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Our puppies make the perfect pets! Our menu on a smart phone is located at three lines on the top left corner Our menu on a smart phone is located at three lines on the top left cornerOur menu on a smart phone is located at three lines on the top left cornerOur menu on a smart phone is located at three lines on the top left corner Thanks for coming to our website.For the best social media experience click the icon Welcome We have amazing happy and laid back Standard Poodle puppies In Colorado. Please let us help you find the family companion you are looking for. Scroll down to see some great videos on how we start our puppies using puppy culture. We love our dogs, you will too! Here at Grace Poodles, We take great pleasure at producing fine family friends. We have taken what we think are the best dogs we have found and developed a great breeding program. Jose and Toni Managed a commercial Thoroughbred farm In Kentucky and learned what it takes to have a solid breeding program, and have implemented the same heart and skill to produce the best for you and your family. Our dogs have become service dogs, companion dogs, family guard dogs, and snuggle companions. We have had great success with them becoming a part of a home where one or more members have allergies. We believe you will love our puppies! They have super temperaments, are extremely intelligent and eager to please - PLUS they are absolutely gorgeous! We spend a lot of time with our puppies as you can see by the videos and we encourage children and adults to come and play with them. Your puppy will come with their: first set of vaccinations. They sleep on our beds with us and get lots of treats, pets, car rides and love. We are not fancy people, we don't have a big fancy house or fancy dogs with show haircuts, but we do have a great family with lots of love to share with our animals, and that makes all the difference. All our poodle and Bernedoodle puppies get lots of love and attention from the day they are born. We are state inspected and licensed, we have been raising poodles since , we got our first poodle Sylvester when our 4 children were all under 5 years old. He was our namesake for mysillydogs. We began our research to add Bernedoodles in then got our first boy Bernese mountain dog, Cooper. They are smart, silly, funny, loving, ornery, sassy, crazy, talkative, playful, lazy, loyal, devoted, adorable, adventurous, happy, full of personality and so much more. We think everyone should have one or maybe two. At days old babies go to the Vet to have a checkup and have dew claws and tails removed if needed, babies remain in the house, normally in our bedrooms until they are about 4 weeks old when they start having trips outside, they also begin eating mushy food with NuVet in it at weeks, they have no teeth yet but that don't stop them, so by the time mom decides to begin weaning them at weeks they know what food is and are eating well. They are well socialized and will get lots of love and snuggles before they go home, they are around other dogs, our cat Milo passed away so not around cats anymore, but people and a loud noisy household. This website was updated except Newsletter — which is whenever I have time… on September 6th. We ALREADY practice the cleaning protocols necessary to stay virus-free and to keep our puppies, clients and family members safe — not only from COVID, but from any other virus that may be brought unintentionally onto the premises. Virus prevention is a way of life here. It always has been and it always will be. Bringing certain fairly common viruses onto the property can kill every puppy on the premises. It is something that is always forefront in our minds. And, more importantly — we have been using them. Please Read. Powder Valley Poodles wants to protect you against fraudulent scam artists preying on innocent consumers. Please be aware that not all websites you will find that sell puppies are real. There are many websites out there — some on the first pages of your search — that are complete scams. The people have stolen pictures, text and testimonials from reputable breeders such as Powder Valley Poodles and put them together to form web sites that entice people to place deposits on puppies. They call themselves by the first names of the reputable breeders whose websites they are stealing. My Testimonials from my very happy poodle puppy and doodle puppy buyers appear ALL OVER the internet as testimonials within scam websites in order to convince people that they are dealing with a reputable breeder. But, there are no poodles. There are no puppies. They take your credit card information or money order and that is the end of their involvement with the client. These are not breeders. These are Cyber scam artists. How do you tell the difference between a real breeder and the con artists? The real breeders will have a physical address. An address that you can contact the post office in their town to see if the address is real and if the names they provide go with that address. Con artists typically have only a post office box. Con artists also typically will communicate only by texting or email. A genuine, reputable breeder wants to TALK to the people potentially buying a puppy. Most reputable breeders are the same way. I want to make sure these people will provide a good home for my puppy. Also, con artists are frequently operating out of foreign countries. They may have a foreign email address and if you do speak with one they may have a foreign accent. Know that we do have the authorities working on stopping these criminals but it is difficult and for law enforcement a fairly low priority. Since I was first made aware of this problem over a year ago when one of my clients saw her testimonial to me on another web site there has been no progress in stopping the scams. Make sure the breeder you are contemplating has a REAL physical address and will speak to you by telephone. Ask MANY questions. Be a savvy consumer. Be safe. Be aware and insure that you are dealing with a reputable, and real, dog breeder. We also offer all sizes of goldendoodles, from the tiny 6 pound micro goldendoodle to our much bigger 65 to 75 lb. The quieter, non-shedding perfect lap dog. No matter what the breed — Powder Valley Poodles puppies are the very best dogs available. We guarantee it! Although you can pay a whole lot more for a puppy somewhere else, you simply will not find a better dog for your family. Our dogs are loyal, long-lived and people-oriented. They are playful, affectionate, and healthy. They are the perfect family dog, companion and Service Dog. We are not a large multi-dog kennel. Our dogs live in the house with us and our puppies are born in the house and generally are not outside unless we are outside with them. They are raised with other dogs, large and small, cats, and children. Please enjoy these photos of some of our dogs and puppies over the years! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We specialize in producing healthy, intelligent, beautiful standard poodles. Health and temperament are our number one priority! Our dogs excel at nearly everything, including working as service dogs and therapy dogs, conformation, agility, obedience, tracking, hunting, and of course as spoiled pets! We are not a kennel, all of our dogs are spoiled house pets, and we raise our puppies indoors with tons of socialization. Our dogs are all genetically health tested to ensure you are getting the healthiest dog possible. Contact us today to learn how you can add one of our dogs to your family! Our beautiful Gracie came from Le Harrell's and it was so obvious she was bred in a loving and warm environment. Taryn truly cares and tries so very hard to find the most loving homes for her puppies. Best experience I have ever had getting a new family member! After many months of trying to select the right breeder we chose Taryn based on her knowledge of poodles, and the fact they were raised in her home. Our little girl is healthy, secure, and smart. As a former breeder, I can honestly say Taryn is very passionate about poodles, and the breed itself. Which is the reason I choose Le Harrel's. We love our Mavis Pearl she is the sweetest. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Bringing Joy to your Family, one puppy at a time.Our website has a new look! Same owners, same poodles : just a different design. This is a 3-week old puppy re-charging her batteries - don't you just want to give her a hug!? We are planning our next litter of puppies and ohhhh, they will be beautiful puppies! If you are interested in a puppy, and wanting to reserve one, please send me an email for additional information. Once the pre-litter list is full, you will need to wait until the puppies are born, to see if we may have one available, prior to sending a deposit. All of our puppies are Red, Big and Beautiful! And with outstanding personalities. If you text me, I will ask you to send an email. When sending an email for more information - please include your first and last name. Getting photos from our "puppy families" really brighten our day 7 Week old puppy above - you can't find a better puppy!!!! And if you do, please let me know - I am looking for a big male. Red or black. Pony-sized puppies. True Snuggle Buddies! AND "Behr Babies! Red is one of our puppies. Now isn't that something!?? What a beautiful poodle. A note from Bonnie on her pony-boy, Red, above, "He is still in tact. The vet does not want to do the alteration until he is 2. She says because of his size and he is still growing. I never go out with out him on leash even though he has 95 percent recall. Thank you thank you for raising such amazing dogs. What a gorgeous girl!! May God bless you with a poodle for the journey! Standard poodles are a wonderfully versatile, smart, beautiful, athletic, loyal, and loving breed. They were originally bred to be water retrievers and some still excel at hunting and water sports. They absolutely love a game of fetch or catch the frisbee! Many are hiking or jogging partners, couch potato buddies, a best friend, service and alert dogs, therapy dogs, and show dogs. Standard poodles not only compete in conformation shows, but also obedience, rally, agility, weight pull, hunting trials, nosework, lure coursing, dock diving and more! Multi-colored poodles can compete in all performance events in AKC, just not conformation. UKC does not discriminate by color and multi-colored poodles can compete in all events. They come in so many beautiful colors and patterns. You are bound to find one that takes your breathe away! Standard poodles are known for their comical antics. They make me laugh every single day! They also know how to look into your soul and melt your heart. Poodles are the choice for most people with dog allergies. They are non-shedding. The Standard Poodle can be groomed in an elegant continental show trim for those that are willing to keep up with the brushing and combing or a practical short sporting trim for those that have less time for grooming and want more time for other activities with their dogs. There are many fun trims in between the two. Every poodle will still require some regular attention to coat upkeep and grooming. However, owning a standard poodle is so worth the brushing — and it could become your own form of meditation! Be careful, once you get your first standard poodle, it is hard to stop!

