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Articles Probably one of the most fun and endearing grooming trends when it comes to dogs is the teddy bear cut. Poodles were built for this aesthetic which is why the Teddy Bear Poodle is so popular. A Teddy Bear Poodle is a Poodle that is groomed to look like a teddy bear. This often includes specifically trimming the fur to create a rounded, stuffed toy aesthetic. Contrary to popular misconception, Teddy Bear Poodles are actually purebred Poodles and not mixed dogs. Owning and caring for a Teddy Bear Poodle is a great responsibility. You need to understand not only how to raise a happy and healthy dog but also how to maintain their adorable teddy bear cut. If you have no idea where to start, you have come to the right place. A Teddy Bear Poodle is a term used to refer to a purebred Poodle that has been groomed to look like a teddy bear. They are not a breed variation or a mixed breed doggy as some may claim. Given the fact that Teddy Bear Poodles are basically like any other Poodle, they conform to the same breed standards as Poodles with any other style of grooming. However, there are a few specific features that are preferred over others to create the realistic teddy bear aesthetic. Size Technically speaking, a Teddy Bear Poodle can be of any size as long as they are purebred. However, to achieve a closer likeness to the small stuffed toys they are named after, Toy Poodles and Miniature Poodles are most commonly styled as teddy bears. Toy Poodles are the smallest recognized type of Poodle and range from 4 lbs in weight and should not exceed 10 inches in height. Miniature Poodles on the other hand range from 10 to 15 lbs in weight and 10 to 15 inches in height. Coat Type The teddy bear aesthetic in Poodle can only be achieved if the coat type is dense and fluffy enough to be easily manipulated into the right style. For this, Poodles with the common curly coat are the only ones that can get the teddy bear cut. Colors Poodles come in many different colors. However, Brown and Apricot Poodles are the ones that usually get associated with the teddy bear aesthetics. Black coats are also commonly seen with this grooming style. The life expectancy for a Teddy Bear Poodle is 10 to 18 years. This range covers all sizes of Poodles from Standard Poodles that tend to live shorter to Toy Poodles that live the longest. Given that the Teddy Bear Poodle is just named so because of the grooming style, they do not deviate from this lifespan range. They also suffer the same health conditions that all other Poodles are prone to. Here are some of these diseases. This affects several functions from metabolism to thermoregulation. With Teddy Bear Poodles in particular, the alopecia associated with hypothyroidism leaves uneven patches of thin coat which ruin the whole aesthetic. In this case, it is the adrenal glands that fail to do their job of producing hormones. As with hypothyroidism, several systems are affected which results in very vague symptoms. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia in Teddy Bear Poodles is a disease of the joints where the hip joint socket fails to form normally. Taking care of a Teddy Bear Poodle is, for the most part, just like taking care of any other Poodle. Just make sure to feed them healthy, get them on a regular exercise schedule, stick to your routine vet visits, and come up with a grooming schedule. However, in this case, maintaining aesthetics is the huge priority in the care of Teddy Bear Poodles. That is why we have compiled the following summary of care tips particularly aimed at improving coat health and maintaining aesthetics. You also have to ensure that the meals are balanced in terms of nutritional contents. This is because several nutrients are required for coat health from proteins and healthy fats to minerals and vitamins. And we recommend providing 1 oz of serving per pound of body weight twice daily for Teddy Bear Poodles. Pet Plate is by far the best option for balanced dog meals. They use recipes that are approved by veterinarians to ensure that your dog is getting enough of all the crucial nutrients. Some of the most effective vitamins when it comes to coat health include vitamin E, vitamin B7, and vitamin C. Constant scratching will not only mess up the aesthetic and likely cause damage to the coat with fur loss, as well as the skin if the scratching leaves open wounds. Identifying allergy triggers and avoiding them while also managing the triggers is another great strategy to keep your Teddy Bear Poo looking cute. However, the fact that Toy and Miniature Poodles are more commonly used means you may find a few differences if you compare Standard Poodles to your regular Teddy Bear Poodle. Here are a few of these personality traits so that you know what to expect exactly. Feisty And Vocal Teddy Bear Poodles are adorable, and they seem to know it, given how spunky the little doggies tend to be. Their feisty behavior is often accompanied by an inexplicable love for barking and whining. Teddy Bear Poodles will bark and whine whenever they are happy, scared, frustrated, or even just bored. Intelligent Training a Teddy Bear Poodle and living with them, in general, is very easy as they are very smart and. They pick up quickly on training and are usually very