operate this rescue with sound business judgement and respect for our donors and the funds they trust us to manage. The money that you give us will be used to support the dogs in our care. Thank you for your interest in our rescue. Please click the web page link for more information on our program. We are a breeder of German Shepherds and are located in the Houston tx area. All of our dogs are raised in a family enviornment along with our 2 year old twin girls and none are ever kept kenneled. Our sole purpose is to provide your family with an affordable German shepherd that will bring you joy and happiness. We know that everyone cannot afford the high priced dogs, but that does not mean that you should have to settle for a dog that you wont be happy with or that will have health problems. We have been in business since and our dogs have gone on to accomplish many things. First and fore-most they have been perfect family dogs, but some of our others have gone above and beyond. All of our puppies are handled daily and exposed to a variety of things before they leave us so that they are well socialized and ready to adapt to you and their new living situation when they leave. All pups go with their akc application, current worming, first round of shots minimum of 1 round depending on age , current vet check including fecal exam, 30 days pet insurance through AKC, lifetime breeder support, and are started on NuVet vitamins for added immune support. Deposits are non refundable, however deposit can be transferred to another litter. Please click on the menu button on top left corner to view our males, females, available pups, and upcoming litters. Any questions feel free to give us a call at .We are always available to answer any questions or concerns! We are a German Shepherd breeder that specializes in quality, intelligent dogs with proven superior genetics. We sell German Shepherd puppies that are the perfect choice for professionals and families. We focus on producing a stable, protective line of German Shepherds that you can trust with your children. Sweet tempered companions that will protect your family and property Our German Shepherds have incredible pedigrees and we carefully choose only the best genetics to constantly improve upon the German Shepherd bloodline. We have German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas, but arrangements can be made to sell a puppy to any state within the 48 contiguous states. We are always happy to talk or visit with you and would love to show you our beautiful German Shepherds. Our German Shepherd Dogs can be used for search and rescue, tracking, guarding, guide dogs for the blind or physically disabled, police work, show and of course a family pet. Our dogs are well socialized with children and other pets. Our puppies are AKC Registered and come with a health guarantee. Our high quality puppies are excellent with children and very easy to train. We have carefully selected world class German Shepherds with proven superior genetics. Our puppies have the potential to become champions in the show ring and your family hero. The West German bloodlines are bred to have great personalities and superb temperaments. They go through extensive training and rigorous testing to earn their titles. The West German Shepherd bloodlines are not just tested on their beauty and showmanship, but also on their ability to perform difficult tasks that require a high level of intelligence, motivation and desire to please their master. As a German Shepherd Breeder, it is our desire to provide you with an exceptional puppy that can bring you the same joy that ours have brought to our family. Our German Shepherds are the perfect choice for personal protection and are great companions for all ages. Testimonials: "Hi. He blended right into our family and we don't remember life before him. His temperament and intelligence are above average. At the vet I heard the vet and techs in the back gushing over how behaved he was and they sent me home with extra goodies for him hehe. He's already house trained. I've already been able to teach him two commands "here" and "place". He's also the best snuggler and is sooo very patient and forgiving with my tornado of a two year old son. He is the best dog I've had in my entire life and love him to the moon. I can't wait until he's old enough to start going on adventures with us. Thank ya'll for a wonderful dog! We get soooo much attention with her! We've had people literally pull off the road just to comment on her! Lots of people asking if we are going to breed her! We are meeting with someone on Friday to evaluate her for protection training. She's my girl and she knows her job well! Btw, people always ask me where I got her.I tell them all about you guys! Here are pictures of Liberty sunbathing with her sister, Queen Bitsy! She loves her boy! We have answers. German Shepherd cost will vary based on a number of different factors, as breeders may charge differently for experience, pedigree, coat color or type white German Shepherd puppies for sale in Houston , and even gender. We eliminate that risk using our strict screening process, a binding Breeder Pledge, and a powerful MatchMaker system that matches great breeders and businesses with great families. Does Uptown Puppies breed their own German Shepherd puppies? Instead, we focus on making connections between dog-seeking families like yours and the ethical breeders and companies you can count on to bring you on the healthiest, happiest puppies. With Uptown, you can skip straight to the fun part of finding a dog. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are almost like factories for dogs, where dogs are bred on an industrial scale for the sole sake of profit. Do you have Houston German Shepherd puppies now? As the Uptown partner network expands and grows, odds are great that we can help you find your dream dog. Basically, MatchMaker is how we ensure that the right dogs are going to the right families. How can I be sure Uptown is trustworthy? Puppy mills and dishonest breeders are all over the web. Just have a look at some of our Alumni to see the difference a bit of love can make.

Here are some tips for finding a good Golden Retriever breeder: Check they are members of any breed club: The first thing you should do when looking for a good breeder is to check whether or not they are members of any breed club. You can usually find this information on their website or by contacting them directly via email or phone call. Why Buy From a Responsible Breeder? If you are looking to get a dog, always buy from a reputable breeder. There are many great reasons to buy from a responsible breeder. Second, responsible breeders have their puppies raised in an environment where they can properly play with other dogs and be socialized with people early on so that they will be more comfortable when starting out as a new addition to your home. We have listed below some reasons for buying a puppy from a responsible breeder. Responsible breeders have their dogs health tested and ensure that they are good representatives of their breed. A responsible and ethical breeder will never sell puppies without first meeting with potential buyers. They also do not sell puppies until the dog is at least eight weeks old, which ensures that it will be well socialized with humans and other animals. Also, if any of their dogs have a genetic disease, they will tell you about it. Responsible breeders will raise puppies with socialization, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. Below we provided some simple steps to help you identify whether a dog breeder is worth buying one from or not. This will get a better idea of how they treat their dogs and you can also see the environment where puppies grow. If the conditions are terrible, this is a bad sign. Ask them about their experience working with the breeder and ask if they would recommend them. Step 4: Ask the breeder for references. Step 5: Feel free to ask any questions you have. Make sure you ask all the questions you have. Do not hesitate to ask questions, This will help ensure that you are getting a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a responsible breeder. You will have a better chance of finding a reputable Golden Retriever breeder if you follow these steps. How much should a Golden Retriever cost in Australia? Prices vary based on lineage, health, and whether you purchase a puppy from a trustworthy breeder or not. If you know any great Golden Retriever Breeders who live in Victoria, please let us know in the comments below so we can add them to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in Victoria? It really helps others who are looking for Golden Retriever puppies in Victoria. In conclusion These are the best Golden Retriever Breeders in Victoria that we have found and added to our list. There are many breeders but we review and check the breeder before adding them to our list. Go to content Established in , Cadenzahgold Golden Retrievers breed high quality, healthy, ANKC registered golden retrievers suited for all purposes. We breed and own happy, well tempered dogs that are all the result of careful litter planning breeding the best genetics we can find , outstanding pre and post natal care and the best ongoing health and welfare practices for our dogs. Each and every dog here is treated as a beloved family member who only deserves the best at all times! Our dogs and puppies are raised in a variety of settings, both inside and outside our home with access to large open spaces and an extensive variety of experiences. We spend endless hours with each and every puppy we breed providing quality, mental and physical stimulation to ensure we are doing our best to establish sound foundations in all areas of health and training before they leave us to go to their new homes. We are trained in, and utilise 'Gold Standard' Puppy Culture protocols as well as providing constantly improving dog and puppy centric facilities that have been built specifically to maximise canine enrichment opportunities. Our attention to detail regarding diet, socialisation and general health is supported by strong, evidence based research and we are here to provide ongoing support and training to our extended Cadenzahgold family and their owners. All our breeding dogs are hip and elbow scored, have clear heart certificates and hold current clear eye certificates. Our bitches are bred to quality stud dogs and show champions with a focus on health, temperament and Golden Retriever breed standards. The aim was to create a dog better suited to the task of retrieving game from both water and land in marshy areas, through the structured breeding of water spaniels, setters and retrievers. Average Life Span When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 10 to 15 years. Temperament The Golden Retriever is an intelligent, active dog with a kindly expression and a gentle, affectionate nature. They should be calm and biddable and are eager to please. General Breed Description Golden Retrievers make excellent companions. They need to closely interact with their owners and be regularly included in family activities, as they thrive when taking part in fun activities with their owners. They are not a breed to leave in a backyard for too long, preferring to be active, happily spending lots of time at the beach or park, playing and retrieving a ball or frisbee. Basic training is an important part of responsible dog ownership, so they will learn to be well mannered and obedient. They are great competitors in Obedience, Agility, Rally, Flyball and other dog sports. Goldens have a double coat which is wavy and water resistant, in colours ranging from shades of cream to deep gold. Size Height: Males 56 to 61cms 22 to 24ins , Females 51 to 56cms 20 to 22ins. Health All breeds have individual health issues. The Golden Retriever is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally. There are DNA tests available for a range of conditions. The National Golden Retriever Council has some useful information sheets. They are happiest when they are included in family activities and do not like being left alone for long periods. They are best suited to active people, as they do require regular exercise, whether that be a long walk, a game of fetch or a swim. They are easily trained and eager to please, happy to do whatever is asked of them. In Conclusion Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come. Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership. Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

