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Ligament sprain or rupture Your Dog Is Limping After Rest Dogs with osteoarthritis typically appear to be at their most painful when they first get up in the morning or after resting. Moving around for a while seems to relieve at least some of their discomfort. Osteoarthritis may worsen in cold and damp weather. Immune-mediated polyarthritis, tick-borne infections, and panosteitis a developmental disease seen in young dogs are sometimes associated with lameness that seems to move from leg to leg. For example, a dog who has undergone a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy TPLO to treat a cruciate ligament rupture generally begins bearing some weight on the affected leg within a week or so after surgery. Over the next few weeks, the limping should gradually improve, but if your dog is too active, the limp may temporarily worsen. As tempting as it may be, NEVER give your dog the following without talking with your veterinarian first: Aspirin Over-the-counter pain reliever s Prescription pain relievers All medications, including aspirin , are associated with potentially severe side effects when used at the wrong dose or in the wrong situations. Determining why your dog is limping is the first step to providing the right treatment. Diagnosing the Cause of Dog Limping Veterinarians start the diagnostic process by taking a thorough health history, so be prepared to answer the following questions: How long has your dog been limping? Can you identify a specific event that may have initiated the limp? Does the limp come and go, or is it present all the time? What type of treatment have you tried at home? Has it worked? Next, the veterinarian will perform a physical and orthopedic examination as well as a neurological exam, if necessary. X-rays radiographs are often needed to reach a diagnosis. Some cases also benefit from bloodwork, a CT scan, an MRI, a joint fluid analysis, or other laboratory tests. Treatment for Mild Cases of Dog Limping In some cases, pain relief and rest may be all that is needed. Veterinarians often prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories for mild to moderate pain, such as:. 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. Devon, U. Well, we've just got back from the vet. Is it just me or do they set out to make you feel like the worst dog owner in the world - but that's for another post. The vet seemed to be quite worried about this. He asked if she'd ever shown signs of limping before to which I replied that very occasionally after she wakes up she will imp for a few minutes and then be fine so we had thought nothing of it. Apparently this isn't a good sign in a young dog. He said that after sleep a young dog should bounce up and be totally fine. We have been given some anti-inflammatories and have been instructed to reduce exercise to lead walks a day for the next days. Interestingly this is the reason we had upped her exercise - she pulls A LOT on the lead. So, the next week will be interesting. Luckily the last week we have been working on this with our trainer we have made lots of progress - lets hope its enough or there'll be two members of the family with dodgy shoulders. We've been told to watch out for this in the future and if there is another bout she will need an x-ray to look at the problem. Although he did say there are a number of reasons she could be limping, I definitely got the impression that he thought there was a problem - he certainly seemed concerned. MaccieD i'm scared to google ED as you always hear the worst stuff. What does it mean for her if she does have it? Is it just a case of keeping exercise and impact to a minimum or are there more serious implications? German Shepherd When To Visit The Vet You do not have to see a vet every time you notice your dog is starting to limp however, there are times your dog must see a veterinarian at an animal hospital to get a comprehensive examination. If any of the following situations apply to your dog call your vet or go to the nearest open emergency veterinary clinic for assistance. Limbs that feel hot to the touch Any moderate to severe swelling A broken limb will be at an irregular angle A dangling limb this indicates dislocation Limping in combination with a fever How Can I Help My Limping Dog? When you first see your dog limping immediately get them to rest the best way you can to minimize their movement and prevent them from injuring themselves more. Also, press pause on your dog's exercise routines until they have fully healed, and keep them on a leash when taking them outside for potty breaks to stop them from running away. Check your pup's paw for anything signaling an injury such as cuts. Contact your vet as soon as you can if you discover something painful. If you think your dog is limping because of inflammation, alternate between ice and heat packs to lower the level of swelling and discomfort. Call your veterinarian to ask them when you should be applying the packs. Look at the site of the limp for signs of bleeding, to help determine if the condition is from a bite, injury, or puncture. It is recommended that you should take your dog to the vet to be safe and give both you and your dog a peaceful mind in knowing what is causing your dog's limp, even if you think it is not serious. If your dog starts to whimper or yelp and the limp doesn't get better by itself call your veterinarian immediately or go to the nearest emergency vet. Your vet has the training and knowledge to diagnose what is causing your dog's pain and the severity of the injury. An exam to determine the source may include X-rays, blood work, or tick testing. The veterinarian will also take your pup's age, breed, history, and overall health into consideration when diagnosing your dog and creating a treatment plan. Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. If you notice your dog is in pain and limping contact us now. Our Lafayette veterinarians are available to help dogs in need. 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. Cut or wound to part of the leg Burn i. If your dog shows any outward signs of pain, discomfort, restlessness, or swelling, he should be taken to a veterinarian. Sometimes, however, a dog will show pain and it is up to the pet parent to know the signs and symptoms. Never wait when it comes to helping a dog in dire need of medical care. Any sort of sudden movement caused her pain, which she displayed by squealing aloud. Here are a few ways to move a dog with a front leg injury or pain: Blanket Stretcher Use a blanket as a makeshift sling: If you have another person to help, this is the method that I used and recommend. Position your dog on the blanket so his entire body is supported lengthwise. Stand on opposite sides of the blanket with the dog in the middle. Prevent the dog from moving or bending as much as you can, With one person on each side of the blanket, lift the corners and pull the blanket away from one another so it is taut and supportive for the dog. If you have a harder surface, use a stretcher, but if not a blanket comes in handy. If you are alone, you may have to drag the dog on the blanket gently as far as you can. Do not drag a dog down steps. It talks about spinal injuries, but the techniques are good for front leg issues, too: Carry The Dog In Your Arms If you are able to lift the dog to get him into your arms and then a vehicle, use this method. Use A Pet Carrier If your dog can be transported in a kennel, he is likely a smaller breed. A pet carrier can be used to move the dog, but ensure a blanket or soft material is placed inside the kennel first. Canine Shoulder Injuries Dogs have shoulder blades just as humans do, but they are not connected to the skeleton. How amazing is that?! The shoulder joint is called a ball and socket joint. In a dog with four legs, the shoulder joint is composed of the scapula shoulder blade bones and the humerus, or the upper bone of the front leg. Now think of all the ligaments and tendons that connect all the different parts in that shoulder joint and the shoulder as a whole. Ligaments connect bone to bone. BLB bone-ligament-bone. Tendons connect muscle to bone. Ligament and tendon injuries can happen in the front legs of a dog. Shoulder injuries can cause a dog to exhibit front leg limping or lameness, as in our situation. Dexter sustained soft tissue damage to the shoulder and neck area. Any number of activities can cause a shoulder injury in a dog, from jumping to overuse, running to swimming. If you have a chubby pooch, those extra pounds can also make him more prone to injury. For us, the dog was startled awake, jumped up, and had an awkward landing. See that scapula area and its relationship to the front legs? Dogs with a shoulder issue will often be hesitant to put pressure on one or both front legs. Sometimes, the symptoms are intermittent. The area can also swell and his neck range of motion may be limited. Only once the emergency veterinarian pointed it out did we notice our dog was not fond of moving his neck a certain way to look at us. Ah, the dreaded shoulder injury. There are a whole host of other shoulder injuries that can cause front paw limping. Biceps brachii tenosynovitis is often seen in older and athletic dogs. The biceps brachii muscle and its tendons get inflamed. In supraspinatus tendinopathy, the tendon in this muscle tears. It sounds painful because it is. Your vet may talk about calcium deposits in this area. Finally, the infraspinatus muscle is common in athletic dogs. Think about a dog who goes from zero to mach speed without warning. This injury is more disabling than it is painful. When the muscles that support the shoulder bones are overused or injured, you may see front leg limping in your dog. He was given pain medication, Tramadol, and a muscle spasm medication, methocarbamol. By the end of the first day, he was putting pressure on his leg. By day two, he showed more improvement, and this is when I decided to try a pet-friendly CBD oil. Since quality hemp oil is a strong anti-inflammatory, I went that route. I kid you not: by day three, Dexter was no longer limping. A proper diagnosis from a veterinarian is crucial followed by rest and meds as required. The little whimper sounds are normal for Dexter — he is vocal on our walks since puppyhood. Lyme Disease and Leg Lameness Does this one surprise you? The limp can change from one leg to another and dog parents are often floored when a diagnosis of Lyme disease is made. Dogs that develop Lyme disease will do so between one and five months after being bit by the infected tick. The lameness or limping is usually sudden and long after the bite, which is why it is often not associated with the tick. You may not even know a tick infected your dog, which is what happened to us. Here are some signs of Lyme disease in a dog: Limping or lameness, sometimes changing from leg to leg Warmth of the leg joints Pain in the leg joints when the vet examines your dog Pain or reluctance to rise from a laying or seated position Stiff gait. Is the dog overweight? Has it been scanned to diagnose it properly? Standard course of treatment is take a cheap easy option first and see what happens which is sounds like they have done and then go see how it develops. Mate of mine did that with his Giant Schnauser, and got a hernia for his troubles. If on exam there was thickening of the joints and obvious pain on manipulation of the joints then it would be possible to suggest it was likely to be an ongoing problem, though radiographs would likely have been offered at that stage. If there are no changes on exam and the dog has recovered then a gradual return to exercise and lifting dog out of car for a few weeks would be sensible. Unless the owner saw how the dog became lame or has a good idea the cause is educated guesswork. If your dog shows hesitation in jumping out of the car it is probably finding it sore, however lots of dogs act 1st oh good a walk! Lots of people swear by glucosamine etc but studies are not that convincing. Standard disclaimer of all advice being useless unless you have examined the dog. The point is jumping now could make it much worse. Is your dog insured? If so, do not mess about with the vets, get a referral to a specialist. Our was limping on his front left for about 3 months on and off, the vet could do nothing for him that could help. Graham who is the specialist was amazing. After proper analysis, ours had fragments of bone in both his front elbows, which was causing the pain. Apparently labs can get bone fragment from 3 months and its very common. They only operate one at a time though. Knowing what I know now, we were really apprehensive at first, but they whole process has really given us our dog back from when he could hardly walk. There are no tablets a vet can give you that will fix it if its the same as ours. Overall it can to a bit expensive. First one, she was kept on the lead for most of it and was allowed to run around for 5 minutes. When I say run, she had a trot around and sniff, while her brother ran around as per usual. No limp, favouring of any leg or obvious pain. Not herself though. Second walk this morning pic below , I took her out before any Metacam given. Weight is an issue, as with most labs. She has been on Royal Canin since a pup and the only extra she gets from me is mackerel or sardines mixed in with her meal and the occassional dog biscuit. This has been the source of many arguments but now this has happened she may get the message and stop it. She is on Petplan, so further treatment, if required, is not an issue. Sophie this morning.

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Do Bernedoodle puppies Huntington Beach need a lot of exercise each day? Huntington Beach Bernedoodle puppies for sale need to get a good amount of exercise every day for their physical as well as mental health, like all dogs. How much should this be? Your dog should ideally get about an hour or more of physical exercise as an adult, which could mean one or two walks a day plus some extra playtime at home. How can I meet my Bernedoodle for sale in Huntington Beach? The Bernedoodle breeders in Huntington Beach here are experts at arranging puppy travel. One of the most popular options is to meet your new pup at your nearest major airport, which is possible anywhere in the country apart from Alaska and Hawaii. What makes Uptown Puppies better than other places? There are a lot of scammers out there! At Uptown Puppies, all the Bernedoodle breeders Huntington Beach must meet our high breeding standards so you can be sure that your puppy comes from a good place. Is this the place to find the cheapest Bernedoodle puppies in Huntington Beach? If you want to get a healthy and happy puppy and you want to be sure that it has been bred ethically, start your search here today. Are Bernedoodles for sale in Huntington Beach easy dogs to train? One of the great things about Bernedoodles is that they are so intelligent! This is a trait they get from their Poodle parents, because the Poodle is the smartest breed of all. What this means is that Bernedoodles have no problems when it comes to training. However, they can be a bit stubborn, so patience will be required. Nothing at all! We love reputable shelters at Uptown Puppies, and they can be a good choice for many people. But some people want to find a very specific type of dog like a Bernedoodle for sale Huntington Beach, or they want to know the full health and behavioral history of their puppy. What dog food do you recommend? One Bernedoodle may like one food while another turns its nose up at it. You may have to try a few different foods, but make sure that your dog enjoys a healthy and nutritious diet. Talk to your vet to find out what they recommend. What exactly is a Bernedoodle? When you start looking for a Bernedoodle Huntington Beach, you may be wondering exactly what they are. These dogs are a cross between a Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog, and they can be different sizes depending on the size of the Poodle parent. They were bred to be companion dogs, and they are friendly and intelligent dogs that make wonderful pets. Are purebred and mixed breed dogs very different? While purebred dogs are bred to meet very specific standards and to maintain those standards across litters, mixed breed dogs have more than one breed in their ancestry. This does not mean that one is any better than the other, and they are both wonderful types of dogs. It simply depends on your preferences for the type of dog you want for your family.