obedient. This makes Teddy Bear Poodles awesome pets for first-time dog owners. Loyal Another awesome thing you have to look forward to with Teddy Bear Poodles is the fact that they are super loyal. They love to be around their favorite humans, especially if you are active in their training and daily care. Energetic Teddy Bear Poodles are little balls of energy that are sure to keep you on your feet. They are very energetic and athletic, thereby needing frequent engagement to keep them happy. Affectionate And Clingy When Toy and Miniature Poodles get the teddy bear cut, the resulting Teddy Bear Poo will demonstrate signs of clinginess which is in contrast to the reserved and aloof Standard Poo. If you want to be showered with affection and attention, the smaller Teddy Bear Poodles are the way to go. Image from Instagram: bella. This is largely due to the fact that they have a dense and tightly curled coat which rarely sheds. And when they do shed, the fur pretty much gets trapped within the dense coat. Seeing that Teddy Bear Poos are simply regular Poodles with the same curly coat type, they also enjoy the hypoallergenic status. However, their coat care needs may be slightly different compared to those you find with other Poodles. Here are the 3 most important things you need to know about the maintenance of the teddy bear haircut on your Poodle. If anything, regular brushing to detangle and get rid of any loose fur is actually a great way to keep them looking awesome. Your choice of grooming tool also matters in which case we recommend the Furminator Undercoat Tool. This grooming comb is designed to work on any coat type and any cut style without ruining either the coat or the cut. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. However, with Teddy Bear Poodles, it is best to align and stagger your wash schedule with your teddy bear recutting and restyling schedule. To ensure that the results of your wash last long enough for the next grooming session, we recommend that you work with high-quality products like Mighty Petz 2-In-1 Oatmeal Dog Shampoo And Conditioner. This shampoo and conditioner combo is made with oatmeal extracts which help with promoting coat health. Schedule A Trimming And Restyling Every 6 Weeks If you wish to maintain the teddy bear aesthetic in your dog for a long period of time, we recommend that you plan for trimming and restyling every 6 weeks, give or take a couple of weeks. Failure to do so will leave you with an unsightly mess of fur that looks nothing like a cute and cuddly teddy bear. Not all Poodles can pull off the teddy bear cut. It largely depends on the type of coat that they have. The teddy bear grooming style works best on Poodles with the common dense, curly coat that can easily be trimmed and manipulated to achieve the aesthetic. However, Poodles that have the rarer corded coat type cannot have the teddy bear cut done on them, as the fur strands are much longer and tend to lay close to the skin as opposed to being puffed out. If you already have a Poodle, the cost of getting them groomed and styled for the teddy bear aesthetic depends on their size. Can Teddy Bear Poodles Swim? Teddy Bear Poodles not only love swimming but are actually very good at it. Their ancestors were used as water fowl retrieval dogs and their instinctive love for the water can still be seen in modern day purebred Poodles. Click for video to see Teddy Bear in action! We do NOT use photoshop to visually alter the appearance of the puppy. We are also against using a stock photo to give wrong impression of the actual puppy you will receive. Please be sure of adding the puppy as a family member before you put a deposit and make the commitment. After 2 weeks, the puppy is no longer reserved, if not paid in full. Please speak to our representative for further details. Reason one We have deep historic roots in the dog industry for years in Korea. With the experience gained from participating in dog shows, we have made special bond and connections with the breeders that are ethical and prohibit inbreeding who can entrust us with excellent quality puppies. Reason two We have partnership with prestigious veterinarians who cooperate with our respected and reputable breeders who keep all the puppies in excellent health condition. Our care team members have outstanding experiences to provide the best care for our puppies at the shop. Along with our care team, our veterinarians consistently keep our puppies in top notch shape and condition until a guardian receives their puppy. Our Standards A very high and strict standards are implemented on selecting each puppy from the litter. We personally visit the breeders and hand select the most outstanding pups. We travel hours to find the most exceptional pup from the breeder that specializes in a single breed; sometimes returning empty handed considering the fact that we could not find ones that qualifies our standards despite the reputable associated breeders we are partners with. Regardless of our stubbornness, the guidelines to our standards excels our reputation and success in the industry.