This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement. Elbow dysplasia ED Elbow joint dysplasia is a chronic disease complex of the elbow joint of fast growing dog breeds. This results in the deficient or absent synthesis of a certain protein which is an important component of the blood-brain barrier, leading to hypersensitivity to some drugs. Numbness Often occurs in old age. Epilepsy Definition: Dog has epilepsy if, for example, at least two epileptic seizures occur more than 24 hours apart. Kidney disease Symptoms of kidney disease in dogs: increased urination polyuria increased water intake. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth. Loss of appetite Wobbler syndrome In veterinary medicine, this is the name given to a complex of symptoms caused by nerve damage in the area of the spinal cord or spinal cord nerves in the area of the cervical spine. Cardiomyopathy In large breeds of dogs, dilated cardiomyopathy DCM is by far the most common cardiomyopathy. What does an Australian Shepherd and Boxer mix look like? An Australian Shepherd and Boxer mix usually inherits the physical characteristics of both parent breeds. They are usually medium to large in size and have a short to medium length coat. Their coat can be any color or combination of colors found in both parent breeds. What is the temperament of an Australian Shepherd and Boxer mix? An Australian Shepherd and Boxer mix can inherit the best and sometimes the worst temperament traits of both parent breeds. They are usually intelligent, active and playful dogs. They can also be protective of their family and home. How do I care for an Australian Shepherd and Boxer mix? An Australian Shepherd and Boxer mix needs daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. They also need a quality diet to maintain their health and vitality. Are Australian Shepherd and Boxer mixes good with children? An Australian Shepherd and Boxer mix can be a great family pet if properly socialized and trained. They can inherit the herding instinct of the Australian Shepherd, which could make them overly enthusiastic when it comes to small children. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. Lifespan Sociability Australian Boxherds are descended from ranch dogs and are naturally protective. Pups need to be socialized at a young age to avoid any antisocial or aggressive behavior. Make sure that you establish authority early on, and make it clear that you are their master, not the other way round. The Boxherd scores well on energy, trainability, lifespan, and sociability. However, some pups have flat faces, making them more susceptible to brachycephalic airway syndrome. They are also known as the Boxer Aussie mix. One of their parents, the Australian Shepherd, is renowned for herding sheep and was bred in America. The Boxer, their other parent, has roots dating back to 2, B. If you are not much of an outgoing person, this Boxer Aussie mix may not be for you. Like many other dog breeds, when Boxherds get bored, they may turn destructive, chewing on your shoes and generally making a nuisance of themselves. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Their high intelligence means they will understand commands easily, and their obedience makes them easy to live with. Their protective nature endears them to many families. However, these dogs have a strong herding background , which may lead to negative behaviors, such as chasing moving objects. Some may even grow antisocial and aggressive. Such behavior may prove problematic when the dog grows bigger. It is, therefore, important to train and socialize the Australian Shepherd and Boxer Mix early in life. If you have children, train them on how to interact with dogs. For example, they should know how and where to touch the dog and where not to to avoid any aggressive behavior. They can get along well with other pets, especially when well-trained. Things to Know When Owning an Australian Boxherd Food and diet requirements for this breed are similar to other breeds. Exercise, training, and grooming are just as important, as they affect the health of your pet. Do not let the food sit for more than half an hour. Puppies older than 3 months should be fed twice a day with hard foods. Always ensure that your dog has a healthy weight. If they start to look obese, cut back on the amount of food. Pregnant and nursing dogs should be fed extra food. Start cutting back on the food after weaning the puppies. On average, every dog requires at least an hour of exercise daily to keep them healthy. Playing fetch, running, and swimming are good exercise options. Some Boxherds have flat faces, making too much exercise a health risk. A dog with a flat face has a shortened skull with a compressed nasal cavity, which makes it harder to breathe. This is called brachycephalic airway syndrome , or congenital obstructive airway disease. During exercise, this syndrome causes: Difficulty in taking in sufficient oxygen Overheating, since the dog cannot effectively control their core temperature by panting You should avoid overexerting your dog in hot conditions, and if you have not yet bought the dog, avoid any puppies with flat faces. Go for pups with a pronounced muzzle. In doing so, you discourage the propagation of the flat face and obstructive airway disease. They understand commands easily, and due to their natural inclination to obey, training them is a cinch. As with other dogs, training is most effective when the dog is young. If you find it challenging to train your dog, try signing them up for puppy training classes. When you adopt a Boxherd, make sure you know their background. This includes asking the shelter worker or breeder certain questions: Ask whether the dog has exhibited any health issues in the past or during its stay in the rescue center. Ask whether the dog has been trained before or whether they show any signs of behavior training. Avoid bathing the dog too many times; only do it if you deem it necessary. Use mild soaps to avoid irritating their skin. Hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, and degenerative myelopathy are the more serious ones. Cataracts, bloat, and epilepsy are minor conditions that crop up from time to time. Male vs. Female Females are slightly smaller and lighter than males. Some females have been observed to be more laidback, but do not expect this. The character of each individual is unique, and they do not have to inherit characteristics in a ratio from their parents. The choice of gender is up to you, but if you want to raise pups of your own, you might want to get a female. If you do not, however, the genders do not exhibit wildly different characteristics, and no gender-specific behavior has been observed. Conclusion The Australian Boxherd possesses an unrivaled work ethic, can be easily trained, and is protective of their family. These dogs are perfect for everyone but the most inactive dog lovers. They have a long lifespan of up to 15 years, provided you feed and treat them right. See also:. We're not sure if he is related being that he is the only one with long hair. What an adorable puppy! When he first came to my home he was a bit timid, but after a few days of reassurance and care you would never know it! He is patient and kind and I often find him observing the other pups. He loves to jump and play, and of course enjoys a good chew bone. Hadley loves my big dogs and does well with all the other pups. He sleeps through the night, does not mind his baths and should be easy to train. He will benefit from regular exercise and a loving family. Hadley will be a great addition to any one's home! According to www. It is possible that the name was derived from one of the dog's ancestors. The breed's principal forebears were most likely Spanish dogs that accompanied the Basque shepherds and herds of fine Merino sheep exported to both America and Australia in the early days of the colonies. At some point it probably crossed with Collie stock. It has only recently gained recognition as a distinct breed. Australian Shepherds are easy going, perpetual puppies that love to play. Courageous, loyal and affectionate, they are excellent children's companions that are great with active children. A devoted friend and guardian, for they are naturally protective. Very lively, agile and attentive - they are eager to please, with a sixth sense about what the owner wants. Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and easy to train. Though aggressive when at work with livestock, the Aussie is gentle with human friends. Australian Shepherds needs lots of exercise and a job to do, as the breed is very intelligent, active and easily bored. They can become nervous and destructive if left alone too much without exercise. They are naturally suspicious of strangers, so they should be well socialized as puppies. Working lines of Australian Shepherds may be too energetic to be suitable pets. Some like to nip people's heals in an attempt to herd them. They are quiet workers, unlike some breeds, which are bred to bark constantly at livestock. This breed is not usually dog aggressive. They have a life expectancy of years. This breed is often sensitive to ivermectin; however, the dosage for heartworm preventive is considered safe. Be warned that higher doses of Ivermectin are also used to treat mange and caution should be taken. 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 Australian Boxherd Highlights The Australian Boxherd is an energetic pup that loves going for a jog or trying out harder exercise like dog agility. While both parent breeds are intelligent and have been used as working dogs, they can easily fall upon reactive tendencies without consistent training and mental stimulation. Daily training sessions that last minutes any longer can cause disinterest and backfire as far as creating progress are key to helping this breed retain good manners and stay on track. It may be a wise idea to also enroll this breed in puppy classes or general obedience training with a professional. Even if there are no outstanding behavior problems, classes can keep your dog feeling accomplished and stay sharp on their skills. The Australian Boxherd can be a good fit for some well-informed beginner dog parents, but experience with high-energy breeds, particularly other herding breeds like the Australian Shepherd for example, a previous Border Collie in the family , is ideal. They can be strong-willed and need stimulation and routine exercise. Without proper stimulation, the Australian Boxherd will grow bored and frustrated — regardless of how much love there is for them. This breed easily develops separation anxiety. Dog parents who are frequently home or able to bring pups to work are a good match for this breed. This breed should receive walks for at least 45 minutes a day. A fenced in backyard to burn off extra energy is a near necessity; without space to play, they can quickly grow discontent. These breeds can be prone to behaviors humans find frustrating, like digging, chewing, and barking when understimulated. They will make it endlessly clear they are bored. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved. The Australian Shepherd was originally developed to herd livestock for ranchers and farmers in the western U. Today, many Aussies are still used for herding. However, they can find many other purposes: service dogs, agility dogs, or just dedicated companions. The Boxer originated from two older breeds, the German Bullenbeisser — a dog descended from Mastiffs — and the Bulldog. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer; their strong build and powerful jaws were passed along to the Boxer. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. Boxers grew in popularity in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became known as the favorite companion animal, show dog, and guardian that the breed is today. They have no breed standard, so their coats may be found in a variation of colors from either parent. This mixed breed will frequently inherit Merle or Tricolor patterning from their Aussie parentage, along with a fairly thick coat. They may naturally be born with a short tail. Australian Boxherd Personality The Australian Boxherd is often good-natured and loving with those they know well, but they also can be overprotective or easily startled. Training them consistently when young will ultimately improve their quality of life and yours as an adult. Australian Boxherd Health While Australian Boxherds originating from responsible breeders are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed. Hip Dysplasia. Australian Shepherd and Boxer: History of the breed Designer dogs are purposefully bred to be appealing pets, with the best traits of their two parent breeds. But the parent breeds, like most dogs, will have been originally bred for a specific purpose. Specifically, a herding dog. This specific breed was developed from other herding dogs, imported from Australia and New Zealand, hence the name. Although the Australian Shepherd first appeared in California! As herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are renowned for being highly intelligent and capable of performing tasks and activities. They learn really quickly and are ideal for being trained. They are also friendly and very high-energy, which means they are suited to an outdoor lifestyle, and to plenty of fun and games! History of the Boxer breed: Boxer dogs were first developed in Germany, by crossbreeding the Bullenbeisser a dog breed now extinct , and the Old English Bulldog. Originally, boxers were bred as working dogs. Specifically, as hunting dogs. Their job was to chase down the prey and to hold it in place until the hunters could arrive. This is why boxers are renowned for their incredibly strong bite, and how they will not let go until told otherwise. Boxers were also used in wars, as guard dogs, attack dogs, and even to carry messages or packages. After World War II, many soldiers took their boxer dogs back home with them, and the breed started to become incredibly popular, as a guard dog but also as a family and house companion. What we do know is that it is now considered to be a designer dog, sought after by many, as it combines two very popular and well-loved breeds of dogs. Personality and Temperament of an Australian Shepherd and Boxer Mix: The personality and temperament of a dog is always one of the most important things to check. It can be tricky to guess an exact personality, as each dog develops its own individual quirks and temperament, and the lifestyle and owners have a lot of influence over this. However, the breed of the dog has a big effect on temperament tendencies, so this is definitely something to look into! With crossbreeds, they can take after one parent, the other, or become a combination of both. Most often breeders will have it so that they get the best traits of both parent breeds. So essentially, you need to understand the temperament of both parent breeds, in order to better guess at the temperament of the crossbreed. Personality and temperament of an Australian Shepherd: Australian Shepherds are known for having one of the best temperaments a dog can have. They are friendly and outgoing, and they love interacting with their own owners, as well as with other dogs and even strangers. They love making friends and playing games and having fun. They are also great with families and with children, as they are very loyal and protective, and known to be gentle. They are also very obedient and easy to train, as they are an exceptionally intelligent breed of dog, eager to perform tasks and be of use. However, Australian Shepherds are very high-energy, and they require a lot of physical and mental exercise and stimulation. They also need a lot of attention, as they can easily become bored if left by themselves. And a bored Australian Shepherd can quickly become a hyperactive dog that might start chewing on things and causing some damage. Personality and temperament of a Boxer: As guard dogs, Boxers are extremely loyal to their owners. They are protective and will always jump in between danger and their humans. They are also incredibly loving and affectionate with their families and are also great with children. With strangers and other dogs, however, Boxers can very quickly become distrustful and might see them as a potential threat. They are also very intelligent and are therefore great to train for specific tasks or commands. The only problem is that they can be pretty headstrong, so training might require some patience. Within their families, Boxers are loving and gentle, and one of the best dogs you could have with small children. They are protective and patient and will let the children do just about anything, without snapping in the slightest. These dogs are very intelligent and active, willing to learn and perform tasks for their owners. The obedience of the Australian Shepherd also neutralizes the head-strong attitude of the Boxer, so they are usually incredibly easy to train and teach. Australian Boxherds are friendly and amazing with children, protective, and loyal to their families. With the right socialization, they can also be great with other dogs and with strangers. They are cheerful and energetic, full of love and the eagerness to play. Overall, they are an excellent combination of amazing personality traits which makes them ideal for all families. They are also often used in the police and in search and rescue missions! Physical traits of an Australian Shepherd and Boxer Mix: The Australian Boxherd is a combination of Australian Shepherd and Boxer, and as such it has inherited physical traits from both. The crossbreed can take after one parent, the other, or become an equal mixture of both. On average, this crossbreed will be between 53 to 60 inches tall and will weigh between 55 and 66 pounds. Australian Shepherds are medium-sized, and Boxers are large, and the crossbreed has a tendency to be large rather than medium-sized. They can come in any coloring that either parent breed can, and they can end up with Australian Shepherd markings, or with a solid color. They have a soft and dense coating of hair, medium in length, that is also pretty waterproof. Training and Exercise Needs of an Australian Shepherd and Boxer Mix: Both the Australian Shepherd and the Boxer are incredibly active and high-energy dogs, suited to outdoor lifestyles and plenty of exercising. As working dogs, they need to feel engaged with tasks and need to be properly mentally stimulating, in order to avoid boredom. Australian Shepherds are athletic and agile, and Boxers are strong and powerful. Combined, you get a dog that is physically impressive and in need of performing daily tasks and activities. They require a lot of daily exercises and physical activity. They also thrive with focused tasks and jobs, as it is not only physically demanding but also mentally stimulating. As for training, the Australian Boxherd has inherited amazing traits and intelligence, so they are very easy to train and they are eager to learn and perform well. The result is an easy-to-brush coating of hair that does not shed much, and that is pretty waterproof and easy to maintain clean. As such, this crossbreed will not need to be groomed and bathed too often. When you do, make sure to use gentle products, as they can be prone to skin irritation and allergies. However, it also depends on which parent it takes after the most. So if it has a bit more Australian Shepherd in it, you will have to groom more regularly, and the shedding season will be slightly worse. Other things to worry about are dental hygiene and making sure the teeth are well-maintained. Longevity and Health of an Australian Shepherd and Boxer Mix: The longevity of a dog can depend on the breed, but there are also other factors such as the quality of life, the food, overall health, and similar. Nevertheless, knowing the average lifespan of the parent breeds can give you a good idea of how long the crossbreed is expected to live. Australian Shepherds, on average, will live between 13 and 15 years. Boxers, on the other hand, will usually live between 10 to 12 years. The crossbreed, the Australian Boxherd, will on average live up to between 12 to 15 years, so pretty much the combination of both lifespans from the parent breeds. As for health, one of the best things about crossbreeds is that they get reduced risk when it comes to the main health issues of both parent breeds. This essentially means that they are overall healthier, and less problem with developing issues with old age. But if they do, the most common health issues come from the parent breeds, which in this case would be hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, and degenerative myelopathy. Australian Shepherd and Boxer Mix: is this the right dog for you? The mix between the Australian Shepherd and the Boxer results in a beautiful-looking dog that is full of amazing traits. High-energy, intelligent, loyal, and absolutely great with families and children. But is this dog really the right one for you? After all, you need to make sure that you have what it takes to ensure the dog lives a good life with all of its needs covered. These dogs require a lot of daily exercises, not only physical but also mental. They need to be engaged through tasks and focused activities, or else they will quickly become bored. This means that you need to have time to give them the required attention, and you need to put in the effort to ensure they are getting enough of their energy out and about.