Vocality level 1 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. He is willing to please, although he retains a stubborn streak. He is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. Upkeep The Bulldog appreciates a daily outing but cannot tolerate hot humid weather, which can be deadly. He should not be expected to jog or walk great distances, or to jump from any heights. Most Bulldogs cannot swim. Most Bulldogs wheeze and snore, and some drool. Coat care is minimal, but facial wrinkles and any folds around the tail should be cleaned daily. Special precautions must be taken when anesthetizing a Bulldog. Caesarean deliveries are commonly needed. Hip radiographs show most Bulldogs to be dysplastic but few show overt symptoms. History With the most distinctive mug in dogdom, the Bulldog has an equally distinctive history. Some Bulldogs were also set against bears for bear baiting, purely for entertainment. In , bull baiting was outlawed, and a new phase began for the Bulldog. By all rights, the breed should have become extinct, except that it had gained so many ardent admirers that they set out to rescue the Bulldog by selecting against ferocity while still maintaining—and often accentuating—its distinctive physical characteristics. Its tough steadfast persona led it to be identified as a national symbol of England. Its amiable clownish personality belies its appearance, and the Bulldog is a popular pet. Related Content. Our website is dedicated to connecting you with reputable English Bulldog breeders across the USA, ensuring that you bring home a healthy and happy furry companion without breaking the bank. Finding the perfect English Bulldog puppy at an affordable price can be a challenging task. However, our platform simplifies the process by curating a list of trusted English Bulldog breeders who offer these delightful companions at budget-friendly rates. We understand that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and companionship that a lovable English Bulldog can bring to their lives. History of English bulldog puppies Cheap near you! The national dog of England, their strong heads, loose skin and short legs give them a very distinctive, amusing appearance. Bulldogs are generally gentle, affectionate dogs that love to be around their families. They are excellent with children and have a medium-low activity level that makes them great for apartment or city living. These loveable dogs are loyal to a fault and are sure to make you smile. English Bulldogs are calm, non-sporting dogs with a sourmug face that love to chew and play tug-of-war. British Bulldogs rarely bark but snore, snort, wheeze, grunt, and snuffle instead. Bulldogs are a people-oriented, loyal and devoted watchdogs that love to nap by your side. Temperament of english bulldogs Temperament is a crucial factor to consider when bringing a new furry friend into your life. English Bulldogs are known for their gentle, friendly, and affectionate nature. They make excellent companions and are particularly good with children, making them a fantastic choice for families. Despite their somewhat serious expression, they have a fun-loving and playful side that will bring joy to your everyday life. This Bulldog puppy is a very social and sweet baby girl who loves everyone she meets! She is raised with children that play with her daily. This gal will steal your heart the second you look into those puppy eyes and when she gives you one of her famous puppy kisses. She will make a fantastic addition to any family. This puppy is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. Her momma is Kayla. This puppy is anxious to meet her new family and begin her life of adventure with you! Call now!

Now you can find out how popular the Frenchie dog is based on AKC most popular dog breeds in .These findings were based on stats on AKC registration statistics. It is important to note that even though the French Bulldog is listed as the fourth most popular dog there are many rare Frenchie colors that are not accepted and therefore do not have the AKC registration. The Frenchie breed is popular for their fun-loving, laid back nature and this has contributed to their almost universal appeal among dog lovers. If you have been searching for the perfect Frenchie puppy , we must warn you that this is where your search comes to an end. Armed with an overdose of cuteness and a tough-on-the-outside,sweet-on-the-inside expression, you are minutes away from a French Bulldog puppy fever. Discover the history of the French Bulldog on Meet the Breeds! Is the Frenchie dog breed the right breed for me? French Bulldogs have a unique personality than other breeds and it is recommended you learn more about this breed before getting one. Society stigmatize them as a lazy low maintenance small breed you can just carry everywhere. This is far from the truth. French Bulldogs often require as much attention as a newborn baby. Appearance of the French Bulldog dog The Frenchie dog is one of the miniature dog breed. One of their signature physical attributes are the over-sized bat-like ears that add spades of cute to this furry fellow. They have a muscle bound, compact frame with heavy bones. Their heads are large and square, compared to the rest of their body which tapers off to lean and smaller hind quarters. They have a wrinkly, almost flat face featuring a very short and often black muzzle. This gives them a scrunched up, eternally long-suffering look that provides several funny expressions and makes them look almost human. Their eyes are small, dark and set just above the muzzle. They have strong necks, wide chests and smooth, soft coats that come in a variety of colors. Their tails are usually short and either straight or screwed. The Frenchie dog is alert, friendly and sturdy. Their signature sitting positions will often remind you of a turkey leg. You most definitely will want to nibble on that! How do you know what color is your Frenchie puppy? First, examine the genes and colors of the parents, then examine certain features such as mask, maskless, brindle, tan points, sable etc. If you have questions or unsure you can always ask a more knowledgeable breeder or do a genetic test. Did you know the Fawn french Bulldog comes in many different shades? Here is a short breakdown of the different variations in Fawn French Bulldog puppies: Masked fawn French Bulldog A fawn Frenchie coat color can range from cream and light tan to golden tan and dark reddish tan with the distinguishing feature of a dark mask. Brindle streaks can occur. Their coats look like a pale lighter fawn color and usually puppies have lighter eyes. Their eyes will change in time from blue gray or green to brown honey or hazel color depending on their genes. Sable Frenchie dogs usually look like masked fawn Frenchies with darker black hairs and black-tipped hairs covering throughout the coat. A sable Frenchie puppy may be indistinguishable from sable in an adult French Bulldog. Maskless Fawn French Bulldog A Fawn maskless Frenchie coat color can range from cream and light tan to golden tan and dark reddish tan just like the masked fawn Frenchie. The only difference is that this coat color in Frenchies do not include the dark black mask around the eyes and muzzle. Red Fawn French Bulldog A red fawn Frenchie coat color can range from light red to dark reddish tan with the distinguishing feature of a dark mask. Brindle and sable can occur. The Red Fawn Frenchie coat color is considered rare. Lets talk French Bulldog genes! Two French Bulldogs that are masked brindles - expected to produce masked fawn, masked brindle or maskless brindle. A masked brindle Frenchie and a sable ayayE French Bulldog- expected to produce Frenchie puppies that are masked fawns sables or brindles. A masked brindle Frenchie and an ee red Frenchie - expected to produce depending on the A genes in the ee red blacks and some black with tan pigment, which could either be masked or brindled. If you work most of the day, and planning on leaving your Frenchie at home alone until you come back, please re-think getting this breed. It is too often that this breed is being surrendered to a rescue due to the inability of spending time with the dog. French Bulldogs will get angry and destroy things to get your attention if you are ignoring them or not there for them. If you are retired, and want a great loving companion this might be the breed for you. Should I get a French Bulldog puppy or a Pug puppy? There is no simple answer to this question. Deciding whether to get a Frenchie or a pug puppy can be a hard decision. They might look similar however there are many differences between the French Bulldog and the pug dog breeds. Both the Pug and the French Bulldog make a great family pet. Both are very loving and crave human attention. Both do not do well when left alone for long periods of time. The Pug never outgrows his or her puppy persona, and in contrast the French Bulldog is very laid back as he or she matures. The Frenchie is less active than the pug who might tend to bark more though not excessively. Similarly the Pug needs more exercise per day than the French bulldog. In addition Pugs life span will usually be longer than the French Bulldog. Both breeds do not do well in hot or cold weather. The Pug requires a lot more grooming and brushing than the Frenchie due to their thicket coat. Both breeds need daily wrinkle cleaning to avoid skin infections or tear stains. Frenchies cost more than Pug puppies. This is due to the fact that Frenchies can't reproduce naturally and all the costs associated with breeding the Frenchie. Both the Pug and the French Bulldog are prone to a long list of health problems. When making the decision whether you get a pug or a Frenchie you should consider your space, budget, and lifestyle. Maybe this decision proven to be too hard for you and in those cases you might consider getting a Frug. What is a Frug? A Frug is a crossbreed between the Pug and the Frenchie dog breeds. How do I find the right Frenchie? You generally have two options for getting yourself a French bulldog. You can either choose to get one through a reputable breeder or you can adopt a puppy from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization. How can I rescue a French Bulldog? We are involved with many French Bulldog organizations you can always ask us if you need some guidance in the right direction. Are Frenchies healthy? French bulldogs are not known for their great health. In fact, they can develop several health issues. This is largely due to several factors including their physical attributes. Keep in mind that not all Frenchies will have these health challenges. They are simply associated with the breed and may not occur at all for your furry buddy. With adequate knowledge about their health issues, you can better make intelligent decisions when it comes to picking your Frenchie-puppy. What is the life spam of a French Bulldog? On average, the French bulldog lives between 10 and 12 years although, it is common to see some live for longer, up to 13 or 14 years especially if your French Bulldog is at an ideal weight. Do Frenchies smell? A French Bulldog tend to be more smelly than other dog breeds. Their delicate stomach and breathing issues can cause a lot of gas. Additionally, the Frenchie's facial folds can have a bad odor if not cleaned daily. How much should a French bulldog puppy weigh? Our Frenchie Weight Calculator can tell you an approx weight of your puppy or dog instantly based on on your dogs age and breed size. A general idea of an ideal weight would be lbs for a male Frenchie and lbs for a female French Bulldog depending on frame and height. French Bulldog dog breed is considered one of the lazy breeds since they love to lay around and sleep a lot. Frenchies can become overweight or obese very quickly and that can lead to many health issues that can be avoided with proper and ideal weight. My Frenchie is too thin, what should I do? First ask yourself, is your Frenchie months of age? If so its natural for them to look skinny, they are still growing and filling up to their mature body. Has your Frenchie been through any medical proceedure in the last few months that requires anesthesia? It is normal that your French Bulldog is skinnier after a proceedure such as neutering, spaying, boas surgery etc. If your French Bulldog is not a puppy and have not been through any medical procedures but still looks thin there are a few options to help them gain a bit of weight and reach an ideal weight: -De-worm your Frenchie and rule out intestinal parasites with the help of your vet. Things like chicken or beef broth, a dollop of non-fat plain yogurt are safe for your Frenchie to consume in moderation. Does your Frenchie eat raw, dry or wet food? Ask yourself does he or she like the food? This type of supplement usually comes in a tube and is easy to give the dog. How will being underweight or overweight affect my Frenchie's health? Just like people an overweight or obese Frenchie may exprience a shortness of breath with little to no exercise. It is a matter of life or death for a breed like the French Bulldogs that already has respiratory issues in the first place. In addition you can expect an overweight Frenchie to have Diabetes and heart disease. They may also experience joint problems and inability to walk or run. Even 5 pounds would affect a Frenchie tremendously due to their already small size. If your Frenchie is underweight it could be a sign of a serious health problem. It would best to talk to your vetranarian and test for major health issues such as parasites, gastrointestinal disease or kidney disease etc. How can I tell my French Bulldog is overweight? Did you know that more than half of the dogs in the world are overweight? Chances are 50 percet that your dog may fall into that catagory as well. The signs of an overweight Frenchie is : - No muscle tone - Heavy breathing with little to no exercise. What should I do if my Frenchie is overweight? Here is a list of things to consider when it comes to a French Bulldog that is overweight: - There has been extensive research in regards to thyroid health and dogs that pull on dog collars. Are you using a collar or a harness on your French Bulldog? Does your Frenchie pull? Is it possible the collar is affecting your French Bulldog's thyroid gland? A collar pushes on the throat exactly in the area of the thyroid gland, and any trauma created by the pulling can inflame the thyroid. Read the label which will list protein, fat content and calories per cup. Ask your vet for any suggestions for your specific needs. Should I free feed my Frenchie? It is not recommended to free feed a French Bulldogs since Frenchies will typically overeat. That is not to say that every Frenchie is the same and yours might do well with free feeding. How much should a French Bulldog puppy cost? Why are Frenchie puppies so expensive? French Bulldogs puppies are more expensive than other dog breeds due to the fact that Frenchies can't have Frenchie puppies naturally. Is this breeder posting a scam? Stay away from buying a Frenchie puppy if the price is too good to be true. It most likely be a scam. Furthermore never purchase a Frenchiebulldog puppy without references from prior buyers, and a contract in place. Never transfer money in western union or any other means that will not cover your purchase in case the deal went south. Even if its not a scam, a breeder can only offer a Frenchie for a cheap amount if they bypass many necessary testings. Buying a healthy Frenchie puppy will never be cheap and can help avoid a lifetime of vet bills and care as well as heartache. Why does my male Frenchie squat and not lift his leg when going potty? It is normal for male French Bulldogs to go to the bathroom squatting instead of lifting their leg. This is due to their stocky built and their short body. When your dog is marking his territoty or around other dogs it is possible he might lift his leg. Can I place another dog with my Frenchie in the same crate? It would have to depend on your dog's personalities and whether they get along. Another thing to keep in mind is not crating the opposite genders if they are not fixed. If your Frenchie shown any aggression to the other dog it is not recommended you crate them together. However, if they get along well and are best freinds it may be beneficial to crate together to eliminate separation anxiety. Make sure the crate is large enogh for them to be comfortable. My Frenchie puppy ate the pee pad, what should I do? Don't panic! A lot of French Bulldogs go through a chewing phase where they eat everything in sight. Your Frenchie will most likely pass the pee pads in stool. Watch your Frenchie for any signs of blockage like constant vomitting and unable to go to the bathroom and take your French Bulldog to the vet if you believe there was any issue in passing the pads. My Frenchie bulldog is aggressive towards children. What should I do? Do not allow your Frenchie to be mean to kids or other pets. Your French Bulldog needs to have respect to other household members. When French Bulldogs get away with this behavior this problem will only get worse so correct it as soon as it starts. Another method of eliminating aggression in French Bulldogs is to overly praise them when they are affectionate, and when they are not, ignore and stand your ground. At times positive reinforcement with Frenchies work the best since they are very emotional. My Frenchie suffers from allergies and cytopoint. My vet recommended the use of the medication Apoquel. Every Frenchie is different and off course they each have their own sets of problems and symtoms, however, as a responsible owner you need to educate yourself on the medication Apoquel before giving it to your dog just like you would with any other medication. There are wonderful holistic vet care facilities everywhere that take a different approach that does not include drugs. This