Like many small dog breeds, Pugs reach their full size faster than medium to large-sized dogs. Pugs reach their adult size around nine months of age but may continue to put on a small amount of muscle until they are a year old. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Pug be? A six-month-old Pug will weigh between 7 and 12 pounds on average and will be close to their full adult height, which is typically around 10 to 13 inches tall. Pugs are highly prone to putting on excess weight and their food intake needs to be monitored closely. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, winter and summer safety, and more! How much bigger will my Pug get? Pugs reach their full size around nine months of age but may continue filling out until they are a year old. If your Pug is younger than nine months old, they are definitely still growing! If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, they are likely still growing. This is a classic puppy feature that indicates that more growth is needed. A puppy will rarely grow to be larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Pug? According to the American Kennel Club Official Pug Standards , you can expect a full-grown Pug to weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and stand 10 to 13 inches tall. A full-grown Pug will appear compact and solid, rather than lean and leggy. If your Pug continues to put on weight past 18 pounds, reach out to your veterinarian to assess whether your Pug is putting on excessive weight. If your Pug weighs more than 18 pounds, consult with your veterinary professional to ensure that they are at their healthiest weight. Pugs are especially prone to heatstroke due to their compromised breathing. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to lessening the side effects of brachycephalic syndrome. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct narrow nostrils or elongated soft palettes. Many veterinary treatments and procedures cost thousands of dollars. When surveyed, Only .This is a crucial factor in why pet insurance is so valuable to pet parents. Pet insurance reimburses you a percentage of your out of pocket expenditure for veterinary bills. Not only can pet insurance provide you peace of mind should surgery or treatments be needed, but available wellness plans can significantly reduce the cost of routine veterinary exams or maintenance, like dog teeth cleaning or x-rays. Your veterinarian is your greatest resource in keeping your pup happy and healthy. Continue making healthy lifestyle choices, like daily exercise and a nutritious diet, for your Pug to keep them active and living their best life! Unfortunately, Pugs are prone to a larger number of health issues due to their brachycephalic syndrome and other genetic predispositions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Punk and Star Photo courtesy of The Kuney's If you have had your Pug for a while, it may be hard to believe that your 12 year old dog is the equivalent age of 59 human years; however this is a guideline that refers to the breakdown of the body's ability to fend off disease, level of exercise a dog is able to handle and so forth. An owner can have a Pug in this teens that still loves to run around the park! Let's look at the milestones that a Pug will enter from birth until the senior years. Birth to 8 Weeks - Many owners do not see this stage, however newborn Pug puppies double and triple their weight very quickly. Newborns will sleep up to 22 hours per day. Those at the 8 week mark will sleep up to .Growth is going to be rapid. It will last several months. Females will have their first heat if not spayed. Males will have viable sperm. Though technically a female can become pregnant at this young age, breeding is recommended at the age of 1 year old or older. Males should be at least 9 months old. Some Pug puppies will stop growing by the age of 9 months. For others, just a few pounds will be gained from now until the 12 month mark. By the time, full height is usually reached. The adult Pug will fill out in width, most noticeable in the chest area. The dog is muscular and will not grow any larger. Extra weight gain at this point may be deemed unhealthy. Pugs that gain a significant amount of weight after the age of 18 months should be checked out by the veterinarian. The Pug dog is muscular and in his or her prime. Most vets will classify a dog as a senior by age 7 or 8. Even if this is not officially done, 9 years would be the limit that one could hold off on dubbing the Pug a senior. Pug Weight and Growth Chart This chart will give you a guideline for what to expect in how fast your Pug grows and how quickly he will gain weight. An 8 week old Pug puppy will weight between 2 and 4 pounds. Though the AKC breed standard gives us a final full size of pounds 5. It's a funny thing because the changes happen gradually and owners usually do not notice.And then, one day it reaches a certain point and the owner will say, "When did my dog get old!? Your dog may show a bit of difficulty when rising from a down position. He or she may walk slower up a staircase. A quality canine mattress is recommended for any age, however during the senior years an orthopedic canine bed is more important than ever. Expect an older Pug dog to take more naps and retreat more often due to a lower tolerance for noise levels. When your dog reaches the age of 8 or 9, it will be time to give a bit more attention to certain grooming techniques. Skin looses its elasticity and cleaning