A bunny hopping gait or loose walk. Trouble getting up from a nap Difficulty walking up or down stairs to greet you. Other common Lab joint problems include osteoarthritis from old age and not necessarily hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which can result in lameness of the front legs. Always consult your veterinarian if you see the symptoms of Labrador hip dysplasia. X-rays and a full exam are necessary for proper diagnosis. Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium-to large-sized dogs can be expensive. In most cases, rehabilitation services can also be costly and postoperative care can be long and arduous. Age may keep your dog from being a good candidate for surgery. Non-surgical treatment options often have no age restrictions. Dog hip braces, such as the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace , support the low back and hip area for mild to moderate hip dysplasia. The purpose of the Hip Hound brace is to stabilize the hip and lower back areas by holding the head of the femur in the hip socket. This reduces grating of the bone, which allows for post-surgical healing or pain-free exercise. Braces come in all sizes so you can find one that is perfect for your pet and allows for maximum support. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Since Labs are prone to joint issues, your dog may be diagnosed with elbow dysplasia Fragmented medial coronoid process. A veterinarian we work with has used the Ortho Dog Hock Holder brace for the hind leg over the elbow joint. We recommend you give it a try! This breed already loves water so much, you may not be able to get them to stop swimming! To hold that distinction for 29 years in a row is not surprising since Labs are affectionate, intelligent, and fun-loving family dogs. They are also known for their trainability and versatility, so that you see members of the breed in various endeavors such as search-and-rescue missions, drug and weapons detection, and guide dogs for the visually impaired. For individuals who have Labs as loyal companions, it can be very distressing when they see their beloved dog suddenly limping or, worse, collapsing because of problems with their hind legs. Signs of Back Leg Problems Despite being a sturdy breed, Labrador Retrievers are prone to problems in their hind legs. This is due to a genetic predisposition to certain diseases, their size and body frame, and weight distribution. Please note that an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a veterinarian after a complete physical examination and diagnostic procedures. Among the most common injuries that younger aged Labs sustain are bone and toe fractures and avulsions or tearing of leg parts below the knee. In middle-aged and elderly Labs, they may develop a partial or complete tearing in the ligament of the knee, a condition known as Anterior Cruciate Ligament ACL injury. The reason for this improper fit is because the socket is shallow and not deep enough to accommodate the femur head. Because of this, the joint wear out faster, causing pain when the head and socket surfaces grind together. There is a genetic predisposition for CHD. If a puppy has CHD, the signs will start to manifest at the age of two years old. In some cases, CHD may develop as a result of nutritional and environmental factors, or you may have these factors aggravating the existing genetic condition. Unfortunately, osteoarthritis in dogs is also accompanied by degenerative joint disease. You may find your Lab unable to walk because of weakness or pain in the legs. First is Canine Diabetes , which presents signs and symptoms that are similar to humans, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, appetite changes, and hind leg weakness. This is frequently seen in senior dogs that are overweight. This is a deceptive condition because it mimics the signs of aging in dogs, including increased drinking and urination, and increased appetite. However, it also manifests with weakness and muscle wasting in the hind legs. A common condition in the breed is slipped discs as a result of their active behavior. Your Lab may also suffer from Fibrocartilaginous Embolic Myelopathy FCE , which develops when a piece of cartilage travels through the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel in the spine. On the other hand, Degenerative Myelopathy is a painless, but gradually progressing disease wherein the dog exhibits hind leg weakness. Leg weakness occurs gradually over a long period of time until the dog collapses, unable to hold its weight any longer. Treatment When you notice back leg problems in Labradors, they must be brought to the veterinarian immediately for an assessment. Aside from a physical exam, the vet may have x-rays and MRI scans done to determine the cause. Once the cause is determined, the vet may advise surgery, such as in the cases of CHD, tumors, and myelopathies. Dogs with hormonal problems may require regular injections of insulin and other medications. Conservative treatment includes putting the Lab on a weight loss program, reducing their physical and play activity, making changes in the home putting ramps on stairs and couches for ease of access to the dog, and wearing braces or other supportive devices for the hind legs. Many back leg problems in Labradors can be treated. It is vital that they be detected early so that treatment can be done immediately before they become serious. Further reading. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. However, if you had a veterinarian watching this plump pup play in the grass, they would have a much more sobering outlook. This puppy is suffering from the early stages of Canine Hip Dysplasia. What is Canine Hip Dysplasia? This results in the separation of the joint and the resulting wear and tear on the cartilage and bones. What Dogs Get Hip Dysplasia? No one knows for sure why some dogs develop this painful joint condition. However the severity of the illness seems to be linked to both the nature genetic component and the nurture environmental and nutritional elements that the dogs experience as they grow. However, it seems to be less prevalent in puppies with parents passing rigorous hip testing through the OFA Orthopedic Foundation of Animals. This is why it is vital to only buy puppies from breeders who have tested the parents for both hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia , which is the same joint deformity in the elbow socket. For example, if puppies grow too quickly, are lacking specific nutrients or have electrolyte imbalances, they are more likely to get CHD when they get older. Again, this issue is more often seen in larger breeds since they undergo more growth and skeletal changes than smaller breeds. The main two things you want to avoid are rapid weight gain and over supplementing too much calcium into the diet. You will also need to follow the feeding schedule set out by your veterinarian and not feed your puppy too much food. All dogs have a genetic code of how big they will get as adults. Your job, to reduce their risk of hip dysplasia, is to make sure they grow at a steady growth rate over time and not shoot up too quickly by feeding them a balanced diet specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. Environmental Factors Puppies are not usually born with hip dysplasia; it develops as the dog matures. You can take your pup out for a low-impact game of fetch in a park or a swim in a pool. However, doing activities such as forced running, stairs, jumping or agility courses when joints have not fully matured is thought to increase the likelihood of hip dysplasia later in life. The easiest way to tell if you pup has CHD is to do an x-ray of their hips while they are sedated. This allows the veterinarian to see if the joint fits together as it should. However, barring an x-ray diagnosis, there are a few symptoms to look for in more advanced cases. Signs of CHD include: Sitting in a frog position with one hip splayed out. Exercise intolerance. Swaying gait where the back end moves back and forth in a pronounced fashion. Reluctance to run, jump or climb stairs. Bunny hopping , especially up stairs. Difficulty getting up. Back legs or hips are painful when touched. Hind leg lameness, which worsens with exercise. Back legs are more close together when the dog stands than the front legs. In more severe cases, you may see muscle wasting in the back legs and hindquarters. Arthritis may develop as the disease progresses. Your dog may start to show unexplained aggressive behavior as the pain increases. Again, the best way to diagnose CHD is with an x-ray. These test rank the hips as Excellent, Good and Fair. You should not buy a puppy without ensuring the parents have at least a Fair rating, and preferably a Good or Excellent hip score. Obviously, dogs exhibiting these scores should not be bred. Yet, even if both parents have great hips, this is not a guarantee that the puppy will be free from hip issues. Refrain from making your puppy your jogging or jumping partner until they are grown. Even if you do everything right, if your dog carries the genetic predisposition for CHD, you may still encounter it when your pup reaches adulthood. If your dog develops CHD, there are several ways to treat it. The best course of action should be determined with your veterinarian. You can also add in exercises such as swimming and leash walking to keep the muscles toned around the joints. Physical therapy and massages have also been known to help. Some dogs undergo total hip replacement surgery , just like humans, and have good success with this approach. There are other preventative surgeries, such as juvenile pubic symphysiodesis JPS that vets give puppies with a high likelihood of developing CHD as a preventative measure. Conclusion While CHD is certainly a frustrating diagnosis, there are many treatment options to help your dog live a long, satisfying life. If you take a proactive approach to their treatment, you can still have an energetic, happy companion that will keep you company on walks, swim with you at the beach and lay by your feet when you relax. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Why is My Labrador limping takeaways 1. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint becomes misaligned. It causes pain and lameness in the affected leg. The symptoms usually appear between 6 months and 2 years old. Dog inherit the predisposition to hip dysplasia from their parents. Labradors and hybrid Labradoodles are prone to this preventable disease through improper breeding. Your puppy will have trouble walking if it has hip dysplasia. You need to get an X-ray done on both hips at least once before they reach 1 year old. There are no known non surgical cures for this disease so make sure you keep up with regular checkups. This disorder results from abnormal development of the pelvis and legs. The bones of the pelvic region do not form correctly and instead fuse together prematurely. This creates problems with weight bearing and movement. Arthritis in dogs can also cause limping Dog arthritis the joints of a dog become inflamed, swollen or painful. The most common type of arthritis that affects dogs are osteoarthritis which causes inflammation in one or more of their joints. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritis, gouty arthritis and crystal-induced arthritis. Genetics plays a role in whether a dog develops arthritis. Age also contributes to its development. Older dogs are more prone to develop arthritis than younger ones. Weight also affects arthritis; heavier dogs are more susceptible to arthritis than lighter dogs. Activity levels play a part in the progression of arthritis. High activity levels increase wear on joints, while low activity levels decrease wear on joints. Diet can influence joint health Dogs who have had an injury such as surgery, trauma or infection will be predisposed to developing these conditions. A Labrador as a guard dog 3. Infections can make a dog limp — especially ones involving bones Infections of the foot or paw are commonly caused by bacterial infections. This includes bacterial infections like staphylococcus bacteria, streptococcus bacteria and yeast infections. These infections tend to affect the skin around the paw pads and sometimes spread into other areas of the body causing fever and lethargic behavior. In addition to causing pain and swelling, these infections can lead to lameness if not treated properly. Infectious diseases like parvovirus and Lyme disease can affect joints and muscles causing pain and inflammation. Your vet will know what tests to order to diagnose these conditions and treat accordingly. Trauma to the foot or paw A traumatic event can lead to swelling and bruising in the area where the injury occurred. In addition, the muscles surrounding the site of the injury may tighten up due to fear or stress. As a result, the leg becomes stiff and sore. Common trauma to dog feet include Abrasions — A small wound caused by a sharp object such as a nail or splinter. Bruises — A bruise is an injury to the soft tissue under the skin. It may be caused by a blow, fall, or other impact. Bruising occurs when blood vessels are broken and leak blood into the surrounding tissues. Contusions — Contusions are bruises that are larger than a bruise. They are caused by a blunt force, such as a blow from a fist or another object. Sun burn in dogs or heat burn from hot asphalt 5. Dog Toenail Injuries can make a Labrador limp The nails of dogs grow continuously throughout their lives. However, there are times when the nails begin to look longer than normal. These changes happen naturally over time. If the change happens suddenly, however, then it could indicate something wrong. Toenails should never be trimmed too short because there is a blood vessel and nerve inside the nail. Trimming them too long or not trimming them can result in broken nails. Happy Labrador! Patella Luxation Patellar luxation is a common condition affecting many breeds including German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Dobermans and of course — Labs Labs are times more likely to have this than other breeds It involves the kneecap becoming dislocated out of place. This can cause severe discomfort and lameness. Dogs can sprain a muscle and this can make them limp Muscles can become strained through exercise or playing rough with your pet. The most common places for strains to occur are at the elbows, shoulders, hips, and knees. Strains usually heal themselves within three weeks — but if it is not improving or becomes exacerbated you will need to consult your Vet. Over exertion can make a dog limp Exercise causes our bodies to work harder which leads to increased heart rate and breathing. Our legs also get tired quickly so we must take breaks often during physical activity. The exact same is true for dogs! An over fatigued Lab can limp for a while due to muscle exhaustion. Give them a few days of rest and your Labrador will be back in tip top shape soon. A Labrador sniffs a smoked dog bone 9. Insect Bites can make a dog walk funny or limp It is common for dogs to run into nature and the creep crawly insects that populate it. Through no fault of their own Labradors LOVE to explore grass and nature — which runs the risk of being bitten by ants, bees or wasps. Most of the time a dog insect bite is not a huge concern BUT sometimes they do leave behind nasty infections on the bite site if the dog licks or chews it. You should always seek veterinary care if you see any signs of infection after having been stung by an ant or bee. FAQ — My Lab has had surgery recently and is now limping? Luckily your Vet is only a phone call away So please contact us today if you think your puppy is limping. An older Labrador limps A reader Sara emailed in to tell us about her elderly Labrador dog just turned 10! As a result, she walks differently than before. Her stride length is shorter and her steps are wider apart. She loves the outdoors — but we know not to push her too far. Labradors are prone to a variety of conditions that can cause pain, including hip dysplasia, arthritic pain, and infections. Make sure you get regular checkups to ensure that your dog is healthy. Dog arthritis is a very common condition that can affect any breed. Bridie is a proud Goldendoodle mom! Part-time health worker, life-time dog writer and lover. She loves to help people best care for their puppies. Load More. A stone or thorn stuck in the pads Nerve damage Genetic disorders. This is a genetic condition that causes the joint to become malformed. This causes lameness and pain from a relatively young age. Some dogs require surgery such as a hip replacement and some dogs may have to take medicine for the rest of their lives. Most reputable breeders now do screening for the conditions to help reduce the chance of it being inherited. Lameness in older dogs Lameness in older dogs is often due to arthritis setting in. This is a very common condition in older dogs and affects the joints, mainly the knee, shoulder and hips. Elderly dogs may benefit from nutritional supplements, anti-inflammatories and complimentary therapies such as hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and acupuncture. Lameness in younger dogs Lameness in younger dogs and puppies can be due to several reasons. Weight management Weight management is very important when it comes to preventing your dog becoming lame and if you think your dog may be overweight you could call the vet nursing team at Vetfone for advice on this or contact your local vet practice and enquire about their weight clinic. Diagnosis of lameness by your vet Your vet will give your dog a thorough examination and take a full history from you. The vet will determine where your dog is most painful and check for any abnormalities of the bones or joints. Your vet may want to perform a few tests, including x-rays or even a blood test. It will be important for a veterinary professional to know the age of your pet as there are specific complaints that affect puppies and young dogs and older dogs. If the vet recommends an x-ray, then this will be performed under General Anaesthetic. This will allow the vet to move the limb about to get a good view without causing pain or discomfort. The dog will usually stay with the vet for a few hours and come home that same day depending on the diagnosis. When your vet has looked at the x-rays they will decide on the next course of action. Sometimes they may need to refer your dog onto a specialist vet such as an Orthopaedic vet or a Neurologist. If the exact cause is not known, a period of exercise reduction together with anti-inflammatories and pain killers may be required to see if the lameness improves. Weight management if your dog is overweight and contributing to the lameness. For more serious causes broken bones, slipped discs orthopaedic or neurological surgery is required. Prevention of lameness Lameness can arise during normal everyday activity. Serious injuries such as being hit by a car or falling from a height can be avoided by keeping your dog on a lead until it is safe to let them off. Be aware of genetic issues that affect some pedigree breeds. Inspect their paws and pads regularly and remove any debris. Use foot covers or a barrier ointment on the pads during the winter months to stop the salt and grit hurting them. Limit how much you exercise a dog that is still growing to prevent joint problems. Elderly dogs need less exercise and if you notice them slowing down seek veterinary advice in the first instance. You may want to consider using nutritional supplements that contain glucosamine or chondroitin to help support the joints as the animal ages. Frequently asked questions about dog limping How can I tell if my dog is lame? Your dog may be slowing down a bit on walks and may start struggling when walking up the stairs. You may notice him walking on three legs or doing a little skip when he walks. How can I tell if my dog has pulled a muscle? If your dog has pulled a muscle you may notice him limping or walking on 3 legs. He may hold his leg up when he is standing still or sitting. You may also hear him whine or cry and may go off his food if it is very sore. How do I tell if my dog has cut its paw? You may notice that your dog is bleeding or he could be licking his paw excessively. He might not want to put weight on it and he may whine or cry if he is in pain. How can I tell if my dog has broken a bone? Your dog may be whining or crying as a break or fracture of a bone is usually quite painful. They will probably be holding the leg up but may attempt to put a little weight on it. The leg may become swollen and will probably be sore to touch, if your dog can tolerate your touch then gently check for any heat coming from the leg. The leg may also appear floppy. How can I tell if my dog has hip problems? You might notice your dog limping or slowing down on walks. He may have trouble going upstairs and downstairs and might be reluctant to jump up. He may have an abnormal gait the way his back legs move when he walks , or the position of his back legs when he stands may look different. Some dogs develop a swaying motion when walking if they have hip problems. How do I tell which leg my dog is lame on? It is sometimes difficult to tell which leg is causing your dog to be lame. The most obvious way is if the dog is not weight bearing or holding the affected limb up when he walks, sits or stands. If he can put weight on it then watch his whole body when he walks — sometimes a dog will lift his head slightly when he uses the sore leg and put his head down when he uses the leg that is fine. Can I walk my dog if it has a limp? You should rest your dog for at least two days if you notice a limp. Rest means lead exercise only and short 5 minute walks at a time. Stay with them in the garden and even put a lead on to restrict their exercise and help them if they need to go upstairs, downstairs or jump up anywhere car, sofa, bed etc. Is my dog in pain? Signs of pain in a dog can vary greatly. Some dogs are very stoical and brave while others are more delicate. You may hear your dog whining, crying or whimpering. You may notice the dog is licking the affected area or sometimes an area nearby. Some dogs go off their food and may be more clingy and attentive than normal. On the other hand, some dogs will become more distant and want to be on their own if they are in pain. Sometimes the subtlest changes in behaviour or demeanour are enough to tell a vigilant owner that their dog is in pain. If you notice a limp after exercising it may be that the dog is doing too much at once. You could try shorter walks more often, rather than one long walk and if there is no improvement then you could call us at Vetfone to help assess the lameness. My dog is limping on its hind leg. The most obvious sign of hind leg lameness is a little hop or skip when they are walking and running. Sometimes this can develop into them holding the leg up and not wanting to put weight on it. It could be a simple strain so try resting your dog for a day or so but if you think your dog is in pain then you should contact a vet. My dog is limping on its foreleg. You might have noticed your dog is reluctant to go on walks or is favouring one side more than the other. If there is nothing to see, try resting him for a day or calling us at Vetfone One of our nurses could help assess the lameness to see if you need to contact a vet. My dog is limping when it gets up after resting. In older dogs this can be a sign of arthritis. The joints become stiffer as the dog gets older. You may notice that after a few minutes of walking about the lameness improves. In dogs that are still growing it can be the sign of other joint problems. At Vetfone we can help assess the animal over the phone and let you know if we think you need to contact a vet. Finding the cause of lameness in your dog As noted above, the causes of lameness in dogs can be wide ranging. This process will hopefully rule out the more serious cases which must be dealt with by a vet and leads to advice on what you should do next for your pet. Our UK based Registered Veterinary Nurses will ask you several questions designed to assess triage the condition You will need to be with the dog as we will ask you to check a few things while you are on the phone to us We will ask if you how long the dog has been lame for and if you know how the injury happened We will ask you to touch the affected leg and feel for any swelling, heat or pain and to look at the leg and paw in case there are any cuts or abnormalities to see. Call us at Vetfone or visit Vetfone if you are unsure or worried and our expert nurses will advise you on what to do next. If the situation does not merit a trip to the vet, we will give advice for managing the situation at home. If the lameness is caused by a simple sprain or strain, then 48 hours of rest and restricted exercise may be enough to improve the situation drastically. Your dog may have a small cut on his pad which, if not bleeding or infected, may be fine to treat at home with some rest and a clean with saline solution. If the situation is more serious we will advise that you contact your vet. Limping in dogs is quite common. Limping occurs when your dog cannot walk normally due to pain or weakness. He may walk slowly or with difficulty and will usually favor one leg. There are two types of limping that your Lab may experience. Some types occur gradually over time, whereas sudden lameness happens quickly, usually after an injury. Some cases are minor and can be treated at home, whereas others will require professional medical help. Overexertion Too much of a good thing, such as fetch, intense running, or rough play with other dogs, can leave your Labrador sore and hobbling with a muscle strain. However, most dogs will recover quickly after a couple of rest days. Look out for your Lab incessantly licking his paw. Burns caused by scorching sidewalks or frostbite can also cause your Labrador to limp. Get your dog some booties or paw protectors in extremely hot or cold temperatures. Toenail Injuries Examine your Labrador for ingrowing or overgrown toenails, as these can cause discomfort and pain when they dig into the skin. My dog once had a dewclaw injury, so make sure you also keep these trim. Insect Sting or Animal Bite Stings and bites can cause limping. Your Lab may raise its paw if stung by a wasp or bee. Bites from other animals can cause injury and also lead to infections. Fracture A broken leg should be suspected if the limping occurred suddenly. Broken bones may not always be visible. Sprain A sprain is the result of a stretched or torn ligament or tendon. It can be caused by something as simple as jumping off the couch and landing awkwardly. Your Labrador will be reluctant to put any weight on his paw or leg. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Dysplasia is a common hereditary condition causing hip and elbow joints to become loose and move out of position. According to the OFA, .Osteoarthritis Older and larger dogs are more at risk of this chronic painful disease. It results in joint inflammation caused by cartilage deterioration. Signs include lameness, stiffness, or difficulty in getting up. My dog Willow has osteoarthritis of her lower spine. Her initial symptoms were lameness of the rear leg and difficulty getting up from a lying position. However, she manages it pretty well along with her hip dysplasia with prescribed medication, and exercise adjustments. My vet recommended these, they get excellent reviews online, and they seem to work for her. She has the Big Barker , which is the only dog bed clinically proven to reduce joint stiffness and pain. You can read my comprehensive review here. Cruciate Ligament Injury or Disease This is where damage is caused to one or both cruciate ligaments that hold the knee together. Limping is usually the first sign of a cruciate problem and can be caused by turning awkwardly, jumping, or twisting. It can occur suddenly or be progressive. It is common in dogs, but Labrador retrievers are three times as likely as other breeds to have patellar luxation. Infection An infection of the paw or leg can cause your Labrador to Limp. He may lick and chew the site and may need to take antibiotics. Lyme Disease This bacterial illness transmitted by certain ticks can cause intermittent lameness. Degenerative Myelopathy Older dogs are at risk of this inherited disorder that affects the spinal cord causing a gradual paralysis of the back end. Symptoms are weakness, lameness in the hind legs, and incontinence. Panosteitis Wandering Lameness or Growing Pains This condition affects the long bones of the legs due to painful inflammation. Panosteitis tends to affect growing large breed pups, aged months, including the Labrador. A shifting lameness from one bone to another is caused and can occur over several weeks or months. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy HOD This is a bone disease occurring in fast-growing large dogs, usually between 3 and 5 months old. The Labrador Retriever is one of the breeds predisposed to Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy. Signs will be a slight limp and pain in the affected bone. The shoulder is most commonly affected, but it can also appear in the elbow, hip, and knee. It occurs when large puppies grow too quickly. Limping, lameness, and pain are symptoms. Labrador Retrievers are predisposed to Osteochondritis Dissecans , but the genes involved have not been identified. Dwarf dog breeds having a short, stout appearance are most commonly affected. Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis This disorder of the immune system causes inflamed, swollen, and painful joints. Your Lab will be reluctant to walk — or he will hobble on one or more legs due to the pain. Diabetic Neuropathy If diabetes is left untreated, excessive glucose can cause progressive weakness or paralysis due to nerve damage. However, this condition is rare in dogs. Congenital Limb Deformities Abnormally developed limbs can cause limping in your dog. These are pretty rare, and this study on the congenital deformities of the distal extremities in three dogs highlighted that little is known about the causes. Osteosarcoma bone cancer Bone tumors can rapidly grow, causing limping and pain, particularly in leg bones. Limping can vary from mild to severe. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Labs were bred as hunting dogs. Hunters in Atlantic Canada and Britain used labs to retrieve waterfowl from marshes and lakes. As a result, your Lab is strong, intelligent, and an adept swimmer and runner. However, your Lab, like all dogs, is more vulnerable to certain diseases than other breeds due to its genetic makeup. Degenerative Myelopathy in Labs Degenerative myelopathy DM , a spinal nerve disease, is more likely to affect your Lab than other dogs. A Lab with degenerative myelopathy will gradually start to lose movement in their legs and lower body. Dogs with severe degenerative myelopathy can actually become paralyzed. Yet it can hold your Lab back. As you know, your Lab loves to run, swim, and socialize. If your Lab has DM, give it a comfortable bed. Keep the bed and the dog clean—a dog that lies around for long periods can develop bed sores, just like a person might. Dogs with DM can get some circulation and sensation back with the help of kinesiology tape. A wheelchair is another helpful tool. A custom-built dog wheel chair can help an animal with DM get around comfortably. Hip Dysplasia in Labs Some Labs are born with hip dysplasia HD , a genetic condition that causes the bones to form a bad fit in the joint. A dog with HD will experience some combination of pain, damage to the cartilage in the joint that connects the bones, and arthritis. Breeders should screen their dogs for this condition. After all, hip dysplasia may not be obvious right away. A Lab with HD might favor one of its legs instead of the other. A dog with HD will be reluctant to exercise due to the pain. HD has a range of severity. Low-impact cases are easy to manage with anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. Moderate cases can be mitigated or repaired with surgery. In extreme, inoperable cases, a Lab with HD might require a wheelchair. Obesity in Labs Labs are more likely to be overweight than other dogs. Since they were bred to be an energetic, hardworking dog, contemporary Labs with busy caretakers might not get the exercise they need. A Lab can run around for hours and want to keep going long after their human is ready to take a break. To help your Lab cut their weight, and avoid problems weight gain can cause, like arthritis and diabetes, you should adjust their diet and activity level. Take your dog out for plenty of exercise. Vets recommend these exercise guidelines: weigh your dog, then multiply the weight by two. A pound dog, for example, should get at least minutes of exercise per day. And cut back on the table scraps. If your dog displays any of the symptoms above, take them to the vet as soon as you can. The frequent misconception is this condition is only prominent in labs or large breed dogs over 50 lbs. Therefore, if we know the symptoms and causes of the condition, we can do everything in our power, as pet owners, to stop it from happening in our pooch. These are just a few signs your lab might be experiencing some Labrador joint issues. This causes the ball and socket to painfully rub each other instead of sliding smoothly. Much like joint issues with humans, this rubbing causes a loss of cartilage, thus resulting in chronic pain and long-term joint disease. Because this disease is so severe, early detection is key to the most successful treatment. The severity differs based on each lab, but overall muscle mass will decrease because of their reduced mobility due to the pain. Exercise will dwindle but the time frame depends on each lab. Look for these symptoms in your lab that signify canine hip dysplasia: Decreased activity Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs Favoring a back leg Trouble standing up to greet you Enlargement of shoulders to compensate for hind leg If you see any of these signs in your lab, be sure to contact a vet immediately. X-rays and a full exam are needed to properly diagnose your four-legged friend and if they need a puppy hip dysplasia treatment. Ever wonder which dog breeds are the most expensive in the world? We got you covered. The leading cause of joint issues is genetics. Hip dysplasia is hereditary in specific dog breeds, particularly with Labrador retrievers , German Shepherds , and Saint Bernards. Unfortunately, simply being one of these breeds increases their chances of contracting the disease tenfold. Diet is the most important aspect other than genetics for joint issues. Lab puppies should be kept at a lean weight during their growing years, instead of being overfed to grow big and strong. Not only can overfeeding lead to pet obesity , it can also cause puppy hip dysplasia. Since this normally occurs during the first year of their lives, the puppy stages are the most critical for their health. Overexercise is another cause of hip dysplasia. This added weight can put extra stress on their bodies, especially their hip joints which is largely connected to the condition. How to Prevent Canine Hip Dysplasia Nutrition A lot of the joint issues begin with poor nutrition, which is extremely important for your little lab. Make sure to feed your pooch specially formulated foods that prevent excessive growth. By using this special food, it allows their joints to develop without putting too much strain on their body to carry their weight, thus maintaining their growth and weight. Without this specialized dog food, large breeds can grow too quickly for their joints to maintain their weight. This exacerbates the condition with too much stress being put on their overweight bodies. Exercise Dog food is important to hip dysplasia prevention, but exercise is just as crucial to the health of your lab. We know that not enough physical activity can cause joint issues, but surprisingly, too much movement can have the same effects. Overworking your doggo can cause the joints to rub too frequently and fast thus creating irritation and loss of cartilage, which causes hip dysplasia. The appropriate amount of exercise is up to your pup, but be sure to find the right line to keep them in peak physical condition. Treatment for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia The type of treatment depends on the discomfort of each lab. While some may require surgery, others can be fixed with simple lifestyle choices. The non-surgical approach involves non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs that decrease the pain levels for your pooch. Thankfully, alternatives therapies used to treat hip dysplasia are often covered by dog insurance. Vets also commonly recommend weight reduction to take stress off the hips, which can be done through a steady diet. This process is more difficult because exercise must also be limited to keep the weight off the hips. However, if your pup is beyond the pain level of NSAIDs or weight reduction, they might be a candidate for surgery. The pelvic bone is cut and rotated to fall in place with the ball and socket hip joint. The ball of the hip joint is cut off, creating a false joint that increases comfort. It eliminates all discomfort and is the most invasive. While the cost of surgery may be higher than you expected, you can get reimbursed for the vet bills if you purchase a dog insurance policy from Prudent Pet.