medication works because it suppresses your Frenchie's immunity system so they don't feel the need to itch. The downside is that its a highly addictive drug which your Frenchie will need to rely on for many years, and when you stop giving it to them the symptoms might come back and be worse than they are before starting. Another side effect stemming from Apoquel is constant ear infections. Some dog owners reported cancer after prolong use but there is no scientific research or proof that it causes it. Before starting such a serious medication you can always try a more holistic approach like special shampoos, bath treatments, immunity booster treats, goat milk, supplements, coconut oil etc. Should I give my Frenchie a bully stick? Absolutely not. French Bulldogs are known to choke on bully sticks. In fact it is recommended you never give a Frenchie any type of hard bone including Antlers etc. For a treat it is always recommended to use a soft treat that can easily dissolve even if they swollow it whole. Although, French Bulldog breeders can, and do, go beyond these, there are three main colors that Frenchies come in. These are brindle, fawn and pied. While these are the most common colors, they do come in such a mix that you could reasonably assemble French bulldogs with different coats. Brindle is the most dominant color of the breed. A brindle Frenchie has a mostly dark coat with light hairs mixed in here and there. According to the French Bulldog Club of America, the coat isactually made of a base of fawn hairs, through which black hairs extend in bands. This means there must be a patch of enough fawn hairs to show the brindle pattern, no matter where that patch is located. Other shades of brindle french bulldogs include: The strong brindle Frenchie - Mix of brown and tan coat coloration in Frenchies. The brindle pied French Bulldog - A Frenchie dog with a chest, head, neck or toes sporting white hairs. The seal brindle French Bulldog- A French Bulldog with very light white hair that may even seem invisible. It is also common to see some of the dogs with coats that have a light tan, golden tan or a reddish tan. When Frenchie dogs have a dark reddish fawn color, they are referred to as a red-fawn. Although fawn Frenchies usually have lighter masks as well, it is more common for them to have a dark mask and a black nose. Their ears are also commonly dark and they may even have some brindle streaksin their coat. Pied Frenchie Bulldogs have a coat that ranges from white to eggshell color. Their coat may look porcelain white or a bright cream. Often,these color types will have one dark patch that stands out and gives them their personality. This may be around the eyes or some other place on the body of the Frenchie dog. The Frenchie dog breed comes in a variety of unusual colors. Rare colors in French Bulldog puppies can be exceptionally expensive depending on how rare the puppy is. Also there is some debate about how healthy a rare colored Frenchie can be. Rare colors can be merle, lilac, blue and more. 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 French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price? Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The French Bulldog is a clown in a lapdog. They enjoy playing and entertaining their family, as well as cuddling and snoozing with their favorite person. They are amiable, sweet, companionable, and willing to please. A short walk on lead is sufficient to meet most of its physical needs. Frenchie snores and may wheeze and drool. Require minimal coat care Facial wrinkles should be regularly cleaned. Brachycephalic syndrome stenotic nares, elongated soft palate Intervertebral disk disease CHD seldom causes symptoms or problems Allergies History Where are French Bulldogs from? In the nineteenth century, the Bulldog was fairly popular in England, especially around Nottingham. The French women, especially, were attracted to these little Bulldogs, especially those with erect ears a common but disliked feature in England. Dog dealers brought more of the clownish little dogs to France, where they soon became the rage of Paris. The dogs were dubbed Bouledogue Francais. How big do French Bulldogs get? Some Bulldogs are quite small weighing less than 25 lbs, however, dogs in this breed on average, weigh 28 lbs. What are some French Bulldog facts and information? Facts French Bulldogs are best known for: Bat ears. Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article.

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are amazing dogs with perfect guiding skills and prominent intellect. If you have decided to get one for your home, be sure that you will obtain an obedient, loyal, and reliable friend. However, you need to know the main principles of German Shepherd puppy care to understand how to raise your dog healthy, energetic, and well-trained. Consider whether this dog breed is for you. Home conditions play a great role, so ensure that your GS puppy will feel great at your home. Consider such things as feeding , house training, socializing, exercising, playing, bedding, teaching obedience, grooming, and medical treatment. This guide will help you to find out more about this fascinating breed and how to deal with it with less effort. German Shepherd Puppy Care Starts with the First Minutes You can select your German Shepherd either as a puppy from a reputable breeder or as an adult dog in a dog shelter. Remember that your relationships with your fluffy friend start with the very first minutes of your acquaintance. Bringing a Puppy Home Suppose you have chosen a puppy from a breeder. Now, the first task is to bring it home. Bring someone with you to facilitate the task. You can use a puppy crate. So, ask your breeder to introduce the puppy to it several days before you take it home. However, taking a young puppy from its mother and siblings is always a big stress. Do your best to reduce it. If it is purebred, you may need a copy of a pedigree certificate. It is important if you want your dog to participate in shows. If you take the puppy home in a car, try to reduce the stress from new odors and experiences by letting it explore the inside of a vehicle to get used to it for a while before you drive. The puppy can start whining, so you may want to put it on your lap. However, puppies usually feel carsick and frightened, so they may make a mess. If your trip is long, you may stop and let your puppy stretch and relieve itself. You have already prepared it for a new tenant. This preparation should involve taking away all electrical wires, dangerous materials, tiny and sharp items, and everything your puppy can chew or swallow. You will also need chew toys, and a good cleaning detergent because accidents can happen during the first days. Learn the basics of how to care for a German Shepherd puppy before you bring it home. You may need to know how to arrange an area for sleeping , playing, and relieving. Start with introducing your little one to the potty place outside, and then bring it inside. Your doggy needs to get used to its new home first. So, let it explore the room meant for its stay first. If your puppy starts chewing furniture or house items, give it a chewing toy. Your new friend wants to see a pack leader in you, so it is essential to take this role from the very first minute. You can do it right now because further on it may try to challenge this role. Speak calmly but firmly, call the puppy by its name, and encourage it. If you have young kids, explain to them how to deal with the doggy. Introduce other pets to it. If you have a cat, it is likely not to care much about the puppy. Your cat will just sit and observe. Though, if you have other dogs, they may show a sort of aggression. So, you may need a muzzle for your dog at first to protect the puppy. When you see that they start getting on well, you may take off the muzzle. After that, you can feed your pup. Offer it some food that it is used to. After eating, take the doggy outside for relief. Wait for minutes and then take it back inside. Young puppies need to be fed several times per day, and they should have a lot of drinking water in a separate bowl. It may be the start of house training. However, accidents may happen, so do not scold or punish it. You also need to take your pup outside after every playing session. Try not to feed the doggy before it goes to bed, or you will have a sleepless night. Your puppy needs a special place for bedding. It may be a crate or some mat in a designated part of the room. Your little dog will go to it as soon as it wants to take a nap when it understands that it is its bedding. The First Night at Home Is Challenging The first night in a new place is a challenging and stressful experience for a puppy. It may start crying and whining because it is a pack animal and its instincts prompt it that staying alone is hazardous. So, you need to be in contact with your little one all the time. Avoid giving it food or drink immediately before going to bed because it will end in a mess in the room. Play with the pup for a while to make sure it is tired and ready to sleep. Take it outside before sleep and praise it if it is successful in doing its job. It will be difficult to eliminate this habit in the future. The best way is using the crate. Though, keep the crate not far from you to keep an eye on the pup. You can put it in your bedroom for the first night to make it feel comfortable. Give the puppy a treat before placing it into a crate. The puppy may want to potty at night, so take it out every three hours. You may need to take it out just once during the first nine months of age. You should offer optimal conditions for health, well-being, and daily activities. Month One Breeders are usually fully responsible for the care of a puppy during its first month. There is a strong risk of infections from adult animals and people that can lead to death. The mother is responsible for hygiene. At the age of 3- 6 weeks , breeders should carry out the first deworming. If there is a risk of infections, the puppies should receive their first preventive vaccination. More about 6 week old GSD puppy care. Month Two At this age, a puppy can have its new owner. Weaning from a mother is always significant stress, so if you take the puppy from the breeder, try to distract it with toys and continuous communication. When at home, the doggy needs a determined place for living. The ideal option is to keep it in an enclosed space with a special booth. When you want to keep the dog in a kennel, use straw or hay for its bedding. You can leave your pet unattended for a while during this time, but not for a long time to avoid stress. Moreover, it can start gnawing on something dangerous, get poisoned, and die. Do hair brushing times a week. Do not bathe the puppy before the vaccination. Even adult German Shepherds should not be washed more than 3 times per year. If there is a need for more frequent washing, do not use shampoo. Clean the ears and teeth 1 or 2 times per month. Monitor the eyes. If some redness or tearing appears, contact the vet. Vaccinate your puppy against plague, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus enteritis, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis at this age. Do deworming 2 weeks before the vaccination. Observe a 3-week quarantine after the first vaccination before walking outside. Do not bathe the puppy, change its diet, or do much exercise during this time. More about 2 month old GSD puppy care. Months Three-Six The puppy grows quickly during this time. Its limbs become longer, and the doggy is getting stronger. Start regular walking with the puppy. The first walks should be no more than 5 minutes, but at the age of 4 months , you can walk with it for minutes already. Up to 6 months, it is advisable to walk times a day, but when the puppy gets older, 2 long walks are enough. Take your puppy outside in your arms for the first walks, and then offer it moderate runs and games. Take care of its musculoskeletal system from the first months. The second vaccination is needed at the age of 3 months , and the next one is after the change of teeth. The teeth change at months, so the ears may drop down during this period because of a lack of calcium. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. As a breed, however, German Shepherds often show these other traits: Easily bored if not given something to do, which may lead to barking or chewing Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a younger dog Overprotective of family and territory if not socialized properly Can have an unstable temperament if not bred properly, including excessive barking, hyperactivity, or aggression Suspicious of strangers Prone to a number of health problems She is a faithful companion that can excel at most anything. With early socialization and confident leadership, she is a cheerful and dependable addition to any family. The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany in .The German Shepherd has consistently been one of the most popular breeds in the United States since the early s with a rise in fame then attributed to canine film stars Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart. GSDs are favored working dogs because of their strength, intelligence, versatility, and obedient natures. The German Shepherd is unmatched in her devotion and courage. She is eager to serve a greater cause with her human companions. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for German Shepherd Dogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your GSD looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your German Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in German Shepherd Dogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. The Vida Veterinary Care doctors will also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Shepherd is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Shepherd is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Digestive Disorders Several inherited conditions can cause recurring vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss in your Shepherd. These conditions include pancreatic or intestinal disease, food sensitivities, and food allergies. Some of these problems may begin very early in life. To help prevent these conditions, feed only a high-quality pet food we can help you choose the right diet and, most importantly, avoid snacks and table food. The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific digestive disorders your pet may encounter. Bleeding Disorders Your breed is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency The pancreas has two major functions: regulating blood sugar and helping digest food. Digestive enzymes are produced by the exocrine part of the pancreas. GSDs are at an increased risk of having too few digestive enzymes, a disorder called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This causes inadequate digestion and absorption of nutrients leading to weight loss; foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea; and a dry and flaky coat due to his inability to absorb dietary fats. Lifelong dietary supplementation of digestive enzymes is an effective therapy. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even experience sudden paralysis—he may drag his back feet or be unable to get up or use his back legs. Call us or an emergency clinic immediately! For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem. And as with so many other diseases, weight control helps reduce the risk of IVDD. You should also provide ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on to prevent your dog from stressing his back by jumping on and off of the furniture. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Growing Shepherds can suffer from a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs called eosinophilic panosteitis, or pano or eo-pan for short. It usually starts around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg. Panosteitis usually causes no permanent damage, but requires pain medication. If your dog has this condition and develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg s , rehabilitation exercises may be required. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and German Shepherd Dogs are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease German Shepherd Dogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Unfortunately, German Shepherd Dogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shepherds. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. In affected breeds, inflammatory cells infiltrate the cornea the clear part of the eye , which then darkens with exposure to ultraviolet light, and may lead to complete blindness. Doggie sunglasses are also an option to help reduce sun exposure. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your GSD will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific cancers your pet may encounter. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. It affects GSDs more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs, eventually suffering from paralysis in his hindquarters, which also leads to incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture , and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but German Shepherds have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Anal Gland Problems German Shepherds are prone to a painful, longterm condition in which the area around the anus becomes inflamed or develops sores. Signs include bleeding, constipation, licking of the area, smelly discharge around the rectum, and straining or apparent pain when defecating. This condition can be difficult to treat and requires lifelong medications, prescription food, and sometimes even surgery. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Taking Care of Your German Shepherd Dog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your German Shepherd Dog needs help.