wrinkles will be more important than ever. An older Pug will be more susceptible to infections. Take extra time to clean the folds and keep them dry. Your Pug's veterinarian should be performing more thorough tests, especially for sugar levels. Eye exams are very important, as well. Just as with humans, an older Pug may be more susceptible to developing diabetes, arthritis , have problems with joints and their bones may be more brittle. The pounds that they have been carrying around and the body structure that they have short legs especially have been taking its toll. At this age, excess weight be a problem. It is recommended to make a gradual change in the diet, to ensure that meals have a higher count of nutrients specifically for aging pets. If you previously gave no-so-healthy snacks, make an effort to change over to a solid, healthy meal and snack plan. It will be time to make a change in regard to a vitamin and mineral supplement, switching to a senior formula. Additional supplements can be helpful depending on a Pug's specific needs. Most often, this breed does best with supplements to aid in joint health. Omega 3 can help to keep the skin and coat healthy and combat drying issues. The intensity of exercise should be scaled back a bit for seniors ; though daily duration of activity should remain as normal if the older Pug can handle it. It is still important go for walks so that a dog's heart stays healthy; movement is very necessary. However, once your Pug dog is a senior, you do not want to overdo activities as an older heart will not be able to handle what a younger heart was able to. It is during this time that you want to make the household as quite and peaceful as possible. Unless you absolutely must, do not move your furniture or make any changes that could cause stress or confusion. Creatures of habit, dogs know where things are and it can be disturbing if the environment is changed. The ability to hold elimination may weaken as bladder and bowel muscle loose some strength. At this time, you may want to start using doggie diapers. As odd as they may look, this will help your Pug and your home stay sanitary. If your senior does have accidents, never scold or punish. This is a normal process of aging. A loving owner, will of course, want to spend every moment that is left by showing compassion and care. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Since I was little and running around the playground with my friends, I've wanted to welcome a pug into my life. A friendly, happy puppy who will be my fur baby for existence. This was only a dream until that day. While I thought Carl was at work, someone knocked on my door, extremely loud and quite aggressively. So I rushed down the stairs thinking what the actual hell that person think knocking on people's door like that I will tell him what I think. When I opened the door, Carl was standing there with this little tiny pug in his arms tucked in nicely and looked so cosy in that blanket. I got pretty emotional. I was so overwhelmed with happiness and love for both of them that I quickly forgot about telling him off for knocking so damn harsh. Carl handed him over to me he was just staring at me for so long with his big bulging eyes then he gave me a big wet kiss on my cheek. I knew straight away that we were soul mates. Being a pet parent for five months has changed my life and taught me so much. Pugs have so many unique characteristics and having a pug puppy of my own now I have learnt so many new things about this adorable breed. Either though it's hard to say no for them, there are some things that you may need to consider before you adopt one of your own. You will never ever be alone again. I'm pretty sure that you have seen paintings or movies which shows that pugs were bred as lapdogs for the Chinese emperors in the accent times. This can give you a hint that even nowadays pugs are very good at this. Happy follows me around the house literally everywhere. He is like my shadow; he goes everywhere I go. I mean everywhere, including the bathroom. No more private time to yourself once you get a pug. Not to mention, there is absolutely no personal space. Happy literally sit in our face if he feels like it. He is really not bothered, and he thinks that's a perfect place to rest. Gain weight easily. Now that my brother moved in with us, I live currently with two chefs and a pug. They are all obsessed with food, so it's tough not to pick up their habit. I feel confident to say that out of the three boys, Happy has the biggest obsession of food. Happy is such a small breed, but when it comes to food he will make room for it, I mean literally anytime. He eats like there is no tomorrow. He doesn't get full; this is why when it comes to a pug, you always need to measure their food intake or they will plump out in no time. Always follow a healthy diet and regular exercises with a pug. They will eat literally everything. I've seen Happy eat the strangest things ever. Like snail's house, orange peels and even broken brick bits. No matter how cautious we are about things dropping or lying around on the floor, he will find something that he really not suppose to, and he will eat it. Some expensive vet visits. This is the part that scares a lot of people away from getting a pug. They are prone to