This sweet creature, unfortunately, gets a bad rap because of its past and because of owners who raise Pit Bulls improperly and for inappropriate reasons. Despite being originally bred for fighting, playful Pitties excel in being companions, working dogs, and service dogs. As long as you properly train and socialize your APBT, it will get along well with kids and other pets. The American Pit Bull Terrier With a height that ranges from 17 to 21 inches 43 to 53 cm and a weight that can reach up to 60 pounds 27 kgs , the Pit Bull has a muscular and proportionate body with floppy ears and a long tail. Pitties are also famous for their irresistible smile, which gives this dog a happy, expressive face. The Boxer Bred as an ancient war dog, the Boxer is another muscular and powerful dog that is said to be great with families. As a natural jumper, the playful and energetic dog needs an owner with a lot of patience who can provide him the exercise, training, and socialization he needs. A Boxer puppy It has a short muzzle and full, round eyes, and looks confused or curious in an irresistible way. With a short, sleek coat, this dog has a height between .Boxers, without a doubt, are loving dogs. Does this hybrid look more like Pit Bull or the Boxer? Their appearance is unpredictable, but one thing you can be sure of is that Pitoxers could have more attributes from one parent compared to the other. How big will a Pitbull Boxer mix get? Male and female Pitoxers can grow to 17 to 20 inches 43 to 51 cm and 16 to 19 inches 41 to 48 cm in height, respectively. Males have an average weight range of 60 to 80 pounds 27 to 36 kg while females can weigh between 50 to 70 pounds 23 to 32 kg. The beautiful Pitbull Boxer Mix This medium-to-large dog has a broad head and chest, short muzzle, long legs, and a short, smooth coat. Its coat comes in all sorts of colors, but the most common ones are black, brown, yellow, and tan. With their short hair and lack of double coat, they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions. During summer, stay away from intense heat by taking your Boxer Pit mix out early in the morning or at night. They also have a fun-loving, even-tempered nature, so they usually fit in well with most families. Boxer Pitbull mixes generally have a more stable temperament and are less aggressive. They like staying close to their pack, so many of them are affectionate and loyal companions. The key is to reduce the likelihood of aggression in the Boxer Pit mix is proper training. You can keep your Pitoxer from turning into an overprotective guard dog by introducing him to as many animals and people as you can. If they are socialized at a young age and are treated with love and respect by the people around them, these crossbreeds can be such a joy to have around. A good dog is a reflection of its owner, and how your Pitbull-Boxer cross turns out depends on how you raise it. Does this pup look like a scary fellow to you? How does the Boxer Pitbull Mix behave around other pets like cats? If a Pitoxer puppy gets proper socialization, it will grow up without having trouble getting along with the other pets that you have in the house. Yes, even with cats. Taking in a full-grown Pitbull Boxer Mix is a different matter. Prepare for a potentially problematic situation between him and the other pets, especially cats and smaller dogs. Be gentle yet consistent in teaching your dog commands. Use rewards and lots of praise to encourage him to be obedient. Punishing your pet is likely lead to result in aggression. Do these hybrids shed fur? Brushing his coat once a week is enough. You can use a bristle brush or a grooming mitt for ease. Unfortunately, the coat of the Pitbull Boxer mix is not hypoallergenic due to its moderate shedding. You can bring them to the vet or a reputable groomer once a month for ear check-ups, too. Big breeds like the Boxer Pit need 2 cups of dry dog food a day, split into two or three meals. If your dog has an average level of activity, they would need around 1, to 1, calories a day. Aside from food, make sure your Boxer Pit mix has clean drinking water at all times. Providing the exercise these crossbreeds need Coming from strong, muscular purebred parents, the Pitbull Boxer mix requires a lot of physical activity. Help your Boxer Pit mix release his pent-up energy through 2 hours of physical activities per day. Once you notice that your dog is starting to slow down and pant, give him a 5-minute break and give him some water to hydrate and cool-off. Make sure to give your dog the exercise it needs. Insufficient physical activity can lead to frustration which means barking, digging, and destruction. These are tips for a full-grown Pitoxer, though. Health problems that the Pitbull Boxer Mix may get You might think that giving your dog enough exercise and keeping an eye on his diet should keep him healthy enough throughout his lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Though these hybrids are generally healthy, they can still be susceptible to the health conditions that affect their parent breeds, such as:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bullboxer Pit Highlights The Bullboxer Pit is a mixed breed dog. Bullboxer Pits may tend to overeat. Owners must be diligent about monitoring diet. Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. The most regularly seen coat colors are brown, tan, yellow, and black. Although their coats are easy to maintain, Bullboxer Pits do shed all year long. Brushing can help. Due to their exercise requirements, physical strength, and need for training, this breed might not be best for novice dog owners. Boxers came on the scene in Germany back in the s; the dogs were often used to transport supplies and ferry messages to troops during the first two World Wars. The American Pit Bull Terrier was first employed in blood sports and used in baiting bears and bulls. The first ever Bullboxer Pits can be traced back to a German dog breed called the Bullenbeisser, which is now extinct. Due to the care and attention Bullboxer Pits require from an owner, many of them can end up in shelters. Bullboxer Pit Size The Bullboxer Pit is often described as a medium-sized dog, although they are also stockier and sturdier than many other middle-sized canines. Most weigh in at 50 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 20 inches. Female Bullboxer Pits can often be a little smaller than their male counterparts. Bullboxer Pit Personality Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. These dogs can be especially devoted to their families, and often become very protective of any children in the household. Very upbeat walks—or even jogs—are required, so the owner must also be able to maintain a healthy and regular exercise routine. Around two hours of exercise per day is required—adding agility training or even swimming to the daily sessions can help vary things up. Apartment dwellers may find that many buildings do not permit Bullboxer Pits to live with them. Some of the more common health problems Bullboxer Pits suffer from include: Obesity due to overeating. Brindle 2. She needs plenty of exercise and lots of play! Given that both the Boxer and the Pitbull were bred for use as working dogs, these breeds are very energetic, so your Boxer Pitbull Mix requires a lot of exercise. This is what a well-exercised Boxer Pitbull Mix should look like: The Boxer Pitbull Mix is very playful and will need lots of toys at home. Careful, though! With her strong jaw and love of chewing, this dogs can destroy a chew toy within minutes. When you take her out, take a ball or a Frisbee to play fetch. She will love it! You should take her out for a brisk one-hour walktwice a day. If you are running, twenty minutes to half an hour should be enough. If your dog tires you will notice her slowing or beginning to pant excessively you should stop for a five-minute break and hydrate her. I recommend taking out a collapsible doggie bowl in which you can give her water. A note on exercising your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy This advice on exercise applies to the adult dog only, as when large-breed puppies do too much running and ball-chasing this can cause long-term injuries. With your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy, it is best to do lots of short walks and indoor play until she matures, at about 1 year — 16 months. Watch this 11 week old Pitbull Boxer Mix. She is curious, playful, active, and absolutely, jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Whatever the weather — not with this dog! In rainy weather, she will need a doggie coat to keep her warm. During summer months, it is best to take her out in the early morning or the evening when the sun is less intense. She may still need sunscreen, but make sure you purchase one without zinc oxide, as it is toxic for dogs. The Pitbull is also a very affectionate dog when well-socialized, who will lick you all over if you give her an inch. She was in fact bred for both work and companionship , and due to her gentle nature, is beginning to be used more and more as a therapy dog. Both Boxer and Pitbull are also great with children , which makes them excellent family dogs. The Boxer is very patient and protective, while the Pitbull is solid, a people-pleaser and highly trainable. So mix them together and what have you got? A companionable, affectionate dog who fits in perfectly with a family, wants a lot of attention and gives in return. It is, of course, worth noting that as puppies they are going to be more hyper, and so their contact with children must be supervised. Also, your dog must be well-exercised to be around children, as if not she will be incredibly excitable and could knock over a small child. Her guard dog instinct is strong, which can be useful if there is an intruder or attacker. These are courageous dogs who used to risk their lives baiting bulls, so have no doubt that she will defend you and yours if necessary. If this instinct gets out of hand, however, it can become a problem. You must make sure that you socialize your Boxer