Females are about 21 to 22 inches tall and weigh about 55 to 65 pounds 25 to 29 kilograms. The golden retriever has a water-repellent coat that is wavy or flat and gold to cream in color. One of the most attractive features of this breed is the feathering on the neck, legs, thighs, underside and tail. The dog's head is strong and broad. The ears are not very large, but they sit high on the head and hang just below the jaw line. The chest is deep, and the body is well balanced. Golden retrievers live about 10 to 13 years. Personality: The golden retriever is even-tempered, intelligent and affectionate. Golden retrievers are playful, yet gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other pets and strangers. These dogs are eager to please, which probably explains why they respond so well to obedience training and are such popular service dogs. They also like to work, whether it involves hunting birds or fetching their guardian's slippers. .Golden retrievers are not often barkers, and they lack guard instincts, so do not count on them to make good watchdogs. However, some golden retrievers will let you know when strangers are approaching. Living With: This breed likes to be active. Remember, golden retrievers are bird dogs at heart, so they love a good game of fetch or a swim. If exercise is provided daily, golden retrievers can adapt to any type of home, even if it is a city apartment. Golden retrievers are considered average shedders. Brushing about once weekly will keep the coat looking nice. History: In , the golden retriever was the second most popular AKC breed. This ranking is no surprise, because the dog has many qualities that make for a perfect family pet. The golden retriever's roots are in the fields and waterways of Great Britain, however. The golden retriever was bred to be a bird dog, particularly for hunting water fowl, and the breed resulted from crossing a number of other breeds thought to include spaniels, setters, and the Newfoundland but not the Newfoundland we know today , and perhaps even a bloodhound. The combination created a hardy, strong swimming dog that could withstand cold water, track wounded game and deal with crippled birds. Today, golden retrievers are not only good bird dogs and family pets; they also are popular as service dogs for the blind and disabled, and as search and rescue dogs and contraband detection dogs. Few dogs can claim this breed's versatility. Related Pet Care Articles. Pin it Pin on Pinterest Golden Retrievers are considered to be some of the most lovable and gentlest types of dogs in the world. Because of this, they are a popular breed for many homeowners to add to their family. However, while these bundles of joy are a great addition to the family, they come with a few needs, especially if you plan to get Golden Retriever puppies. It is believed that Tweedmouth bought a yellow-coated retriever from a litter of mainly black retrievers. He then bred the retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel which eventually produced four yellow puppies. Eventually, the breed came to have the characteristic it is known for today, such as a bright yellow cup and long wavy coat. Golden Retriever puppies will eventually grow to be very large dogs, although how big depends on their gender. Males will grow to be anywhere near 23 to 23 inches tall and weigh about 60 to 75 lbs. Females will grow to be about 22 inches tall and weigh about lbs. Puppies will usually reach their full height and weight after a year. Types of Golden Retrievers Believe it or not, there are three different types of Golden Retrievers which range based on fur color and breed type. Fur can range from golden, light golden, and dark golden. The three types this breed comes in include American, Canadian, and English. So, how do you tell the difference between the types? An American Golden Retriever will look like your average Golden Retriever with a thin body and golden to dark golden coat. On the other hand, a Canadian Golden Retriever will have a thinner coat compared to the American version, although they will usually have the same fur color. An English Golden Retriever is a bit stockier compared to the other two and their coat tends to be very light in color. They are Affectionate These dogs are considered to be one of the most affectionate types in the world. They are very calm and enjoy sitting and being around people. They are also very patient and will gently play around with you because they want to be around you. These dogs also enjoy cuddling. They are Eager to Please Golden Retrievers want to be your best friend, and because of this, they will almost anything to please you. This can range from bringing you things to trying to be around you often. This makes them the perfect breed to consider if you want a faithful companion. They are Gentle While they might be big dogs, Golden Retrievers are very gentle, even when playing. Because of this, they are perfect to keep around children. They are Playful Golden Retrievers are very happy dogs and love to play. For those who want a dog to stay active with them, this breed is ideal to consider because of this. However, despite being playful, they also know when to stop because they want to please you. When they see that you are upset or sense they are causing pain , they will stop and calm down. Keep in mind though that this might be a little harder for puppies to understand as they are happy to play. The older the dog gets, the more relaxed they become. Food for Golden Retriever Puppies Golden Retriever puppies have a strict diet that needs to be followed so they stay healthy and grow. While there are some pre-made food products you can buy for them, you can also add some other healthy food options like vegetables for dogs to their meals. Carrots While carrots should be given in moderation due to their sugar content, they have many benefits. This includes keeping their teeth clean, improving their digestive system, and are high in Vitamin A which helps their immune system. When giving carrots to a puppy Golden Retriever, you should ideally grate them or cook them and mash them up. Green Beans Green beans can be given to dogs raw, cooked, or steamed. However, they need to be plain and without any type of seasonings. Sweet Potatoes Dogs tend to love sweet potatoes which is good as they are filled with fiber and can help their digestive system stay healthy. They also contain beta-carotene which is a rich antioxidant which helps to improve their skin. You can mash this small fruit up or give it to your dog whole. Bananas Bananas contain Vitamin K and potassium which can help with skin issues your dog might be having. However, keep in mind that they should only be given occasionally as they are high in fiber which can result in diarrhea. Pumpkin Pumpkins are a healthy sweet treat to give your retriever puppy thanks to its fiber content, high water content, and impressive levels of antioxidants. This supplement can also help to reduce inflammation in their body and keep their coat shiny. Check the Fillers Many dog foods contain fillers, used to cut down production costs, like corn and rice flour. Some fillers are used to provide extra volume and vitamins. This means that your dog might be getting some benefits from eating it, they are also eating fillers and other animal by-products which are generally not good for them. This can help to prevent them from getting medical conditions such as arthritis. While calcium is important, too much of it can also lead to problems like kidney disease and even some types of cancer. Retriever puppies usually need to eat about three times per day to ensure they get enough vitamins and nutrients for their body. Keep in mind that because these dogs love to eat, it could end up leading to obesity. This could end up causing health problems down the road, such as heart disease and painful joints. Below are some important things to consider. By doing so, it can make your training a bit easier. Some things to start teaching your puppy are potty training, basic commands like sit , and stopping leash tugging. These might take some time to do, but they are very simple. After doing so, let them sniff the treat and then bring the treat up over their head. This will cause them to sit down. Keep doing this process until your puppy is able to do it without needing the treat. When they indicate they need to go outside to use the bathroom, reward them. Eventually, they will learn the right behavior to use because of this. Make Sure to Stop Leash Tugging Most Golden Retriever puppies do not like leashes and will tend to pull in their leash to try to get out of them. If not stopped, this can lead to it making it difficult for you to walk your dog down the road. To help with this, you can use a harness and fixed-length leash. The harness will wrap around the front section of their body which will let them walk around, but help you to maintain control over where they go. A fixed-length leash will also help to keep your puppy in one place as it will only give them a certain distance they can go. When they start to pull on the leash, they will only be able to go as far as you have set the length to be. Eventually, they will get tired of the strain on their body when trying to pull away which can stop leash tugging. Many dog trainers also recommend tiring your dog out before they walk. This can include letting them play and run around for a few minutes. This can help them to stay calm when walking which can result in less leash tugging. Golden Retrievers are considered bird dogs, so they need to move around and stay active to get their energy out and to stay happy. You can let them run around in a dog park or take them for a swim, something which they tend to love doing. This can help to keep their coat smooth and healthy while removing any dirt or particles from their fur. On the other hand, you could also take your puppy to a groomer who will bathe your dog and give them a haircut. However, this might be a little expensive. Be Sure to Brush Them In addition to giving them baths and haircuts, you also need to make sure to brush them daily. This will help to remove excess fur and any other particles that might be in their coat. Otherwise, they will get very itchy and could end up shedding even more on furniture and floors. Carefully Consider Spaying and Neutering Your Puppy Golden Retrievers will have a little more issues when it comes to spaying and neutering. In fact, some vets have found that neutering Golden Retrievers could end up causing them to have joint pain or even cancer down the road. Because of this, some vets recommend that you consider using other means of preventing breeding. Because of this, they could end up chewing electrical cords, getting caught in window cords, or sniff household cleaners which could contain harmful chemicals. Give Them Things to Chew These dogs love to chew, something which many pet owners are surprised to find. You could also consider giving them a puzzle toy which can help to keep their brain active and healthy. However, how do you know which breeder is best to buy from? You can tell by keeping a few things in mind. One to look for is a contract that they will write up. This will tell of important things both the breeder and the buyer need to know. This way, you can tell that they are serious about the work and intend to provide you with healthy puppies. You should also make sure that the breeder has health certifications. Another thing to consider is the history of the breeder. Do many recommend them? Do they have years of experience? You should also consider looking at Golden Retriever puppies for adoption who might be at your local animal shelter. Adoption can also help to provide these puppies with a happy home rather than have to stay in a depressing kennel. Golden Retriever puppies are great dogs to have, but they have certain needs that need to be followed. For instance, they require plenty of exercise and a healthy diet. However, this will help them to stay healthy and give you many years together of fun adventures. 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. The Golden is slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be both delightful and annoying. Many keep their puppyish traits into old age. Originally bred for the physically demanding job of retrieving ducks and other fowl for hunters, the Golden needs daily exercise : a walk or jog, free time in the yard, a run at the beach or lake Goldens love water , or a game of fetch. And like other intelligent breeds who were bred to work, they need to have a job to do, such as retrieving the paper, waking up family members, or competing in dog sports. A tired Golden is a well-behaved Golden. As well as giving your Golden Retriever physical and mental exercise , you should also be prepared to include him in your family activities. Golden Retriever Highlights Golden Retrievers shed a lot, especially during spring and fall. Brushing their coat daily helps remove loose hair, preventing it from spreading on your clothes and around your home. Living with a Golden means embracing their shedding. Golden Retrievers are active and require minutes of vigorous exercise every day. They enjoy obedience training, agility classes, and other dog activities that provide both physical and mental stimulation. While they are gentle and reliable around children, Golden Retrievers are large and exuberant, which might accidentally knock over small kids. Goldens have hearty appetites and can become overweight if overfed. Manage treats, measure their daily food portions, and feed them regular meals instead of leaving food out all day. Due to their popularity, some breeders prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. To ensure a healthy pup, avoid irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Look for reputable breeders who test their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and focus on good temperaments. Golden Retriever History For many years, there was a legend that Golden Retrievers were descended from Russian sheepdogs bought from a circus. In fact, the breed was developed in Scotland, at the highland estate of Sir Dudley Majoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth, like many gentry of his day, bred animals of all kinds, trying to perfect different breeds. He also wanted the dog to be loyal and even-tempered in the home. Tweedmouth kept mostly the yellow puppies to continue his breeding program, and gave others away to friends and relatives. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Today, the Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed in the U. Golden Retriever Size Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally .Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two. Golden Retriever Personality A sweet, calm nature is the hallmark of the breed. The Golden was bred to work with people, and is eager to please his owner. Though hard-wired with a good disposition, like all dogs the Golden must be well-raised and well-trained to make the most of his heritage. Socialization helps ensure that your Golden puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Cataracts: As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: This heart problem is caused by a narrow connection between the left ventricle out-flow and the aorta. It can cause fainting and even sudden death. Your vet can detect it and prescribe the proper treatment. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Allergies: Golden Retrievers can be allergic to a variety of substances, ranging from food to pollen. If your Golden is licking his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, have him checked by your vet. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in his stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Epilepsy : Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes periodic seizures and convulsions. Your vet will need to know how severe the seizures are and how often they occur to determine what medication to prescribe, if any. Hemangiosarcoma : This is a very dangerous form of cancer that originates in the lining of blood vessels and spleen. It most commonly occurs in middle-age and elderly dogs. Golden Retriever Care Golden Retrievers are built for action and love outdoor romps. If you like to hike or jog, your Golden will be happy to join you. Slacking on the activity, however, could lead to behavior problems. These dogs grow very rapidly between the age of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. Normal play on grass is fine, and so are puppy agility classes. Golden Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Golden in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. For more on feeding your Golden, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Some coats are wavy, some are straight. The fur feathers on the back of the front legs and underbody, with heavier feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and tail. Golden Retrievers come in all shades of gold, from light to dark gold. Golden Retrievers shed moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangling, and once a week is the bare minimum. Your Golden will also need a bath at least once a month, often more frequently, to keep him looking and smelling clean. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Fold-over ears create a warm, dark environment for bacteria or fungus to grow in, and breeds that have them — such as the Golden — are prone to ear infections. His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Check them every time he gets wet, too. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. He enjoys the companionship of other dogs , and with proper introductions and training, can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Golden Retriever Rescue Groups Goldens are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Goldens in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Join them outside for playtime to help them burn off their endless puppy-like energy. Ideal Environment Golden Retrievers adapt easily and can thrive just as well on a sprawling farm as in a congested city, so long as there are plenty of opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. Remember, they have a natural instinct to retrieve, so offer them many positive outlets for that behavior. Back to Top Golden Retriever Health Golden Retrievers have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but the Golden Retriever lifespan can vary greatly depending on many variables, such as weight, fitness level, and illness. Some dogs can live to 14 without issue, while others can develop health problems well before that. The best thing you can do is follow preventative health protocols and know what those potential health problems are, so you can recognize and treat the signs quickly. Cancer: The biggest health issue for Goldens is cancer. According to a study conducted by the Golden Retriever Club of America, cancer was identified as a cause of death in .If your pup has cancer, your vet can help you determine the best course of action to treat your pup. Ear Infections: Those adorable floppy ears? They can trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. Clean those cute ears regularly with a non-irritating solution like Epi-Otic to prevent ear infections. If your pup develops a skin infection, contact your veterinarian. Hip Dysplasia: Roughly 8. Check with your veterinarian for the best treatment options if your Golden suffers from this condition. Heart Conditions: They are also prone to certain heart conditions, like subaortic stenosis , which is a narrowing of the area just below the aortic valve the valve where blood leaves the heart and travels to the rest of the body. This can sometimes be detected as an audible murmur during a veterinarian exam. Your veterinarian will determine the best treatment. Marjoribanks selectively bred different dog breeds to create an energetic pup who could retrieve objects from the water and on land. He eventually developed a retriever with speed, agility and loyalty. Goldens began arriving in the United States in the early s and gained recognition from the AKC in .Now, many organizations are dedicated to the breed, such as the Golden Retriever Club of America. So, where is the best place to find Golden Retriever puppies today? When selecting a breeder, make sure they screen their dogs for health and temperament issues. You can also reach out to Golden Retriever rescues to adopt a Golden, or keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter. Are Golden Retrievers Labradors? Goldens were originally bred in Scotland, while Labradors were bred in Newfoundland. Are Golden Retrievers aggressive? However, there can be exceptions if they were poorly socialized or abused by a previous owner. Like any dog, they can be territorial over food or high-value toys. What are the different types of Golden Retrievers? All Golden Retrievers are simply Golden Retrievers, and variations in color and body composition are results of breeding for specific traits. As mentioned above, dogs who are bred for field work might be redder and leaner than those bred for the show ring, but beyond that there is little difference in types. What are the most common Golden Retriever mixes? These are the most popular names among Chewy customers who have Goldens. For more name inspiration, check out our dog name guide. Sure, they need a lot of exercise, attention, and daily brushing to be at their happiest and give them the best chance of living well into their senior years. Female Names. Aside from forcing you to get more active, having a canine friend can reduce stress for people of all ages. For starters, vaccinations start at weeks old and should be spaced out every two weeks. Golden retrievers have a reputation for being some of the best dog breeds for families. Are you looking to bring home a golden retriever puppy? Read on for an in-depth golden retriever guide to prepare you for your new best friend for life. Are Golden Retrievers Good Dogs? Of course, all dogs are the best boys and girls and deserve all the belly rubs in the world! However, when people ask if a golden retriever is a good dog, they want to know if the breed is a good fit for them. Some dogs also require extensive maintenance and can be too much for a beginner dog handler. For people wanting to make sure a golden is good for their lifestyle, the quick answer is yes. Golden retrievers are an all-around versatile breed for all kinds of people and are the best dogs you could ask for. Golden retrievers are amazing with kids and make for great family dogs. Goldens are a gentle bunch, and their intelligence and patience are often under-appreciated. They can handle household noise and curious toddlers with the patience of a saint. As a breed, they are well known for their loving, patient, gentle, and fun-loving nature. This is largely a result of upbringing and conditioning, as any dog can become aggressive if mistreated. If you want a friendly golden retriever, do your part and give them the love and care they need. Golden Retrievers Are Affectionate Goldens are affectionate and are sure to get along with any dog or person they meet. This is why you often see them excelling as therapy, comfort, and emotional support dogs. Golden Retrievers Have Wonderful Personalities There is nothing to not like about the personalities of this breed. They love to have fun, but they also like going with the flow. Given their history as hunting dogs, golden retrievers are curious and will go often go exploring if you let them. They also have plenty of courage and work ethic, making them great working dogs. Golden retrievers will always want to greet strangers and sneak a chance at some playtime. This makes them a poor choice to defend your home, as they might befriend the intruder instead. If you want a guard dog, a golden retriever may fall short of its responsibilities. They Can Be Mischievous This one should be obvious for anyone scrolling social media. Goldens have a penchant for tomfoolery and mischief, which can often be hilarious. Golden retriever puppies are particularly notorious for this. Part of this stems from their natural curiosity but also their relaxed and loving nature. While temperament is often a genetic arch-type and can differ from dog to dog, most of it is solid. This is a huge factor for families with multiple dogs or a cat. They May Have Trouble Behaving in Public Because goldens are so friendly, they sometimes have trouble behaving in public. Their temperament naturally pulls them toward new potential friends. You can work on these through socialization and by going slow. Take them to less crowded or busy places first, and work your way up until they get the hang of it. Keep an eye out for body language and physical contact. As we said, some of this comes built in, but you also have to work on it. There are two major things you need to do. If you want to ensure your golden has that loveable personality, start socializing them at a young age. Training is a must, and golden retrievers are usually eager to please. It also helps to get a puppy from a reputable breeder, not from any pet store or puppy mill. At My Golden Retriever Puppies , we breed and raise our puppies with the love and attention they deserve. Golden Retriever Traits Aside from personality and temperament, goldens have great traits. These include their trainability, intelligence, and energy levels. It also includes behaviors to watch out for, like chewing. For a quick dive, keep reading. Golden Retrievers Are Smart Golden retrievers are much more intelligent than people give them credit for. A great example is how the police love using them as sniffers and tracking dogs. As long as you put in the work, your golden will be able to flex its stuff. This has a lot to do with their intelligence and obedient and loving personality. Golden Retrievers Need Exercise Despite being pretty flexible with their energy levels, Goldens still need to exercise. Examples of this include frequent zoomies around the house or getting into messes. They Can Be Chewers Goldens can be chewers, and this stems from adolescence. Teething golden puppies will chew anything they can get their hands on. A great way to handle this is training and exercise. Goldens need stimulation. Playing tug of war or fetch is a great way to address that bad chewing habit. They are cute and smart, easy to train and grow up to be fantastic family dogs. Visit us today to bring the newest addition to your family home. A golden retriever is happy, loyal, affectionate, non-aggressive, and almost always friendly. They get along with almost everyone, including kids, strangers, and other animals. Do Golden Retrievers Bark a lot? For example, your puppy may boop things with their nose or use their paws to communicate. Are Golden Retrievers Well Behaved? Golden retrievers are some of the most well-behaved dogs out there. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They are simultaneously wonderful family pets—thanks to their friendly, tolerant attitude—and capable, intelligent working dogs. These sturdy, medium-sized dogs grow to about 55—75 pounds and typically live to be about 10—12 years old. Outgoing, trustworthy, eager-to-please, and easy-to-train, they are especially popular with families with young children. Goldens often maintain their fun-loving puppy attitudes and signature smile into adulthood. Part of the sporting dog group, golden retrievers are active dogs that require at least an hour of daily exercise. They live up to their name; they love retrieving just about anything thrown for them. This makes them excellent hunting companions and skilled service dogs. They love to eat, run, spend time with their owners, and even participate in obedience and agility events. Their coloring ranges from light golden to cream, and dark golden to golden, and their physique can vary from broad and dense to leaner and more sporty. According to AKC standards,goldens move with a smooth, powerful gait, and the feathery tail is carried, as breed fanciers say, with a "merry action. Thanks to their breeding as hunting and waterfowl-retrieving dogs in the Scottish Highlands,their outer coat is dense and repels water. They also have a thick undercoat. Their coats can vary in texture from wavy to straight. Heavy feathering appears on their chest, the backs of their legs, and tail. Temperament In general, golden retrievers are outgoing, playful, and gentle. They are also friendly, intelligent, and devoted. As they get older, most golden retrievers become docile and calm. Bred to be working retrievers, goldens have a lot of energy and require a lot of activity. They are best suited for owners with an active lifestyle and they thrive in a home where someone is around during the day to spend time with them. They don't do well when left at home on their own; they love their humans too much. Their happy demeanor often draws attention from other people when you are out and about—goldens get along well with strangers and other dogs. While they are not considered good guard dogs—they'd be more likely to show an intruder where the treats are than send the intruder running—golden retrievers are excellent service dogs thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, and stable temperament. They see themselves as part of the family and need to be treated as such. Luckily, goldens are not bothered by noise, commotion, and activity, making them very tolerant of children. Golden retrievers also take a "the more the merrier" approach to having other pets in the home. With proper introductions and training, goldens can be trusted with other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. A golden retriever would do well reigning over a large fenced-in yard , so if you don't have a lot of outdoor space or you live in an apartment, make sure you get your golden outside regularly. A lot," Steen says. Owners should get used to having a fair amount of dog hair on clothing and furniture around the home. They have a thick, water-repellant double coat that sheds moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. However, if you brush your golden daily, you can prevent tangling and remove some dead hair before it covers everything in sight. Baths can also help and are recommended about once a month, but make sure the golden is fully dry before brushing begins. Golden retrievers will also need their nails trimmed about once or twice a month. A good indicator of when they need to be trimmed is when you can hear them clicking on the floor. Teeth should also be brushed at least two or three times a week. Ear checks are important as well; goldens have fold-over ears, which create an environment that encourages bacteria and fungus to grow. Look for redness or a bad odor and simply wipe out the outer ear with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to help prevent infections. Exercise is an essential part of a golden retriever's day. At least one hour a day of rigorous activity is necessary, even if that happens over several different outings or play times throughout the day. Goldens can be taken on long runs , bike rides, hikes, and swims. They also enjoy hunting trips, field trials, and other canine sports like agility, obedience, and tracking. A golden that doesn't get enough exercise is likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors like digging and chewing. Mental challenges, such as learning tricks and playing with puzzle toys, are also appealing to goldens, but should never replace physical activity. Take it easy with exercise in a golden retriever's first two years of life, as their growth plates are still forming. Don't go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown, and always opt for grass over concrete. Early socialization and puppy training classes are important with golden retrievers. Puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of people, places, and situations to help them become well-adjusted in their young life. When it comes to feeding time , owners need to help golden retrievers manage their intake; they have a tendency to become overweight. Food should be measured out and given twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Dog treats should be given in moderation. If you're unsure whether your golden retriever is overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. If you can't, he likely needs less food and more exercise. Chat with your vet about the best course of action. According to Steen, they are a generally healthy breed, but goldens are at a slightly increased risk of hip dysplasia and cancer when compared to other dogs. Other health