health problems such as eye ulcers, epilepsy, skin fold infections, kidney stones, breathing problems and even food allergies. You also need to be extra cautious about their bulging eyes as they can easily scratch them. To summarise this, do your research about their health issues and make sure you check up on the breeder before you adopt your furry friend. Carl's did his research very well before getting Happy, his parents and even grandparents never had any health issues, so that's a good start, but again this doesn't mean that he cannot get any. Fingers crossed. Also, make sure you get pet insurance. High maintenance. Don't get me wrong I'm definitely not complaining as I love pugs and I love Happy, but he is without any doubt a high maintenance puppy. Cutting his nails, brushing his fur, bathing him every two weeks or we will end with a very dirty smelly pug, brushing his teeth and a lot of facial care. Those beautiful wrinkles on a pug's face require a lot of cleaning, or it will result in infections. Yes, he needs just as much carrying as a child. If you don't have time for all this, pugs aren't the right breed for you I'm afraid. Attention seekers. Pug puppies always want to play and like to be in the centre of the attention. They are people dogs. They aren't the kind of breed who are okay with just left for themselves all the time. Anytime Happy plays with his toys, he always around us. He tries to get as close as he can, and he is continuously checking upon us from the corner of his eyes to make sure we still there. Love or hate relationship with water. Some pugs absolutely cannot stand water. Puddles, ponds, showers, rains all a big no for those who hate water. However, certain pugs love water just as much as food. Luckily our little boy is the second one. Anytime he hears the shower or the bath running, he runs all the way up on the stairs across the hallway to the bathroom hoping that it is his bathtime. Carl loves running the shower for a minute or two before jumping in and by the time he is trying to get in Happy is there having so much fun with the dropping water on his face. Their obsession with toilets. Happy gets way too excited when he hears the toilet flushing. During a dog's house training, there are times when accidents happen. Sometimes more sometimes less but at the end of the day you will end up picking up a lot of poops. It all depends where the accident happens, but when it closer to the bathroom, I always flush it down, and of course, Happy inspect the situation very carefully. He gets to the bathroom before me then he stands up on his feet, putting the first two paws on the toilet seat and waiting until I flush the toilet down. Once it's flushed, he walks away as nothing happened. Sounds funny and quite worrying in the same time writing this down. Double coated of fur. Well, this is something that certainly surprised me about pugs. Looking at all the furniture around the house and our clothes are more definitely don't look the same as used to before Happy. No matter how many times we clean everything, they all covered with his fur in the next hour. Fawn pugs have a double coat which means they malt I mean they malt a hell of a lot. Once you get a pug, a hair-less outfit will be a distant memory, and a sticky lint roller will be your best friend. Energy level. Happy is a very happy and cheerful dog. He enjoys his nap times, but he thrives on activity. He is always ready to play, but this is not uncommon with young pug puppies. Most of them just like him—walkies, a lot of playtimes and running up and down the stairs nonstop. Patience with house training. Pugs are very stubborn, which means they will test your patience when it comes to potty training. They aren't the easiest breed to potty train but again not impossible. One thing to keep in mind is they do not respond to punishment quite well, so try to train them with positive reinforcement like treats. Stubborn breed. Oh, yes, they are. They do not respond to commands quickly, and it will take time to accept your authority. They do love to do what they want, and lead-training will might take a bit longer than with other dogs, but if you are patient enough and you stick to it, you will notice that he is acknowledging who is in charge. They're very loyal. Just because training is a bit of challenge with a pug doesn't mean they are not as smart as other dogs. Pugs are incredibly loyal once they are trained. Once you gained their trust, they will follow you anywhere. They will listen to every word you say intently. Their purpose in life is most certainly is your happiness. This is why our little boy got his name, Happy. He's already made our lives happier than ever before. Pug eyes. Pugs have large, gorgeous, dark eyes which also make them very vulnerable. They are very sensitive, and they are easily proved to any eye issues. When Happy was about months old, we got him a fluffy toy that he loved, but we had to get rid of it because every time he chewed it, he got a bit of fluff on his eye. It was not pretty and wasn't a simple task to get it removed as it got stuck on his eyeball. Excellent watchdog. Pugs make good guard dogs. They keep the noise to the minimum that your neighbour also will appreciate. Have space for your pug wardrobe. Some humans love to dress their dogs in