how much bulldog puppy cost
Ventura - Beach and highway made famous by the band America. Beach Inspired Male Yellow Lab Names Yellow Labradors, with their sunny dispositions and sandy colored coats can find befitting names from some of these famous and luxurious beach resorts. Cruz - Santa Cruz is a destination for skateboarding lighthouses and surfing. Name your Lab Daytona, and the ladies will flock to pet him. Delray - Florida Beach. Dune - Sci-fi novel and film staring Sting, or a hill on the beach or desert sands. Holmes - Florida Beach and your best buddy. Jax - Jacksonville Beaches. Malibu - California's most famous surfing destination, twenty-one miles of prime beach real estate. Pierce - Ft. Pismo - One of California's best beaches. Zuma - Zuma beach, located in Malibu, is the apex of surfing destinations in California. Hunting and Waterfowling Inspired Names for Male Labrador Retrievers As the gentleman's ultimate gundog, the Labrador retriever is one of the most versatile sporting dogs in the world. Here we celebrate his hunting acumen with these gun and waterfowling terms. Action - The type and style of how a weapon is loaded and spent cartridges are ejected. Boomer - The sound a shotgun makes. Buckshot - Large pellet shotgun cartridges used for big game hunting. Deke - Decoy Flare - When waterfowl abruptly change direction due to a sense of danger. Gauge - Measurement of shotgun barrels. Gunner Pepper - Shotguns pepper their targets with buckshot. Toller - The art of frolicking on the coastline to attract the attention of curious waterfowl. Nova Scotia Duck Tollers are bred specially to excel in this art form. Carson - William Kit Carson was a celebrated trapper, hunter and army scout. So well respected was he, that his later life adventures were turned into comics and novellas and movies. Cody - William Cody, aka Buffalo Bill, was a famous buffalo hunter, taking down over 4, buffalo in an 8 month period. Ishi - The last surviving member of the Yahi tribe, he taught Saxton Pope and Art Young how to make archery tackle and bows and arrows. Saxton - Saxton Pope and Art Young, under the guidance of Ishi, were given permission to hunt bears in Yellowstone Park with homemade bows and arrows. Using their own homemade tackle, they were able to bag several full grown bears. Pope went on the write one of the first and most influential books on archery, Hunting with the Bow and Arrow. Scout - To search, hunt or look. TR rolled back monopolies and created the National Park Service, preserving much of our American outdoor heritage. Teddy was also, ironically a big game hunter. His African Safari was watched with avid interest world wide. Many of the specimens he shot were sent to the Smithsonian for display in their exhibits. Trouper - A reliable, uncomplaining individual and a loyal dependable worker. By IDS. Glock - Gaston Glock's Vienna based handgun and weapons manufacturer, favored by many military and police departments. Colt - Founded in by Samuel Colt, the colt company makes rifles, machine guns and of course their famous revolvers. Coonan - United States manufacturer of automatic handguns. Henry - Henry Repeating Arms, maker of rifles. Kimber - American maker of handguns and rifles. Marlin - US manufacturer of shotguns and rifles. Remington - One of the oldest American gun manufacturers, Remington started out making flintlock rifles. Today they are one of the largest gun and ammunition manufacturers. Name your Lab Remington and you can call him Remy. Smith and Wesson is now the largest manufacturer of handguns in the United States. Name your dog Wesson, and you can call him Wes. Winchester - Winchester Repeating Arms Manufacturing - it's how the West was won, with their lever action rifles! Bonus Lab Name! Endal - The most decorated dog in the world, Endal was a yellow Labrador retriever. Make sure that the name works for your dog, lifestyle and family too. It should be short, one or two syllables at most. And it should have longer vowels and harsher consonant sounds, to help with communication and training your new baby yellow Lab. What would you name these cute yellow Lab puppies? But consider this: the Labrador retriever is the number one most popular dogs in the US and has been for the past 26 years and counting—wow! What this means is that you are likely to run into plenty of other Labs and their owners at the dog park, beach, hiking trails, and even your local fire hydrant. Yellow Lab Naming Tips Here are a few helpful hints to guide you towards picking the right name for your yellow lab. First, you may want to try to stay away from any name that sounds too much like the name of a fellow family member or friend. Also, in some cases, choosing a shorter name three syllables or less can be easier to say and also easier for your lab to hear. Finally, you may want to think twice before picking a racy or confrontational name that could be taken the wrong way by others. Both are great options, but of course, the choice is all yours! You can find more name suggestions based on popular dog names here. While there are no specific, set-in-stone rules, some of this advice might help you narrow down your choices and settle on the right name for your pup. Rather than understanding specific words and phrases, dogs learn to associate sounds with things. This means they will learn to associate the sound of their name with them! You can make this easier on your dog by keeping their name short—no more than one or two syllables. This will make it easier for them to recognize their name and distinguish it from all the rest of the background noise in life. Consider Using Nicknames If you want to give your dog a longer, quirkier name, consider how you are going to abbreviate it. It is best to consider this from the beginning. They will also need to learn important commands such as sit, stay, leave it, and fetch. So, when choosing a name, try to avoid names that sound too much like these important commands so that your dog never gets confused. Dogs find it easier to distinguish sibilant or blend consonants, such as S or SH, or something hard and commanding like K or C. For example, names like Carl, Simon, or Shelly are all good choices, as they start with consonants that are easy to differentiate from background noise. While it might seem funny at the time, you may come to regret it later. Now, imagine your kid, or a young dog walker, having to do the same. The process of teaching a dog their name is the same as teaching them other commands. However, you are teaching them that the response that you want from their name is their attention rather than a specific gesture or action. Use the same process of positive reinforcement to teach them to stop what they are doing and look at you when you say their name. Avoid using any kind of punishment when training your dog, especially when you are teaching them to recognize their name. This can result in negative associations, and that is the last thing you want them to have when it comes to their own name. Start with short micro training sessions daily just 5 to 10 minutes or so during which you have your dog in an attentive situation, and then say their name. When they respond to you, give them a treat. Take them out on the leash even if it is only into the backyard , and let them explore. Then, while walking your dog, call their name. When they do turn towards you, you can say their name again and then reward them for their response. With this kind of reward-based training, your dog will quickly learn to associate their name with good things, and they will always want to give you their attention. While it can be confusing for dogs to have their name changed, there is nothing wrong with renaming a dog when you bring them home. While older dogs will take longer to grow accustomed to the change, a new name can actually help them bond with you, especially if they came from an unhappy living situation. Can you give dogs human names? Some trainers recommend not giving dogs human names. This is because it contributes to our tendency to anthropomorphize dogs. However, this is more a problem with owner attitudes than dog names, and there is no reason not to give your dog a human name as long as you raise them with the right outlook. The Verdict Choosing the perfect name for your dog is a big responsibility, and it can be hard to settle on one that suits your dog just right. Hopefully, you have found some inspiration on this list. While there are no particular rules for choosing a name, there are some principles of good practice to follow. Do you have any suggestions for great yellow Lab names? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.
By 6 months, they are just about there. It takes a little longer for them to reach their mature weight. They are considered fully grown at 18 months. Mostly named for the breeders who created them, there are said to be four distinct varieties of American Bulldog today, and yes, they are slightly different sizes. Both taller 23 to 27 inches and more muscular up to pounds , they most closely resemble their cousin pups, the English Bulldog. They have longer muzzles and are more leanly built than the Johnson dogs. The Painter American Bulldog was unfortunately created exclusively for fighting purposes. These dogs are around the same height as the other two but much lighter 55 to 75 pounds. Their breeding was poorly done initially, but responsible facilities are now working on healthier dogs with better temperaments. They are said to be the true American Bulldogs. Again, they are a little smaller than the first two types at 21 to 26 inches and 60 to 97 pounds. Aside from these, there are various hybrid American Bulldogs that are a combination of two or more of the above. It can be tricky to predict the exact measurements of these dogs are genetics are complicated. Photo by Lucas Ludwig on Unsplash There also tend to be gender differences with these dogs, as is the case with larger, more muscular breeds. Females weigh 60 to 80 pounds and stand between 20 and 23 inches high. Males weigh 75 to pounds and are around 22 to 25 inches in height. American Bulldog Growth Patterns By the time these dogs are six months old, they are already close to their adult height. They will often reach this somewhere between 9 and 12 months but will continue to put on weight significantly into their first year. As large dogs, ABs are said to be at their mature size at around 18 months. Still, realistically male dogs on the larger end of the spectrum could continue to gain muscle mass right up to their second birthday and even beyond this. Check out these guides on best dog food for puppies here. Depending on their gender, their parents, and the kind of lifestyle they have working dog, active companion, family dog , an adult American Bulldog will be around 20 to 27 inches to the shoulder and will weigh somewhere between 55 to pounds. They are categorized as a large breed. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Large dogs are said to be fully grown at around 18 months of age. They will often achieve their mature height somewhat earlier than that at between 9 months to 12 months, depending on whether they are destined to be smaller or larger pups. However, they will continue to gain weight as their muscles develop for quite a while after this. This will especially be the case if they are getting plenty of exercise. Genetics provides the best understanding we have on this. American Bulldogs are gaining a better reputation these days as fun and friendly family dogs. They are especially beloved by particularly active individuals looking for a little company on their walks, hikes, runs, etc. Hopefully, this article has been able to address these, and you have a fair understanding of what to expect from your future puppy. What kind of diet do we give our pooches for a healthy weight? What you should never overfeed a dog? You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used. Unfortunately, carbohydrates are much cheaper an ingredient as compared to the other nutrients like protein. Hence, they are often used by major large dog food manufacturers to make up the weight of dog food whilst keeping the prices of the dog food low. This is the main reason why pets all over the United States are getting obese. And, ironically, this became the driving forces behind the rise of these healthy pet food startups , as their founders seek to provide their own proper and much healthier alternatives. The high fiber content will make your dogs feel content faster and thus eat less. And since fiber does not get stored in the body like carbs do, it can be promising measure to keep your pooch's weight under control. Mathematically, eating less will reduce weight gain. However, it can easily lead to malnourishment if your dog is not given the proper nutrition. We are talking about nutrients beyond the common proteins and carbohydrates. They include omega fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and many more! The key here is not to eat less. The key here is to maintain a balanced diet. And what constitutes a balanced diet? That requires a deep understanding and a wide study in the field of pet nutrition to truly determine it; so much that it warrants a university degree. To get the most balanced, holistic and healthiest dog foods , it is often better to leave it to the experts. Have you been scheduling your dog's meal time wrongly? And does it really matter? Scheduling your dog's meal time will tune their stomach to become hungry only at their meal times. Combining this with the right amount of dog food given to them, it will keep your dogs from becoming hungry out of meal hours. In turn, this will maintain their metabolism rate and utilize all the food they consume fully and appropriately. As a bonus, regular meal time will also discourage them from scavenging around the house like little vacuum cleaners as they grow accustomed to the amount of food they are given and to be used for the intervals between meal times. These food brands are not your typical corporate pet food manufacturers. These are pet food startups fueled by the passion from their pet enthusiasts founders who only want the best for all dogs under the sky. Each of them have came up with their own unique formula that will surely satisfy your dogs' taste buds without compromising their health. Click here or the button below to learn more about these bespoke food brands. Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs. Underweight dogs appear thin and frail. And before you know it, they will start to lose all the hair on their coat and look like anything but a dog. These cases created a market of specialized dog food that help your dog to gain weight healthily. Here are 7 of the best dog foods for weight gain that can help your underweight dog get back its glory. Read more by clicking the button below. The weight of your American Bulldog female is, on average, between .If you are wondering what size an American Bulldog female should be at age one: Inputs are .The female American Bulldog will eventually reach her full size between the ages of 16 months and 19 months. Male American Bulldogs at three months of age should range from around .At six months of age, the typical male American Bulldog weighs between .What size an American Bulldog male must be at one year of age, is dictated by the general size of the pup, as well as of the parents. However, the average adult weight is from 29 to .If you are interested at what age the male American bulldogs will eventually reach their full size, the answer is simple: between the ages of 16 months and 19 months. When you can see the rib cage when the American Bulldog is breathing, you know he is at his proper weight. Although overweight dogs would inevitably weigh higher than the suggested weight range, this is not the optimal size for them. If your dog is relaxed, you should be able to see his final two ribs. His stomach should be tucked up so that it is higher than his ribs. On the contrary, when the hip bones and the majority of the vertebrae are visible, the dog is underweight. If you physically see that your dog is gaining weight, the best way to manage it is to cut down on treats and to give your pet more chances for a tiring physical activity. American Bulldogs from Scott often have a smaller size than those from Johnson. However, compared to English or French bulldogs, American bulldogs are taller. The average height of an American Bulldog male, measured from the top of his shoulder is between 20 and 28 inches at the withers. It seems unlikely that the robust American bulldog has any health problems when one looks at him. A dog may greatly benefit from a nutritious diet and enough activity to preserve his excellent health, and yet every dog, regardless of breed, has possible health hazards. These problems for the American bulldog that may affect its growth involve hip dysplasia and thyroid problems. The lifespan of the American Bulldog usually ranges from 10 to 15 years of age. That means, for a large dog breed, that they are a healthy one. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia, being one of the most prevalent skeletal diseases in dogs, only affects a small percentage of large breed dogs, including the American bulldog. But what does hip dysplasia have to do with the growth of the American Bulldog? The diagnosis of hip dysplasia must be confirmed by radiographs, and the course of therapy will depend on the size, age, and severity of the disease in your dog. While some elderly dogs need joint replacements, young pups might benefit from hip rotation surgery. Thyroid Deficiency The thyroid is an endocrine gland that dictates the functions of an organism. Many veterinarians say that the thyroid gland is the CEO of the whole organism, because it dictates the speed and the volume of the way things function in the body. The genetic condition of hypothyroidism, which is caused by a deficit in the thyroid hormone, is common among medium and large breed dogs. Having hypothyroidism and generally a slower metabolism means that there is a possibility that the dog will grow shorter than it should. The front of the chest and neck, sides of the body, sides of the thighs, and tail are among the areas that experience weight increase and hair loss as symptoms. Another symptom of hypothyroidism is a slower heartbeat, cold sensitivity, tiredness, and dry, thick, swollen skin. Though the illness is irreversible, it can be managed with an artificial hormone treatment given twice daily. A blood test aids in diagnosis. However, Fear Not, Because… …The mere fact that a dog is susceptible to a condition does not guarantee that the dog will develop that health issue. Knowing everything your American bulldog could be susceptible to, can help you stay alert and keep an eye out for any symptoms of an illness he might be developing. Therefore, choosing a reputable breeder who takes great care of the litters as well of the parent dogs, will do the job. Your American Bulldog size, and general well-being, both physical and emotional are determined by those initial two months that it spends with the breeder. Choose your breeder wisely! Note that, when your female American Bulldog is in a heat cycle , it can be more sensitive, therefore more prone to catch a cold. Please take special care of her when in this phase. Final Word American Bulldogs take pleasure in using their many natural athletic talents, which include agility, weightlifting, hunting, and agricultural labor. Growing young, American Bulldogs may either be exceedingly amiable or distant and even hostile. How much socializing they receive as puppies greatly influences how amiable they are. Unfortunately, bulldogs are sometimes grouped with the misunderstood Pitbull, giving this lovable and charming dog a terrible reputation for no good reason. Your dog may need extra attention and training to become a living illustration of how absurd these assumptions may be. An American Bulldog growth chart is presented, in order for you to take a closer look while your pup is growing up. There are some differences between male dogs and female dogs, but that is almost obligatory between littermates. It is important to invest in great quality food, so your pup or your adult dog will be able to get all the valuable nutrients for the day. A few tips on the weight of the puppy American bulldog, during its growth: Growth of American bulldog female: According to its size, the weight of the American bulldog female at 3 months should be between .At 6 months, the American bulldog female weighs on average between .How much must a American bulldog Female at 1 year? Enter .The American bulldog female will end up growing between the age of 16 months for the smallest sizes and the age of 19 month for the bigger ones. Growth graph of American bulldog female: See all weighings of American bulldog - Female saved by users. Add your dog's weighings and compare them to other registered dogs Growth of American bulldog male: According to its size, the weight of the American bulldog male at 3 months should be between .At 6 months, the American bulldog male weighs on average between .How much must a American bulldog male at 1 year? Between 29 and .The American bulldog male will end up growing between the age of 16 months for the smallest sizes and the age of 19 month for the bigger ones. Growth graph of American bulldog male: See all weighings of American bulldog - Male saved by users. Shadow the American Bulldog as a puppy at 10 weeks old Shadow the American Bulldog as a puppy at 6 months old sitting on the couch Shadow the American Bulldog at 10 months old looking over the back of the couch Jynx the XL American Bulldog at 5 years old—"My big boy. He's a gentle giant. Jynx shown here at 5 years old and pounds 56 kg " Tut the American Bulldog puppy at 8 weeks old—"This is Tut. I got him at 5 weeks of age. I never wanted a male dog, but now I won't trade him for anything! At 10 weeks old he weighed 22 pounds. She wasn't sure what to think about the noise the camera was making! She's a very smart girl, but awfully stubborn! We have started obedience training with her and although commands take a while to imprint, once she has it, she's golden! She now sits in her "spot" in the kitchen and waits quietly and patiently while we fill her food and water bowl. When her bowls are full she continues to wait patiently, all eyes on us, until we tell her "Good girl, you can have it! He has been a tremendous addition to our family!! We are a family of five and never before had a dog. He loves to fetch, play tug and when it is time to mellow out, he does!!! He simply picks a spot in the room and relaxes while we go about with our business!! We couldn't be happier with Cooper and can't wait for everything that is to come!!! Maggie is a three-year-old American Bulldog. Her mom is a Johnson type and her dad is a Scott type. We did not know anything about this breed before we got her but we quickly realized that we had to learn fast. She is very strong-willed and also just plain strong! This breed needs hours of exercise a day and a strong pack leader. By fulfilling her needs, we have been able to see her develop to her full potential. American Bulldogs are not for everyone so please choose this breed only after very careful thought. She is loving, fearless and protective. She is also exceptionally smart. She knows her toys by name and could play hide-and-seek for hours. When we tell her to go to her bed she does and does not get up until given permission so we can eat dinner without her begging for bits. She truly listens to her people and is eager to please. She does not like looking at herself in the mirror and she growls at animals on TV and in movies. We will never own a different breed. She has our hearts forever. We've had CeeCee about 5 months now and she has become a very much loved member of our family. Talk about personality! If it weren't for his instruction, CeeCee would be unmanageable. We didn't train her to do or not do anything; she just did her thing and usually agreed with us and followed us around. I started walking for my sanity's sake and she enjoyed tagging along.She was a little over a year old when she was given to us by friends who had to move across the country and couldn't take her along. So before she came to our house, we started reading everything we could find on American Bulldogs. I saw the info on the dogbreedinfo site about Cesar and devoured his book. We found the show and soon after I started ordering the DVD sets so I could watch the episodes over and over. As soon as she got here, we took her for a long walk together. She thinks any package left by the delivery man is her new chew toy, and still gets too excited occasionally, but she is learning to sit still and control her impulses. Our neighbors have wolf-dogs that occasionally get loose and it doesn't scare CeeCee a bit wish I could say the same for me. She holds her own and is gradually winning them over. CeeCee came to us during a time when I was grieving a very traumatic event. She was the catalyst for letting go of things I couldn't fix or change. At first, we were tempted to rename her Bessie. She had just had a litter of pups and the resemblance to your average Holstein was remarkable. Now, all trimmed up and dressed in her fancy black lipstick, she makes us all smile. He is my first dog and has been the best dog anyone could ever have asked for. After originally being chosen by another owner, Casey spent the first 2 months on his own crated nearly 23 hours a day, by himself without a toy in his crate. Since that time he has been the most loveable, affectionate dog anyone could ask for. He loves to play with other dogs, especially his new 3-month-old sister. He even tries to play with our 3-year-old cat. A true Johnson bully, he loves to be out doors running and training. His favorite things to do are play with his football, play tug, dig holes and eat freshly fallen snow. My husband has watched the Dog Whisperer gaining a lot of tips on how to get Carson to "calm" down. She loves people and thinks that everyone must love her. After using some of the techniques on the show, she has really changed into a calmer dog. Rose was a rather destructive puppy, but only when left alone. I had to crate her during periods when my wife and I would both be away to keep her from destroying our home or ingesting foreign objects. I thought we had taken on more than we could handle, but she learned commands and tricks faster than any dog I'd ever had. We began educate ourselves, and the first step was to walk her 2 miles a day, play fetch and Frisbee for marathon sessions, built her a "spring pole" of sorts, and even take long bike rides with her on leash. Her excitability at newcomers decreased right away, and her furniture-chewing habit ceased. Currently at almost 4 years old, she's the best dog I could ever hope for. I shudder to think that we considered giving her up for adoption, and now people ask us how we have such a well-trained dog! And Rose required being handled a bit more sternly than the Labs, Rottie, and mostly mixed breeds I'd owned previously. Only one harsh correction was usually needed; two thousand light vocal reprimands meant nothing. Today if we are playing fetch and the ball goes over the fence, she looks at me almost trembling and I can either tell her "get it" allowing her to hop the fence, retrieve, and hop back or give her a stay command. At 18 months of age, I never believed this dog could restrain herself from any impulse. I only have one dog of this breed to draw on, but I'd venture to say that the American Bulldog needs stimulation, love, play, but most of all exercise and an occasional heavy hand early on, so we could establish her place in our pack. She has made my wife and me far more physically active than we had been, and even that is life enhancing. They are incredibly powerful; playing tug with her has to be experienced to be believed. At only 78 pounds, Rose can jump, pull and bite like nothing else. She once jumped up and bit a tree limb and just hung and shook after I took her rope toy down from the limb. Their enthusiasm is a big part of their charm, but I would not recommend this breed to a busy person who can't devote the time. She is great around kids, cats, other dogs, and even just barks or whimpers when she encounters a snake or turtle while we're camping. But Rose was on the fast track to being given up, when we realized she simply needed more exercise and for us to be more firm with her. He requires a lot of exercise or he can get himself into trouble he is very strong. The most important thing in raising him was being firm and consistent on everything. He is very smart and learns things quickly, even bad habits. He is somewhat protective of females and children around strangers, but if introduced loves everyone. Benelli is excellent with our 2 young children, ages 2 and 3. She's so calm and gentle that my 3-year-old can hold the leash while we go for walks. She absolutely loves our cats and she gets along very well with our other dog. This is our first American Bulldog and we couldn't ask for a better dog!! Her name is Wanda. I have learned so much about her from your website; it is very interesting and useful. I taught her how to sit and how to walk beside me , not in front of me by your instructions. We live in El Salvador in Central America. He's my first AB and I am impressed with the breed. His father is a Johnson type doggy and his mom a Scott type. Porky the American Bulldog puppy at 10 weeks, weighing 21 pounds Belle the American Bulldog at 3 years old—"We rescued Bella a year ago from a pen in a neighbor's garden. She weighed 34 pounds 17 kilos and had ten pups inside her. She was a very scared and seemed to be an aggressive dog. I broke through the fence when no one had been to her cage for 4 days. After a lot of shouting and abuse from my neighbor she eventually let me have her. She had 10 pups in my summerhouse and slowly each day she came to trust me a little more. She still growled and was scared of everyone else. We brought her into our house and had a cage for her. Cesar Millan was and is my hero. He gave me the belief in myself that I could cope with such a big scared dog. We have now had her for a year. She is like a different dog. She sleeps with the cats that she once so wanted to attack. She no longer needs the hated cage and loves visitors that used to scare her. I have never had a dog before and to be honest never really wanted one, but my Bella has filled a gap I never knew was there. So for anyone out there thinking about owning a rescued American Bulldog all you need is lots of patience, a strong will and a touch of Cesar Millan. Hip dysplasia Premature death You can make your American Bulldog look bigger and stronger by investing time into his fitness. Taking him running, doing weight pulling, trying out a sport such as agility training or taking him swimming will all increase his muscle mass. By feeding him a high-quality diet with a lot of protein, his body will change the quickest. At what age is an American Bulldog fully grown? This breed is full-grown around the age of 18 months. If you continue exercising your dog diligently, he will bulk up more. When a dog is spayed or neutered, this interrupts the hormone production. Male and female sexual hormones function in signaling the body when to stop growing. Dogs that are spayed or neutered early in life actually will become taller and grow longer than their intact littermates. This difference is less pronounced in females. How much food should my Bulldog puppy eat to become tall? Feeding growing puppies with high-quality food is extremely important — if you do not provide adequate nutrition, your dog cannot grow up to become a strong and healthy adult. Growing American Bulldog puppies will have a big appetite! You should feed your pup several meals a day. For puppies under 4 months: feed 4 meals a day For puppies from months: feed 3 meals a day After 10 months: feed 2 meals a day You should never switch to feeding just one large meal every day. On the one hand, this can lead to low blood sugar in your dog as the time interval between the feedings is too long. On the other hand, feeding very large meals and having your very hungry dog scarfe them down increases the risk for bloat, a potentially fatal stomach torsion seen in large dogs. As far as total feeding amounts, plan to feed your American Bulldog puppy: 3 cups per day until 4 months of age Up to 5 cups per day between months cups a day for adults over 12 months If you lead a very active lifestyle, your dog will burn more calories than if you have a more sedentary lifestyle. Any kind of dog sport or special activity you do with your dog is going to require him to take in additional calories. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.
Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. South African Boerboel Puppies Puppies are vet checked, dewormed with first vaccines and docked tails. We have been vet checked, received our first shots and up to date on deworming We are.They are currently 8 weeks old and are ready to go. They have first shots deworming and are registered with a long list of pedigree. Vet checked only. These happy girls will come vet checked, first shots and dewormed. If you're looking for a sweet.Registered litter.Both parents are UKC registered. We have 4 males and 8females. They are being raised under foot around children and an assortment of other animals. They will come with vet.Ready for first vaccination. This breed is the must loyal. Kind abd sweet pet you can get. Great house guard. Litter is registered- papers, breeding rights at an additional cost. She comes with her shots and deworming x2 and flea and tick.Catharines we have an amazing all white American bulldog for sale. We are really attached but have to give her away. Mom is an American Bulldog and dad is a Boxer. Both parents have amazing temperments. If you like lots of snuggles then these babies are for.Raised with kids and a newborn all family dogs parents are family.We have remaining: 1 brown female 1 brown male 1 brindle female 1 brindle male They come dewormed. Vaccinated 4x dewormed UKC registered Please message me for more inquiries or questions and visit our instagram pages.Gorgeous Litter of eleven. Born July 15th, and are ready for their new home. There are 3 girls available. They will come fully vet checked with first and second shots, de worming and a clear bill of health.We have a litter of sweet American Bulldog puppies born on May 1,vary smart and they are looking for their forever homes! These puppies are the best
Interestingly, they have lived up to that title for years by producing Frenchies with exceptional temperament and health. Rolling Hills Bulldogs is owned by a family that is very passionate about their dogs. Located in the Northwest corner of Connecticut, Rolling Hills Bulldogs is the favorite Bulldog breeder of many pet lovers because of how they breed and treat their pets. The family is committed to raising well-behaved, healthy Frenchies that make great family pets and companions. All their breeding dogs are part of their family and are treated as such. The breeding dogs undergo various health examinations to ensure they are healthy and sound before being added to the breeding program. After adding them to the program, the family tests the dogs every six months to ensure they are in good shape. One thing we love about this family is that they are open and transparent. They are ready and available to answer your questions about their breeding program, adult dogs, and puppies. The family also welcomes prospective clients to visit at any time. You can visit and see their breeding facility to make an informed decision. Rolling Hills Bulldogs breeds for quality, not quantity. As such, they produce only a few litters to which they can give all their time, love, and attention. The family also spends much time socializing their puppies; they understand the importance of early socialization for Frenchies. This family breeds AKC-registered, show-quality puppies from genetically sound parents. They have a list of all available puppies on their website. Prospective customers must join a waiting list to secure a puppy in an upcoming litter. Before going home, the breeder ensures the puppies are dewormed and up-to-date on vaccinations. Your new friend will receive a one-year health guarantee to protect against congenital defects. He runs the breeding program with this family to provide French Bulldog lovers with well-bred, healthy, and happy puppies. The owner strives to preserve the breed quality, choosing only the best and healthiest sires and dams for the breeding program. All their breeding sires and dams are genetically tested to minimize the chances of passing hereditary health issues to the puppies. After birth, the puppies are also vet-checked to ensure they are healthy and free of congenital health issues. Frenchies CT aims to produce clever, healthy, and polite puppies that would be a great addition to your home. They crate-train the puppies to help prepare them for their new home. They also do the housebreaking job for potential owners by ensuring the puppies get used to everyday family activities. Before going home, their puppies are introduced to various sights, sounds, and environments for proper socialization. One thing we love about this breeder is that they always update their website with available puppies. If there are no available puppies when you check, you can contact them for the date of an upcoming litter. If you have little to no experience with caring for French Bulldogs, you can greatly benefit from the expertise and experience of this breeder when you buy a puppy from them. They provide a lifetime of support and guidance for all their customers. You can contact them whenever you have a question or issue raising your puppy. To assure you that you are buying a healthy and well-bred puppy from genetically sound parents, this breeder offers a one-year genetic health guarantee for all their puppies. Frenchies CT Details:. A cross between English bulldogs and Paris ratters from France, French bulldogs are known for their small stature, muscular build and smushy face. They are extremely playful and loyal animals, making them the perfect companion for single individuals and families with small children alike. With a bit of a stubborn streak as well, these dogs are known for their human-like personality and require a bit of patience to train. However, once trained, the Frenchie demonstrates remarkable intelligence and an eagerness to please beyond that of any other dog breed. Simply put, well bred French bulldog puppies are rare. This is especially true of the more popular colors of the breed, such as rare blue and chocolate, or white, and the even rarer pure blue, pure black, black and tan and blue and tan, which have a higher price too. More common brindle, sable, cream and fawn that are well bred are still expensive, but because they are not as sought after as the others, they are slightly more affordable. French bulldogs are not easy to breed. For starters, due to their narrow hips, Frenchies are incapable of breeding naturally and so a female must be artificially inseminated. This is a fairly expensive process that takes a significant amount of time. Secondly, a typical French bulldog female tends to have small litters, with an average number of live births topping off at four, but going as low as just one to two puppies. This makes it difficult for breeders to break even after vet costs and artificial insemination expenses. Third, because of their large heads and stocky shoulders, French bulldog puppies cannot be delivered naturally, as that would cause considerable damage, if not death, to the mother. Instead, they must be delivered via C-section, another expensive procedure. Lastly, puppies of this breed require a great deal of care and attention in their first weeks and even months of life. From needing to eat every three hours to ensuring that the mother never rolls over a member of her new litter it happens accidentally, but frequently , a rare French bulldog puppy requires round the clock attention that most caregivers just do not have and are not ready to provide with. On top of all that, the normal vet bills, cost of medications, toys price, food price, shelter and play area make upbringing a French bulldog a difficult and expensive endeavor. However, despite their high price tag, pups of all kinds and colors—miniature, teacup toy and French English bulldog mix, French bulldog Boston terrier mix and French bulldog Shih Tzu mix—are wonderful dogs that love their owner. Both genders united, male as female, are relatively low maintenance, enjoy lying around the house all day and will be there to cuddle with you any time of day or night. With a personality that ranges from rambunctious and playful to calm and loving to times of complete stoicism, Frenchies have an extremely expressive personality, making them the perfect companion for dog lovers. For this reason, people who live in small spaces or an apartment complex often choose this breed as their breed of choice. They make a super company. Moreover, this breed—especially the miniature bulldogs or teacup French bulldog Boston terrier mix puppies—are small enough to be held without issue. They can jump themselves up onto just about any piece of furniture and are just happy to lay on your lap all day. However, as with all creatures, there will be instances where your bulldog will display aggression or anger. It is up to you to determine what made them feel angry in the first place and to correct the cause. Caring for Your Cute French Bulldog As stated on American Kennel Club site, a French bulldog does not need a lot of exercise and in general, has fairly low energy levels. However, with that in mind, they do still need exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Short walks or fun playtime in a small yard is just the right amount of exercise that every bulldog needs and loves. They are not so high energy that they need a large play space to roam around in. An important thing to keep in mind is that bulldogs are prone to heat exhaustion and should not be taken out for exercise in high temperatures. Limit exercise and playtime to cool mornings and evenings. When training your Frenchie puppy, keep in mind that they are stubborn and may not respond to typical training techniques. Additionally, French bulldog puppies are not above chewing on your stuff or going to the bathroom in the house. You will still need to train your puppy to not chew on things that could harm them or that you do not want destroyed, as well as crate train them until they are fully housetrained. Feeding Most bulldogs eat 1 to 1. However, each dog is different, and how much you feed your adult bulldog will depend on his size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Like people, dogs are individuals with their own individual needs. Grooming Because of their short hair, Frenchies are low maintenance and fairly easy to groom. They simply need an occasional brushing to keep their coat luxurious and healthy. When grooming your pup, check his skin for any bare spots, scabs, lesions, signs of infection or rough and flaky skin. Additionally, check his eyes, ears and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. If you notice anything unusual, take your dog into the veterinarian right away, as these pets are known for having health issues. Never stick the cotton swab inside of the canal entirely. Dogs with this condition will exhibit pain and lameness in one or both rear legs, and can even develop arthritis over the course of life. Hemivertebrae: Hemivertebrae is a condition that is characterized by a malformation of one or more vertebrae. Though it can cause no pain to a dog, it can do the exact opposite for others and result in pain, weakness or even paralysis. Allergies: This breed is susceptible to food-based allergies, contact allergies and inhalant allergies a like, so keep an eye out for any reaction to anything new your pup has been introduced to. This can cause lameness or an abnormal limp. However, it is present at birth, which is something that any reputable breeder should inform you about. Cleft Palate: A cleft palate is characterized by a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally from the roof of the mouth to the nasal and oral cavities. It can be small in size to very large; the size of the cleft may mean a difference between a dog that survives to one that does not. When this happen, nerve transmissions become inhibited, causing chronic pain and discomfort. It may even result in temporary paralysis. Purchasing your puppy from a good breeder can significantly reduce your risk of getting a French bulldog with certain problems. Ask your breeder about the health of the parent dogs, as well as for complete medial records. Adopt Versus Buying French Bulldog Puppies for Sale Because French bulldog puppies are so expensive, many people try to adopt through shelters and other adoption agencies. While this is a very altruistic thing to do, it is not very wise. Unfortunately, most Frenchies that have been put up for adoption have extensive medical problems that are unlikely to be resolved even after extensive and costly medical treatment. In the end, an adopted bulldog ends up costing the adoptive parent three times more than one purchased from a reputable breeder. At CT Breeder, we are by no means against adopting a dog and saving a life, but French bulldogs found at shelters are almost always un-savable, and it would not do you or them any good to take them home only to discover that you do not have the means to keep up with their sky high medical bills. How to Select a Reputable Breeder Breeding French bulldogs is a difficult and expensive process and this kind of challenge is certainly not for everyone. In many cases, they will try to sell them anyway, just to get their money back. For this reason, you want to be extremely wary when shopping. Check your AKC community should you have more questions. At CT Breeder, we advise hopeful pet owners to do the following when looking for the right close seller, even that is not AKC registered: Contact Breeders: When contacting the seller, ask to see credentials and for pictures of past litters, registration documents. Ask about their breeding and post-birth process to determine whether or not they are actually worth meeting with. Visit the Breeders: Once you have spoken with them over the phone, narrow down your list of possible candidates, then schedule an in-home visit. Make note of every detail of the place, and look out for cleanliness, adequate food and water and proper toys. If you notice more than one dog breeding simultaneously, that should alert you as you may be at a puppy mill. Look Out for Puppy Mills: Puppy mills are sellers that breed several dogs at once just so they can make a quick buck. Request Documentation: Responsible breeders will be able to provide adequate medical records for the pup from a veterinarian. If they refuse, stay away. Finally, always thoroughly investigate or browse the seller about any potential health problems, family history and any other questions or concerns about your future puppy. The best breeders will be willing to address any and all concerns, while puppy mills will shy away from even your most basic questions. Finally, keep in mind the following last-minute tips: French bulldogs are not outdoor dogs, as the heat causes stress and overheating. Never leave your Frenchie alone in the car. They are social, so bring them to the dog park and let them socialize with your friends! In addition to our selection of designer and purebred puppies for sale, we offer expert dog training, professional pet grooming and the best pet supplies, pet foods and pet products available at the low prices.
Tweet Looking for free German Shepherd puppies? If you are looking for a German Shepherd, and your budget is tight, you can find your new best friend nearly free or at a decent price. You just have to know where to look. Most of the dogs they place are one year or more, but they often have puppies as well. This normally includes vaccinations, a heartworm test, and spay or neuter. For about one third of the price of a purebred GSD from a reputable breeder, you can give a deserving dog a second chance. Rescue groups specialize in finding forever homes for lost, abused or unwanted German Shepherds. They have extensive knowledge of every dog they place and can normally match you with the right dog for your unique situation. Do you have a German Shepherd rescue success story to tell? Adopt a German Shepherd It may take some patience and persistence, but you can find a nearly free German Shepherd from a local shelter. If they don't currently have puppies, check back often. Or ask them to call you as soon as they get one. The adoption fee will normally cover an initial vet checkup with puppy shots and a spay or neuter. This is cheaper than the cost of a purebred German Shepherd from a rescue group. One quarter of all shelter dogs are purebreeds. Why adopt a dog? You may be their last hope. Many shelters only hold dogs for a week. If they are relinquished by their owner, they are on the short list for euthanasia, as they are not considered lost and no one will be coming to look for them. My Begian Malinois , Ryder, was 48 hours away from being put down after his owner signed him over. Search for a local animal shelter. Don't make price your primary consideration. Backyard breeders and puppy mills price low to sell quickly. Avoid these unscrupulous breeders. Even if an ad reads AKC registered dogs , this is not necessarily a sign of a quality dog. Be aware that Puppy Mills also use this as a lure for unsuspecting buyers. Exercise patience. You don't have to break the bank. Your new best friend is worth the wait. Jennifer here. I've been a fan of the German Shepherd breed for as long as I can remember. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content.
Balance Out the Entire Body There is no denying that poodles are high-maintenance canines that will require a lot of grooming. However, if you have the willingness and patience, every owner can learn the skill to groom these furballs. Read on to know about all the important steps which are necessary to groom a standard poodle at home. Prepare the Space for Grooming Kitchen counters are often considered the best spots for grooming canines. This is because they provide ample space for your dog to lay down and stay there for a while. However, you will need to create a comfortable arrangement for your pooch by using blankets and towels. Poodle Report suggests that you can also purchase a foldable dog grooming table paid link for your pup. This will make things even cozier because this product is specifically designed for this purpose. This is important because the coat should be completely clean and dry to ensure a smooth and pain-free experience. Use a pet-friendly shampoo and conditioner to bathe your pooch. Make sure that these cleaning products are removed properly from the fur. Dry your dog with a towel to absorb most of the moisture. Then, use a hairdryer to complete the drying process. Be mindful of difficult-to-reach areas, like armpits, and untangle all the knots before proceeding. Groom the Face and Neck Start by ensuring that the head of your poodle is secure and still. When the pooch is in position, start clipping the hair towards the ear. Keep the blade flat against the cheek and facing away from the eyes at all times. Once you are done with the face, shift your focus towards the neck. Start shaving from the neck towards the chin while keeping the nose upward. This will allow you to pull the neck skin taut, which is quite helpful for preventing painful nicks. Dogington Post advises the owners to use the same blade setting to get a uniform trim. Move the trimmer from the nape of the neck towards the tail while keeping the blade parallel to the back. Move to the Torso and Legs Once you are done with the back, you can start grooming the legs of your dog. If your canine friend is not willing to lie down, make sure they are well-balanced while trimming their legs. Clip downwards from the chest towards the belly and then from the base of the rib cage towards the armpits. Keep brushing the body while trimming to ensure a smooth finishing to the coat. For the legs, begin at the top of each leg and groom all the way to the ankle. You can clip the hair from these parts by gently lifting the opposite leg. Clip the Hair on the Feet One by one, hold a paw in your hand and trim the extra hair on the paws. You should also remove the superfluous fluff between the toes by separating the paw pads. Move the trimmer from the outside of the toes towards the inside. Groom the Tail The tail of your poodle can be trimmed as thin or round, depending upon your preference. Irrespective of the style you select, observe a lot of caution during this step. Balance Out the Entire Body After trimming all the body parts, you need to even out the hair of your poodle. This step is extremely important to give the desired visual appearance to your pooch. Start by setting up a standard for the length of coat you want. After that, use the trimmer to even out the entire body of your dog. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This will be good practice for later on — for both of you! Yes, haircuts are essential for Poodles. Their thick, long, curly coats are prone to tangling and trapping debris. When will my Poodle puppy need haircuts? Then, at around four months old, they will shed their puppy coats and start to grow out their rougher adult coats. Frequency As a general rule, Poodles should have their coats clipped every weeks once their adult coats grow out, whatever your desired length. This is because they grow so quickly and can become matted just as fast! What equipment should I use? There are three main types of dog grooming scissors; straight scissors, curved scissors, and thinning shears, and they all perform slightly differently. Straight grooming scissors are a multi-task tool, they have straight blades for general, basic grooming, creating straight lines in the coat, and adding the finishing touches to haircuts. Curved dog grooming shear has a curved blade that can be used to fine-tune and shape specific areas of the coat, such as the paws and hindquarters. Thinning shears have a cutting edge on one blade and teeth on the other, and there are also double thinners that have teeth on both blades. They are designed to remove lots of hair in even sections for a natural finish, and they can also be used to blend out the harsh lines from clippers and texturize the coat. Or, if you just need something for the occasional touch-up between visits to the groomer, a simple pair of electrical motor clippers will do just fine. Electric motor clippers are also good for keeping short coats short. You should also be aware of the types of blades that come with clippers. The higher the number of the blade, the more hair that it will remove. Or, you can get guards that fit a single blade to customize the length, which is a lot more convenient. Start by showing them the equipment and getting them used to the sight and sound of it before you cut any hair. Reward them just for being around it and then try cutting a small section of hair. If they react well, reward them again, and then do another section. Keep rewarding them as you go and again after the haircut is finished. Do it in a well-lit, comfortable part of the home that your pup can stand up in. Once you get them into a routine — keep it up! Work your way down the legs first, then from the neck to the hindquarters, or vice versa, and then the tail. Take care with the feet, underside, and head, shielding their eyes from falling fur. Use long strokes and go from the neck down to the back legs. How to deal with grooming anxiety If your pup is afraid of the scissors or clippers, take it really slowly and try to make it an enjoyable experience. You can do this by breaking up the haircut into smaller sessions to make it less stressful and taking breaks in between each one. Give your dog lots of praise and a reward every time you take a break and ask another family member to comfort them during the haircut. You can start brushing your Poodle from any age. To brush them, simply go in the direction of hair growth using short strokes. Hold the fur at the base with your free hand to remove knots, and use a mat remover for any stubborn mats. Bathing a Poodle puppy As for bathing, you should give your Poodle pup their first proper bath at months old to help them shed their puppy coat, unless they get seriously dirty before that. However, you can give your pup a bath any time after weeks of age to get them used to the sensation, but avoid overbathing them, as this will strip the fur of its natural oils and make it dry and brittle. Once they have their adult coats, your Poodle pup will need a bath once a month. You can even buy shampoo that is designed especially for Poodle coats. To give your Poodle a bath, lather up their wet fur with the shampoo, massage it in, leave it for as long as directed on the bottle, and rinse thoroughly. Follow up with conditioner if necessary. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.