Pitbull Mix from a young age with as many people as you can. Invite friends and neighbors to your home and provide her with a positive association by having the person give her a treat when they arrive. As long as you train her well and stay consistent, this dog will be the friendliest dog around. She might be too hands-on for older pets Providing they are both socialized properly, both breeds can get on well with other animals, particularly Boxers. As for play style, Pitbulls can be rough and Boxers like to use their front paws when playing much like a boxer… oh, that makes sense! People are also beginning to look past the negative stigma around Pitbulls and realize their high intelligence and trainability, too. Director of Operations at Universal K9 claims that out of the hundreds of dogs he has trained for police work, the Pitbull, Kiah, is one of the top three he has ever placed. These dogs can be stubborn, though, meaning that you need to be firm and consistent with them. As long as you are in charge, your Boxer Pitbull Mix should pick up basic commands quickly. Make sure you do enough repetition and provide rewards and lots of praise. As puppies, they are boisterous and energetic little characters. You will need to be assertive in order to get their focus. She is a moderate shedder Though these dogs have a short coat, they are moderate shedders and will require a good grooming session once a week. They will probably lose more fur in the Spring, from April through May, so it may be a good idea to brush her twice a week during these periods. She will also need her ears checked monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. She is usually healthy but has some potential health concerns The Pitbull Boxer Mix is generally a healthy breed, as both pure breeds are as long as she gets sufficient exercise, of course and as I mentioned in the intro it can live for up to 13 years. Having said that, it is always worth being informed on any potential health issues this breed can develop, so here are the main ones your dog could be prone to: Cancer While the majority of Boxers are healthy , they are at risk of an aggressive form of cancer called hemangiosarcoma , which occurs in the blood vessel cells. It can be difficult to detect, but signs can include weakness, a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing and weight loss. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this cancer can spread rapidly. Hip dysplasia This condition consists of a malformation of the hip joint, where it is unstable or loose in the socket. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals shows that this condition occurs in both breeds , although Pitbulls are more susceptible. Severe cases can lead to arthritic joints and lameness. Signs can include walking or running with an altered gait and reluctance to fully extend their rear legs or jump. Weight control helps enormously with this condition; keep her slim, as any excess weight will put stress on her joints. Heart disease The Boxer is prone to a heart problem called aortic stenosis , which in most cases of the disease the dog is born with. This disease causes narrowing of the aortic valve, which puts pressure on the heart. Symptoms can include rapid breathing or difficulty breathing, sudden loss of consciousness, and congestive heart failure. If your vet picks up a heart murmur, the diagnosis can be confirmed with an X-ray and a cardiac ultrasound. Allergies Pitbulls can have various allergies , so your Pitbull Boxer Mix may be susceptible. They can be treated with antihistamines, and in the case of skin irritation, you should use shampoos specifically designed for sensitive skin. Conclusion Are you a family with children without any older pets? Are you ready to dedicate your days to plenty of exercise and play with your new lively companion? Can you give her the consistent training she needs? If the answer is yes to all of the above, you are more than ready to own a Pitbull Boxer Mix, and she will be more than happy to have you. Have you got a Pitbull Boxer Mix and a story to share? Comment below! 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. Had her posted on the local shelter site but no takers. We have a year-old Chihuahua and 8-year-old Yorkie so keeping the new dog inside is not possible. For a temporary measure we put a cardboard box with lots of pillows and blankets warmed in the dryer on the porch swing. It has since warmed up into the range. She appears to be happy running around outside and sleeping on the porch swing near the now chewed up box. We have ordered a dog house for her and are having her spayed tomorrow. We are a late middle-aged couple but I hope to be able to walk with her at least once a day. I hope you can wish us well for rescuing her. The recipe features real meat, garden veggies, and fruit plus whole grains and LifeSource Bits rich in antioxidants. It also features ingredients that support healthy growth and development for a growing pup. Natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine are the building blocks of healthy joints and cartilages ideal for mobility. It is packed in vitamins and minerals with antioxidant benefits for lifelong health and happiness. This kibble made for large breed adult dogs also features Iams DHA Gold to promote mental sharpness and alertness and also to encourage healthy cognitive ability. It is crafted with prebiotics for healthy digestion and strong defenses. Puppies and adult pooches have diametrically different nutritional needs, and senior canines require kibble that is gentle on their aged teeth and stomachs. We suggest you pick one of our recommendations for the best puppy food brands and the best senior dry dog food and see how your pup responds. Who knows? Given that your Pitbull Boxer is neither big nor small, they may like the taste of the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food alike, so you might want to offer them both kinds! Pitbull Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements The general advice for most dogs would be to train them while they are young. But in the case of your Pitbull Boxer cross, you have to very cautious. Puppies of large-breed origin that exerts too much energy from running or playing can cause injuries that may last his lifetime. For puppies, activities may be limited to regular short walks or play until it has reached a certain maturity, around one year up to 16 months. As it gets old, the daily exercise requirement will also change. For an adult Pitbull boxer, minutes of exercise should be adequate to maintain good health. It is a very energetic hybrid so they will thrive in a lively environment. An ideal home would mean lots of space to move around, inside or in the backyard. Some states enforce restrictions with regards to Pitbull mixes like your pitbull boxer, so you have to keep it on a leash while out exercising. Using a leash will also prevent them from running into or jumping into everyone they encounter. They are most happy walking around in the city or the Dog Park or even trudging in the mountains. Another essential thing to consider is the weather. During the rainy season, your dog will need a raincoat to protect her from the rain and also to keep her warm. Sunscreen can be used but avoid products with zinc oxide, as it is a poisonous substance. The jacket provides full chest coverage, and the solid print is stylishly chic. The elastic leg straps and adjustable fastener guarantees a snug band comfortable fit. It also features reflectorized stitching so you can see your dog even at night. It is guaranteed durable — it features a galvanized cable and coated with crack-resistant vinyl. It should be able to withstand up to 7x the weight of your dog. My Dog Nose It! Pitbull Boxer Cross Training The combination of Pitbull and Boxer is explosively stubborn, so it is a suitable pet for someone with a firm and unyielding grip in training and socialization. And as always, your dog will react and respond best with positive reinforcement, rewards, and incentives. Punishment will never work, and more often than not, will only create or aggravate behavioral problems. It is essential to reward your pet to encourage positive behavior. Early socialization and training from puppyhood will form the foundation of a well-adjusted dog. Training your Pitbull Boxer should be a piece of cake because of their ability to pick up commands. To get their focus though, you would need to be tough and establish yourself as the master and make him obey you. We listed some training activities you can try out with your petpal: Behavior Training — How do you train him to stop barking mad? Constant practice will help you achieve the desired effect but never shout at him even if he continues to bark. Also, allow him to learn commands other than barking. Keep in mind that the goal is to reward your pup for being silent. Chores Training — Teach him to fetch your newspaper for you. Playing fetch with a toy or a ball should prep your dog for this activity. All you have to do is replace the toy with the newspaper and tech your Pitbull boxer how to get it, pick it up or bring it back to you. Fun Training — Rollover is one activity designed with your big Boxer Pitbull in mind. Start with getting your dog to lie down, and eventually how to roll over. Make sure you reward each action accordingly, and of course, practice makes perfect. Pitbull Boxer Combination And Families The Pitbull Boxer will become accustomed to any family dynamic most especially when trained well and socialized correctly. Their energetic and sometimes rowdy nature can knock off small bodies, so be extra careful if you have kids. There are specific training designed to help you manage this kind of behavior. Check with your local authorities with regards to the legal status of Pitbull mixes in your area. Find out if your Boxer pitbull mix is banned or restricted. Not only will they thrive in large spaces to allow lots of movement, but they will also want owners who will dedicate their time to train and socialize and to love and care for them.