cute outfits, so if you are one of them, pugs are for you. Yep, I'm just as guilty as you are! At times, clothing is necessary for dogs like for most of the flat-faced breeds. Pugs are not good at controlling their body temperature, which means you need to protect them in the cold by clothing them. Unique characters. Pugs are super extraordinary creatures who will change your life for the better. They wheeze, snort, sneeze, fart and snore. They make some super weird and funny noises while they are napping. They will keep you laughing and put a smile on your face every single day. They will steal your heart. Pugs are happy, loyal, charming, playful and mischievous creatures. Once you get one of your own, you will never go back. They give unconditional love to their families. Happy always give kisses and want to snuggle up with us. He glazes at us like we are the best people on this planet. Completely melts our hearts. We have happy for about five months now, and despite all his quirks I do not regret it for a second welcoming him in our lives. He makes the perfect pet for us. Since day one, he got me hooked for life. Have you ever considered getting a pug? Have you ever had a pug? If so, please share your tips or advice in the comment below.

Sometimes called a Bull-Pug, the Miniature Bulldog is a cross between an English Bulldog and a Pug, Puggle, or French Bulldog to create a smaller size bulldog that will be perfect for your family. English Bulldogs were bred to bait, guard, and control bulls while Pugs have been companions to royals since about BC. They are peaceful and get along well with animals and people. You may find that some males are territorial or try to display dominance or aggression toward other male dogs. By nature, Bulldogs may occasionally display overprotective behaviors, but early training and socialization can help you manage it. They can be stubborn and slow during training, but they retain what they learn well. It frequently has a shortened muzzle like both parent breeds, which can sometimes lead to difficulty breathing especially in extreme temperatures. Eyes are dark, large, and round, and ears are thin and small and hang in a rose or button configuration. Mini Bulldogs have sleek and short, smooth and glossy coats that shed moderately but almost never tangle or mat. Black and fawn is the most common coloration, but you can also see brindle, red, and white. Typically this breed will be about 15 inches tall and weigh 15 to 45 pounds. They are not likely to ask for walks, and you may even find your pup to be lazy! But some daily exercise is crucial to keep these naturally thick-set dogs from becoming obese. Obesity runs in both parent breeds, so Mini Bulldogs are especially prone to putting on unhealthy weight. We recommend 30 minutes of activity per day and about 2 miles walking per week. Take care when exercising because their shortened muzzle makes them particularly sensitive to extreme temperatures. Call Morgan at for specific pup identification if you are leaning towards placing an early deposit. Please check back, we update our website daily! Please see our Deposit Page and our Transportation Page for information on getting your puppy. We love the English bulldog temperament, physique and expression, I just personally like it to be about lbs. We find the smaller sizes are more buoyant and playful and, though still very heat sensitive, are better able to cope with life in general. Downsizing an AKC breed takes time. Our girls all come from long lines of lb. We not trying for 20 pounders…our goal is to have healthy, beautiful babies that consistently mature at lbs. If you see a puppy that tugs on your heartstrings please call, or go to our deposit page for more information. In the last few years it has become clear that most people would prefer their puppy to be transported using our White Glove transport or Nanny Flight transport. Today, we have requests for our Puppies from all over the country. Because of this, the majority those requesting a Sugarplum Bulldog Puppy have also requested transport to their area of the country; those in Florida, for example, cannot easily make the drive to RI. As such, the majority of our Puppies have shifted to a transport model; this gets them closer to their new forever home. Because of this, we have come to the decision, that for the well being of our Puppies and for the benefit of our new Sugarplum Bulldog owners, we have developed a transport model for our pups using our Puppy-Mobile with direct transport to the pups new Forever Home! Our Mid-Western breeding home is co-owned by Sugarplum Bulldogs, and our partner. I realize that not having a chance to play with the Pups is disappointing to some, but please understand that our team are dedicated to the highest level of care for our little Pups. We truly feel that this new model is in the best interested of our Puppies and their new homes. Please feel free to ask me any questions…. Life Span Did You Know? Although these dogs are small, they are known to be full of love and affection, especially for their favorite humans. Although the American Kennel Club does not recognize them, they are recognized by other canine registries. They thrive on being with their favorite humans and enjoy nothing more than spending time with them. As long as they are properly socialized, their calm nature and sweet disposition mean they tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they are likely to bark to alert you of strangers, they also tend to be open to meeting new people and warm up quickly once introduced. The Mini Bulldog is a highly adaptable dog. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes with or without yards. They do best in moderate climates as they are very sensitive to heat and need some winter dog products to stay warm in the cold as well. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Miniature Bulldog include cherry eye, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and luxating patella. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Since both parents are brachycephalic, you can expect a Mini Bulldog to be a flat-faced, snub-nosed breed as well. This can contribute to difficulties breathing and regulating temperature, so you need to be careful about heat and overexertion with these dogs. The Miniature Bulldog is eager to please and will strive to get attention and praise from their families. Although they can have a little bit of a stubborn streak at times, they still tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Not only do they help reinforce training and keep it consistent, but they are also great opportunities to continue to socialize your puppy. Mini Bulldogs have short, dense coats that shed a low to moderate amount year-round. Brushing their coat weekly and the occasional bath is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. In addition to standard dog grooming brushes for this coat type, a rubber mitt can be a good tool to have on hand for easily removing excess fur. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks and carefully cleaning ears as needed can help prevent ear infections. Although their big, round eyes are adorable, they are also prone to damage from debris and can be sensitive. As a small dog breed, the Miniature Bulldog is more prone to developing dental disease. Daily brushing plus cleanings at the vet when needed are a good start. Although they will be energetic when they play, the Miniature Bulldog can also be one of the laziest dog breeds if you let them. Generally, they are happy to relax and cuddle with you, especially if there is food involved. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this dog. If they are interested in more activity or you need to encourage them to move more, there are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs that will let you give them the activity they need without overheating them. A fully-grown Mini Bulldog usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Miniature Bulldogs generally live for years on average. Featured Miniature Bulldog Article. Upload Image.They were created during the s by reproducers who were hoping to make a canine like the English Bulldog, however in a more modest , better bundle. A scaled down Bulldog and a toy bulldog are frequently mistaken for the smaller than normal English Bulldog. For the wellbeing of correlation: Miniature English Bulldog Physical Characteristics The small scale English Bulldog has a typical load of 15 to 30 pounds and can contain some Pug or Boston Terrier in its genealogy, contingent upon the raiser. The English Bulldog can arrive at up to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. The smaller than expected Bulldog is a crossbreed of an English Bulldog blended in with a Pug, and they burden normal 30 to 40 pounds. Toy Bulldog The toy bulldog was reared in Britain and does not exist anymore. These canines were blends of French and English Bulldogs and weighed around 20 pounds. They are between 13 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder, with guys being bigger than females. They have a brachycephalic face- meaning they have a wide, short skull — and a low-thrown, solid body. It comes in mottle, brown, grovel, red, white, or fixed. They require week after week brushing to keep their skin solid and to eliminate hair from shedding. They additionally need the folds of their skin cleaned consistently to hold skin conditions back from creating. Alongside their jacket and skin needs, be ready to manage a great deal of slobber. They are friendly canines who really do well with kids and love to nestle. They can likewise show a few defensive propensities around their home and family, and are faithful to their families. They can likewise be troublesome for certain different canines because of their bulldog legacy. Because of the medical conditions and unscrupulous rearing practices that flourish with this variety, research your reproducer cautiously prior to getting one of their canines. On the off chance that you choose to safeguard a canine, you can attempt the Bulldog Club of America, which might have postings of these more modest renditions of their variety, as well as the Petfinder and Embrace a-Pet sites. Smaller than expected miniature english bulldogs are most certainly charming and well disposed, however they accompany a great deal of medical conditions. It might likewise be more enthusiastically to track down a very much reproduced canine. Know there are many worries in the canine extravagant about reproducing these canines with such poor actual wellbeing possibilities. Our