An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article Use Arrow Keys to Navigate View Gallery 40 Slides Getty Some people like to go big or go home by adopting large dog breeds , while some prefer pint-sized pups and go for a small dog breed — but if you ask us and Goldilocks, the perfect pet is right in the middle. These medium-sized dog breeds are as cuddly as their smaller counterparts and often just as playful as larger dogs, in a more manageable package. Generally, dogs in this category weigh in at about 30—70 pounds, although some can certainly grow bigger or stay smaller than that. While they may have size in common, there's lots to choose from within the category. These breeds totally vary in activity level, trainability, coat type and temperament. Looking for low-shedding dog that won't set off your allergies? Check out the standard poodle. Need a running buddy that can go and go for miles? A German Shorthaired Pointer or Dalmatian might be just your speed. Or do you need a mold-mannered soul that'll play nice with the kids? Labrador Retrievers live up to their number-one reputation as the perfect family dogs. This list includes members from almost all of the breed groups including sporting, non-sporting, working, hounds and terriers minus the tiny toy breeds. We've included some of the most popular options we see you, Golden Retrievers but also some deep cuts you may not know, like Boykin Spaniels and Pyrenean Shepherds. Before you bring home any dog, do your homework on the cost and commitments associated with owning a pet. Always adopt animals from reputable sources , like respected animal shelters or breeders. Loyal and devoted to their owners, these dogs are wary of strangers. Weight: 40—70 pounds. Email As a member of the Etsy affiliate program and an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I absolutely love changing up my phone wallpapers by season and for the dog-crazy? What better way to show your canine-love than with a free puppy phone wallpaper? I am a huge Halloween fanatic. Plus, our summer phone wallpapers were so popular, I thought you guys might like some new ones too! Plus, I needed an excuse to draw some more of my favourite dog breeds! For the s ummer dog phone backgrounds , I drew a beagle, a corgi, and a frenchie. Newfoundland lovers take notice. I started by paying tribute to my very favourite brown newfie, Leroy. Check him out on his own blog. His Mom Jen does a great job of sharing his antics. I also decided to draw a greyhound despite never having met a greyhound in the fur. So dainty, graceful and elegant. I am a sucker for black dogs. Is there anything less spooky than a labrador? I love how fun and cheerful the labs are. I think the candy corn one is my very favourite. I was shocked. Who can recommend a good one? Last, I needed a fluffy dog and bichons are such lovely little dogs. Last year we found out that our Felix was mostly bichon and it just reaffirmed everything I love about the breed. He was the sweetest. I spent as much time on the bichon as all three other dogs combined! Download your favourite free Halloween dog lover phone wallpaper below. How to use these phone backdrops: Click on the link to the wallpaper you want to use Save the image to your phone In your settings, set the image as your wallpaper Click on any link below to be magically whisked away to the free download.
During this time, they have learned that good breeding is not seldom. This is why they conduct DNA genetic testing on the mating Labs, research pedigrees, and perform x-rays. At other times, they fly in semen from other states to guarantee the best quality future Labs. They have produced family dogs, show dogs, hunting dogs, and service dogs. If you want to reserve a puppy from Humehill, they will send you a questionnaire and a deposit contract. The puppies leave the facility after they are eight weeks old. Prior to this, the puppies are taken to the vet for a checkup, dewormed, microchipped, and receive their first vaccine. They consider themselves knowledgeable breeders because they have degrees in Animal Science and Agricultural Engineering. They focus on producing and raising genetically quality dogs, a reason why the parents undergo Embark tests. In addition, they raise the puppies in an acre home with fenced-in yards instead of kennels. The dogs also have a large pond to swim or play in. All Hidden Pond puppies have veterinarian health certification, a one-year written health guarantee, have their first shots, and are microchipped. They also give a lifetime placement warranty and offer stud service. They aim to breed championship Labs that can go to the show program. The pups that do not qualify for show programs are trained for companionship, hunting, therapy, or response dogs. The breeder is dedicated to guaranteeing that future Labs have the best genetics to live a long, happy life. They also receive year-long preventative health care. Stoneleigh Labrador puppies are hand-raised with abundant affection then socialized before they leave the facility. Even though the breeder does not always have available puppies all year round, they will be happy to have you on a waiting list. Legacy puppies receive the same socialization programs as service and guide dogs. They are paper trained, crate trained, taken for car rides, and receive daily playtime. They are also microchipped and AKC registered. Unlike other Labrador breeders, Legacy accepts applications only when there is a litter available. This means you must be on the lookout since they do not keep a waiting list for potential buyers. Occasionally, they have older dogs available after they have finished their show careers. These dogs are suitable for children of all ages because they are socialized at a young age. All pups receive their first shots and worming before they leave. To purchase one, contact the breeder via email or the website. She has a passion for Labradors and loves their sweet temperament. This is proof that not only are the Labs well-bred, but they are healthy and with easy to live temperaments. To find and purchase a pup , visit the website, or contact the breeder via email. Ollie, originally from the USA, holds his master's degree in wildlife biology and moved to Australia to pursue his career and passion but has found a new love for working online and writing about animals of all types. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. Please click on webpage link for pictures and info. Emails usually get faster response due to this being a national website and e get a lot of phone calls each day. It's difficult to speak on phone while the puppies are playing and having fun in the kitchen! I'll be happy to email you all kinds of info about the puppies, process, application, references,etc. Our pups are raised in our home the kitchen, actually!!! Our puppies go through the same socialization program as puppies that are raised for therapy and guide dog training. Our pups are exposed to normal everyday sounds vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, dinner being made, telephone ringing, riding in the car, sleeping in their crate, lawnmower, police car sirens, etc. We paper train our puppies, which makes housebreaking a breeze! We like to meet you and your family to ensure that your new puppy and your family are an ideal match. Yes, our dogs are the English type. Actually if you look at the pedigrees family tree you will see many of our dogs are sired by English imports and some of our dogs are imports from Scotland and Holland. We take great pride in our breeding program with the ultimate goal of providing you with the best quality puppy. Puppies are paper-trained. De-wormed Fecal test reports all Negative! Microchip Enrollment card provided to have Microchip associated with you as owner. Crate Socialized. AKC Registered papers come with each puppy. Serious Inquiries Welcomed. Thank you. On The Bluff Labradors. Thank you David for all the joy you have given us. We love our beautiful dogs! He is just perfect! My vet said he has never seen a better put together Lab. He is the hit of our community and has to say hello to everyone he meets. Hidden Ponds is just the best place to purchase a Lab. David is so kind and informative. His dogs are gorgeous and well mannered. They treat their dogs with kindness and it shows. They are smart, their costs are beautiful! He has a great personality and is wonderful with the kids! He is lbs and thinks he is a lap dog. We would definitely buy from Dave again!! Lindie is an incredible athlete, as you can see by the photo. Lindie also volunteers at our local hospital in Glens Falls, NY comforting anyone that needs fur therapy! She is an amazing ambassador for the Labrador breed! Thank you! He hiked his first mountains this weekend in the Adirondacks. He is such a wonderful addition to our family and we will be back for a companion for him next year. Read more testimonials Bentley Bentley is almost 4 years old and is absolutely amazing! She is the happiest, cuddliest, wiggliest ball of fur, and I love her more than I can say. She is super smart, very curious, and a little mischievous. She has already learned to walk very well with my wheelchair. Thank you, Hidden Pond! At 9weeks she has accomplished stairs,swimming learned to sit and give paw. Play time and eating remain 1 LOL but,she is full of kisses and love all the time too. My sweet service dog, Rhett, came home in October of and has been the biggest blessing in my life. This breeder not only breeds for confirmation and health but for perfect personality and temperament. They are perfect in every sense of the term responsible breeder. I cannot imagine life without my Labs. And not to mention how welcoming everyone was when we went to pick Rhett up. They care about each puppy they welcome into their home. And they strongly support several forms of care to keep the puppies happy and healthy in their new homes like food and supplements! I cannot thank them enough or recommend them enough!! Savannah Stevens Read more testimonials Chip Chip is a crazy, funny, lovable gem. He is the most gorgeous dog. He has the most regal head. Everyone who sees him stops to tell us what a handsome dog he is. Thank you to Hidden Pond for letting him be ours. We picked her up in early July , and she made our family complete! She is such an amazing dog: sweet, gentle, loving, and playful. It is wonderful to see how much she loves our three young boys. We love how much she loves being outside — especially swimming and playing in the snow. Thank you Dave and your family for bringing her into our lives. She was exactly what our family needed to be complete. She is the sweetest, spunkiest and most wonderful dog we could have asked for. We picked him up this past September. He is a joy, fully housebroken, and so very funny. Everyone who meets him always comment on how handsome he is. He is really beginning to look like his dad, Thunder. He loves walking and meeting all his dog friends in our community. Thanks, David, for this wonderful dog! He has made our house a home again!! She brings so much joy to our home. She is loyal, smart and a lot of fun. She loves going on walks or long hikes in the woods and is a big snuggler in the house. Scout has a very sweet disposition and people comment on what a beautiful girl she is. She enjoys people and dogs of all ages. Thank you Dave, we are enjoying every day with one of your Hidden Pond pups! Courtney Hundley Read more testimonials Raemo This Lab is truly a best friend to everyone that comes his way. Very kind and affectionate. Raemo is now 6 months old and is great with the family, friends and the neighborhood. He is great with other dogs too! David and his Labs are simply the best and worth the wait! Rob Amurao Read more testimonials Daisy We got Daisy in June , but Dave introduced us to her the day she was born; it was love at first sight!!! Dave kept us updated with pictures and short videos as we anxiously awaited the day we could pick her up. She has been an absolute joy in our lives! She is incredibly smart, a sweetheart along with being an active puppy. She was swimming at 10 weeks with our other dogs. She is now 10 months old; everyone she meets loves her. Thank you, Dave, for such an awesome new family member!!! Marilyn Morey Read more testimonials Mabel Mabel is 6 months and we thank you for this blessing. She is a wonderful addition to our family. We love going on adventures with our little girl. Highly recommend and reasonable pricing! He has an amazing temperament, his favorite activities are long walks and swimming! Marlana Broderick Read more testimonials Chip Chip is the best dog we have ever had. He is funny, silly, smart and so handsome. We get stopped on the street every 5 feet. Everyone asks where he is from and tells us how gorgeous he is. Thank you Dave. This photo is with his sister Cocoa. Chip on the left Cocoa on the right. She has such a great personality. Gets along so well with the grandkids ,and so adaptable she took to the crate and house breaking so easily. Accepts new experiences so calmly. Dave has been great to work with a fountain of info. We also went with the dog food he recommended an love the results that we switched our cat to it as well. She is the most beautiful, sweet tempered, smart lab. We could not be happier having her as part of our family. Romy Ziegler. Life Span Did You Know? There is a reason that year after year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the United States. The history of the Labrador Retriever dates back to the early s in Newfoundland, just off the Atlantic coast of Canada. Had these families not played a vital part in the continuation of the breed, the loving and affectionate Labs we have all grown to love may not exist today. The first recognized Yellow Labrador Retriever was born in .One of the friendliest breeds out there, Yellow Labs are great companions and love to be a part of the family. While the color yellow is part of their namesake, their coats range from fawn or cream to butterscotch or a deep golden hue. Coming into popularity during the midth century, the Yellow Labrador Retriever has been a staple for hunters and family homes alike ever since. These dogs are patient and kind when faced with energetic young ones. Yellow Labs delight in big spaces, opting to run and play wildly. However, they will happily lounge on the couch after having a long, hard run outside. When given a little training, they can easily learn to control barking habits and restrain themselves from digging. Their double coat also makes them a good fit for just about any climate. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Generally speaking, Labradors are healthy. They can develop certain inherent conditions, along with cataracts and kneecap displacement, but will remain healthy overall. As long as they are taken to their vet appointments with regularity, Labs will usually feel just fine. Yellow Labs are loyal companions with few drawbacks. Treats never hurt, of course. This, paired with their eagerness to please, makes them a highly trainable dog breed that is a good fit for owners of any experience level. With minimal training, these dogs can control their barking and digging without much trouble. Labs have very short, double-layered, and water-resistant fur. Its density protects them from the cold, so they will often try to swim any time of year. They experience heavier seasonal shedding twice a year and slight shedding throughout the year. Giving them a good brush once a week or a few times a week should keep their coats shiny and healthy. Other grooming tasks include nail trimming, ear care, and dental care. Proper dental care for dogs includes brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day. This helps prevent the tartar buildup that causes dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with dental hygiene chews, a special dental care diet, and more. This breed tends to be very active. They were bred to be working dogs and need exercise. A few daily walks and some time to run should help assuage their energy levels. Yellow Labs also need a fair amount of mental activity as well; they like to stay sharp. Yellow Labs are classified as medium to large dogs. They reach an average height of 23 inches and an average healthy weight of 75 pounds. A Yellow Labrador Retriever generally lives years. It was traditional in Newfoundland for every fishing boat to have a Labrador Retriever that would help retrieve the fish as they came in off the trawl. Featured Yellow Labrador Retriever Article.