conditions, although not particularly common, include elbow dysplasia, cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy —or gradual deterioration of the retina—hypothyroidism, gastric dilatation-volvulus otherwise known as bloat , and allergies. Golden retrievers should also have their ears checked often and teeth brushed regularly for optimum health. History Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, developed golden retrievers in the mid-to-late s. Although at one time a rumor indicated that golden retrievers descended from Russian sheep dogs, they were, in fact, bred in the Scottish Highlands. Marjoribanks bred the dogs for more than 50 years to create an ideal gundog—he was an avid hunter of waterfowl. Tweedmouth wanted a dog suited to the rainy climate and rugged terrain of the area, so he crossed his "yellow retriever" with a breed that is now extinct, the Tweed water spaniel. He also wanted the dog to be even-tempered in the home. A golden retriever was first shown at the British dog show in .The Kennel Club in England officially recognized the golden retriever as a distinct breed in .At that time, they were classified as "retriever — yellow or golden. Fun Facts Considered one of the most beloved dog breeds, golden retrievers gained popularity with American families in the s when President Gerald Ford had a golden named Liberty. Tucker Budzyn is currently the most recognized golden retriever on the Internet, with more than 3 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. Golden retrievers are regulars on big and little screens. Golden retrievers love tennis balls. Just ask this 6-year-old golden named Finley , who is the Guinness World Record holder for carrying the most tennis balls in his mouth at a time. He can hold six! Was this page helpful? This is one of the finest family dogs in the world: cheerful, demonstrative, trustworthy with everyone, and forgiving of any mistakes made by inexperienced owners. Give this breed two brisk walks each day, play fetch games, and take him out for a good run once a week, and he is adaptable to almost any lifestyle. Friendly with everyone strangers, children, dogs, cats, smaller pets , his bark is welcoming rather than protective. You must control his tendency to chew on objects and to mouth your hands -- provide a box filled with toys so he can carry things around in his mouth. A Golden Retriever remains enthusiastically puppy-like for many years, so early obedience training is required to instill calmness and good manners. Eager to please and wonderfully responsive, he is nonetheless distracted by exciting sights and sounds, so you must be both patient and persistent. The mind and heart of a Golden is sweet and gentle, but his body is robust -- until he's taught not to pull on the leash, you'll need good biceps to walk him. If you want a dog who.Is large, athletic, and natural-looking Has a pretty feathered coat Has a cheerful, tail-wagging nature Is steady-tempered and dependable with everyone Is peaceful with other animals Is eager to please and very responsive to training A Golden Retriever may be right for you. If you don't want to deal with.Providing a goodly amount of exercise Exuberant jumping, especially when young Mouthiness -- chewing on things, carrying things around Regular brushing and combing to avoid mats and tangles Heavy shedding Concerns about a multitude of serious health problems A Golden Retriever may not be right for you. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Golden Retrievers 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. 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. Books by Michele Welton "Respect Training for Puppies" or "Respect Training for Adult Dogs" is a step by step guide to help you bring out the best in your pup so you can enjoy a calm and well-behaved dog, no matter what his age. Get your book today. A healthy dog is a happy dog, so buy your copy today. High energy when young. Young Golden Retrievers up to two or three years old romp and jump with vigor. They don't mean any harm but things can go flying — including people who are not steady on their feet. If you have toddlers, or if you or anyone who lives with you is infirm, consider adopting an adult Golden Retriever from a rescue group. Adults have a wonderfully settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. Golden Retrievers were developed to be hunting dogs, which mean they are athletic and smart dogs. They need regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. You can't just let them in and out of the back yard and think that qualifies! They will become bored — which they may express by becoming rambunctious and destructive. You can control your Golden Retriever's bounciness AND keep him mentally stimulated by enrolling him in ongoing agility classes an obstacle course for dogs. Also follow the training program in my book Teach Your Dog English Words , which includes lots of fun exercises for your Golden. Shedding and doggy odor. Golden Retrievers are heavy shedders — you need to be okay with this reality. You'll find a lot of hair on your clothing and furniture. Golden Retrievers also have a noticeable doggy odor and produce a lot of dander. Not the breed for anyone with any type of allergies! Some Golden Retrievers have a medium-length coat that's not difficult to groom, while others have a heavier coat with lots of feathering. These latter dogs need regular grooming to comb out tangles before they become painful mats. Goldens also need occasional clippering and scissoring, especially around their "bathroom parts" in order for those to remain sanitary. Serious health problems. Unfortunately, the Golden Retriever has lots and lots of potential health problems. Many Goldens do live to 12 or 13 years old, but they're not necessarily healthy during those years; chronic health issues can really take their toll. Many other Goldens are lost at age 6 or 7 or 8, to crippling joint and bone diseases, heart disease, epilepsy, or cancer. Golden Retrievers should not be fed a kibble diet, as this can cause or worsen skin disorders and allergies, which are all too common. I recommend feeding a homemade diet of real meat and vegetables and absolutely no grain. Read more about Golden Retriever Health. 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. Golden Retriever Personality and Traits Posted on June 22, by Galen Kauffman Share: Golden retrievers consistently rank within the top ten most popular dog breeds for a good reason! These dogs have become a hallmark of American families, along with white picket fences and warm apple pies. Goldens have a wide reputation for being affectionate, gentle, and intelligent pets. There are an estimated , breed-registered golden retrievers in America alone! Are you thinking about adding a golden retriever to your family? Wondering what to expect from the golden retriever personality? Keep reading to learn more about these beautiful, loyal dogs and their lovable characteristics! In general, golden retrievers are very sweet, friendly dogs. These are the common characteristics found in the golden retriever breed, but your dog will be unique! Golden Temperament The golden retriever temperament is generally very friendly, relaxed, and even-keeled. Goldens are eager to please and easily entertained. Golden retrievers are not an aggressive breed. Although they can be police dogs or personal security dogs, they are not the best breed for providing physical protection. Golden retrievers are very loyal but not strongly defensive. Goldens are often trained as therapy dogs and support animals because they have sweet, gentle personalities! Many goldens work with first responders to comfort victims of traumatic events. Because they are patient and tolerant, golden retrievers are great dogs to keep around children and people with disabilities. Minimal Barking When you own any kind of dog, some barking is inevitable, but barking will vary between breeds. Golden retrievers will bark, but they are not a breed prone to incessant barking. If you have a golden retriever, your dog will not likely wake you up by barking at night. High Energy Levels Golden retrievers are not a lazy breed. Golden retrievers are incredibly intelligent, so engaging with them mentally and physically every day is essential. You will need to exercise your golden daily by going for walks and playing with toys. Goldens also enjoy playing with mind puzzles and treat games! If they do not have a healthy outlet for excess energy, golden retrievers can be destructive or annoying to their owners. Unless you can commit to exercising your dog every hours, golden retrievers will not make good apartment pets. Easy Trainability Put all that high energy to good use! Golden Retrievers can be easy to train. When they are adequately trained, golden retrievers can be incredibly hard-working dogs. They are frequently trained to be service and support dogs. Because they are one of the most intelligent dog breeds, golden retrievers are relatively easy to train. Like most dogs, golden retrievers will see the best training results if they are trained from a young age. Your golden may have specific motivations, but this breed is relatively easy to encourage with treats, affection, and playtime. Sometimes babies and young children can be stressful for dogs, pulling their hair, grabbing their ears, and shouting their names. Not all dogs are up to the task of babysitting, but golden retrievers make excellent family pets. Kids and golden retrievers will enjoy playing outside together for hours. Their high energy and intelligence make them the perfect companions for playing fetch and tug-of-war! Teach children how to approach a dog with kindness. Any dog can react negatively when they are feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Cooperative Companions Because of their easygoing and friendly demeanor, golden retrievers are also well-behaved around other family pets. They are not likely to display aggression towards other dogs in the home and are not prone to tormenting housecats. Golden retrievers may actually benefit from the company of other animals. Having another dog or even a cat! Goldens are usually very easy to take into public spaces as well. They are obedient when walking on the leash and quite friendly towards strangers. Of course, every dog is unique! If your dog displays aggression or unease around other dogs in public, practice safe dog-walking habits and avoid dog parks. Golden Retriever Breed History The history and breeding of golden retrievers play a lot into their modern-day personalities. Golden retrievers originated in Scotland in the mid to late 19th century, making them a relatively new breed! The natural landscape of Scotland is wet in many places, and hunters had trouble retrieving wildfowl from dense marshy areas. Standard hunting dogs at the time were not very well equipped for finding and returning wild game. Thus, the hunting dogs were bred with tweed water spaniels to make them more adept in marshlands. Although water spaniels have wavy black coats, some of the puppies were born with distinct yellow coats. These dogs became known as golden retrievers! Today, their lovable personalities have made them one of the most adored dog breeds in America. Physical Characteristics Golden retriever characteristics are easily recognizable. Goldens are medium-to-large-sized dogs with distinct wavy coats and floppy, triangular ears. Golden retrievers can be cream-colored, light golden, or dark golden. Because their lips are quite relaxed, they can have some tendency to drool. They love to show affection with big, sloppy kisses! Strong Sense of Smell Golden retrievers have incredibly keen senses of smell. Historically, they would use their strong noses to locate game in the marshy hunting grounds of Scotland. Today, they are sometimes trained as drug-detection and travel security dogs. Golden retrievers love to play games of hide-and-seek with treats. These dogs have slick, water-shedding coats inherited from their water spaniel ancestors. Their double-layered fur keeps water from penetrating down to bare skin! Golden Retriever Care Tips Golden retrievers are a friendly, easygoing breed, but they do require some special treatment from their owners. Many people know that these dogs eat ravenously, drink a lot of water, and require special coat care , but their unique personalities deserve attention too. Here are a few essential takeaways for taking care of your golden pal. Exercise Your Dog Often Golden retrievers are an active, extroverted breed. They do not deal well with feeling cooped indoors for hours at a time. Invest in Early Training Golden retrievers are an intelligent breed, but their energy can be misdirected if untrained. Consistent, early training will keep your dog from destroying your house and annoying your family. Keep treats nearby to reward your dog for obedient behavior! They love to travel , explore, and learn new things. Make sure your dog can find space when needed, and teach children how to interact appropriately with pets. Golden Opportunity The golden retriever personality is legendary for a reason. This breed is affectionate, loyal, intelligent, and endlessly friendly. Are you determined to adopt after reading this golden retriever guide? All of our puppies have certified genetics and are sourced from local, loving breeders. Ready to meet your new best friend? Check out our available puppies! Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

Special Note: You can also check them on Facebook. Labs and More Rescue LMR — California This San Diego-based non-profit organization has already saved more than 12, abandoned and surrendered Labradoodles and other dog breeds in just a decade. They exert effort in salvaging dogs from high-kill shelters and discarded pooches on streets. They provide medical assistance to the dog they rescue as well as other necessities such as food and shelter. Their Labradoodles also undergo behavioral training before being cleared for adoption. Younger and healthier dogs cost higher compared to the senior ones. Nevertheless, all of the dogs in LMR can still make perfect family pets. They are worthy of the second chance to have a forever family. Most of the steps in the adoption process of this Labradoodle rescue are similar to what other rescues practice, but they have adoption coaches. These adoption coaches will guide you in understanding the value of adopting as well as the responsibilities it entails. Carolina Poodle Rescue is one of the few Doodle rescues with dedicated facilities for rehabilitation and rescuing. Their facility is called the Dreamweaver farms located at Pacolet, South Carolina. With the existence of this facility, they can take in hundreds of rescued dogs at a given time. They provide immediate medical attention and care to the dogs they rescue. Since most of the rescued dogs suffered terrible experiences of neglect, CPR makes sure to address the behavioral issues the dogs might have before clearing them for adoption. Their adoption fee varies depending on the age, breed, and health condition of the dog. Meanwhile, they also provide a set of guidelines for adoption that applicants must adhere to. Here are the minimum requirements that you should meet upon applying adoption from CPR: A fenced yard is strictly required. Families with members under five 5 years of age are not approved for adoption. Current pets at home must be neutered or spayed. Pet shipping is prohibited so you should be able to personally pick up the dog. The adopter must be able to visit the facility for the meet and greet. You can also check their adoption procedures by visiting their website or reaching out to them through email and call. Since its establishment in , it has already saved almost a thousand abandoned and surrendered dogs. All of the Labradoodles they rescue receive health examinations and behavioral modifications before adoption. This rescue follows a foster scheme which means the dogs stay in the loving homes of volunteer members until they are ready for adoption. The fees vary depending on the age, health condition, and breed of the dog. In applying in SCPR, make sure to read about their guidelines in adopting and submit a detailed application. Another thing that can help you significantly with your dog hunt is reading our ultimate dog