Welcome to our website! A photo of Rocky, the best Boxer ever, and the one who started it all! We are a family owned operation that breeds champion bloodline AKC Boxer puppies. Our objective is to produce the highest quality puppies, for family pets and companions. We do not offer nor do we guarantee our puppies for show or breeding, instead we would rather they be considered by the people that adopt them as family members, preferably as children! Our love for Boxers came about after we welcomed our first Boxer Rocky into our home. He is an amazing dog, and has been the backbone of our program, providing many of the adult Boxers that we have today. Although he is no longer used for breeding, his amazing personality seems to be what everyone we encounter is looking for in a Boxer. It's no accident that we chose to keep his puppies, they have the same laid-back and relaxed personalities as Rocky. We are vigilant to assure that our puppies are the finest available, we use the best technology to closely monitor the mother and her babies for the first eight weeks. We work with and handle the puppies daily, pampering them helps to create superior emotional health. Three days after birth dew claws are removed and tails are docked by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations and deworming is completed utilizing a strict program, all documentation is provided. Pre-crate training begins at six weeks of age. Puppies are socialized with adult dogs and other animals, such as cats at an early age. All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective owners. All else Copyright Riverhillboxers. All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

Not too far from the beaches, we spend most of the year playing in the sand or swimming in our pool. In , we gave our 5 year old little girl a puppy for Christmas. She instantly fell in love with the little girl puppy, and wasted no time picking out a name for the pure white, English Cream Golden Retriever. So when we imported a boy puppy the following year, we all decided to stick with the snow theme for a name. Snow Ball was now officially part of the family. With Snow Flake and Snow Ball being the best of friends, we knew it wouldn't be long before the Snow Pups would arrive. Happy, Healthy Bloodline We take great pride in knowing that we offer some of the healthiest and best pedigreed golden retrievers in the state of Florida. Our sire was imported from one of the top kennels in Europe. Big, blocky, and white as snow, he is truly a once in a lifetime dog. With a pedigree full of world champions, and a slate full of health clearances, Clumbret Lucky One, aka Snow Ball, represents the breed standard perfectly. Plus, he's super sweet and is best friends with a mini pig! We are very proud of the health clearances and genetic testing that our dogs have undergone. And we are pleased to provide any hard copies of any testing done upon request. All of our puppies come with an AKC registration number, health certificate from a licensed veterinarian, dewormed, and first round of vaccinations. Also, each of our puppies has a 1 year guarantee against any congenital defect. A Furever Friend As the years have gone by, we have continued to add to our breeding program, while continuing to maintain our high level of excellence. Each of our new additions are also imported from the top European kennels. We even have an Italian girl that can only speak her native tongue! More than being breeders, we are ultimately dog lovers. We love all of our dogs, puppies or not, and are quite proud of our crazy little dog family that we lovingly call, "The Gaggle. We focus on temperament and health above all in our puppies. We have an extreme love for the golden retriever breed and believe the English cream golden retriever to be the perfect dog for anyone. They are fun loving, loyal, intelligent, calm natured dogs. Reserve your puppy! Golden Cellars Cash Wonderboy winning his international champion title! Our sincere thanks and appreciation to Michelle of Golden Cellars. The love and training she puts into her puppies is amazing. Our little girl is housebroken, sitting on command and sleeping through the night. Michelle did a great job starting her off just right. Would absolutely recommend her as a breeder. Very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the process. He is the sweetest, most gorgeous puppy I have ever seen. He brings so much happiness and joy to our lives every single day. Thank you Michelle! Kelly We just got our puppy from Golden Cellars and we are so in love. Bogey is just 8 weeks old and already sits and goes potty outside. We highly recommend Michelle and Golden Cellars for giving us the smartest, cutest pup ever! Welcome to TrustedPuppies. Known as the Sunshine State for its warm weather and abundant sunshine, Florida is located in the Southeastern United States. It is a fantastic destination for dog lovers and their furry companions. Our main objective is to connect you with the best Golden Retriever — English Cream breeders and puppies for sale throughout Florida. Our website has a wide variety of reputable breeders that specialize in raising healthy puppies. Our breeders are committed to only raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations, veterinary checkups, and care to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide additional support and advice after the sale to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new puppy. With an estimated population of just over 5 million dogs, Florida ranks number three among other states in terms of dog ownership. Florida boasts a vibrant dog community, offering numerous dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events you and your four-legged friend can enjoy together. Dine alongside your pup at popular locations like The Dog Bar in St. Petersburg or the Jupiter Off-Leash Dog Beach, all provide ideal play, exercise, and socialization areas. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our trusted breeders offer safe and affordable flight delivery, with a dedicated flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring a pleasant and safe trip as they make their way to their new home in the sunny state of Florida. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option guarantees your puppy is safely transported to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique needs of pet travel.

Our dogs are special to us, and we breed selectively and sparingly. Nestled in the sprawling countryside of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, we provide our beloved dogs with the space they need to thrive and grow. We believe in the responsibility of raising healthy, socialized puppies. We believe in finding our puppies their perfect homes and families. We believe in supporting our buyers with quality resources and information. Our dogs are AKC registered with champion lines, and we consistently strive for excellence in breeding—both for the sake of our customers and our precious puppies. All our puppies are thoroughly evaluated by our veterinarian and come with a two-year genetic health guarantee. In , Dahlia retired and was adopted by a wonderful family. First off, please review the Step Process below, so you can become familiar with what our process and timeline look like. Then, call us when you are ready to be put on the call list for a particular litter. The balance should be paid in cash at pickup. Are you ready to seriously commit to a dog for life? Even before considering a puppy, be sure you are ready to invest the time and energy into puppy raising, an regular exercise program, love, discipline, the extra financial responsibility, etc. Ready for a Golden Retriever Puppy? When you welcome one of our Golden Retriever puppies into your home, they become a part of your family — and you become a part of ours. This sometimes means our process is a little different. But it always means our dogs are happier, and our puppies are healthier. Learn more about our process and give us a call if you have any questions! Sign Up for Email Announcements Our top priority is the health of our dogs and puppies. As a small-scale farm, we breed selectively and sparingly. As you prepare to bring home your precious puppy, get to know our fur family, review our contract and terms of agreement , and learn more about how you can prepare to welcome your sweet puppy home. Read through our FAQ's here on the website. Give Us a Call Once you receive a new litter email announcement, or read about the exciting news on our blog, contact us by phone at to start the process. Advanced wait lists cannot be made prior to the announcement of a new litter. Phone messages will be returned after pm on weekdays, and as available on Saturdays. Say Yes! Once our puppies are two 2 weeks old, we will contact you based on the order in which you were placed on our call list. Your deposit must be made to hold your place of interest. Take time to get to know the personality of your pup and begin forming a special bond. You can also choose to meet your puppy by video, or we can share photos. Growing Goldens Between weeks, our Goldens are evaluated by our vet, fully vaccinated, dewormed, and microchipped for safety. All of our puppies are supported with a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Bringing Puppy Home Between 8 and 9 weeks old, you can bring your precious pup home with you! On the day of pick-up, bring your final balance in cash — only cash payments can be processed on our small, family farm. This can be done by registering with the American Kennel Club. Registration provides support to help fund vital programs everywhere, such as canine health research, lost dog recovery, kennel inspections and pet disaster relief. This can be done at the time of registration. Stay in Touch As you and your puppy form a lifelong bond, stay in touch! We love hearing about all the fun our pups have in their furever homes! Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

Above: Mini F1b, Curly. Above: Mini F1, Wavy. Coats can vary in color. A good way to predict adult color is to look at the ears of the puppy. In addition, consider the pedigree when expecting a litter. It is hard to understand the complexity of the gene pool when mating. From my experience, red is considered a dilute gene of black. When red is bred with white, black or brown, black is dominate and pups are black. Two red parents, will make red or apricot. However, to carry the true red gene is very rare. Red can often fade with maturity. Many breeders boast about having red as it is highly sought after, but it can and may fade with time. I make a good effort at trying to produce red, but it is more rare. Brown and black also produce black. Two browns will make brown. Red can be so dark red that it is considered mahogany or rust. My Sangria, F1 mini-goldendoodle female is an example of this beautiful color. I do not claim to be an expert in the study, nor do I make any guarantees on future adult color. In breeds like the cocker spaniel, the red will be apricot as a pup, but can become dark red with maturity. Spots can also widen with maturity or appear to have moved around as they broadened out. In designer breeds, the puppy can look completely different as an adult then how it did as a puppy. You may notice this at the very first haircut. As much as we love color, we need to pay more attention to the temperament of the puppy and make sure the puppy is very socialized and loved, especially during the critical stage of development up to 5 months. See my temperament testing page for more information on this. Loose and wavy: This is the most common type of coat found in a goldendoodle such as an F1. They are considered low to non-shed. They are easy to maintain. You may want to brush in the common friction areas such as behind the ears, hind quarters, and underarms. Bodily brushing about once a week. Straight: These coats are considered flat or sporty like the golden retriever. They are the easiest to maintain and need minimal brushing. They will have some shed. Curly: These coats can be easily identified with the crimping on the forehead as a pup. They are most common in F1bs. Their coats can have "loose curl" or "tight curl. Examples: Above: "Loose and wavy" as a puppy at 5 weeks old. This is an example of an F1. Left: "Curly" as a puppy. Puppy at 5 weeks old. F1b, crimping on forhead visible. Right: "Straight" at 5 months. This coat type typically can be found in F1 litters. No crimping on forehead or ears. Left: tight curl as an adult. Right: "Curly" at 10 weeks old. More squiggles on forehead than "loose and wavy" type. Notice the difference. This is an example of an F1b. This coat type is best for those that have allergies and desire lots of curl. An excellent example of a loose and wavy coat. This dog is an F1 miniature goldendoodle from Ginger and Tamale. Some of Ginger's puppies do throw the sport coat. It can be difficult to predict how the coats will turn out as adults, but we do our best to look for wavy features in the early stages. In the end, unless you have allergies, please understand they are so much more than just how they look. You get what you get and don't throw a fit! I do my best to help you pick out what you desire, but please note, I do not guarantee coat quality. Puppies are not an item I can stock on the shelf. Mother nature is in control. Many F1s will develop their wave after they go through their coat change at 5 months of age. It can take even up to 8 months to see the true coat quality. All Goldendoodles can smell, regardless of coat type. There are seven common causes of Goldendoodles smelling — find out more here. There are three types of Goldendoodle fur coats Wavy Curly Straight The three Goldendoodle coats have differing degrees of curliness. Different genes inherited from the parent dogs will determine the coat type. They are also referred to as fleece coats. Wavy coat Goldendoodles are typically low shedding. A wavy coat does require grooming to prevent deep knots from forming. A wavy coat will grow to around cm 4 to 7 inches in left untrimmed The hair will typically be shorter around the face Wavy coats are low shedding Wavy or fleece coats are less dense