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. Helpful tips for caring for your puppy About the Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever originated in Canada in the 19th century and is now a world-wide beloved dog breed. These dogs are medium-sized dogs, females have a height of .Their average weight as an adult is pounds for females and pounds for males. They have a life expectancy of years. When it comes to their temperament, Labrador retrievers are very loyal, friendly and affectionate companion dogs. They are known for being very social towards strangers and other dogs. Labrador retrievers also come in three colours : black, brown or yellow. These dogs are very active as they need plenty of walks, play time and affection. They are great with children and make a great companion dog. If you're thinking of adopting a Labrador retriever puppy, keep reading as we go through how to care for them! Learn more about the Labrador Retriever in our breed sheet. When to collect your Labrador puppy You can adopt and collect your Labrador puppy once they are 8 weeks old. This way, you make sure that they have had enough time to socialize with their family, mother and siblings. It also makes sure that they have developed good bite moderation before being adopted to their new family. Other advantages are that they have had time to drink their mother's milk and properly wean off. They will also feel more independent and will transition better to their new home after being 8 weeks old. We also encourage you to check out your local animal shelter before buying from a breeder. Where your puppy should sleep the first night When it comes to sleeping at night, your puppy will have some difficulties. This may be due to the new environment and new people. They may feel unprotected and disoriented. For this reason, it's normal to hear them cry as they may be calling their mother for guidance and company. Now that you've adopted this puppy, this is your job as their human companion. When they call out, try to be there for them as they are scared and lonely. Be understanding as your puppy learns to adapt to their new home. As a puppy is very dependent and on their first night they will feel scared and disoriented, it's best they sleep near you on their first night. Remember that puppies tend to sleep with their siblings and their mother. Being alone in a new place for the first time will be difficult for them. The best option for your new puppy is to sleep in their own bed inside your room, near you. So that if they feel scared or lost and cry, you can let them know that you are there with them. Once they feel more oriented and safe in their new home, you can move their bed to another location where they can sleep. Learn more in our article where we elaborate on how to prepare for your puppy's first night in their new home. What to feed your Labrador retriever puppy When feeding your Labrador retriever puppy, you will need to provide them with a rich and balanced diet. Keep in mind that puppies begin weaning when they are around weeks old. This means that they will slowly transition from their mother's milk to a solid food canine diet. A natural canine diet mainly consists in essential fatty acids and meat-based protein. The protein should have two or three types of protein from meat. For example: whole chicken, lamb, beef and fish. For fat sources, you can opt for chicken fat. Good fat sources can solute some of the most important vitamins a dog needs. When it comes to carbs, it should be kept in a low amount as dogs thrive on meat. If you are cooking for your dog, then we recommend to include low amounts of whole carbs, such as sweet potatoes. Lastly, you can offer some fruits and vegetables that provide good vitamins and minerals to help your dog's over-all health. Training your Labrador retriever puppy Labrador Retrievers are very active and intelligent dogs. Other than daily exercise, they will need basic dog training. Yes, even as a puppy! You can begin training your dog with paper training. Learn more about that in our article about paper training for puppies. You can then begin to teach them basic commands, such as to sit, stay, or even to play fetch. Remember to always train them for short amounts of time each day, not exceeding 15min, and always through positive reinforcement. This way, training will be enjoyable for them and will help you create a greater bond with them. To learn more, read our article about when to start training your puppy. Exercising your Labrador retriever puppy Your Labrador retriever puppy will needs plenty of exercise. Due to their small size as a puppy, this will mostly be at home. They will begin by playing with their siblings and walking or running around the house. Then, after their first round of vaccinations, usually around the age of 7 weeks old, puppies will begin to go outside. This is a very important part of their puppyhood as they will learn to go out on walks with their caregivers and will begin their socialization period. During this period, they will meet and interact with new people and other dogs. They will also explore new places. It's very important that during this period they have good interactions and don't get traumatized. When a puppy is well socialized from a young age, they will have a balanced temperament as adult dogs. Learn more in our article about socializing puppies. Hygiene care Next, we're going to talk about maintaining our puppy's hygiene. As Labrador puppies haven't grown their full coat, they won't need to be brushed regularly just yet. A bath is only necessary when they get very dirty on their outdoor walks. Dental hygiene is also important when it comes to caring for a puppy. You can opt for a dog tooth paste or a dental canine treat. Talk to your veterinarian to see which would be best for you puppy, and learn more in our article about dental hygiene for dogs. Other than that, we must make sure that their everyday environment is also clean and that we refresh their water bowl everyday. This way, our puppy will have great personal hygiene and we can help them prevent certain health issues from a young age. Health care Lastly, we're going to talk about your Labrador retriever's health. The Labrador Retriever is a relatively healthy and long-living dog, especially if they stay in shape. However, the lack of genetic diversity resulting from breeding programs makes them prone to certain hereditary diseases and conditions , which are usually manifested as the dog grows old. For instance, Labradors tend to suffer from hip dysplasia. When your Lab is a puppy, you must ensure they get the necessary vaccines, and you must follow their vaccination schedule during the rest of their lives. This will prevent them from suffering very serious diseases that tend to affect dogs. If you want your dog to stay as healthy as possible, go to the vet for check-ups every 6 months. You can prevent the development of common diseases by watching your Lab for symptoms and caring for them as best as you can. Labrador Retrievers are prone to obesity - they love treats, and if they don't get enough exercise they will soon become overweight, with the related muscular and joint problems. Helpful tips for caring for your puppy We hope that this article has given you great insight when it comes to caring for a Labrador Retriever puppy. Here are some other helpful articles for caregivers that are adopting puppies:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Well-bred Labradors are relatively low maintenance, fit and healthy dogs. But your Labradors continuing health and well-being does depend entirely on you. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, grooming, preventive measures and regular visits to the vet are the real key to maintaining a high level of wellness and good health. All these actions are your responsibility and solely under your control. Daily routines will be diet control, exercise and physical inspections. Weekly routines will be grooming, ears, eyes, teeth and nail care. Quarterly routines could be shared between visits to the vet, a canine dentist and bathing. And the annual routine will be vaccinations. Just remember that prevention is always better than cure, so doing your best to prevent any illness and catching problems at the earliest possible stage is the goal to aim for. The following are all areas where you only need a little knowledge to effectively take care of your Labrador well. And if you cannot dedicate this time and effort, then in the nicest possible way, you might be better suited to a pet with less demanding care requirements such as goldfish. Making Safe Your Home and Garden Labradors are a lively and inquisitive breed, especially during their first three years so you need to keep dangerous household items out of their reach. Conceal electrical wiring…we all know of their infamous love for chewing. Sharp teeth and electricity do not mix! A Labrador can easily choke on wrappings or trash that may be swallowed along with edible scraps. Labs are smart and opening cupboards and drawers soon becomes easy for them. Be mindful of the toxicity of certain plants — Over plants have been identified as toxic to dogs , so be sure to research any plant before bringing it into your home. Fence of any ponds or pools in your yard. These are just a few points to consider around your home and garden, there are many more. Just try to put yourself in your Labradors shoes and take a good look at his environment as he would see it. Try to see how he could get into trouble and take measures to prevent it. Click here for a more detailed guide on puppy-proofing your home and garden. Brushing also helps to shake loose dirt out of and spread the natural oils throughout their coat for that desirable, healthy glossy look we know and love. Related article: The Best vacuums for removing pet hair from your home. Frequent baths will strip their oils, leaving them prone to wet and cold in winter, causing dry skin and making their coat look dull and not shiny. Keeping Nails Trim Most Labradors will need a nail trim every 2 to 3 months, although some may never need it. Regularly walking your dog on hard ground, especially sidewalks and roads, will have a natural filing effect and keep your dogs claws in order. This can make them sore and bleed. Ear Care What with a Labradors slightly drooping ears and their love of water, the inside of their ears can sometimes retain too much moisture, causing bacteria to build up and infections to form. I shall be writing an article on this very soon. Just some of the problems a Labrador may have with its teeth are gum disease, loose teeth, cracked or broken teeth, root abscesses and a build up of tartar. These can be very uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to further problems if neglected. Therefore, you need to inspect their teeth regularly, take measures to clean their teeth and even visit a professional canine dentist every 6 months or annually for a thorough check up and any necessary treatments. Treat their teeth like you would your own. Dealing with Parasites Controlling fleas, ticks and other parasites is essential for keeping your Labrador healthy. Immediate problems include extreme irritation and skin sores, but extreme infestations can lead to more dangerous problems including Lyme disease and tape worms. If you stick to a regular grooming schedule as you should! Simply brush your hand against the lie of your Labradors fur and watch for any small moving dots and check for any clearly visible ticks. There are many safe and effective over-the-counter flea