The protein will come from readily available sources such as chicken or beef, and not exotic or boutique sources like kangaroo or venison as you saw in second study mentioned above. According to the AKC , quality, regulated animal byproducts can be good for your dog. These byproducts can include organ meats or entrails, which often contain more nutrients than, say, plain chicken breast. Another misconception is that dogs should eat grain-free diets. As you saw in the second study mentioned above, that can actually be very harmful for your dog and cause DCM. But food labels can be a little vague and confusing, so below is an explanation of what some of these terms mean, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the AKC. There is one caveat though. For instance, flaked corn, ground corn, and kibbled corn could be sprinkled in an ingredient list and not be listed as the first few ingredients, but in reality, if you were to add them all up they are all corn, after all , you might find that this food is made mostly of corn. The same goes for chicken, chicken meal, and chicken byproduct. Meat vs. Meat Meal vs. The quality of these ingredients can vary widely, so be sure to talk to your vet about this and choose a reputable brand of food. Below are a few examples: Obesity. Golden Retrievers love food and they do have a tendency to become overweight if you let them. This problem can often affect these next two problems… Joint issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to joint issues and growing too fast because they eat too much can often make this problem worse more on this in the next section. Heart issues. Skin issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots and excess protein in their diets can be a factor that causes them. Many goldens suffer from food allergies. One cup of Brand X food may have calories per cup, while Brand Y has calories per cup. During a vet visit our veterinarian said he looked too small and lethargic for a puppy his age about 8 weeks at the time , and he recommended we feed him a little more. As far as how often to feed your puppy, this same rule applies. For us, we fed Oliver three times per day until he was a little over a year old. Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Get the gameplan for raising them right with the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Those two statements may sound random, but they are related. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital , overfeeding your Golden Retriever can cause them to grow too fast and increase their risk of hip dysplasia. You probably noticed that a raw diet was the fourth-most popular diet Golden Retriever owners feed their dog. Since puppies are growing and adults are just maintaining their weight, they have different dietary needs. And for fats, puppy food should have at least 8. As far as when to switch from puppy food to adult food, talk to your veterinarian. To see a list of other milestones your puppy will hit like when they lose their first teeth, or when their coat is fully grown check out this timeline of Golden Retriever puppy milestones. Like most of the other questions in this post, this is something to talk to your veterinarian about. Many foods will have the same vitamins that pills have already in them, but on the other hand, some breeders require that you give your puppy vitamins for their health guarantee to be valid. First, we unknowingly started him off on one of the brands listed in the graph above that is correlated with DCM. Then we switched to another brand that he just sort of liked. If we were to have another puppy, we would definitely start with the Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy food. How To Switch Food Brands The other day I was talking to someone who was complaining that her puppy was having lots of stomach issues. Dogs have sensitive stomachs so if you want to switch foods, you need to do it slowly. You should take about a week to transition from the old food to the new brand. Also consider how long the brand of food has been around, whether or not there have been any recalls of that brand, and if there is any research behind it. What do you feed your Golden Retriever puppy? Have any questions about what to feed them? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like. Best Starter Foods for Golden Retriever Newborn month old : After your Golden Retriever puppy completes 1 month, they should be introduced to a good starter dog food which is an ideal transition from maternal milk to solid foods. These foods meet both the energy and dietary needs of the pups during their weaning phase. The starter foods can also be served to lactating mothers, fulfilling their high energy demands during the nursing period. Here are a few starter food options: 1 Royal Canin Maxi Starter Imperial Royal Canin Maxi Starter is healthfully complete starter nourishment meant exclusively for a large breed dog like Golden Retriever. It has all the significant components for keeping great wellbeing in both the lactating bitch and her little puppies. The benefits of Royal Canin Maxi Starter: The kibble rehydrates rapidly into porridge-like consistency, making it very delicious. Supports excellent digestive health. Strengthens the natural defence of both the mother and pups. Contains essential vitamins and minerals which improve cellular health and immunity. Prebiotics and probiotics in the diet assist gentle and healthy digestion. Contains lean proteins to build strong muscle mass. Consists of natural ingredients that support a higher nutrient absorption and a healthy bowel activity. Consequently, they should be fed at least three times each day. A typical Golden Retriever Puppy consumes around calories a day. Nutritional Requirements of Golden Retriever Puppy 1. Having a good measure of fats in their diet gives them a consolidated energy source for keeping up a functioning way of life. The unsaturated fats too help to brace their skin health. Omega Fatty Acids: Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids are vital elements in their diet for keeping strong bones and joints. It also offers good anti-inflammatory effect, that reduces pain and swelling in the joints. The kibble size and shape perfectly adapts to the jaws of a puppy Golden Retriever. Consists of natural fibres to promote excellent digestion in pups. Anti-oxidants build a strong defence mechanism in the pups. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large Breed: Biologically appropriate food that maintains supreme health and wellbeing in pups. Infusions of freeze-dried chicken and turkey liver make the food highly palatable. Natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin keep strong muscles and joints. Clinically proven anti-oxidants maintain a strong immunity in puppies. Unlike puppies, most grown up Golden Retrievers are satisfied with 2 meals per day. Taurine keeps good cardiac function and also healthy eyesight in the dogs. Contains dietary fibres that keep healthy gut and excellent digestive functioning. Extensive protein content to enhance muscle mass and strength. High quality meat and rice offering greater taste and nutritional value. The low glycemic index of the food eliminates obesity and diabetes in the dogs. Pumpkin as an ingredient regulates intestinal motility. They become less active and therefore a little vulnerable to obesity. It is critical to nourish them with low-calorie sustenance as it keeps an ideal body weight and consequently puts less pressure on the joints. Also owing to their low exercise requirements, they only consume around Calories daily. Low Carbohydrate Content: A diet that has low carbs keeps a healthy blood sugar level in the dog, thus eliminating diabetes and obesity. High Fibre Content: Nature Fibres are essential for Senior Golden Retrievers for keeping an ideal body weight and excellent digestive health. Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Having traces of Glucosamine and Chondrotin in the diet of a senior Golden Retriever, alleviate pain produced in bones and joints. Best Foods For Senior Golden Retrievers 1 Orijen Senior Food In case you are searching for organically proper sustenance that has a low glycemic record that keeps diabetes and obesity at bay in your senior Golden Retrievers, you can have Orijen Senior Food which is effectively the best eating regimen for senior Golden Retrievers. A low carb content keeps an ideal weight and a healthy blood sugar level. Highly delicious meal having fresh Free Run Chicken and Turkey tempts the fussiest of eaters. It comprises of edible protein supporting pure osmosis of supplements and furthermore has L-Carnitine which consumes the abundance of fat stores in the body. The ideal ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 controls blood clotting and maintains the health and sheen of the coat. Essential vitamins and minerals keep a robust immune system. Below are some of the foods that should not be given to a Golden Retriever: 1. Raw Eggs. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.
how much bulldog puppy cost - Conclusion Understanding Dog Dandruff Dogs will normally shed dead skin cells, but it becomes a problem when there is an excessive production of the dead skin cells in the haircoat. This is often accompanied by an increased production of sebum, or oils in the skin, or the opposite where the skin is really dry. It can also be a combination of excessive oils and dry skin. When your Golden Retriever has dandruff, you will find varying amounts of small white flakes in the fur. Sometimes called Seborrhea, these flakes can cause itchiness in your dog, often getting bad enough to cause inflammation, redness, or irritation. Simply put, dandruff is a collection of extra dead skin cells in the haircoat. There are primary and secondary causes of dandruff in dogs. Primary causes are rare, inherited conditions. There is a long list of common secondary causes. Primary Dandruff Primary dandruff, or primary seborrhea, is an inherited condition that causes an increased production of dead skin cells or oils in the skin. It is usually seen in dogs under one year of age. Golden Retrievers can get a primary dandruff condition called Ichthyosis. This is a genetic mutation that causes scaly, flakey skin, most commonly in puppies, but also seen in adults. Secondary Dandruff Secondary dandruff, or secondary seborrhea, is dandruff that develops due to another skin disorder. Secondary dandruff can be cured by treating the underlying skin condition once it is identified. Here are some disorders that can cause secondary dandruff. Below are a few of the common culprits. Fleas are visible with the naked eye and easily treated with various flea preventative products. Scabies Sarcoptic mange, or scabies, causes severe itchiness and skin irritation leading to dandruff. Demodex mites cause hair loss and dandruff. Cheyletiellosis Cheyletiellosis is caused by a mite and is known as walking dandruff since the mites move under the skin flakes. Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose these conditions through various skin tests and will treat your dog for mite infections with topical and oral medications. Allergies Allergies are most often environmental or food-related, but can also be caused by contact irritants or topical parasites such as fleas. Sometimes allergies are specific to a certain season, whether it is a cold and dry environment, a hot and humid environment, or the various pollens found during the season. Allergies cause extreme itchiness which leads to skin irritation, inflammation, redness, dandruff, and even skin infections. Treating allergies requires a multi-modal approach. The keys are to find and treat the cause of the allergy, stop the itching, treat any secondary infections, and support the skin with moisturizing supplements. Food allergies are treated with a special diet change depending on the protein causing the allergy. Contact allergies are treated by removing the source causing the irritation. Flea allergies are treated by treating and removing the fleas. You will find dandruff in many dogs with allergies because there is a disruption in their skin barrier due to the allergy and they are licking, chewing, or scratching at their skin. Skin Infection Dogs can get skin infections caused by bacteria or fungus, most commonly yeast. These skin infections are usually brought on after the skin barrier has been disrupted by excessive itching. Sometimes, dogs can get bacteria or fungus on their skin after swimming, if they have a dirty or matted haircoat, wounds, or allergies. Skin infections are treated with various topical and oral antibacterial and antifungal medications. Ringworm is a common type of topical skin fungus that can cause skin flaking. Patients with these diseases are often found to have dry, flakey skin and sometimes a thin haircoat with associated hair loss. These diseases are diagnosed through various blood tests, and treatment in these cases starts with treating the underlying disease. However, if you are feeding your dog a low-quality food, it may be lacking in important ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin E. Make sure you are feeding your dog high quality foods. Purina Pro Plan dog foods are a great start, and they make some for about every type of dog. Immune-Mediated Diseases There are several immune-mediated diseases where the body destroys normal skin cells or sebaceous glands, causing abnormalities such as dandruff, too much or too little oil in the skin, disruption of the layers of skin, wounds, and sores. These diseases are diagnosed through blood tests and skin biopsies and are treating with various medications and supplements. Treatments For Dandruff Since most cases of dandruff are secondary to another disorder, the first step is treating the underlying skin condition. This will often include various topical and oral medications. Bathing: Use a mild and unscented aloe or oatmeal soothing shampoo with lukewarm water. Make sure to lather up your dog well and rinse the shampoo thoroughly. It is also important to make sure their hair dries properly. Omega-3 fatty acids: These oral fatty acid supplements have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and are key in keeping the skin and haircoat healthy. Good quality diet: As previously mentioned, ensuring your dog is eating a well-balanced and nutrient rich diet can help prevent and solve many skin issues. Conclusion Overall, dandruff is a manageable condition once the underlying disease or disorder is identified and treated. Amanda Jondle Dr. Amanda Jondle is a veterinarian who practices small animal medicine and surgery. She enjoys helping pets and educating clients not only at her hospital, but also through writing and editing blog posts to inform pet owners on how to best care for their pets. Recent Posts. These days she writes professionally about dogs and is a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Her free time is managed by her two beautiful Belgian Tervuren, one crazy cat, and two zebra finches. She has a BA from Cornell University. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on February 10, You notice that your dog has dry white flakes on his back and has been leaving flakes on his favorite dog bed. Just like in humans, dandruff occurs in dogs when flakes of dead skin cells start falling out of place and hanging out on the hair and wherever they land. While in humans dandruff usually affects the head, in dogs one of the most common places is the back especially toward the tail. You may see dry white "flakes" on your dog's coat or in places where he likes to hang out and nap. You may also notice that his skin is dry and be able to see it flake when giving him a good scratch. The official name for dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis. Your dog's skin includes sebaceous glands that produce sebum, an oil that helps to keep the skin moist and flexible. When these glands produce too much sebum, it causes an imbalance in the skin. There are two forms of seborrheic dermatitis: seborrhea sicca dry seborrhea and seborrhea oleosa oily seborrhea. Dogs can have a combination of the two. A variety of things can cause dandruff in dogs, and any breed or mix can be affected. In some cases it is a primary issue due to a genetic condition like primary seborrhea most commonly in cocker spaniels , West Highland white terriers, and basset hounds or ichthyosis affected breeds include golden retrievers , Cavalier King Charles spaniels , and Yorkshire terriers. But more often it is either caused by something in the environment or an underlying health disorder. Dry Air Just like us, dogs can be afflicted by dry skin in the winter months when the air is drier than normal. Forced-air heating can exacerbate the issue. If you only notice dandruff on your dog during the winter months, lack of humidity in the air may be to blame. Like other external parasites such as fleas , ticks , and Demodex and Sarcoptes mites, these unwelcome guests live and feed on your dog's skin, and will cause him to be very itchy. Obesity and Nutritional Issues An improper diet can cause your dog to miss out on nutrients that he needs to keep his skin and coat healthy. Make sure that your dog is eating a high-quality, balanced dog food. Fatty acids such as omega-3s and omega-6s play a role in skin health, and some dogs benefit from additional supplementation of these in their diets. It's important to check with your vet before introducing anything new to your dog's diet, however. As you know, obesity puts your dog at risk for a wide variety of health conditions. Poor skin health is just the tip of the iceberg. Skin Infections Bacterial and fungal infections on the skin can also cause dandruff to occur. These tiny invaders may also take advantage of your dog's weakened skin due to other conditions to cause a secondary infection. Whether the dandruff or the skin infection came first, bacterial and fungal infections require appropriate treatment to get your dog's skin back to a healthy state. Allergies Food and environmental allergies in dogs usually manifest as skin problems. Affected dogs may be itchy during particular times of the year, suffer from chronic ear and skin infections, or constantly lick their paws. Dandruff is usually just one symptom of a dog with allergies. Hormonal Conditions Diseases such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease can cause changes in your dog's skin health. A weakened immune system will also make him more vulnerable to secondary infections. Idiopathic Seborrhea Sometimes we don't know what causes seborrheic dermatitis, hence the use of the term 'idiopathic,' or spontaneous. Dogs where the cause of flaky skin is unknown can be treated symptomatically to provide relief, and additional management care can be provided as needed. When to See the Vet for Your Dog's Dandruff Problem If your dog just has mild seasonal or occasional dandruff, it's probably nothing to worry about. But you'll want to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if your dog is also experiencing any of these symptoms: Itchiness An odor to the skin Excessive amounts of dandruff Red, irritated skin Other signs of illness or discomfort Diagnosing the cause of your dog's dandruff will depend on your dog's exact symptoms and what your vet suspects might be the problem based on a physical exam. Dog Dandruff Treatment and Home Remedies Depending on how severe the case is, your pup's dandruff can often be treated on your own at home. Incorporate some of these tips into your regular care routine to help get your dog's dandruff under control and help him feel more comfortable again. Grooming Regular grooming is the cornerstone of skin and coat health in dogs, and plays an important role in managing dandruff. Brushing your dog helps to disperse the excess skin oils throughout his coat so that they aren't pooling on the skin, and also removes dead hair. Brush daily while your dog is having an outbreak of dandruff, and weekly for general maintenance grooming. Misting with water can help to decrease static for long haired dogs, or you can use a conditioning spray intended for dogs, though you'll want to consult with your veterinarian first to make sure that any grooming product you use won't impact other treatments your dog is receiving. Bathing Giving your dog a bath is often beneficial for seborrhea outbreaks and bacterial and fungal infections. Once your vet has diagnosed the cause of your dog's skin problems, she may prescribe an appropriate medicated shampoo. Follow directions on the bottle carefully. Some shampoos need to be left on the dog for several minutes to work their magic. Also pay attention to how often your dog should be bathed , as bathing too often can dry out your dog's skin and either make the current symptoms worse or cause additional problems. Rinse thoroughly after all baths, whether you are using a medicated shampoo for a dandruff outbreak or regular shampoo for maintenance grooming as many shampoos can be irritating if they are not rinsed off. Always be cautious when choosing a supplement, as these products are not as heavily regulated as medications. Healthy Diet Be sure to feed your pooch a balanced dietthat meets your dog's nutritional needs. Choose a diet that has an AAFCO Statement on the label indicating that the food meets the nutrient profiles for your dog's life stage or that it has undergone feeding trials. Humidifier Usage It may be beneficial for you and your pets! The steam can help soothe and hydrate his dry skin to make your dog more comfortable and less itchy. Treat Other Health Conditions As well as home care to manage dandruff, your dog will need to be treated for any underlying conditions that he may have. Once the underlying condition has been addressed, your dog's skin will be much healthier. Was this page helpful? Final Notes What Is Dandruff? Dandruff is a condition characterized by the appearance of flakes of dead skin cells. Dandruff is typically accompanied by itching and skin irritation. For dogs, dandruff can cause non-stop scratching, which can ultimately lead to hair loss. Seborrhea Seborrhea is the medical term for dandruff, and will probably be what your vet will call it if you seek medical attention. Dandruff and seborrhea may be used interchangeably, but it is actually just one cause of dandruff. Keratinization is when the protective outer layer of the skin is constantly renewed by new skin cells. Seborrhea causes an increased scale formation, excessive greasiness of the skin and hair coat, and often secondary inflammation and infection. Seborrhea can either be primary or secondary. Secondary seborrhea, however, is a sign of an underlying disease that results in this excessive scaling, crusting, or oiliness. Secondary seborrhea is typically accompanied by pus-filled inflammation, infection, and hair loss. Causes So, what causes dandruff in dogs? From allergies to yeast infections, there are various factors that can cause dandruff in dogs. Primary seborrhea is not common and is typically genetic. Secondary seborrhea is far more common, and is usually caused by an underlying skin condition or allergies. In addition to dry and flaky skin, most dogs with seborrhea will also experience oily skin. You can usually treat seborrhea with medicated shampoos. Keratolytic products can help to remove excess dead skin cells and keratoplastic products can reduce scale formation. Both of these can be effective in treating seborrhea and reducing dandruff in your dog. Allergies Allergies, including both environmental and dog food allergies , can cause dandruff in dogs. Dogs with allergies will usually have dry flaky skin, chronic ear and skin infections, and may constantly lick their paws. In order to figure out what your dog is allergic to, your vet may recommend effective flea control, a special hypoallergenic diet trial, or perform testing to check for environmental allergies. Bacterial infections Certain bacterial infections, such as folliculitis and impetigo, can also cause dandruff in dogs. Folliculitis is an infection that causes sores, bumps, and scabs on the skin. Folliculitis will typically happen along with other skin problems, like mange or allergies. It can be treated with oral antibiotics and antibacterial ointments. Impetigo is another infection that is more common in puppies. Yeast infections Yeast infections in dogs will usually occur in the toes or ears. A dog with a yeast infection will constantly scratch or lick and chew on their paws, so if you notice your dog doing any of these, bring them to the vet. Symptoms of a yeast infection can include irritated, itchy, or discolored skin. It can be easily treated with a topical ointment, but in more serious cases, may require oral drugs or medicated sprays. Parasitic infections Parasitic infections can also cause dandruff in dogs. Fleas are the most common parasitic infection, then mange, which is caused by mites. There are two different types of mange infections: Sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange. Demodectic mange cannot be transmitted between dogs or humans. It can cause bald spots, scabbing, or sores on your pup. Endocrine disorders Endocrine disorders, such as Cushing's disease and hypothyroidism, can also cause dandruff in dogs. Too much cortisol can cause multiple clinical signs, including dandruff. Hypothyroidism in dogs is caused by an inflammation or shrinkage of the thyroid gland. In either case, a weakened immune system will make your dog more susceptible to secondary infections which can cause dandruff. Cold weather and stress can also contribute to dandruff and will usually subside by itself in time. However, there are a few instances when dandruff in dogs is something to take more seriously. You should see a vet if your dog has any of the following: An excessive amount of flakes that come on suddenly Itchiness on their skin that seems to be uncomfortable or painful Very red skin underneath the flakes An odor associated with the dandruff Any of these symptoms could indicate something more serious is happening to your dog. If you notice any of the above symptoms, you should take your dog to the vet immediately. Diagnosis There are a few things your vet will need to do in order to properly diagnose your dog with dandruff. Depending on the severity of the dandruff, lab testing may also be required. Your vet will conduct a thorough physical examination of your dog, including internal organ systems and the skin. The skin examination will document the type of flakes on the dog, and if there is any hair loss, odor, scales, or oiliness on the skin and hair coat as well. If your dog has boils, pimples, and other bumps on their skin, that likely is an indication of a bacterial infection. If they have darkening of the skin, that could be a result of chronic skin irritation, and skin thickening shows chronic itching. The vet will also check for a yeast infection that could be causing the dandruff. Your vet may also run tests, such as a hormone test, skin culture test, skin scrapings, or a skin biopsy. Hormone tests look for hormonal imbalances, skin cultures look for bacterial and fungi infections, skin scrapings identify parasites, and a skin biopsy looks for inflammatory cells, bacteria, yeast, or fungus. Thankfully, there are various ways you can go about treating dandruff in dogs. Ultimately, the best course of treatment for your pup will depend on the underlying issue. For example, if the dandruff is due to an infection, the vet will prescribe treatment for the infection, which will in turn help the dandruff. This may involve dietary changes if your dog has food allergies. If your dog has environmental allergies, you should clean often to remove dust, wash their pet beds frequently, and bathe them on a weekly basis. Consistent bathing and grooming Inconsistent grooming can often cause dandruff in dogs. Bathing and grooming your dog consistently is key to keeping your pup clean and reducing the risk of infections. Whether you bring your dog to a groomer or you clean them at home, you want to use non-irritating shampoo only. Do not use your own anti-dandruff shampoo on your dog. There are many brands that have dog shampoos that are specifically formulated to treat dandruff. This will pick up any dirt and debris, but also will stimulate the oil glands in the top layer of their skin. Brushing their fur releases these oils which adds a shine to their coat and helps get rid of dandruff. Start with a coarse brush and then finish with a softer brush and a towel. Minimize stress Stress can often cause dandruff in dogs. Various circumstances can cause a dog to feel stressed, even though you might not be aware of it. Things like changing households or getting a new animal can cause your dog to feel stressed, and as a result, will have dandruff. You can treat stress in dogs by removing them from the actual stresser. You should also get them to exercise, which can help your dog release tension. In some cases, medication may be needed to help alleviate some of their stress. Temperature and humidity can exacerbate dandruff. During winter, dandruff is especially common. If this is the case for your pup, try incorporating more fatty acids into their diet. You can do this with pills or by adding oil to their food. Dandruff in dogs is quite common, and in most cases, it can be easily treated. There are various ways you can go about getting rid of dog dandruff. Proper grooming will keep their hair and skin clean and dandruff free. You should also always feed your dog a good diet to keep them healthy. A humidifier and anti-dandruff shampoos and ointments may also do the trick. What causes dandruff in dogs? Various factors can cause dandruff in dogs, such as allergic reactions, bacterial infections, yeast infections, parasitic infections, and endocrine disorders. Should I be worried if my dog has dandruff? In most cases, dandruff in dogs is nothing to worry about. However, there are a few instances when dog dandruff is something to be more concerned about. If your dog experiences itchiness, has an odor emanating from his or her skin, excessive dandruff, hair loss, irritated skin, or other signs of discomfort, you should bring them to the vet as soon as possible. Dogs can get dandruff, too. Although your pup might not be embarrassed or even aware of this white flaky skin, it can definitely be irritating for them to deal with. In many cases, dandruff in dogs can be treated with a simple anti-dandruff shampoo and a good bath. Published on Dec 08, and updated at Apr 05, .But did you know that puppies can get dandruff too? What causes dog dandruff? Dogs will groom themselves to get rid of the old, dead skin cells as they shed, keeping their coat in top condition. Puppies are more likely to develop dandruff than older dogs. These glands become more developed as your pup gets older, which often will bring an end to their dandruff issues. Brushing your puppy will help to spread the natural oils in their coat, which will often result in a shinier coat and could go some way to combatting dandruff. However, there are lots of reasons why your puppy might have dandruff aside from underdeveloped glands. Health conditions that lead to dog dandruff Skin infections Skin infections can cause dry and itchy skin, which naturally leads to the development of dandruff. To identify if your puppy is suffering from a skin condition or infection, your vet will take some skin samples to make an accurate diagnosis. Illness Flaky skin could be a giveaway that your pooch is feeling under the weather. If they are lethargic or unwell, they are less likely to keep up their high grooming standards, leading to more dandruff building up. Excessive scratching could lead to your puppy getting dandruff. Fleas thrive in warm, damp environments and flock indoors during winter. Read our guide on how to keep your dog itch-free and safe from fleas. Allergies Skin reactions that cause dandruff could be triggered by an allergic reaction. Your puppy could be allergic to certain foods dogs can develop food allergies without warning at any time or environmental factors such as pollen or dust mites. Your vet may recommend food allergy testing and may suggest a dietary elimination or a hypoallergenic diet. In the case of seasonal allergies, treatment with anti-inflammatory medication or a medicated shampoo might be suggested. Read our advice on allergies in dogs. How can I treat puppy dandruff? If your puppy has a persistent problem with dandruff, there are lots of options to improve the health of their skin. Specialist dog shampoos, such as VetSoothe Oil-Balance Shampoo , are specially formulated to help manage greasy and flaky skin. Give them dietary supplements Dietary supplements are a great way to give your puppy natural support for their skin. They contain beneficial Omega-3 Fatty Acids that help to calm sensitive skin and reduce itching and redness. Speak to your vet about adding Fatty Acid supplements to your dog's diet to boost their skin health. Need more info? For expert advice on puppy dandruff and skin problems, contact your local vet. Find your nearest vet using our Find a Vet page. Yes, they can. You may have noticed the not-so-welcome flakes sitting atop your precious pup's fur during your last grooming session. Are white flakes hanging around your home and dog a nuisance? But there's no need for alarm or panic when dealing with pet dandruff. In most cases, dandruff is very manageable. With a bit of determination and patience, you can help your dog's coat regain its healthy look and feel. Dandruff is fairly common in pets, but it's important to discover its origins so you can accurately assess and rid your pet of annoying flakes. If you're curious for heady, scientific details, the official name for doggy dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis or seborrhea for short. Wow—that's a mouthful! Before we dive into the various ways you can rid your pet of the flaky nuisance, let's first discuss the leading causes and symptoms associated with pet dandruff. Pet dandruff is pretty easy to detect. It appears as small, white flakes that cling to your dog's fur. These flakes can also fall off and attach to bedding, upholstery and a variety of other household items. Another giveaway that your dog might have dandruff is if she's constantly licking, scratching or biting her skin. Occasionally, if a more severe issue is present, you might also notice redness, hair loss and even a foul odor near affected areas. While dandruff in itself isn't harmful, it's definitely unsightly. Dandruff tends to be a secondary issue, so it's essential to get to the root of the problem and treat the underlying cause—not just the dandruff. Dandruff appears when your dog's sebaceous glands over-produce an oil