than a curly coat Wavy coat Goldendoodles are low allergy Wavy coat Goldendoodles need brushing at least once per week. The coat will stay healthy and clean with little effort. If left to develop, sometimes the knots need shaving, which can cause discomfort. Brush well before shampooing your Goldendoodle with the best breed appropriate shampoo Curly Coat Goldendoodles Curly Goldendoodle coats feature the densest curls of any Groodle coat type. The curly coat is also most like that of the purebred Poodle. If the coat is curly, you can look for a few early signs to help tell the coat type of your Goldendoodle. Curly coats will eventually stop growing if left. The hair will typically be shorter around the face — but not always. Curly coat Goldendoodles are very allergy friendly. They are typically non-shedding. The curly coat is similar but not identical to a Poodle coat. Many owners and breeders report little to no Goldendoodle smell with this coat. Some owners only cut their Curly Coat Goldendoodles fur two or three times a year. They will need to brush once or twice a week to avoid knotting and give the best appearance. Straight Coat Goldendoodles Sometimes the straight coat Goldendoodle is called a hair coat or loose coat. These Goldendoodles share the most coat characteristics with a Golden Retriever. Straight coat Goldendoodles can resemble a Golden Retriever. They are the easiest to groom but do shed a little. Use the best-reviewed Goldendoodle shampoo to keep the coat soft. The straight coat can be extremely low maintenance These dogs are shedders This type of Goldendoodle is the most likely to cause trouble for allergy sufferers. Test individually as many allergy sufferers cope well with lots of different types of Poodle Mix breeds. Even though this coat is typically the least amount of maintenance — you may still need to brush. And more often than you think. If there is a dense undercoat it will be necessary to brush at least once per week to avoid knotting. Regardless of coat type, all Goldendoodles can end up with ear wax build-up or infections. Our guide on how to clean Labradoodle ears can be applied to Goldendoodles as well. If your dog wears a collar or harness frequently you will need to brush these areas irrespective of which coat type is present. The change from puppy coat can be sudden. It can also be gradual and take months to switch to an adult coat. Toy and teacup Goldendoodles will experience a puppy coat change too. Several breeders say that it is common for Goldendoodle puppy owners not to notice the coat change. The breeders said this is because either The coat change was gradual from 6 months of age with no sudden change Or some adult coats for Godlendoodles are super soft and indistinguishable from the puppy coat How To Tell What Coat Your Goldendoodle Will Have Genetics will determine the variables of the coat. Cross-breeding dogs can give unpredictable results. Goldendoodle puppies can be more like one parent than the other, Breeders and owners have noted some tricks and tips to help determine the future coat of a Goldendoodle puppy. The usual reminder that a Groodle is the same thing as a Goldendoodle. So if you are looking to find out how to tell what type of coat a Groodle will have — you are in the right place. From early puppyhood through to one year of age, the Goldendoodle coat is in a constant state of development. Knowing exactly the type of coat that a puppy will have as an adult is not possible. There are however some early signs that give you an indication of what the adult coat will be. We asked owners and breeders how to tell what coat your Goldendoodle will have. How to tell what coat your Goldendoodle puppy will have: Check the snout. By comparing the coats of the parent dogs you will get a generally good idea of the range of possibilities. If both parents are Goldendoodle with fleece, a wavy coat is most likely. If both have loose straight hair — be prepared for shedding. Nature and genetics will have the final say. These coat prediction methods give best indication of future coat type. There can always be surprises. Naming inspiration from a galaxy far, far away. The hypoallergenic, non-shedding Poodle coat is a highly desired feature. This significantly increases the likelihood of a Curly coat or Wavy coat. F1b Goldendoodles are less likely to have a significant coat change from puppyhood to adulthood. It is common for the fur density and coarseness to increase. These Goldendoodles do not have teddy bear features. English Goldendoodles are more likely than American Goldendoodles to have a boxy teddy bear appearance. Both types can look very teddy-bear-like with the correct furnishings. We call the Goldendoodle teddy bear face features furnishings. Dogs with any of the three coat types can also be missing furnishings. As a result, they can look much more like a Poodle or a Golden Retriever. Bernedoodles experience something similar with their tri-colour coats. F1 Goldendoodles are the most likely to be missing furnishings. A puppy without furnishings is unlikely to develop them when the coat changes to the adult Goldendoodle coat. Contact Goldendoodle Coat Type Information There are a total of 3 specific coat types a goldendoodle can be born with: A curly coat, a wavy coat, or a flat coat, also know as an improper coat. All of our parent dogs are tested to ensure they do not have the gene present that produces a flat coated goldendoodle, in addition to this we also test to ensure your new goldendoodle will have the proper facial furnishings and a low to no-shedding coat. This is a guide to help you choose the coat that will best suit your preferences and lifestyle. Curly Coat Type The most requested Goldendoodle coat type we get is for a curly coat. It is Goldendoodles with this coat type will present with a wavy coat as young puppies, but as they grow into an adult their coat will become much thicker and curlier. The curly coated goldendoodles have extremely minimal shedding to absolutely no shedding and are hypoallergenic. However the tradeoff to the amazing curly coat is that it requires significantly more brushing and grooming depending on how tight your goldendoodles curls are, although it can be shaved down to create a maintenance free coat. Below are examples of some our previous puppies with a curly coat. I don't pretend to be an expert but this information has proven to be very helpful in explaining coat changes you may observe and determining how your doodle will end up looking. It may help you in choosing the pup that will best meet your preference There are basically 3 coat types: Flat or Smooth, Curly, and Wavy. The amount of ripples in the coat of the newborn pup are a great indicator of how they will turn out. As the pup gets older the coat becomes fluffy. At around 8 weeks the baby coat may shed and this continues periodically as the coat changes. It is not the shedding you see in other dogs where hair flies as you pet them. It is generally minimal and is just a phase the pups go through until they get their adult coat. The curly coated doodles tend to go through fewer changes. As with all predictions there are no guarantees but the law of averages applies. Most doodles have a classic V-shaped appearance in the face. Very curly, more poodle like doodles may not have this. No matter what coat type you have, grooming choices will vastly alter the dog's appearance so you do have lots of control over how your doodle looks. Shaggy doodles with the hair trimmed around their eyes so they can see! The shaggy and longer coats must be monitored for mats and a good brushing once or twice a week is a big help and also a great bonding time for you and your dog. Here at 3-doodles we have only had one litter of F2's F1's bred to each other. We had one complaint of shedding from the F2 litter but the pup may have been shedding his puppy coat as per the norm. We may not have anymore F1 or F2 litters as the non-shedding more allergy friendly coat is our goal. We have had a couple of pups shed from our F1b litters and it has been the more retriever like coats but lots of folks prefer that look and shedding is not an issue for them. They just want a great dog. As we have had the opportunity to see many of our previous pups grow up I have compared the adult look to the puppy look and have been surprised and pleased to see how they turn out. Also I am going to address size and the adult weight prediction. A 50 lb retriever is consider very small. There are many opinions regarding the acceptable size for a mini golden doodle and despite what you may read, there is no hard and fast rule. Some breeders consider a toy size under 25 lbs to determine this. I tend to compare to a standard size and therefore I consider under 40 lbs a mini and lbs a medium. Our parent dogs are all under 55 lbs at this time and some are as small as 22 lbs. Weight estimate is obtained by adding the two weights and dividing by two. So far this has been accurate with the exception of one very large pup with a current predicted weight of lbs. I never guarantee weights no one should but I try to give my best guess. This is a way to identify the golden doodle crosses. This is true of all crosses. An F2 is an F1xF1. An F1b is an F1 Golden doodle x a poodle. We have noticed the looks of each cross do not differ much. Not surprisingly there are opinions about this as well however since there is not yet an official organization that determines definite guidelines, we doodle breeders try to use the same terminology and breed standards. Here at 3-doodles we look at the coat types and colors of our parent doodles to determine the most desirable matches. We also consider the personalities of our pets. So far the doodles have a predictable personality and that is the perfect combination of the loveable and gentle golden retriever and the exceptionally smart and easily trainable poodle. These dogs are beyond loveable and smart and we think they are one of the absolute best choices of any dog. A word about allergies: All coat types are generally allergy-friendly with the curlier coats having a reputation of most allergy friendly and the straighter coats more likely to have some shedding so not great for those folks. There is no absence of dog dander in any breed so if you or a family member have severe allergies to dogs, even the doodles may not be tolerated. I have had several customers do fine with a golden doodle but again there are no guarantees. I suggest that the sensitive individual go and spend some time with a doodle to see how they react. It's just so heartbreaking to bring home a pup and then have to give it up. I'd hate to see that happen to anyone so be cautious. Hope this was helpful information and best of luck in finding your pup! Bentley as a puppy and at about one year. No shedding. Below Simba with curly coat. Bruno as a puppy then around 6 months, and then a year. This is Griffin at about 7 months. He is an English Cream wavy coated pup and has gone through a coat change. We rarely get these coats but the beautiful Golden Retriever coat and look sometimes appears. They may end up shedding a little more but no one seems to care. It occurs in all Goldendoodle generations, including the F1's, F1b's and mulitgens, and is fairly easy to maintain. It requires brushing at least once or twice a week, with more frequent brushing in high friction areas like under the collar or around the ears. Shedding and heavy shedding is common among the F1 and F2 Goldendoodle generations. Note: we do not offer the F1 or the F2 generations. We offer the F1b and the multigen generations, the most non-shedding generations. So if your looking for a specific coat type and minimal to non shedding coats are important to you, be sure that you choose a breeder like us that does the proper DNA coat testing. Curly Goldendoodle Coats: The second most common Goldendoodle coat type is the curly coat, which is more common among F1b or some mulitgen goldendoodles and because of their poodle lineage. The coat can be anything from a relaxed loose curl to a more curly wool coat. Most do not get as curly as a poodle. This Goldendoodle coat type requires more frequent brushing, although it can be shaved down to create a maintenance free coat if the owner prefers. The curly Goldendoodle coat type is minimal to non-shedding and hypoallergenic, when the Goldendoodle is an F1b or in a mulitgen, but to know more the breeder must genetically DNA test their parents. Examples: Goldendoodles with curly coats. Flat, Improper Goldendoodle Coats: The least sought after Goldendoodle coat type is the flat coat, this is also called or known as having an Improper Coat , it is fairly common in F2 Goldendoodle breeding's. Often referred to as the Golden Retriever type coat, it's easy to maintain and requires minimal brushing. However, this Goldendoodle coat type does not produce the desired "teddybear" look that we strive for and that Goldendoodles are renowned for displaying, nor will it produce a "beard" and facial around the muzzle. This Goldendoodle flat coat or Improper Coat type can produce moderate to high shedding coats and are not recommended for those families with allergies. How To Tell The Difference: It is especially difficult to distinguish Goldendoodle coat types especially at the puppy stage, when all coat types can look fairly similar. A reputable, experienced breeder will be able to tell you the each puppies coat type as well as their propensity to shed. However, the face and muzzle area can provide some indication of what the puppy's coat will look like as an adult. Generally, the more crimps or waves a puppy has in it's face and muzzle hair, the curlier his or her coat will likely be. A puppy with a smooth face with no beard that doesn't have any waves or crimps will probably have a flat or Improper Coat. Always ask your breeder for clarification on puppy coat types to assure you get the coat type and the degree of shedding you want with your puppy. But, not all Goldendoodle coats are the same. Goldendoodle lying on the grass Goldendoodles have three main coat types called curly, wavy, and straight. Rarely, Goldendoodles may also present with an improper coat. Curly coats are the most hypoallergenic but require