control products , many of which contain formulations to prevent ticks at the same time. Finally, depending on where you live in the world, you may need to put your Labrador on medication for heartworm. Where mosquitoes are a problem, they can pass on heartworm and this can be fatal. Even the medicine for heartworm makes your dog very ill so prevention is definitely better than cure! Diseases such as distemper, rabies, hepatitis and parvoviros to name just a few. Your puppy will have had his first shots at five or six weeks before you got to take him home, and he will need a few further shots over a period of up to 18 weeks. A rabies shot usually follows at 6 months of age or so. After this, your adult Labrador will need just a single booster each year to stay protected. For many facts on vaccinations and the schedule you should follow when vaccinating your puppy, please click here. Dogs need a balance of vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins different to that of a human and feeding them on human leftovers can lead to malnutrition, as can a diet based on cheap filler packed dog food. You should perform a little research to find and use a recognized healthy brand of dog food that will cater to your Labradors needs. To help with this, please see our articles that list 4 of the best foods for Labrador puppies opens in new window or the best dog foods for adult Labradors opens in new window …yours really will thrive on these handpicked, quality foods! Additionally, the best thing you can do is set up a feeding schedule for your dog, twice per day being the recommended, and be mindful of any extra treats. Your Lab should always be well fed but not over-fed. I shall discuss this more in a later article. An Important Note On Drastic Changes In Eating And Drinking Habits If your dog is off their food, drinks way too much or way too little for a period of time more than 36 hours, you should call your vet as this is almost surely a sign of an underlying problem. They are voracious eaters and will eat just because they can, not because they need it. Excess weight can lead to all sorts of issues including arthritis and heart problems. To prevent this, control their diet and give them plenty of exercise for them to burn off those calories. They really do need very little exercise of just a few short minutes a couple of times per day. Too much exercise for a puppy can cause skeletal formation issues and plays a large part in joint problems. Take it easy until your puppy is at least a year old. Bedding and Shelter A Labrador should always have a soft surface to lay upon. To prevent this you should get your Lab a large sized dog bed or line a crate to offer a soft and comfortable place to rest. If your Lab spends any amount of time outside, you must provide shelter to offer an escape from the sun in summer, and preferably the shelter should have a raised floor so the wet and cold is kept away in winter. If your Lab puppy gets used to sleeping in a bed of yours or your children, it will be a hard habit to break and will more than likely end in separation anxiety and night-time whining. You want your Labrador to be comfortable alone for periods of time and should start forming this habit ASAP. Training The importance of training your Labrador cannot be overstated. A dog is a dog and not a human. You need to teach your dog how to behave and what your instructions are asking them to do. Before a puppy can become a trusted, well-behaved dog they have a lot of learning to do…and you a lot of teaching! To learn from the written word, I am part way through building the ultimate resource in the form of this site. Routines for feeding, exercise, grooming and visits to the vet are all easily managed with a little knowledge and by planning a schedule in advance and sticking to it. Spending quality time with your Lab is also key, especially regular grooming sessions. You should also attempt to learn your dogs normal living habits, how much he eats, drinks and sleeps. Anything To Add? As always, if you have any questions, would like to offer feedback, suggestions or further advice on the subject, please do so in the comments section below. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the toilet at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialisation Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the garden Besides the gnomes and questionable garden furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own garden is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and garden to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favourite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Labrador Puppies Labrador puppies are a ball of fun. They are playful, cute, and always enjoy the company of children and adults. Labradors are not demanding dogs. They make ideal pets that are are amazing companion dogs that are always ready to follow their owner everywhere. If you are bringing a labrador puppy home this article is for you. Where do labradors originate from? The labrador breed of dog is originally from Newfoundland. They were later bred in the UK as hunting gun dogs. They are bred for their ability to retrieve, their friendly nature, and their ability to dominate field trials. A fully grown labrador is a large dog that lives for 12 to 13 years. Labradors are heavy dogs and weigh 80 pounds when fully grown. Female labradors weigh about 20 kilos less. Labradors come in three main colors I. Labradors have thick tails that are flat at the base and tapering at the edge. Labradors have a short dense coat. In this article, we will prepare you for when you bring a labrador puppy home. Nutritional needs and how to feed a labrador Labradors have a varying diet depending on the age of the puppy. At 2 to 6 months Labrador puppies are able to eat started dry food. Choose a brand of puppy food that is rich in the nutrition that puppies need. At months your dog will start to eat like an adult. You can also feed your dog thin strips of raw red meat or cooked chicken boneless with veggies. What alternative food can you feed your puppy other than kibble? There are a number of types of healthy dog food that you can feed your dog other than kibble. These foods can be meats, veg, and cooked food. Cooked chicken with the bones removed is healthy and tasty food for dogs. Dogs love the taste of eggs and it makes an ideal puppy food. Feed your dogs scrambled as they are rich in protein and are easy to digest for your puppy. Oatmeal for dogs is rich in fiber and helps your dog have a regular bowel movement. What are the concerns of feeding a puppy raw food? Raw food can be a risky proposition when feeding your dogs. Raw foods may contain bacteria that are a health risk to both humans and your puppy. An unbalanced diet of raw food can affect the health of your dog. It is for this reason that vets recommend kibble or feeding your dog cooked meats like chicken. How to choose the right food for your dog The correct food for your puppy should take up all its nutritional needs and ensure the health of your pet. Look out for good quality food that has the nutritional benefits for your dog printed on it. Such food should also contain proteins and minerals. Feeding your puppy in his crate The crate is the home for your puppy in the first few months of its life. Your puppy plays and grows older in its crate. Feeding your puppy in its crate increases its attachment to its living space. When feeding your puppy in its crate ensure that you have put the food all the way to the back of the crate. Choosing the proper food and water bowls Choose a food and water bowl for your puppy that is heavy and does not move around. Ensure that your puppy has separate bowls for food and water. Plastic bowls are an inexpensive option for your puppy bowl. Stainless steel bowls are also good as they do not break and are easy to rinse. Keeping your puppy at the proper weight Labrador puppies love to eat and for this reason, may become overweight quite easily. Ensure that you feed your puppy only twice a day with nutritious meals that are rich in all the various nutrients. Do not overfeed your puppy. A puppy needs only grams of food per sitting. Do not feed your puppy if it is asking for food between meals. Labrador puppies are known to be voracious eaters. Washing Your Labrador retriever Labrador puppies do not need a bath very often as they may fall sick. It is ideal to wash your puppy only once every 2 months. Use a mild dog shampoo when washing your puppy. So not use human shampoo as this may dry the skin of your puppy. A puppy has natural oils in its coat and this gets washed away when you shampoo your puppy. So, be aware of the specific bathing needs of your puppy. It protects its health and lets it grow up to be a big and strong dog. Taking care of a Labrador so that he is happy Labradors are jolly dogs that often wag their tail and like to be happy. In order to keep your labrador dog happy ensure that it gets a lot of fresh air and exercise. Taking care of Labrador so that he is happy Take your dog out for a walk once a day for at least an hour. You can play fetch with your puppy or have it follow you around. You can also teach your dog how to respond to its name and come when called. Buy your pet fun toys to play with when at home or outside. Labrador puppies love toys that they can play with. Praise your puppy often and give it a lot of love and attention. Take your puppy for walks and carry puppy snacks with you for when your puppy does a good deed. Remember, lots of love creates a happy labrador. Vaccinations It is extremely important to vaccinate your puppy after bringing her home from the pet store. There are a number of illnesses that may affect your dog if you do not vaccinate it on time. The vaccinations that your dog will need to prepare its health are as follows: Canine Parvovirus. Canine Distemper. The ideal weight for a labrador puppy at 3 months is 25 lbs and at 6 months that weight will be 50 Lbs. On average a Labrador puppy will gain two pounds of each week of weight. If your puppy is picking up weight to fast try and cut down its below meals snack and ensure that you are feeding your dog the ideal amount of food. Daily Exercise A puppy that has daily exercise is a happy puppy. Your puppy should exercise at least once a day with a walk that is nearly an hour long. Having not enough exercise may cause your dog health issues like joint problems, weight gain, and other health issues. Exercising your dog not just keeps it healthy but also helps you develop a bond with your pet. Training your labrador puppy Owing to the size of the labrador breed training your dog later in life can be daunting as they are large and excitable dogs. Instead start training your dog at an early age. You can start training your dog from 6 to 12 weeks old. Training sessions should be fun. You can start toilet training your dog at this age. You can also start with simple commands such as getting your dog to follow when you call it and teaching your dogs commands such as sit and fetch. Reward behavior that you want to encourage in your dog. Dealing with parasites No matter how much you take care of your dog it may get parasites like fleas, ticks, and tapeworms. If this is the case you should give your dog a bath using medicated shampoos to care for your dog. You can also give your dog a deworming pill to get rid of any internal parasites. Visit a vet at least once every two months. Take him or her to the vet immediately so that it may get the proper medical care it needs. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!