adoption guide. This, alongside the Labradoodle rescue options from our directory, will increase your chances of bringing home the dog you desire. Other Sources for Labradoodle Rescues or Shelters for Adoption You can also check out these places where you can find Labradoodles available for adoption: Petfinder — Petfinder is an online pet database that lists and advertises different breeds of dogs available for adoption. You can find a dozen of available Labradoodles on this site every day. The features of their site will also allow you to find the nearest available Labradoodle from your location. Adopt-a-Pet — By far, this online adoption site is the largest non-profit pet website in North America. You can find thousands of adoptable dogs here including Labradoodles. They are affiliated with numerous animal welfare organizations across the country. Petango — You can easily find purebred and mixed breed dogs that are ready for adoption on this pet site. Petango is connected with more than 1, shelters and rescues across the United States. You can find a Labradoodle anywhere you are as this orgabnization operates all over the country. Local Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations — You can visit the nearest shelter or rescue in your area that was not mentioned in these sites. More often than not, they will have a Labradoodle available for adoption. Finding the perfect rescue dog will take time. You might be wondering how an intelligent, sweet, and loyal pooch ended up in a shelter or rescue. There are various reasons why people put up their Labradoodles for adoption. The owners have concluded that the Labradoodle breed is too much for them to handle. The Labradoodle has bitten someone. Aggressive behavior is observed towards children and other pets. The family can no longer support the needs of the dog. The owner died. Regardless of the reason, no dog deserves to be surrendered or abandoned. That is why you must only own a dog if you are prepared and ready to take the lifetime responsibility and commitment. You should expect this cost to go higher or lower depending on the age and health condition of the Labradoodle. Often, the adoption fee collected serves as the bloodline of most Labradoodle rescues. Your payment goes to the medical expenses, food supply, boarding costs, and treatments of the rescued dogs. This means that when you adopt, you also enable the rescue center to provide for the needs of other dogs in their facility. Here is a breakdown of the expenses factored in the adoption fee: Expenses. I am about 2 years old and I love follow my foster mum around. She tells me I am her shadow. My foster potty trained me in a day and she said I am very very smart and I have to agree with that. I also learned new commands like sit, down, and off. We are working on the stay but I have a hard time sitting still because I have lots to keep an eye on inside. She walks me always on her right side and I became very well behaved in our leash walking training. I do like to be right by my foster brother Logan, so sometimes I will pull to be with him. I have an another foster brother and he is smaller and furry and he meows for food all the time when he is not sleeping. I love him and he give me sand kisses. We went to a coffee shop other day and all these people want to pet me and take pics of me. I felt like a movie star! On the walks I get overly excited when I see other dogs and I am very vocal about it. Sometimes the dogs get scared of me, but I assure you, I am awesome and not aggressive at all. I just want to say hi to ALL the dogs! But I warm up to everyone very quickly. I am getting a lot of love and attention right now and it will be ideal for me to not be left alone for too long. Email: summitdogrescue yahoo. They take in different breeds of dogs and look for loving homes for them. The facility was established in .Since then, they have rescued more than animals and settled them in their permanent homes. The rescued dogs come from different places, including high-kill shelters. The facility has plenty of dogs at any given time. However, if you are interested, you can check out specific pets you would like to adopt. Most times, dog rescues in Colorado may not know the exact breed of a Doodle. You will have to keep checking their website of available pets to find a quality Labradoodle potentially. If your want to adopt a dog from 2 Blondes Rescue in Colorado, you will need to fill out a detailed application form. You can also apply as a foster parent. All of their dogs are offered the necessary medical care once they are rescued from their high-kill shelters. They are also vaccinated before they are allowed to leave for their permanent homes. Therefore, you can be sure to get a healthy and quality Labradoodle from 2 Blondes Rescue. There are also several ways that you can get involved with 2 Blondes Rescue if you want to volunteer or donate. They have friendly workers who will welcome you and help you identify your desired dog. You can visit their website to see the available dogs looking for new homes or contact them through their email address. They work with several volunteers throughout the area to help care for their canine friends. They mostly have Doodle dogs or different types of Poodle mixes. Therefore, you will need to check their website from time to time. They have an active website where they usually update their list of available dogs looking for new homes. In addition to rescuing and caring for dogs throughout the region, they help families with pets of their own to get neutering and spaying services. The facility usually takes in dogs, rabbits, and cats. Their adoption process is quite extensive. If you want to adopt a Labradoodle from this dog rescue , you will be required to fill out an extensive application form that will require you to discuss yourself. They will also require you to discuss your lifestyle so that they give you a dog that suits you best. In addition, you will be required to pay an adoption fee, provide proof of a willingness to care for the dog you adopt, prove your current address, and consent of your landlord if you have one. Their dogs are vaccinated before being taken to their permanent homes. For more inquiries about their services, you can contact them through their phone number. All their dogs are placed into foster homes which have been specially screened to offer the best possible care to puppies and their mothers. All dogs at Colorado Puppy Rescue are offered the necessary medical care and vaccination once they are rescued from their high-kill shelters. They are also trained and socialized with other pets before being moved to their new homes. Therefore, you can be sure of adopting a healthy and well-socialized Labradoodle from them. They have been rescuing puppies and dogs for over 15 years. Over the years, they have won a reputation because of their top services. If you want to adopt a Labradoodle from them, you will need to visit their website and fill out an application form. Applications usually stay on file for six months. Therefore, if you are willing to wait, there is a possibility that a puppy that meets your needs will be available. All dogs at the facility receive a full veterinary examination. They also offer a complimentary free wellness check. You can reach them through their email address for any questions about their services. Colorado Puppy Rescue Details. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. They are generally very friendly and are an ideal best friend. Labradoodles are very playful and have a high energy level. Long walks, hiking or jogging will definitely be a part of your future life as dog-parent to a Labradoodle. These dogs tend to do well with children in the home, but sometimes are better suited for older kids since they could knock smaller family members over with their size and exuberance. Are you looking for a dog park buddy? The Labradoodle could be the perfect match for you! They usually like to play with other dogs, so a good romp with some canine friends is ideal for them, with proper oversight and introductions. They would be a good choice if you have other pets in the home, given their general good nature. Still, cautious introductions of new pets are always a must! Labradoodles usually want to please their parents, so can be easily trained with positive methods. Upkeep Labradoodles have a lot of energy to burn! You should expect to dedicate at least minutes per day to giving your Labradoodle an outlet for their energy, whether in the form of a structured walk, playing in the yard with them, training, or a trip to the dog park to socialize. Their enthusiasm could easily turn to destructive behavior if not given this outlet. They would do best in a home with a fenced yard, so this energetic dog may not be the best option if you have a low-energy apartment life. Grooming needs will vary, depending on whether your Labradoodle inherits smoother or curlier fur from the Labrador and Poodle breeds. You can expect to devote some time each week to regular brushing and bathing, but some may require a trip to a professional groomer every weeks. What people love most are their incredibly cute looks and dazzling personality. They are like big cuddly teddy bears with their wavy soft fur, big round brown eyes and dark noses. As soon as you see one you will want to cuddle. These dogs are huge love bugs and will certainly want to cuddle with you too! These days everyone seems to want a Labradoodle! Lots of people are now breeding Labradoodles because of a huge demand. However, not all breeders are trustworthy. Reputable breeders will know how to breed a healthy puppy. They will also adhere to the standards set by the Australian Labradoodle Club of America. For first time owners Labradoodles are one of the best breeds because of how obedient and smart they are. Because they are a combination of a Labrador and a Poodle they can be easily trained. They also make great family dogs because of their gentleness with children. However, these dogs are not meant for everyone. They need someone who can be dedicated to them and can take them out on long walks and exciting adventures. Unfortunately this means some Labradoodles end up in shelters. Other times Labradoodles might grow larger than some people were expecting. By adopting a Labradoodle you are decreasing the demand on breeders and giving a dog a loving home. To help you on your journey we have put together a list of all the Labradoodle rescue shelters in the US. Just choose your state in the tool below and easily find Labradoodles for adoption near you. Labradoodle Rescue By State.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Shipping is available if you are not within driving distance. Welcome to North Georgia Labradoodles! We are a small family breeder of Labradoodles located in Northeast Georgia. We are a mother and daughter team and have been breeding top quality dogs for years. We aquired our first labradoodle in and fell head-over-heels in love with the Labradoodle temperment. We raise our sweet Labradoodles right here in our home where they can get the love and socialization that they need. Our dogs share our home, occupy our couches, our laps and our beds. Our dogs are not simply a business, they are cherished members of the family. We focus on raising beautiful, loving, healthy, intelligent, allergy and asthma-friendly companions for you and your family. All puppies are raised in our home with individual love and socialization. Our parents are health tested and our puppies come with a one year health guarantee. North Georgia Labradoodles breeds standard-sized, multi-generational Labradoodles. Our puppies are bred for temperament, health, personality and — of course — looks! Yes, these puppies are incredibly adorable, but beauty is not the only thing that makes them special. Their cuteness, combined with their inherent intelligence and gentle temperament, makes these puppies completely irresistible. We think that starts with the parents. We health test before choosing our breeding dogs to ensure the healthiest puppies possible. We test using PawPrint Genetics. Click below to view the testing and results. That means we health test our dogs to the highest standards offered by the Australian Labradoodle Association of America and abide by their code of ethics, as well as our own. We hand raise our puppies in our home as part of our family. They are well socialized with children, our cats, and various other pets. Our puppies health and happiness are of utmost importance to us and we strive to place them in wonderful forever families that will provide them with love, training, exercise and socialization to ensure a lifetime of happiness for all. Our 3rd party temperament testing helps greatly with this process. We operate on Kingdom principles meaning we operate out of love and integrity and stand by our genetic health guarantee and are here for a lifetime of support for your and your new puppy. We are honored to serve by placing quality companion puppies in your home. Each pedigree submitted is researched and verified to ensure authenticity and health testing. The Australian Labradoodle has been bred for generations back for temperament, health, structure, and coat quality. Click here for current puppy pictures and pictures from previous litters. Mini and Medium Pups available for June and July pick-up! This helps us match your family with a puppy that best suits your lifestyle. Our puppies are a part of our family and the health and maintenance over their lifetime mean a lot to us. So much attention to detail and every decision made and guidelines strictly followed, all with the end result in mind of creating the highest quality labradoodles on the planet. Weirdest coolest thing ever when you have never had one of your pups. We had airedales — opposite of Jia- aloof as can be. Reads you, knows you; you read her; you know her. Total human in dog form. Best thing ever! You have a gift of breeding the best tempered companions, and companions are vital on all the twists and turns that life brings. I fully believe you took something God planted in your heart and honored Him. So grateful we were lucky enough to have one. You have been faithful to Him in this calling, and I know He who promised is faithful to you! Home SkyeDoodles Austrailian Labradoodles. Breeding for excellence. At SkyeDoodles, we breed the finest quality bloodlines of Multi-generational Australian Labradoodles. We are a small family breeder just outside Atlanta, Georgia. Our breeding dogs live in our home or with a special hand-picked Guardian Family with whom the dog has been loved and cared for since the age of eight weeks. If you are looking for a gorgeous, healthy, intelligent, athletic, loving family companion who is allergy friendly and non-shedding, then a Skyedoodle is for you! All of our breeding dogs undergo extensive health testing for genetic diseases for which the highest standards must be met before a dog is qualified for breeding at Skyedoodles. Great care is placed on puppy socialization, the highest quality of grain free and raw food, vitamins, and of course a lot of love! See our available puppies. At Skyedoodles we value our clients. We understand how important it is to find the right puppy for your family. We work with every person individually, whether it is finding the right candidate for a future service dog or your new family member. See our beautiful expecting couples, and puppies available for adoption now. Hurry, puppies are often reserved before they are born. We appreciate your interest in our Australian Labradoodle puppies. We love to talk about our expected litters, the adoption process of our gorgeous puppies and what you can expect from Skyedoodles Australian Labradoodles. Giving Back. Charitable donations changing children's lives. Our community of SkyeDoodle families makes these charitible donations possible simply by purchasing premium quality Life's Abundance food, and essential suppliments from NuVet Labs. Our partenerships with these companies allows SkyeDoodles, and SkyeDoodle families to make a difference in children's lives. Connect with us online. See the cutest posts on Facebook and Instagram, and find out more about the top quality products we recommend. Like us on facebook! Be the first to see videos of new litters and