frequent brushing, while straight coats are the opposite. The curls may be thick and tight or slightly looser. Curly coats are the most common in backcrossed generations, especially F1b. They are quite popular because they are the most hypoallergenic of all Goldendoodle coats. However, they require the most care. Caring for Goldendoodles with Curly Coats Goldendoodle with Curly Coat Goldendoodles with curly coats need to be brushed about once a day. Depending on how tight the curls are, sometimes every second day may be fine too. You also need to make sure that you wash a Goldendoodle with a curly coat quite often. Once a month is ideal for some, while others can push it to about six weeks. It depends largely on how much time the Goldendoodle spends outside. When washing your Goldendoodle, make sure that you get all the way down to the skin. This can sometimes be very difficult if the curly coat is very thick. Wavy-coated Goldendoodles resemble Teddy-bears the most, drawing attention to the breed. They do not take after the Poodle or the Golden Retriever more but are instead a good balance of the two. Goldendoodles with wavy coats occur the most often in F1 generations. They are not as hypoallergenic as the curly-coated Goldendoodle because they shed a little bit more. They are easier to groom, though. Caring for Goldendoodles with Wavy Coats Wavy Coat Goldendoodle Outdoors Goldendoodles with wavy coats can be brushed about twice a week as long as it is done thoroughly. Bathing can be done roughly every month and a half to two months, depending on their activity level. If you struggle with the shedding of the wavy-coated Goldendoodle, trimming it will help. Alternatively, brushing it daily will also make a difference. Their coats are relatively straight, although there may still be large, loose waves present. They do not look like Golden Retrievers, though. This is largely due to the fur around their snout, which looks like a goatee and mustache. This hair is sometimes referred to as furnishings. The Goldendoodles with straight coats shed a lot, making them the worst option if you have allergies. They are also the easiest coats to maintain. Caring for Goldendoodles with Straight Coats Goldendoodles with straight coats can be brushed about once a week. Bathing them is a little bit more difficult to determine, but it can be done as necessary. If they do not roll around in dirt outside, roughly every two months should be more than enough for your Goldendoodle. One way to figure out if it is time to bathe your Goldendoodle with a straight coat is to run your hands as close to the skin as possible. It may be time for a bath if you notice a brown residue on your fingers. Otherwise, if your Goldendoodle loves water, you may be able to smell mildew. This is particularly common in the chest region. Improper Coat An improper coat is the rarest of all Goldendoodle coats. You will find it in F2 Goldendoodles more than any other generation. An improper coat is similar to a straight coat. These Goldendoodles take after their Golden Retriever parents a great deal. The difference between straight and improper coats is in the furnishings. Without it, the Goldendoodle looks nothing like the teddy bear that it is famous for, and instead just looks like a thinner Golden Retriever. The care of an improper coat is identical to that of a straight coat. Helpful Tools for Goldendoodle Coat Care The Right Shampoo Goldendoodles can be prone to skin sensitivities, so make sure that you are using the correct shampoo. Something with Oatmeal in it is more gentle on the skin, which means that you will be able to wash your Goldendoodle more often without worrying. Detangler Like most other Poodle hybrids, the Goldendoodles can be prone to matting. This should not be a problem if you brush them daily. However, sometimes you may still find yourself in need of a little bit of help. A good detangling spray can be used after a bath to make sure that getting any mats out is a relatively pain-free process for your Goldendoodle. High-Quality Brush Goldendoodles have very thick hair. This is true regardless of their coat type. A high—quality brush does not guarantee a thorough brush. But, it makes it a lot easier. It is sometimes all that you need. Related Reading:. Flat coats are quite commonly seen in F2 Goldendoodles. These coats are easy to maintain when compared with curlier coated types. However, if you want a Goldendoodle that has the traditional teddy bear look, a flat-coated dog is not for you. Also, these dogs are moderate to high shedders and are, therefore, not recommended for a family with allergies. However, unlike flat-coated Doodles, the straight coat type does have furnishings and the fur tends to be fluffier in texture. Straight coat Goldendoodles are also referred to as loose coats or hair coats, and these pups have coats that are most like a Golden retriever. Also, these dogs do tend to shed quite heavily, making them unsuitable for those with pet allergies. So, if you take on one of these Goldendoodles, you must also be prepared to vacuum your carpets daily! Wavy Coat Image Source: Instagram. A wavy or shaggy coat is the most common type of Goldendoodle coat type, and they are also sometimes called fleece coats. In fact, the wavy coat occurs in all the most popular generations of Goldendoodles, including F1, F1b, and multigenerational dogs. Wavy Goldendoodles can be minimal shedders, although F1 and F2 dogs tend to be moderate to heavy shedders. So, to be certain as to whether your puppy will shed or not, always choose a reputable breeder that has had all their breeding dogs DNA tested. Curly Coat Curly coats are created when the puppy inherits a curl gene from each parent. These dogs have very dense, fleece-like coat characteristics that most closely resemble the coat of the Poodle parent. You will most commonly find curly coats in an F1B Goldendoodle or some of the multigenerational Goldendoodles. However, most owners prefer to have their dogs shaved or clipped. Curly Goldendoodles are minimal to non-shedding coats, which makes these dogs extremely sought after by people with pet allergies. If you leave the coat to grow without having your dog clipped, the curls will become very dense, making it difficult to gauge their length simply by looking at the coat. That said, eventually, the hair will stop growing. To make matters even more confusing, Goldendoodles commonly change color as they mature. Generally, if the puppy has a smooth face without furnishings, he will most likely have an improper or flat coat. Goldendoodle Coat Stages As previously mentioned, Goldendoodle puppies begin shedding their puppy coats once they reach around six months of age. By the time your puppy is eight months old or more, he will have his final adult coat. The final coat is usually not as soft and fluffy as the puppy coat. The coat change can be gradual or sudden, taking a matter of weeks or several months. Also, some super-soft adult Goldendoodle coats are virtually indistinguishable from the puppy coat. Until recently, crossbreeding dogs generally gave unpredictable results with the puppies taking more after one parent than the other. Now, DNA testing is commonly used by good breeders to determine what kind of coat their puppies will have. However, there are a few tried and tested methods of determining what kind of coat the puppy will have as an adult. That can be a good indicator for the coat type your dog will have as an adult. Generally, a prominent mustache is a clear indicator that the puppy will have a curly coat. Dogs that will go on to develop wavy coats tend to grow a shaggy beard around the muzzle. Straight-coated Goldendoodles usually have short, neat hair around their snout. If the puppy is anything other than an F1, first-generation pup, look at both the parent dogs. Generally, puppies take after one parent dog. However, genetics always have the final say when it comes to coat types. Inspiration For Names! One of the fun things about owning a Goldendoodle is choosing a name for your dog. For a few more ideas on what names you can choose for your Doodle puppy, check out this guide! Most people think of the Goldendoodle as having those classic teddy bear looks that everyone finds so adorable. However, not all puppies go on to develop that wavy or curly coat and furnishings that are so desirable. And, of all the generations, the F1B Goldendoodles are much less likely to have a significant coat change as they mature, although the coat coarseness and density are quite likely to increase. Interestingly, English Goldendoodles are more likely to have that boxy teddy bear features than American Goldendoodles. However, both kinds can develop the teddy bear appearance with the correct furnishings. Dogs with any of the three types of Goldendoodle coats can be with or without furnishings. F1 Goldendoodles are most likely to be without furnishings. That involvement entails providing access to the very latest research and expert guidance on canine reproduction, breed development, and puppy development. However, through the careful selection of mates, a good breeder can produce that adorable Teddy Bear look that people love so much. Shedding intensity can also be predicted through careful DNA research and careful breeding. The S gene that gives the dog a short coat is dominant. Doodle coats can be curly, straight, or wavy, depending on the number of curl genes that they take from their parents. What Are Furnishings? Commonly known as the F gene, the gene, RSP02 is responsible for those furnishings. Improper Coat A coat that has no furnishings is known as an improper coat or IC. Goldendoodles that have Ff or F IC or one copy of the furnishings gene tend to be lighter shedders than dogs that do have furnishings. I hope you enjoyed this guide! What kind of coat did you think your puppy would grow, and how did it actually turn out? Tell us in the comments box below. Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. Leave a Comment. Black For even more variety, there are patterns of these colors found in the Goldendoodle, including parti, merle, phantom, and brindle. Merle is a varied coat pattern. While a beautiful color, the merle gene can cause blindness and deafness if two parents carrying the merle gene are bred together, so merles should be bred only by very knowledgeable breeders who test for the merle gene and understand the genetics involved. Brindle patterns appear as stripes, the color and the width vary with each dog. With careful breeding, breeders can now produce litters with predictable coat types and shedding propensities. One of the things that many people find attractive about the Goldendoodle is the low shedding and hypo-allergenic qualities of the coat, and the adorable ragamuffin look of the Goldendoodle. No longer do you need to rely on the generation of a Goldendoodle to determine appearance or shedding intensity! This is why some Labradoodles have short coats in the early generations, whereas Goldendoodles do not. Curl KRT71 gene Goldendoodles can be curly, wavy, or straight. They inherit their number of curl genes from their parents. If a breeder tests the parent dogs for the curl gene, they can better predict the appearance of their puppies. Even more interestingly, genetic technology has taught us that furnishings are what confer the low- to non-shedding coats on our Goldendoodles that help make them such optimal family dogs. Based on Mendelian genetics, this educated guess was often just that—a guess about the odds. This is when the use of notations like F1 and F1b came about and what has caused many people to think they need to know the generation to guess about furnishings. In the recent past, new commercially available tests have been developed that allow us to genetically test our parent dogs for furnishing genes and other coat genes as well, such as curl so we can better predict coat type in puppies. This is much, much more accurate and dependable than the old Mendelian filial F1, F1b, etc. The gene responsible for furnishings is dominant; so by testing the parent dogs DNA, it can be determined if a breed pair will produce puppies that all have furnishings, or if there will be some puppies with an incorrect or Golden Retriever like coat. Dogs with one copy of the furnishings gene Ff or F IC are lower shedding than dogs without furnishings. Dogs with two copies of furnishing genes FF are typically non-shedding. If you have a family with allergies, a Goldendoodle with an incorrect coat is not the best match for you. Coat variation in the domestic dog is governed by variants in three genes. J Hered. The Shedding gene is still relevant for shedding for NON-furnished dogs short facial hair , but have no impact for shedding for our furnished Goldendoodles. Even a Goldendoodle with two furnishings genes does not guarantee that you will not be allergic to a particular dog. Allergies are very complex and shedding is just one of the components that factor in the equation. Consider that dander, saliva, proteins, and allergens carried on the dogs coat, etc. As you can see, there is a lot of science that goes into the selection of breeding mates to produce the ideal Goldendoodle. The Goldendoodle Association supports its Member breeders by providing access to the latest research and guidance from experts in fields such as breed development, canine reproduction, and puppy development. This is a widget ready area. Add some and they will appear here. For all other questions: Email: admin goldendoodleassociation. Your membership helps to fund research and development regarding health, genetics, puppy development, and more. Member Application.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. There are countless breeders to choose from and it can take hours, if not days to go through each and every one of them. For this reason, we decided to take the matters into our own hands to find the best of the best Bernedoodle breeders in North Carolina. Here they are! After all, adopting your puppy from a puppy mill is definitely out of the question. Health guarantees usually cover the first one or two years from adoption. You can also ask from your friends or family members about their personal experiences with various breeders in your state. This exceptional breeder takes great pride in providing their puppies a safe, clean, and enriching family environment to prepare them for their lives with their forever families. All puppies come from thoroughly tested parents and each of them is spoiled and pampered from day one up until adoption. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Abby Oelrich, the breeder behind Paws 4 Doodles, is a certified Puppy Culture breeder and also a professional groomer. They utilize various forms of enrichment methods, such as Early Neurological Stimulation ENS , early socialization, potty training, crate training, household desensitization, and even basic manners. Share 0 Shares The Bernedoodle is an exceptional dog breed for an active family living in a very active state like North Carolina. And if you are reading this article, you probably know this and are considering adding one of these furry angels to your family. The breed is loved for a couple of reasons. One is that it comes with the high intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle while still maintaining the overall calm demeanor and playful nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog. North Carolina is very fond of the Bernedoodle breed, as there are lots of breeders residing within the state. However, you should be careful when dealing with these breeders as not all are reputable breeders that truly care for the dog breed. This is why it is essential you carry out personal research on any breeder you intend to work with or patronize. We have provided a list to make your search for a good Bernedoodle breeder very easy. This is a list of some of the best and most responsive Bernedoodle breeders you can find in the state of North Carolina. These are great breeders that care for the breed and are focused on the overall health, temperament, and socialization of the breed. They have been breeding incredible Bernedoodle puppies with hypoallergenic coats for over 10 years. Autumn Kissinger, a Vet tech with over 12 years of field experience is the owner and manager of the breeding facility. She aims to produce puppies that are stunning, well-tempered, and above all, healthy family companions that you certainly would love to have around. They raise standard and miniature-sized Bernedoodles. They operate a kennel facility in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. This is a very large facility with over acres of space fitted with 2 creeks that presents a lot of opportunities for the puppies to explore. The puppies are raised with a mix of both the Badass Breeder curriculum and Puppy Culture. Although it is a kennel facility, the puppies get to roll and play around with the members of the family, as well as other animals on the farm. Their breeding line is fitted with mainly championed sires and dams that further help in improving the breed. Being a Vet tech, Autumn Kissinger does have a great understanding of the importance of genetically testing the chosen adult dogs. They are given a full panel DNA health testing and even tested for orthopedic defects that could affect the quality of life that each new Bernedoodle puppy would experience. Your puppy should go home with a 2 years health guarantee. They should be given their full dewormings and vaccinations and should go home with a puppy starter kit. They should also be microchipped and come with a puppy collar. Our Bernedoodles are from excellent bloodlines and all Pedigree information traces back to their AKC lineage. Our Dams and Sires have obtained extensive health clearances prior to being bred. These dogs will have a higher success rate for non-shedding, and are recommended for families with allergies. F1 Bernedoodles all have loose wavy coats that are typically minimal to light shedding, while F1B Bernedoodles coats can be loose wavy just like the F1 or curly and there are both coat types within the F1B litter. The F1B Bernedoodle is typically minimal to non-shedding. The coat of a Bernedoodle can vary from straight, loose wavy or curly. An F1 Bernedoodle will have a loose wavy coat, while an F1B Bernedoodle litter has both curly and loose wavy coats within the litter. The coat colors of Bernedoodles can vary based on the color genetics of the parents. We will also have Parti Bernedoodles. Daily walks are a must if you don't have a safely enclosed area for them to run freely. The Bernedoodle can be independent and does great being with family engaging in play, then happily laying on their own with a toy. It is still unknown how long Bernedoodles will live as it is a newer cross. The expected lifespan is hoped to be years. As with any dog, socialization and training should start while the dog is still a puppy and continue throughout its life. Look for a puppy kindergarten class locally or join the AKC S. Puppy Program , training based on positive techniques. You do not have to be an AKC purebred puppy to participate in their S. Puppy Program. Find a class here. This is a great place to start socializing and training. A well-socialized, well-trained Bernedoodle makes a wonderful family companion. Early socialization and training establishes those lifetime bonds between the family and puppy as these programs teach you how to communicate with your new puppy and get started on the right foot. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Raleigh North Carolina and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Half Moon North Carolina and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

New Pet Alert from AdoptaPet. What is This? Yes, I would like to receive communications from the Petco Love regarding their lifesaving work. By signing up for the New Pet Alert, you are allowing Adopt-a-pet. You can also optionally sign up to receive email communications from Petco and Petco Love as well. You can save up to 15 New Pet Alerts, and you can cancel or change them at any time at adoptapet. In fact, together with Petco and our community partners, we help find homes for thousands of dogs, cats, and rabbits and other pets every week. Learn More Let Petco store associates be your post-adoption support network. Petco's Welcome to the Family New Pet Parent Starter Guide provides new pet parents substantial benefits with hundreds of dollars worth of coupons for everything a new pet needs. And our Petco store partners will be there today, and every day, to answer all those new pet parent questions and make sure every adoption is a successful one. If adoption isn't possible for you right now, don't worry. You can still be part of our lifesaving work by making a donation. Not sure about adoption yet? Learn why it's a great way to welcome a pet into your home-and how we can help. Large lbs kg pet id ask group about this pet My story Ruger is an 8 year old yellow lab. He is a svelte 77 pounds. He has a happy laid back personality and a tail that never stops wagging. Ruger was turned into DLRR by his owner who was moving out of state. He gets along with dogs he has met but he would be fine as an only dog as well. Ruger enjoys the company of people and he has been gentle with children. It is unknown how he feels about cats. He has however tried to chase a rabbit and is a large dog so perhaps he would do best in a home without a cat or little dog. Ruger has a moderate energy level. He has tremors at times in his legs especially when he is excited but he is unaware of them and they do not impede him in anyway. Ruger 4 is a perfect gentleman in the house. He is housebroken and his owner reported that he can use a doggie door. He has not counter surfed or jumped up on any furniture. He has had full roam of the house when left at home alone and has been nondestructive. He is fearful of crates but will go in a crate for a treat. He has been trustworthy in the house so there has been no need to crate him. He rides well in the car. Ruger is always excited to go for a walk and he will pull on the leash especially to greet passing people and dogs. I have been using an easy walk chest harness on him but he will need more leash work. He knows the sit, down and shake commands very well. Ruger loves to play fetch or tug with his rope toys. He loves to be brushed and bathed. If you are interested in this dog, please fill out an application at www. Someone will call to schedule a home visit so you can become an approved adopter. Also, visit our Facebook page at www. If you have any questions or would like to adopt Ruger, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.

Download Article There are several other dog breeds that have similarities in appearance to a Pug. However, if you are aware of the differences between the breeds, you can obtain a better understanding of whether or not a dog is a Pug. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. A Pekingese can seem exactly like a Pug, especially if it has a short coat. Most Pekingese, however, have quite long fur. Both breeds have wrinkles and flat muzzles, but a Pekingese's tail won't be curled like a Pug's - instead, it hangs over the dog's back. Pekingese can also come in different coat colors than Pugs, though both can be seen in fawn and black. Despite having longer fur, Pekingese don't shed as much as Pugs, but still a moderate amount. French Bulldogs are another popular breed with wrinkles and a flat muzzle. They are slightly bigger than Pugs and therefore not a member of the toy group and have short, stubby tails. Their ears are perked, rather than the pug's folded ears. A solid black or tan and black Frenchie may have white markings on the chest or stomach, differentiating it from a Pug. Two stubborn, flat-faced breeds, Pugs and English Bulldogs have a lot in common. For example, both have faces coated with wrinkles. However, Bulldogs have short, stumpy tails, while pugs have longer, curled tails. Bulldogs can come in many more color varieties, such as brown or brown with white markings. Pugs are smaller than Bulldogs, as Bulldogs are members of the non-sporting group. Bulldogs also have different ears than Pugs. These two breeds are roughly equal in size and body structure. However, Boston Terriers usually have perked up ears and stubby tails, and they tend to be black and white, while black Pugs aren't seen with white markings. They also have completely different origins - Boston terriers originate in the United States, while Pugs date back to Ancient China. Boxers are medium-sized dogs and larger than Pugs, but the two both tend to have flat, black muzzles. A Boxer can have either cropped or uncropped ears, along with a natural or docked tail. A Boxer's natural tail is longer than a pug's and isn't curled, while the docked tail is very short. Boxers are usually brown or black in color, but also are seen in white, brindle, and more color variants. Pugs aren't typically seen in a brown coat. Pugs and Bullmastiffs may look a little similar in appearance, but Bullmastiffs are much larger dogs. Pugs are small dogs generally lap dogs , while Bullmastiffs are large dogs sometimes used for guarding. Bullmastiffs have long tails that don't curl over their backs. Both dogs have wrinkles, but Bullmastiffs have usually larger muzzles. 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. Pugs are clowns at heart, but they carry themselves with dignity. Pugs are playful dogs, ready and able for games , but they are also lovers, and must be close to their humans. Pugs love to be the center of attention, and are heartsick if ignored. Pugs are square and thickset, usually weighing no more than 20 pounds. Their heads are large and round, with large, round eyes. They have deep and distinct wrinkles on their faces. Legend has it that the Chinese, who mastered the breeding of this dog, prized these wrinkles because they resembled good luck symbols in their language. His ears are smooth, black and velvety. He has a characteristic undershot jaw the lower teeth extend slightly beyond the upper teeth and a tightly curled tail. Personality-wise, Pugs are happy and affectionate, loyal and charming, playful and mischievous. They are very intelligent, however, they can be willful, which makes training challenging. If trained and well-socialized , they get along well with other animals and children. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers. Pugs have a short, double coat, and are known for shedding profusely. Pug Highlights Loyal and affectionate: Pugs are known for being very loyal and affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and be around their owners, and they make great companions. Easy to care for: Pugs are relatively easy to care for. Good with children: Pugs are generally good with children. They are patient and gentle, and they enjoy playing with kids. Adaptable: Pugs are adaptable dogs. They can live in apartments or houses, and they can do well in both hot and cold climates. Funny and playful: Pugs are known for being funny and playful dogs. They enjoy making their owners laugh, and they are always up for a good time. Some historians believe they are related to the Tibetan Mastiff. They were prized by the Emperors of China and lived in luxurious accommodations, sometimes even being guarded by soldiers. Pugs are one of three types of short-nosed dogs that are known to have been bred by the Chinese: the Lion dog, the Pekingese , and the Lo-sze, which was the ancient Pug. Evidence of Pug-like dogs has been found in ancient Tibet and Japan. In the latter s and early s, China began trading with European countries. Reportedly, the first Pugs brought to Europe came with the Dutch traders, who named the breed Mopshond, a name still used today. Pugs quickly became favorites of royal households throughout Europe, and even played a role in the history of many of these families. In Holland, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange after a Pug reportedly saved the life of William, Prince of Orange, by giving him a warning that the Spaniards were approaching in .It is known that black pugs existed in the s because the famous artist, William Hogarth, was a Pug enthusiast. He portrayed a black Pug and many others in his famous paintings. In , Goya also portrayed Pugs in his paintings. Before she married Napoleon Bonaparte, she was confined at Les Carmes prison. In the early s, Pugs were standardized as a breed with two lines becoming dominant in England. Pugs were first exhibited in England in .The studbook began in with 66 Pugs in the first volume. Meanwhile, in China, Pugs continued to be bred by the royal families. When the British overran the Chinese Imperial Palace in , they discovered several Pugs, and brought some of the little dogs back to England with them. Two Pugs named Lamb and Moss were brought to England. He was an outstanding dog and was bred many times to dogs of both the Willoughby and Morrison lines. Click is credited with making Pugs a better breed overall and shaping the modern Pug as we know it today. Pugs became very popular during the Victorian era and were featured in many paintings, postcards, and figurines of the period. Often, they were depicted wearing wide, decorative collars or large bows around their short, thick necks. Queen Victoria had many Pugs, and also bred them. The queen preferred apricot-fawn Pugs, whereas another Pug fancier, Lady Brassey, made black Pugs fashionable after she brought some back from China in .At first, Pugs were very popular, but by the turn of the century, interest in the breed waned. A few dedicated breeders kept breeding and, after some years, the breed regained popularity. Pug Size Pugs weigh between 14 and 18 pounds male and female. Generally, they are 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. He tends to be a sedentary dog, content to sit in your lap as you read a book or watch a movie. Au contraire. He is a playful, comical dog that enjoys living it up, and delights his owner with silly antics. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training , and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings or other relatives of the parents is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when he grows up. Socialization helps ensure that your Pug puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling him in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking him to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help him polish his social skills. 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. Cheyletiella Dermatitis Walking Dandruff : This is a skin condition that is caused by a small mite. If you see heavy dandruff, especially down the middle of the back, contact your vet. The mites that cause this condition are contagious, which means all pets in the household need to treated. A diagnosis of PDE can only be made by testing the brain tissue of the dog after it dies. PDE usually affects young dogs, causing them to seizure, circle, become blind, then fall into a coma and die. This can happen in a few days or weeks. They are prone to a condition called idiopathic epilepsy : seizures for no known reason. If your Pug has seizures, take him to your vet to determine what treatment is appropriate. Nerve Degeneration : Older Pugs that drag their rear, stagger, have trouble jumping up or down, or become incontinent may be suffering from nerve degeneration. Since their front legs often remain strong, some owners buy carts to help their Pugs get around, and the veterinarian might be able to prescribe medication to help alleviate symptoms. If your Pug squints or the eyes look red and tear excessively, contact your vet immediately. Corneal ulcers usually respond well to medication, but if left untreated, can cause blindness or even rupture the eye. Dry Eye : Keratoconjunctivitis sicca and pigmentary keratitis are two conditions seen in Pugs. They can occur at the same time, or individually. Your vet can perform tests to determine if this is the cause, which can be controlled with medication and special care. Pigmentary keratits is a condition that causes black spots on the cornea, especially in the corner near the nose. If the pigment covers the eye, it can cause blindness. Your vet can prescribe medication that will help keep the eyes moist and dissolve the pigment. Both of these eye conditions require life-long therapy and care. Eye Problems : Because their large eyes bulge, Pugs are prone to a variety of eye problems, including proptosis the eyeball is dislodged from the eye socket and the eyelid clamps behind it ; distichiasis an abnormal growth of eyelashes on the margin of the eye, resulting in the eyelashes rubbing against the eye ; progressive retinal atrophy a degenerative disease of the retinal visual cells that leads to blindness ; and entropion the eyelid, usually the lower lid, rolls inward, causing the hair on the lid to rub on the eye and irritate it. Allergies : Some Pugs suffer from a variety of allergies , ranging from contact to food allergies. If your Pug is licking at his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, suspect allergy and have him checked by your vet. Demodectic Mange : Also called demodicosis, all dogs carry a little passenger called a demodex mite. The mother dog passes this mite to her pups in their first few days of life. If your Pug has a weakened or compromised immune system, however, it can develop demodectic mange. Demodectic mange can be localized or generalized. In the localized form, patches of red, scaly, skin with hair loss appears on the head, neck and forelegs. Even so, you should take your dog to the vet because it can turn into the generalized form of demodectic mange. Generalized demodectic mange covers the entire body and affects older puppies and young adult dogs. The dog develops patchy skin, bald spots, and skin infections all over the body. The American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology recommends neutering or spaying all dogs that develop generalized demodectic mange because there is a genetic link. Staph Infection : Staph bacteria is commonly found on skin, but some dogs will develop pimples and infected hair follicles if their immune systems are stressed. The lesions can look like hives where there is hair; on areas without hair, the lesions can look like ringworm. You should contact your vet for appropriate treatment. Yeast Infection : If your Pug smells bad, is itchy and has blackened, thickened skin, he may have a yeast infection. It commonly affects the armpits, feet, groin, neck, and inside the ears. Your vet can prescribe medications to clear this up. Hemi-vertebrae : Short-nosed breeds, such as Pugs, Bulldogs and French Bulldogs, can have misshaped vertebrae. Sometimes, only a few of the vertebrae are affected and the dog is able to live a normal life. Others will stagger and display an uncoordinated, weak gait between 4 and 6 months of age. Some dogs get progressively worse and may even become paralyzed. The cause of the condition is unknown. Surgery can help. Hip Dysplasia : This malady affects small breeds as well as large breeds, including Pugs. Many factors, including genetics, environment and diet, are thought to contribute to this deformity of the hip joint. Affected Pugs are usually able to lead normal, healthy lives with proper veterinary attention. Legg-Perthes Disease : This is another disease involving the hip joint. Many toy breeds are prone to this condition. When your Pug has Legg-Perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur the large rear leg bone is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. Usually, the first signs of Legg-Perthes, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, occur when puppies are 4 to 6 months old. The scar tissue that results from the surgery creates a false joint and the puppy is usually pain free. Patellar Luxation : The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, but many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. Vaccination Sensitivity : There are reports of Pugs suffering from sensitivity to routine vaccinations. Usually, symptoms include hives, facial swelling, soreness and lethargy. A dog that is sensitive to vaccines can develop complications or die, though this is rare. Watch your Pug carefully for a few hours after being vaccinated and call the vet if you notice anything unusual. Pug Care Though playful and rambunctious, the Pug is a low-maintenance companion, making it ideal for older owners. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers as well. Light sleepers may also want to invest in a pair of ear plugs — Pugs are prone to snore. 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. These dogs love to eat, eat, eat. This, combined with their small stature, puts them at risk for obesity. As a Pug owner, you must show great restraint. Do not indulge him with food. Feed appropriate portions , limit treats and encourage exercise. For more on feeding your Pug, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Pugs are typically fawn-colored or black. The fawn color can have different tints, such as apricot or silver, and all Pugs have a short, flat, black muzzle. Pugs shed like crazy, especially in summer. The wise Pug owner accepts this, and adjusts her wardrobe accordingly, wearing light-colored clothing that better hides hair. Following that, regular brushing and bathing helps keep the coat in good condition and shedding to a minimum. A monthly bath is sufficient, though some owners bathe their Pugs more frequently. These folds are hotbeds for infection if allowed to become damp or dirty. The wrinkles must be dried thoroughly after bathing, and wiped out in-between baths. Some owners simply use a dry cotton ball; others use commercial baby wipes to wipe out the folds. Because they protrude, the eyes are vulnerable to injury and irritation from soaps and chemicals. Like many small breeds, the Pug can be susceptible to gum disease. Regular brushing with a small, soft toothbrush and doggie toothpaste helps prevent this. 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. Though small, the Pug is not delicate like some toy breeds, so he is a good breed choice for families with children. However, children who want an active pet to retrieve balls or play soccer will be disappointed with a Pug. Adults should always supervise interactions between children and pets. Properly trained and socialized , the Pug enjoys the companionship of dogs , and can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Pug Rescue Groups Pugs are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Pugs in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. They thrive on attention and can get pretty worked up and excited if fun things are happening. These are amiable little dogs who want to participate in your activities, too. Pugs with kids and babies are often a great combination since Pugs are fun and enjoy playtime. Finally, when it comes to a career, Pugs may have the best job in the world: being a companion to their loving family. They are average barkers not too quiet, not too much and make fairly good watchdogs. The biggest challenge to Pug care is probably their health needs, which are high. Grooming Guess what—Pugs shed! Black Pugs might shed a bit less than fawn-colored pups, but both shed year-round and not just in the fall and spring as with other breeds. Be sure to clean those wrinkles and skin folds every day with mild wipes to remove dander and accumulations; this will help prevent irritation and infections. If you see redness or swelling or smell an odor your pup may have an ear infection. Your vet can prescribe medication to clear it up. A bath about every month is also a good idea. Be sure to dry those delicious folds completely! Pugs need their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Get the how-to here. If nails are left too long on older dogs, it can make it painful to walk. And be sure to talk with your vet for advice regarding dental health and the use of dental chews. Have your vet professionally clean their teeth every year. Regular dental care will help prevent serious issues later in their life. Pugs are people pleasers, so they want to do a good job for you. You can do this in part by taking your dog to group training classes or becoming involved in a dog sport like agility, obedience or rally. Obesity leads to other health problems down the road. Consider feeding your pup a well-balanced, high-quality commercial diet formulated specifically for toy breeds. Those treat calories count! Finally, consider getting a doggy- Puggy? They are in the best position to help you pick the right food for your dog based on their individual needs. Exercise All dogs need appropriate exercise, and your Pug is no exception. Since Pugs are a brachycephalic breed flat-faced with a short nose , some may have a compromised airway caused by the extreme facial characteristics in their nostrils, palate, larynx and trachea. Instead, aim for shorter exercise sessions, broken up throughout the day. Pugs have pretty low energy levels, and their exercise needs are also fairly low; they typically need less than an hour of exercise every day. While some Pugs do enjoy doggy sports like agility, a short walk or fun indoor playtime will be plenty. Ideal Environment Pugs are wonderfully adaptable to many types of home settings and will be happy wherever you live. No problem for Pugs. Small homes? Big homes with room to roam? You bet! Country homes with huge backyards? Your Pug will love that too, although they may not need a yard of that size to be happy. Pugs are usually open to meeting strangers, even though they may bark to let you know your guests are here. Pugs really do prefer the indoors. Back to Top Pug Health Toy dog breeds tend to have longer lifespans than large dog breeds, and the Pug is no exception. Pug life expectancy is about 13 to 15 years. However, there are a few health issues you should be aware of, so you can help your pet stay healthy throughout their life. Eye Issues: Since Pugs have such prominent eyes, they are more prone to eye issues. Treatment usually consists of medicated eye drops. Weight reduction, physical therapy and surgery are options for treatment. Patellar Luxation: This is the condition where the knee slides out of the joint. In milder cases, pain medication and weight management are treatment options. Surgery is often needed in more severe cases. Pug Dog Encephalitis: This is an inflammatory brain disease and is fatal. Within a matter of weeks, a dog will experience seizures, circling, blindness, then