called sebum. This oil helps keep your precious pup's skin moist and healthy. However, when the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, it causes an imbalance, which in turn causes dandruff. Your dog's dandruff comes in two forms: dry seborrhea sicca and oily seborrhea oleosa. And it can occur for several reasons: Bacterial and fungal infections take advantage of a dog's compromised immunity. An unbalanced diet can decrease essential nutrients needed for a healthy coat and overall health—including obesity in some cases. Seasonal or environmental allergies can cause dryness of the skin. Stress can present in a variety of ways , including dandruff. Grooming activities, like too much bathing. Every dog requires bathing from time to time, but probably not as often as you might think. In many cases, your dog's dandruff is simply a symptom of dry skin caused by weather or seasonal shedding. You can prevent or remove this type of dandruff with a few simple changes to your grooming routine. Grooming .Brush your pup regularly with an appropriate brush or comb to help keep the skin and coat healthy and shiny, which may prevent dandruff in the first place. If your pup does have dandruff, the brush and comb will help remove the flakes. Sometimes the shampoo you use dries out your pup's skin. Be sure to choose a shampoo that doesn't strip your dog's coat of natural oils,3 and avoid using human shampoos because human hair care products aren't formulated for a dog's pH levels. Both soothe your dog's skin and coat and keep them healthy. Plus, the shampoos prevent flea reinfestations for 28 days. Oatmeal baths. Oatmeal baths are a well-known treatment for dandruff and are easy to do at home. Mix the ingredients thoroughly. Wet your dog with warm water, slowly add the oatmeal mixture and lather as you would shampoo. Allow the mixture to sit on your dog's skin for several minutes before rinsing. Do you live in a dry climate, or is there less moisture in the home often in the winter? Try a humidifier; they add moisture back into the environment, which will help the skin from drying out. A humidifier is not only good for your dog, but it will benefit you as well—your hair and skin will definitely thank you. If the above suggestions don't seem to help your dog's skin and coat, it may be time to consult a professional. Your vet may prescribe a new dog food or even vitamin supplements, depending on the root cause. A quick once-over by the vet and a possible blood draw can help properly diagnose the issue, which helps formulate an appropriate treatment plan. If you don't currently have a family vet, finding someone you can trust with your furry friend is important. Remember, a caring veterinarian wants to partner with you to ensure your pup's health and happiness. Now that you have a better understanding of pet dandruff, you should be able to assess your pet's needs better. Diagnosing and treating your dog's dandruff can be RUFF, but you can handle it! Now that you know what to look for, grab your favorite grooming tool and enjoy some one-on-one time with your favorite pup. Your time together can be both enjoyable and productive. Skin and coat care may not be the last step in ridding your furry friend of dandruff, but it's a step in the right direction. Xu, Elizabeth. Jamieson, Amy. Final Thoughts However, you cannot treat dandruff in a Golden Retriever without understanding its causes. This is so that you can avoid reoccurrences after a time. Not only that, but the issue happens due to medical conditions at times too. In this post, we will discuss everything about it. Causes Here are the top reasons why your Golden Retriever may be suffering from dandruff: Primary Dandruff Following are the two types of primary dandruff issues your Golden Retriever can experience: Standard Dandruff Seborrhea Dandruff can happen in your pet dog because of primary and secondary reasons. You should note that primary dandruff occurs because of a genetic condition. If your Golden Retriever suffers from primary dandruff, it means that its parents had the condition. Thus, it was passed down to your pet genetically. Primary dandruff occurs because the dog's skin may be producing excessive oils. It can also happen due to an increase in dead skin cells. Typically, this happens in Golden Retriever puppies of age one or below. Ichthyosis This is another genetic condition that primarily happens in Golden Retrievers. However, this time the issue occurs because of a mutation that may be present in some families of this breed. The condition causes your dog to have scaly and flakey skin. Golden Retriever ichthyosis is mainly in puppies, and most of them grow out of it. However, this does not happen at all times. So you may also find adult dogs with this condition. The good news is that you can treat this issue through skin soothers and moisturizers. Secondary Dandruff A key thing to note is that this dandruff occurs because of skin disorders. However, this happens because of environmental factors or other external reasons. So here are the leading causes that may result in your Golden Retriever facing this dandruff issue: Parasites External parasites can easily infest your pet's fur if you don't take proper precautions. This is also the most prevalent reason for dandruff in a Golden Retriever. The top thing to remember is that there are numerous parasites that cause different types of dandruff. Fleas are one of the common parasites that affect various dogs, including Golden Retrievers. They jump on an animal's body and feed on its blood for survival. While doing so, the parasite can cause dandruff. Typically, your pet may experience itchiness because of this bug. The excellent news about flea dandruff is that this parasite is large enough to be visible to the naked eye. So you can quickly identify the bug and take precautions to prevent dandruff. Scabies is another parasite that causes severe skin irritation and itchiness. This leads to extensive dandruff that results in hair loss, pimples, and much more. Demodex is also a bug that causes dandruff with similar symptoms, including lesions. Allergies Like humans, your loyal pets can also suffer from a variety of allergies caused due to the environment. They may also be related to food or because of bugs such as fleas. Some products are also irritant to Golden Retrievers resulting in an allergy. Some Golden Retrievers experience allergies during hot atmospheres, while others are susceptible to cold environments. Besides that, different pollens also affect dogs. Typically, an allergy can cause various issues, including dandruff. For instance, your dog may experience severe itchiness. Additionally, they can suffer from skin irritation, redness, infections, and other symptoms. Skin Infections Bacteria and fungi are two primary microorganisms that cause infections in humans. Unfortunately, dogs also experience such issues because of these microbodies. You should note that you cannot see these organisms with the naked eye. So it may be tough to identify them as the dandruff cause. Your Golden Retriever can host these organisms on its body after swimming. The microbes may also affect your pet if their fur is dirty or has an untreated wound. Ringworm is the most prevalent fungus that infects dogs and causes flakey skin. This eventually leads to dandruff. Hormonal Disorders Hormonal disorders in dogs are also referred to as endocrine disorders. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your dog is not making adequate thyroid hormone. This leads to various symptoms which cause dandruff. The top way you can identify this dandruff cause is by checking for dry and flakey skin. Additionally, a thin hair coat is a prevalent sign. Poor Diet The nutrients your Golden Retriever consumes directly affect its health and hygiene. If your dog is not taking the right items, it will have dull and flakey skin. Not only that, but its haircoat will be dry and unhealthy. Besides that, your pet will also have unhealthy skin, which will be easily noticeable. Dandruff because of poor diet may happen due to low-quality dog food products. For example, the item may not contain Vitamin E or omega-3 fatty acids. Immune-Mediated Diseases These are diseases that are caused by an autoimmune disorder in your pet. Typically, the dog's body destroys the healthy skin cells or sebaceous glands which produce oil. This will result in low or excessive oil production, which causes dandruff. The diseases also cause disturbance in the different skin layers affecting oil production. They can also cause internal wounds through inflammation and other injuries. You can use these signs to diagnose this dandruff cause. Treatments Here are the top dandruff treatments that will allow you to help your Golden Retriever: Take Your Pet To A Vet One of the best things you can do for your dog is taking them to the veterinarian for a checkup. The vet will run some skin tests and biopsies to determine if a medical issue is causing dandruff. If the physician identifies a medical condition, they will prescribe suitable medications to assist you. Sometimes, the vet also provides supplements to help tackle dandruff. This is why you can effectively treat your pet with ease. Another benefit of taking your pet to a physician is that they also help with non-medical issues. For instance, the vet may suggest you an excellent dog food product if a poor diet is the dandruff cause of your pet. Regular Brushing Grooming and bathing techniques play an effective role in tackling Golden Retriever dandruff issues. As a result, the dog can battle infections with more ease. Brushing your dog every day a few times will also allow you to improve natural oil distribution across the haircoat. Additionally, the blood circulation of your pet will also enhance. This helps prevent dandruff from occurring in the first place. Besides that, brushing will also allow you to notice dandruff quickly. So you can take other precautions within the correct time window. Thus, your chance of treating dandruff will be higher. Diet Improvement As we said earlier, poor diet is one of the leading causes of dandruff in Golden Retrievers. This is why you should consider changing the food products you are using. Typically, you should search for a high-quality item rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. You should also ensure that the food product has other essential nutrients in the right quantities. For example, vitamin E is one of the ingredients that must be present in dog food. Apart from that, you should also provide your dog with adequate fresh water daily. Regular Bathing Bathing is as important as brushing your dog regularly. The only difference is that you don't have to wash your pet daily. Typically, a bath every three weeks is suitable for maintaining good hygiene. You should also wash your pet immediately if they become dirty. Keep in mind not to bathe your dog every day or excessively. This is because it will lead to dry skin. Bathing frequently also rids your pet's skin with the natural oils it requires. That is why it is essential to follow a strict routine. Special Shampoo A dog is one of the most prevalent animals that people keep as pets. So you will find many care products for them in the market. That is why it is advisable to get a special shampoo for your Golden Retriever. An excellent shampoo for golden retrievers with the right ingredients will target skin irritation and itchiness issues. As a result, the risk of your pet becoming affected by dandruff reduces significantly. The best thing about some shampoos is that they also help in treating fungal infections. Use A Humidifier Environmental factors also play an integral role in causing dandruff in Golden Retrievers. Dry air may take away the essential oils from your pet's skin and cause it to become flakey. This can cause irritation and itchiness, which results in dandruff. You can tackle dry air issues by using a humidifier in your home. It is best to put the device in a room where your pet stays frequently. The device will maintain the right atmosphere that will tackle the flakiness. Hence, you can ensure that your dog will never have dandruff because of dry air. Dandruff Spray If you have been to a dog pet shop, you must have seen dandruff sprays on the shelves. They can help you eliminate dandruff effectively in most cases. However, note that many sprays contain alcohol which can worsen the issue. The best way to get a dandruff spray is by visiting a vet for the suggestion. They will guide you to the right product you should purchase. Additionally, they may help you get rid of dandruff with an alternative but equally effective method. It is advisable to add equal parts of water to the oil and use it for rinsing your dog. Once the time has passed, you should wash the Golden Retriever and then shampoo. Keep in mind not to use this remedy more than once every week. Olive Oil This is another home product that helps with dandruff issues. It is an excellent and safe moisturizer. Lime Juice Vitamin C is one of the nutrients that allow you to tackle dandruff in your Golden Retriever. Fortunately, lime juice is rich in this vitamin and available at your home. As per experts, you should prepare a concoction by adding an equal amount of lime juice to an equal quantity of water. Then, you should rinse your dog with this mixture after shampooing them during a bath. Final Thoughts This is your complete guide to Golden Retrievers' dandruff causes and treatments. Understanding all the primary and secondary reasons will help you diagnose the issue. Meanwhile, all the treatments are effective for eliminating dandruff issues in Golden Retrievers. Not only that, but they are also safe to use as long as you don't overdo some things. More Health. Symptoms: Symptoms that your dog has a skin infections are things like hot spots, red areas, greasy patches, and excessive scratching. Symptoms: These are white mites and they are large enough to be seen with the naked eye quite easily under the right light. However, they may be harder to spot in dogs with lighter coats where the mites can blend in more easily. The contrast with the ink makes it very easy to see their movements. Symptoms: Seborrhea is often accompanied by greasy skin in dogs. This is caused because the grease glands are also overactive. The cause of this condition is still unknown, but certain breeds are particularly prone to seborrhea Golden Retrievers and Labradors are not on this list. If you live in a dry area where the humidity is low or if you keep the heating high most of the time, the air could be the cause. Symptoms: Dry skin makes dogs quite itchy and you will notice them scratching all over their bodies regularly. This can lead to other skin conditions that will need to be treated later. You can check out those 17 practical solutions to your goldens shedding here. Health Conditions Some health conditions can cause skin scaling and dandruff. For example. Under-active glands — known as hypothyroidism — and some auto-immune conditions. Symptoms: Your dog will show the symptoms of these diseases, in which case they must be taken to the vet, of course. View Larger Image Ichthyosis in golden retrievers Excessive scale or dandruff flakes Several breeds of dog, notably the Golden Retriever, Jack Russell Terrier and Bulldog, can be affected by excessive flaking of the skin. This is present from birth, but may be very mild, so is not noticed until later in life. The belly may also have darkly pigmented, dry skin. It does not tend to be itchy unless there is also infection present with bacteria and yeast. The changes in the skin make it easier for infections to take hold. Owners typically notice large flakes of skin present in the fur when brushing their dog, or on the floor in areas where they spend time. Golden Retrievers typically have a very mild form of this disease, whereas other breeds can be more badly affected. How do dogs get Ichthyosis? This disease is inherited and multiple puppies in a litter may have the disease. It has what is called a recessive mode of inheritance, which means that both parents must carry the gene for the puppies to show signs. The parents may have two disease genes and so are scaly themselves or one normal gene and one diseased gene, so they look normal. If the puppies in the litter get one disease gene from each of their parents they will be affected with the scaling disease, which can be seen when you look at them. Alternatively, if they just get one diseased gene and one normal gene, they will look normal but will be at risk of passing the disease on if they have puppies in future. Testing for Ichthyosis? There are many other causes of scaling in dogs, so these should be ruled out by a veterinarian before a diagnosis of ichthyosis is made. In Golden Retrievers there is a genetic test available, which is recommended if you are planning to breed your dog. This will tell you if your dog is a carrier of the disease, even if they look normal. By responsible testing and breeding, this disease can be avoided in future generations of puppies. Results are normally back in weeks. Treatment for Ichthyosis? Treatment is tailored to the needs of each individual dog. The scaling cannot be cured, but in many mild cases can be managed by conscientious bathing and moisturising. In more severe cases oral medication may be needed which can help but not cure the problem. Related Posts.