more! Follow us on Instagram! Enjoy cute and funny moments, the instant they happen! TLC Pet Food provides an array of superior quality, safe and effective products, improving the health of people, pets and the planet. America's highest quality pet supplement since , made in the U. We breed multigenerational Australian Labradoodles and American Labradoodles. Our goal is producing loving Australian Labradoodle puppies and American Labradoodle puppies to add to your family: with hypo allergenic qualities, beautiful wavy fleeces and curles and exceptionally smart. A smart dog is a happy dog, they are easily trained which adds to the enjoyment of your new family member. We have chocolate Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, chocolate parti Australian labradoodle puppies for sale merle Australian labradoodle puppies for sale and many other color Australian labradoodles for sale. Our puppies will be smart like their parents who know both hand signals as well as voice commands. Many of our past puppies have become service dogs for Epileptic Seizure Services, Hospice Services, and other Service related settings. Why do our dogs make such Great Service Dog Candidates, our wonderful Rocky passes his wonderful calm demeanor to all of his puppies. Also, many people love the look of our Merle labradoodles - They are absolutely stunning. We tend to have clients in the Chattanooga, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama areas that have a found interest in our Miniature Australian Labradoodles and clients in Florida are particularly interested in our Merle Australian Labradoodles. Of course clients in Dallas Texas and parts of Illinois have added our Standard size Australian Labradoodles to there households. Whether clients are on vacation or simply enjoying the local park, It's exciting when we hear reports from our owners that they ran into another Australian Labradoodle that turns out to be a Lord and Lady Labradoodle all over the country. And clients never cease to tell stories of how people they meet rant and rave over there Lord and Lady Australian Labradoodle. Labradoodles are not only endearing and full of personality, but they also offer a host of benefits that make them the ideal choice for those new to dog ownership. Easy to Train Labradoodles are known for their intelligence.Read more » Continue Reading.This is great advice, as crate training your Labradoodle early will make things easier as they get older. Health Tested. What does that even mean? One of the biggest parts of being a reputable breeder is health testing. While yearly vet checkups are important there is so much more that goes into making sure.Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? When you adopt a puppy, no matter what they of puppy they are they will need to be trained. As such, many to-be-dog owners look to see if their particular breed is easy to train before they plan on adopting. You may have fallen in love with the adorable face and curls of the Labradoodle, Visitors, treats, decorations, and more can all cause stress and harm to our Labradoodles. We want our four-legged friends to enjoy Halloween as much as we do, so make sure you follow these Halloween safety tips for Labradoodles. Hide away the candy.Our Labradoodles, however, will feel the heat even more so than we do. So, what can we do to keep our Labradoodles safe and healthy.Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? Labradoodles are a wonderful breed. Read on to learn more. However, reality is a bit.In fact, they have three! If you just adopted a labradoodle puppy, they could have a fleece, wool, or hair coat. Below we explain the qualities and characteristics of all three. Fleece A fleece coat is soft and easy to manage. Thanks to its.How to Exercise Your Labradoodle Labradoodles can live a long time, up to 16 years on average. However, to ensure you spend as many years as possible with your Labradoodle, you need to take care of its health. That means feeding them well and exercising your pup regularly. But each breed of dog has different exercise requirements, so how can.But have no fear. Here are.Doodle Grooming Warning…this is going to be long and I am not a professional by any means but I have experience with grooming all our doodles! Grooming is key in the life of your doodle! I think of grooming as a bonding time between me and my dog. The goal is to start young so they.Hazel's Story How we came to get Hazel is a crazy story. If you have been following us for a while you may remember my first female poodle Sophie black and white. She failed her health testing so per her health guarantee we would get a replacement puppy. Her breeder rarely has litters but by chance had some.You can breed many generations F1, F1b, multi-generational but no matter what the results are essentially the same. There is no breed standard so.I want the best for my dogs nutritionally, health wise, life wise, and improving our breeding program. Everyone had great things to say about it.Our original start: Have you ever wondered how we chose our name? The C comes from my name Casey and the.She is an English Cream Golden Retriever and we are completely in love. With our decision to retire Bella we decided to go ahead and start looking for our next mama. After much thought we decided that we wanted to looking into adding Goldendoodles.Hybrid Vigor…. Did you know that with a crossbred dog you get added benefits? I had read about hybrid vigor when I was researching at our start. Then in college it is something we talk about regularly in all of my livestock production classes as a way of bettering our herds. Our Nursery Phase I…. We must always be willing to change things and discover.Picture Perfect…. One of my favorite things to do is take pictures of the puppies. I just want to give a little insight into what all.There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die…a time to weep and a time to laugh. Ecclesiastes We experienced both of these seasons in a short time. My papa passed away on a Sunday and the next.Choosing Our Dogs…. If you have ever purchased a dog you might know how long of a process choosing the right one can be. Just like many of the people who have purchased from us have said they have searched for maybe months or years for a reputable breeder before us, we also have been through the same.Bella was our first baby. From there it all.Contact Us. Serving Atlanta and the South East for 12 years! The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles In the mids, The Australian Guide Dog Association received an inquiry from a blind lady requesting a guide dog that would not cause her allergies to flare. To achieve a hypoallergenic dog they needed to breed their proven Labradors to a dog that was already non-shedding, hence the Standard Poodle. The resulting Labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition without ever having to go back to the parent breed of the Labrador or Poodle. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. We have also produced many therapy and service dogs in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Our puppies are birthed in our home and raised in our acre farm in the suburbs of Atlanta. Labradoodle puppies for adoption Atlanta Georgia. Australian Labradoodles near me Thank you to all of our Families.

Now taking deposits for litters going home October or call Bill Mays at For the latest news regarding available puppies, please visit the SouthWind Labrador Facebook page! These dogs will be great family companions as well as your best hunting partner for many years. Southwind Labradors have both Fox Red and yellow lab puppies for sale. Our fox Red puppies are brilliant red and our yellow puppies are usually yellow with red highlights. We are home-based breeders and focus on quality. My dogs are my companions and join me in the field for hunting. I am an Outdoor writer for hunting magazines, I duck hunt, upland game hunt, and my dogs give me their all in the field. We breed a Labrador Retriever you can hunt with for 3 months and live in harmony as a calm well-adjusted family dog. We work very hard to maintain our dogs and our kennel. Our females have a secure environment with temperature control so they are stress-free as they care for their litter. Our females are well adjusted and have excellent temperaments. Over the past 25 years of raising puppies we have made many new friends and have sold puppies to parents and now their children. Families who have purchased puppies from us have kept in contact and sent us letters and pictures of their puppies as they grow up. We raise Labrador Retriever puppies for the love of the breed and to bring love and happiness into your household for years to come. Thank you, These dogs are not only beautiful, but they also have great personalities. Fox Red Labs are known for being friendly and outgoing, and they love to be around people. Because of their friendly nature, Fox Red Labs make great family pets. Fox Red Lab Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Fox Red Labs for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Fox Red Labrador Retriever puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Another concern is elbow dysplasia, which is similar to hip dysplasia but affects the elbows instead. Fox Red Labs may also suffer from eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Luckily, there are steps that can be taken to help prevent these health concerns. For example, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to keep joints healthy and prevent obesity, which can put unnecessary strain on joints. Finding a Fox Red Lab puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. The coat of a Fox Red Lab is usually a rich, deep red color, which can range from a light golden red to a dark red. However, the coat can also vary in shade depending on the individual dog. In addition to being beautiful, the coat of a Fox Red Lab is also very dense and thick. This type of coat requires regular grooming and care in order to keep it looking its best. By taking good care of their coat, you will help to ensure that your Fox Red Lab always looks and feels their best. Life Span Did You Know? One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that there are a few distinct color coat variations. Fox Red Labradors are a rare-colored version of the Labrador Retriever. Despite this, they can be registered as purebred Yellow Labrador Retrievers , as the darker-colored coat is not considered to be a disqualifying factor. Due to their unique and certainly eye-catching color, the Fox Red Labrador continues to grow in popularity. Labrador Retrievers are known for being exceptionally sweet and are one of the most affectionate dog breeds. These dogs yearn to be a part of a family, and fit right in when joining one. In fact, Labs are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. Well-socialized Fox Red Labradors tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. After all, every person they meet is a potential friend that they can play with. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Despite their energy, Fox Red Labradors can adapt to most settings. As long as this dog breed has a chance to get in daily walks, go outside to run and play, and they get plenty of attention, they are content. They are not overly affected by cold weather, but they have a dense double coat. Fox Red Retrievers are also happiest when in the presence of people and they love to be with their families whenever possible. They also have a lot of energy and get bored easily. Potential health concerns to be aware of in Fox Red Labrador Retrievers can include hereditary myopathy, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, heart disease, and cataracts. There is also a condition with a genetic link that can occur in young adult Labradors called exercise-induced collapse EIC. Carriers can be identified by DNA tests. Good breeding practices can reduce the risk of potential health issues and make a big difference in the health of Fox Red Lab puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances. The national breed club recommends hip and elbow evaluations, an EIC DNA test, and an ophthalmologist evaluation at a minimum. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, the Fox Red Labrador Retriever is at a higher risk of bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Labrador Retrievers are one of the smartest dog breeds and are highly trainable. Although they can become stubborn at times, they are eager to please and pick up on training quickly overall. Their energy and intelligence mean they can lose focus in training and get bored easily. However, training that is kept clear, consistent, and focused on positive rewards usually keeps them focused and responding well. Any color variant of the Labrador Retriever is ideal for beginner dog owners. Fox Red Labrador Retrievers have a short, dense double coat that is water-resistant. They shed year-round and more heavily as the seasons change. Brushing their coat a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Because their coat tends to protect them from the cold and they are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water , your Fox Red Lab may try to go for a swim regardless of the season. If they are an avid swimmer or tend to get into a lot of things, you may need to bathe them more often. It is highly recommended to give them a bath or at least rinse them off thoroughly after going swimming with your dog. Their nails should be trimmed once or twice monthly. This will help prevent ear infections. Proper dental care for dogs is essential for preventing the tartar buildup that lends to dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is a good start. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with dental hygiene chews, a special dental care diet, and more. Like other Labs, Fox Red Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for this dog. However, they will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Often, they are just happy to be spending time with you. Labs tend to have an extended puppyhood until they are around years old. They will mellow out a little, but also tend to maintain a puppy-like exuberance even in their senior years. Once they are done growing and your vet has cleared them for more activities, you can try a lot of different things. Labs are athletic and versatile dogs. They are one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures and tend to enjoy a variety of activities. They tend to excel in swimming, running, obstacle courses, and several dog sports. Fully-grown Fox Red Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Fox Red Labs generally live for years on average. Click Here For Available Puppies! Blackfork Labradors breeding quality English AKC registered fox red labs, including yellow, chocolate and black Labradors. Our lab puppies are bred for companions, hunting, showing and therapy. Blackfork Labrador Retrievers specializes in breeding the fox red shade. We have fox red lab puppies available through out the year, along with black, chocolate and yellow Labrador pups. Blackfork Labs takes great pride in striving to improve our fox red labs taking into consideration health, temperament, soundness and the Labrador Retriever Breed Standard. Fox red is not a separate color of the Labrador but a shade of yellow. In the early years of the breed development, fox red or dark yellow was the original yellow shade of the Labrador Retriever. Fox red is the darkest shade of yellow Labradors. Tap the photo below for Fox Red Labrador Information When looking for a breeder that produces fox reds in their breeding program, it is very important that the following questions be asked: Do you have an overall goal for your breeding program? This goal should be more than just producing wonderful pets for families. Ask to see copies of clearances. It is very important that your breeder is doing annual eye CERFs to be certain that eye issues have not developed over time. Here at Blackfork Labradors we are striving to improve the overall standard of the fox red. I do not breed solely for depth of color. I spend hours researching pedigrees and calling other breeders to ask questions. That means there will be times that my fox reds will be bred to black stud dogs and yellows of all shades.