coma and death. At this time, there is no known treatment for the disease, nor are experts sure how they get it. Skin Issues: Keeping your Pug clean helps minimize skin issues. In particular, the skin folds require special attention to avoid irritation and infections. Ear Infections: Those floppy ears are cute, but they may harbor infections. Check their ears every day and gently wipe away any debris. Signs of infection include redness, swelling or a bad odor. Your vet can prescribe medicated ear solutions to get rid of an infection. Allergies: Pugs can be affected by skin allergies. These can be caused by something in the food they eat or their environment pollen, mold, etc. Thankfully, your vet can treat allergies with either dietary changes or medications, depending on the cause. Back to Top Pug History The history of the Pug dates back thousands of years and spans multiple continents. But their not so humble origins began as the beloved companions of Chinese emperors , and they were highly prized and valued for centuries. Some Pugs even had their own guards! By around the s, Pugs began to travel abroad, and they arrived in Europe, where they became quite popular with royalty in Holland. Over in England, Queen Victoria was said to be especially fond of the breed; she shared her home with as many as 38 Pugs. They may be small dogs, but they pack a lot of personality into their small size! The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in , but the popularity of the Pug breed in America declined somewhat around the turn of the 20th century. Today, the Pug enjoys steady popularity, currently ranking 28th of the most popular dog breeds in the US. You can also reach out to Pug rescue organizations to adopt a Pug or keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter. A bit goofy and rambunctious, pugs have also earned a reputation as a canine class clown. Pugs are ideal house dogs thanks to their stable temperament and loving disposition. Although you'll need a quality vacuum, as they shed profusely! Playful but not requiring lots of activity, pugs are content to do whatever their owner wants to do, whether that be watching a movie or going for a walk around the block. Very intelligent, and at times willful, pugs are happy and affectionate pups who remain very loyal to their owners. As a brachycephalic breed, that adorable smooshy face can also be the source of common health problems for pugs, which potential owners will want to understand before they choose to become pug parents. Pugs come in two standard colors with a few tonal variations: fawn with a black mask or all black. The fawn or tan coat color can range from a warm apricot to a cool and rarely seen silver. Their heads feature their signature short, flat, black muzzle covered with deep wrinkles. Their prominent eyes dominate their comical, wrinkly face and showcase a range of emotions, from surprise and happiness to curiosity. They sport moles on their cheeks, called "beauty spots" and a clearly defined "thumb mark" on their forehead. Their short coat is actually a double coat, and they shed like crazy, especially during the summer months. According to the AKC standard , the perfect pug tail has a double curl. Temperament A pug's favorite place to be is right by your side. Bred to be companions, they are completely content snuggling up on your lap and lounging the day away and aren't afraid to hop right into bed with you. But be forewarned: Pugs wheeze, snort, and snore so you may want to invest in some ear plugs. They will be quite unhappy—and will let you know it—if you don't shower them with affection or if you leave them alone for long periods of time. You shouldn't expect a pug to hunt, guard, or retrieve. A pug will have nothing to do with such activities. A funny little dog, pugs often find ways to create their own silly entertainment—but please for their sake pay attention to the show they are putting on—while maintaining a dignified manner when necessary. While they are a toy breed, pugs are a bit tougher than other similar-sized pups and are up for playtime. Avoid disappointment and make sure the kids know pugs aren't likely to play fetch or chase a soccer ball though. Pugs are pretty amenable to getting along with anyone, including other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. Pugs also make great companions for those living in apartments and older individuals because they don't require too much indoor space for activity. We're not necessarily saying pugs are lazy, but they are known to sleep up to 14 hours per day! They also don't bark much because breathing is a bit difficult for them. Their breathing challenges combined with their short legs make them poor swimmers, too. Although they'd likely benefit from a dip in the pool on hot summer days, as they don't tolerate heat—or the cold—well. So be diligent in helping manage their intake—limit their treats and don't feed them table scraps no matter how cute and pleading their stare may be—because their small stature makes them likely to gain weight quickly. You should also encourage exercise, although they don't need much in a day. They find creative ways to burn off energy on their own. Bathing about once monthly and regular brushing with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt, or a hound glove help manage significant pug shedding. And those sweet facial wrinkles need extra attention because they are a breeding ground for infection if they are damp and dirty. Dry your pug's wrinkles thoroughly after bathing and wipe them out in between baths—a dry cotton ball will do the trick. Pugs also need their nails trimmed regularly, as they don't naturally wear by spending lots of time outdoors. Regular teeth brushing is a must as pugs are susceptible to gum disease. Training can be a challenge, Nichols says. Remember their ultimate goal is simply to spend time with you. If those surgeries are not done, expect a lifelong loud snoring dog. These are symptoms of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS , which can also cause saliva disorders, sleep issues, and difficulties with regurgitation. Pugs can face a fair amount of other health issues, including back problems, epilepsy, allergies, hemi-vertebrae or misshapen vertebrae , hip dysplasia , patellar luxation,and nerve degeneration later in life. A variety of skin conditions may affect pugs, including yeast infections, staph infections, or demodectic mange. While their big, dark eyes are adorable, they are especially vulnerable. Pugs sometimes face corneal ulcers, proptosis , and dry eye, among other ailments. Skin conditions such as walking dandruff—caused by a small mite—need to be treated by your veterinarian. Pug parents also need to watch that their pugs maintain a healthy weight; obesity can exacerbate their breathing problems. A study released in comparing the health of pugs to other dogs found "many critical health-related welfare challenges to overcome for pugs. Conversely, according to the study, pugs had significantly reduced adjusted odds of having heart murmur or lipoma tumors. One affliction unique to pugs is Pug Dog Encephalitis , afatal inflammatory brain disease. There is no known cause or test for it unfortunately. It causes a pug to seize, circle, become blind, then fall into a coma and die. Research is ongoing. History Pugs are an ancient breed—perhaps the oldest dog breed, in fact—that originated in China. Going back some 2, years, flat-faced, or short-nosed toy dogs like the pug were popular with Chinese emperors and lived lavish lives because of it, the AKC says. They were only given to those outside the Far East as gifts. But in the s and early s, Dutch traders arrived in Europe with the breed and thanks to popularity with royal households they quickly gained popularity across Europe. Their long history reveals a number of different names for the breed including lo-sze Chinese , mopsi Finnish , doguillo Spanish , and mophonds Dutch , among others. The name pug is supposedly derived from the Latin word "pugnus"—which means "fist"—to reflect the fact that a pug's face looks like a clenched fist, the AKC writes. Pugs were also very popular during the Victorian era, featured on postcards, in paintings, and as figurines. For years they remained largely pets of the aristocracy. Queen Victoria had many pugs and bred them , and Marie Antoinette also had a pug named Mops. They were standardized as a breed in the early s. Upon taking over the Chinese Imperial Palace in , the English discovered several pugs and began breeding them back in England to improve the breed. It wasn't until after the Civil War that pugs came to the United States. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .Initially very popular, pug ownership and breeding waned until the s when the, the Pug Dog Club of America was created and recognized by the AKC. Fun Facts One legend says the pug became the mascot of Holland's royal House of Orange after a pug barked a warning to save the life of the Prince of Orange before an attack by Spanish troops, the AKC writes. Another legend holds that some pugs were prized in Chinese culture because their wrinkles resembled good luck symbols in the Chinese language. A group of pugs is called a grumble. Not surprisingly, pugs' cute mugs have graced the big screen. In recent years, many pugs have become insta-famous on Instagram as well. Doug the Pug is undeniably the most popular of the bunch. With more than 13 million social followers, the celebrity pup rubs noses with stars like Joe Jonas and Shakira. Pug owners and enthusiasts are just as quirky and loveable as the breed, often dressing up their pups and hosting get-togethers and pug parades. The round head is massive with a short, blunt, square-shaped muzzle. Moles on the cheeks are considered beauty spots. The teeth meet in a slight undershot bite. The very large, prominent eyes are dark. The small, thin ears are either rose or button shaped. The face has large, deep wrinkles. The high-set tail is curled over the back and a double curl is preferred in the show ring. Dewclaws are usually removed. The short coat is soft, fine and smooth. Coat colors come in apricot, fawn, black and silver. Temperament The Pug is keen, with a happy-go-lucky attitude. Animated, peppy and spirited, it is loyal, loving and affectionate with its family. Playful, lively and rambunctious, it is sure to keep you laughing. Highly intelligent, it bores easily without variety in its training. These dogs can be a bit willful if they sense they are stronger minded than the humans around them. Pugs are sensitive to the tone of your voice, so harsh punishment is unnecessary. They need an owner who is calm, yet firm, confident and consistent with the rules. This dog is neither excitable nor dull. They are good watchdogs, very devoted and are not yappers. Pugs get along well with other dogs and pets, and they behave impeccably with both children and visitors. Be sure to be your Pug's pack leader. Pugs that do not have strong human leaders can become jealous, and begin to display guarding behaviors, such as guarding furniture , food, toys, or other spots in the house. This behavior only happens when dogs are allowed to take over. These behaviors can be corrected when the owners start displaying the proper leadership. Height, Weight Height: Males 12 - 14 inches 30 - 36 cm Females 10 - 12 inches 25 - 30 cm Weight: Males 13 - 20 pounds 6 - 9 kg Females 13 - 18 pounds 6 - 8 kg Health Problems Pugs catch colds easily and are stressed by hot and cold weather. They are prone to allergies and the short muzzle contributes to chronic breathing problems, making the Pug tend to wheeze and snore. Pugs suffer from poor ventilation. Prone to skin problems. Prone to mast cell tumors. The cause is unknown. They are not the easiest whelpers. There is a chance of Keratitis inflammation of the cornea and ulcers on the cornea. Eyes are prone to weeping and cherry eye. Do not overfeed a Pug, as they will eat more than is good for them, quickly becoming obese and living much shorter lives. Living Conditions The Pug is good for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. Cannot withstand hot or cold weather and should be kept indoors at a comfortable temperature. Exercise Pugs are strong dogs with short, straight legs. They need to be taken on daily walks. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. They enjoy energetic games and will keep in better health if given regular exercise. But be careful not to overdo it, especially if you see them start to wheeze. Life Expectancy About 12 to 15 years. Litter Size About 2 -6 puppies Grooming The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Brush and comb with a firm bristle brush and shampoo only when necessary. Dry thoroughly after a bath so the dog does not get chilled. The creases on the face must be cleaned regularly. This breed is an above average shedder. Origin The Pug is one of the oldest breeds known today, believed to have originated before BC. There is somewhat of a debate over the origin of the Pug. Most researchers agree that the Pug originated from Asia, descended from a shorthaired Pekingese. Another theory is that it is the result of crossing a small Bulldog , while others speculate that it is a miniature form of the French Mastiff Dogue de Bordeaux. The artist Hogarth had a Pug named "Trump" that he often depicted in his works. The breed became popular during Victorian times in the 19th century. Tibetan monasteries kept Pugs as pets. The breed made its way to Japan and Europe, where it not only became a pet of royalty but the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland. Prince William II owned Pugs. One dog in particular was said to have saved his life in at Hermingny, when the dog barked at approaching Spaniards alerting him of their presence. On their wedding night, when Napoleon refused to allow the dog to sleep in their bed, Josephine told him, "If the Pug does not sleep in our bed, neither do I! In when the British took over the Chinese Imperial Palace, they discovered several Pugs and Pekingese, and the dogs were brought back to England with them. The AKC recognized the Pug in .Some of the Pug's talents include: watchdog and performing tricks.