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how much bulldog puppy cost - Retinal Dysplasia Entropion By familiarizing yourself with these conditions, their symptoms, and their treatment options, you can prepare yourself for any doggie health emergencies. After all, part of being a pet parent is understanding that sometimes our animals get sick. It can present itself early on during puppyhood or become more evident with age. Labs are just one of many dog breeds affected by this condition. This type of atrophy can lead to total blindness. PRA is a degenerative illness, meaning it tends to become more debilitating over time. However, by recognizing the symptoms and taking early action, pet parents can minimize the adverse effects of PRA. Common Symptoms Unfortunately, some of the most common symptoms of PRA only occur after many retinal cells have already decayed. This means that your dog may already be partially blind by the time they start exhibiting noticeable symptoms. Still, dogs that seem uncoordinated or that often bump into objects may be exhibiting early signs of this condition. You may also notice that your Labrador Retriever struggles to find their toys or locate the entrance to your home. Dogs that generally struggle with their vision may have PRA, but the only way to know for sure is to take your pup to the vet for diagnostic tests. High-quality breeders regularly perform genetic testing on their breeding pairs to ensure healthy litters. Purchasing a pup from a disreputable or inexperienced breeder can result in puppies with PRA. If you are getting your dog from a breeder, you have the right to ask for all their health forms related to the parents and even past litters. They should be able to provide you with proof that the dogs are as healthy as possible. If you suspect that your dog may have PRA, your vet will perform a standard series of eye tests. If they cannot rule out PRA, they may recommend genetic testing to confirm or deny the diagnosis. Sadly, there are few ways to reverse or stop the damage that PRA causes. Still, this condition is not painful. Pet owners can implement helpful tools, introduce new training tasks, and practice patience. This may mean introducing specific sound cues for everyday tasks, reducing home layout changes, and adding protective gates around your home or swimming pool. Overall, the best possible treatment for dogs with PRA is thoughtfulness and affection. Many times, a blocked or inactive tear duct is to blame for this condition. Some breeds are prone to inherited KCS as their genes lack the information to help their bodies generate and maintain healthy tear ducts. However, an infected third eye gland can also cause KCS. Keeping your dog in an unclean kennel or boarding facility can result in KCS. With that in mind, proper hygiene and grooming are two ways that owners can prevent infectious KCS. However, inheritable forms are naturally far more challenging to combat. Common Symptoms When your vet checks for signs and symptoms of KCS, they tend to look for eye irritation and redness, as well as pus-like discharge near the corners of the eyes. Unlike some other eye problems, KCS is almost always present in both eyes at the same time. Still, to make an accurate diagnosis, your vet may perform several minor procedures. They might take a small tissue sample and have it analyzed for the presence of tear film, or they may utilize Schirmer Tear Test strips. Pet parents can also purchase and use Schirmer Tear Test strips to test for eye dryness. Not only are usage instructions included with every order, but each envelope features an easy-to-read scale. The majority of dogs with KCS need special eye drops to keep their eyes healthy. Pups with congenital KCS will likely need daily drops for the whole of their lives. However, dogs with an acute, infectious case of dry eye may be able to wean off eye drops once their infection has cleared up. Notably, this condition may not affect labs as often as it affects other breeds, particularly smaller ones. Breeds such as the Boston terrier and English springer spaniel tend to develop or inherit KCS far more than their larger labrador retriever relatives. Cataracts are far more noticeable than many other eye problems. In turn, the retina may struggle to process the light coming into the eye, resulting in partial or complete blindness. This condition often occurs during old age, but previous eye injuries and certain illnesses can increase cataract development. Additionally, some genetic markers may influence the onset of cataracts. The HSF4 gene seems to be one of the most influential markers of canine cataracts. However, testing for this gene can be challenging and expensive. Still, in most cases, the symptoms of cataracts are evident. Common Symptoms As mentioned above, cataracts are relatively easy to diagnose. In addition, unlike other forms of eye disease, cataracts are fairly noticeable. However, catching cataract formation during its early stages could help reduce overall treatment times and costs. Consequently, pet parents should watch for any discoloration in the eye , as well as any whitish change around the pupil. Conferring with a vet can help you determine whether your labrador retriever has cataracts. Diagnosis and Treatment Like many other types of labrador retriever eye problems, one of the best treatment methods for cataracts is prevention. Adopting a dog from a reputable breeder that screens for genetic diseases and abnormalities is crucial. However, owners of labs that are currently developing cataracts should seek veterinary counsel. In some cases, canine cataract surgery may also be an option. Vets often perform a physical examination to check for cataracts. Retinal Dysplasia One of the more common inherited eye problems that labrador retrievers develop is retinal dysplasia RD. While breeders can test for RD, helping prevent its spread to future generations, some breeders opt-out of genetic testing. This abnormal shape or design can result in partial blindness or vision difficulties. In many cases, a dog with RD will have strange folds throughout their retina. While many cases are mild and relatively treatable, severe cases can lead to total retinal detachment. When this happens, your lab will go entirely blind. That said, some dogs are born with a form of RD that disappears with time. If puppies fall ill while still in the womb, they may be more prone to developing RD. Visiting your vet is the best way to diagnose and treat RD. Consistent check-ups can help you determine the type of RD your labrador retriever has and how best to treat it. Generally, pet parents may struggle to identify the earliest symptoms of RD. A vet can use precise medical instruments to test for eye conditions, including RD. Depending on their age and the severity of their particular condition, these dogs may already be partially or totally blind. Be sure to take note of any clumsiness or confusion your dog exhibits. Walking into walls, getting lost, or bumping into new pieces of furniture are all signs of vision problems. That said, most vets will use an ophthalmoscope to check for retinal folds and attachments. Unfortunately, retinal dysplasia is not treatable, so if your labrador retriever is diagnosed with severe RD, the first course of action should be to have them spayed or neutered. Doing this will help future puppies from inheriting the condition. Secondly, you should do everything you can to ensure your dog has a happy and healthy life. For example, you may want to set up protective gates around your house, especially if you live in a multi-story dwelling. Entropion Entropion might be the most common eye problem that plagues labrador retrievers. Entropion is when the upper or lower eyelids roll inward toward the eye. Additionally, tiny particles of dust or dirt can become trapped between the eyelid and eye surface, causing pain and discomfort. Labrador retrievers may be prone to developing a case of entropion due to excess skin around the eyes. Older dogs may be slightly more at risk of developing this condition, as the skin around the eyes occasionally forms small folds. Left untreated, entropion can result in long-lasting vision damage. This often means pawing at the affected eye or repeatedly rubbing it against surfaces. Unfortunately, these methods typically only add to the problem. Dogs with entropion may also produce an excessive amount of tears and appear to be crying. In addition, their eyes may be swollen, red, and irritated. Additionally, some dogs squint and repeatedly blink when suffering from entropion. This is similar to how you might react if you got a small piece of sand in your eye. Early treatment often results in few veterinary costs, as mild acute cases might only require a few days worth of lubricating eye drops. Sadly, deciding to wait for veterinary care could cause your dog lasting pain and vision loss. Diagnosis and Treatment Vets can spot entropion from a mile away. The more challenging aspect of this condition is determining the level of damage caused to the cornea. Severe, long-term cases may require surgery, removing some excess skin around the eye, much like an eye lift. The best time to visit your vet is pretty much any time! Conclusion Labrador retrievers may inherit specific eye problems, including progressive retinal atrophy PRA and retinal dysplasia. Older dogs also have a relatively high risk of developing cataracts as they enter their senior years. Dogs with malformed or injured eyelids can also suffer from entropion. That said, some conditions are hereditary, making them challenging to prevent. Still, there are helpful treatment options that can help labrador retrievers with eye problems enjoy a happier, more comfortable life. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. If it takes longer than 21 days for a lab puppy to open its eyes, look for infections and visit a vet for advice. It takes about eight weeks for a lab puppy's full eyesight development to reach adult levels. We recommend waiting at least eight weeks before adopting a lab puppy so they can develop their sight, walking, running, and health first. But one thing many people ask is when they first open their eyes. On average, lab puppies open their eyes within the first days but sometimes, it can take as long as days. It takes a few weeks for most puppies to open their eyes because they are sensitive to light. Opening their eyes is the first major step in a puppy's growth and development. Lab puppies are born with their eyes closed, and it takes time for all dogs, including labs, to grow and develop. Keep reading to learn everything necessary about puppy eyes and their development. Lab puppies do not open their eyes until they are about days old. The maximum estimate for a lab puppy to open its eyes is days. They are born with their eyes closed and aren't developed enough to open them until they are about two weeks old. They will likely start to make more noise as they become more alert and aware of their surroundings. Remember that every dog is different, so these are just general guidelines. For example, they might make little whimpers and squeaks more clearly. This is because puppies are born with their eyelids sealed together. This is due to their optical nerves not having full function yet, and bright lights are too much for them to handle. They are still delicate. They are born from darkness, and the outside world is much brighter for newborn puppies. It takes time for these little creatures to adjust properly. So when a lab puppy is born, they have its eyes shut. All dogs are born as puppies with their eyes closed. The same is true for lab puppies with tightly closed eyelids in the first few days after birth. Once the eyelids open, the eyes are still delicate because this is the first real exposure to bright lights. The eyeball is blue or gray, and the iris looks the same. All puppies have this same eye color at this age too. The true eye color isn't developed until the lab puppy is eight weeks old. This means they will change color and become more pigmented as they age. Around the same time, the eyeball will grow, slowly becoming more visible. Their vision is mostly movement and shapes, without any ability to see anything accurately. By eight weeks, a lab puppy has developed acute vision. This is one of the reasons why many dog adoptions occur at eight weeks or later. Keep an eye out for signs of eye infections in puppies, especially since the lab is very young. We recommend trying one of the following things if a lab has gone past 21 days without first opening its eyes. This is something to be concerned about, and massaging the eyelids, identifying swelling, and contacting a vet is the best solution. Massage The Eyelids Sometimes a litter of lab puppies can be underdeveloped. This can happen if the lab is very premature. It may take longer for their eyes to open when this happens, but it's still alarming and worth monitoring. Massaging the eyelids gently can help. This can be done once a day to help the puppy improve their eye strength and soon be able to open its eyes. Look For Swelling After trying the massage technique, be sure to look for any type of infection or swelling in the eye area. Some signs of potential problems include swelling, pus, or abnormalities around the eyes. When this happens, professional help is needed to analyze the puppy's health. Puppies are born with their eyes shut. They also lack mobility and must be monitored extremely carefully at birth, which is true for the first weeks after they are also born. This puts more pressure on the new owner to know about potential health issues while increasing the initial costs. Caring for a puppy in the first six weeks is also much more difficult. It takes about eight weeks for them to develop their adult vision capabilities. This means the next weeks should be steady growth to allow the puppies to become more comfortable with their surroundings. By the eight-week mark, the lab puppy is grown, medicated, and capable of much more. And this is around the time when potential owners can start to adopt. Before eight weeks old and adoption, lab puppies also develop more in other areas. This includes learning to climb in the first weeks and learning to walk, run, and play with confidence by week four. Blue Labs with blue eyes? In fact, there are very few ways for dogs to have blue eyes, and none of them occur naturally in the Labrador breed. But can you picture their eyes without looking at a photo? Chocolate Lab eye color Eye color in Labradors falls broadly into two categories: brown, and hazel. Of course, a little natural variation is allowed between individuals. So brown eyes can vary from dark espresso to warm sepia, and everything in between. And hazel eyes can have varying proportions of green, amber and brown in them. At the furthest possible end of the spectrum, you might even occasionally meet a chocolate lab with green eyes. This is true of the chocolate English Labrador belonging to show lines, and the American Chocolate brown Lab bred from working lines. When there is lots of melanin in the eye it absorbs light, and we see the color brown. When there is very little melanin, light scatters around the tissues of the iris instead, and we perceive that scattered light as being blue. Green, yellow, grey and amber eyes are caused by an intermediate amount of melanin, so that we see a mix of both phenomena. There are four ways dogs can have so little pigment in their eyes that they appear blue, but none of them are associated with Labradors. The blue eye gene Some dogs carry a specific gene for blue eyes called ALX4, which determines the amount of pigment in the eyes independently of the genes determining coat color. Huskies are a well-known example of a breed carrying this gene. Merle coloring Merle coat coloring is closely associated with blue eyes. Dogs with the merle gene have patches of diluted pigment in their coat, and often one or two blue eyes. Common examples include Australian Shepherds and Great Danes. Albinism Albinism is a genetic condition which inhibits pigment formation anywhere in the body. Albino dogs have white fur, and blue or pink eyes. Dogs with white patches covering one or both eyes are also less likely to make pigment in those irises. What about Lab with blue eyes? They are highly pigmented dogs, and that includes their eyes! However, some Labradors with the color dilution gene do make less pigment than others. Silver Labs are chocolate Labs with the color dilution gene. Their coat is lighter brown than a traditional chocolate Lab — think more chocolate milkshake than chocolate brownie. Their eyes are lighter too — usually somewhere between amber and pale green. Baby chocolate Lab with blue eyes All Labrador puppies are born with blue eyes to begin with. The earliest you might start to see their final eye color appearing is about a month old, and it can take a further two months for the pigment to finish developing. They could have inherited the blue eye gene from a Husky ancestor and combined it with the genes for a brown coat. Or, they could have inherited the merle gene from a merle ancestor. If they have the merle gene they will also have a merle pattern coat, so have a look for tell tale patches of dilute fur color. What about a blue Labrador with blue eyes? Blue Lab puppies are something our readers often ask about, meaning dogs with grey fur. Could this be an alternative route to a Labrador with blue eyes? Blue dogs are black dogs with color dilution. Black Labs with the dilution gene are known as charcoal rather than blue. They are not terribly common, and their pedigree status is often subject to heated debate.