website is dedicated to connecting you with reputable English Bulldog breeders across the USA, ensuring that you bring home a healthy and happy furry companion without breaking the bank. Finding the perfect English Bulldog puppy at an affordable price can be a challenging task. However, our platform simplifies the process by curating a list of trusted English Bulldog breeders who offer these delightful companions at budget-friendly rates. We understand that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and companionship that a lovable English Bulldog can bring to their lives. History of English bulldog puppies Cheap near you! The national dog of England, their strong heads, loose skin and short legs give them a very distinctive, amusing appearance. Bulldogs are generally gentle, affectionate dogs that love to be around their families. They are excellent with children and have a medium-low activity level that makes them great for apartment or city living. These loveable dogs are loyal to a fault and are sure to make you smile. English Bulldogs are calm, non-sporting dogs with a sourmug face that love to chew and play tug-of-war. British Bulldogs rarely bark but snore, snort, wheeze, grunt, and snuffle instead. Bulldogs are a people-oriented, loyal and devoted watchdogs that love to nap by your side. Temperament of english bulldogs Temperament is a crucial factor to consider when bringing a new furry friend into your life. English Bulldogs are known for their gentle, friendly, and affectionate nature. They make excellent companions and are particularly good with children, making them a fantastic choice for families. Despite their somewhat serious expression, they have a fun-loving and playful side that will bring joy to your everyday life. This Bulldog puppy is a very social and sweet baby girl who loves everyone she meets! She is raised with children that play with her daily. This gal will steal your heart the second you look into those puppy eyes and when she gives you one of her famous puppy kisses. She will make a fantastic addition to any family. This puppy is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. Her momma is Kayla. This puppy is anxious to meet her new family and begin her life of adventure with you! Call now! At cheappuppiesforsale. These lovable puppies are perfect for anyone looking for an affordable family pet. English Bulldogs are small, fun dogs that require minimal training. They are known for their clownish personalities and love of cuddles. History of English bulldog puppies English bulldog puppies are a completely man-made breed. The national dog of England, their strong heads, loose skin and short legs give them a very distinctive, amusing appearance. Bulldogs are generally gentle, affectionate dogs that love to be around their families. They are excellent with children and have a medium-low activity level that makes them great for apartment or city living. These loveable dogs are loyal to a fault and are sure to make you smile. English Bulldogs are calm, non-sporting dogs with a sourmug face that love to chew and play tug-of-war. British Bulldogs rarely bark but snore, snort, wheeze, grunt, and snuffle instead. Bulldogs are a people-oriented, loyal and devoted watchdogs that love to nap by your side. Unlike other breeders, We choose parents not based on champion bloodlines and registry, but on health, temperament, and looks. As a result, cheappuppiesforsale. From this breed of dogs and others,We and our staff offer a variety of healthy, attractive pups 8 weeks of age and older, all of whom are ready for a loving family and home. As a leading national seller of bulldogs, cheappuppiesforsale. The website maintains an extensive FAQ section, where Howard fields questions about the breed regarding health, fitness, care, and maintenance. This handsome English Bulldog will sure melt your heart with one look into his adorable eyes. He is a very social pup who is played with regularly. This fella is excited to meet his forever friend. He is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. Reviews There are no reviews yet.

Our passion for this unique and beloved breed is evident in every puppy that we raise. From their sparkling eyes, to their wrinkled faces, and their short, stocky legs, English Bulldogs are truly one of a kind. At Dazzling Bulldogs, we take pride in carefully selecting and breeding only the healthiest and most beautiful bulldogs to ensure that each and every puppy we raise is nothing short of perfect. Let us help you bring a little bit of dazzle into your life with one of our adorable bulldog puppies. Visit our website to learn more and find your new furry family member today. We are a family breeder, All of our bulldogs live inside our home and our loved as family pets. Every litter we have is hand raised inside from birth. Our Website was created to help educate animal lovers about our favorite breed, The English Bulldog. WE specialize in rare colors and Merle English Bulldogs. Dazzling English Bulldog Puppies for Sale We keep a waiting list for our puppies and have an application process to assure they go to a loving stable environment. Our English Bulldogs are all our pets and are our family members. The English Bulldog breeder you decide to go with can be the best or worst decision when looking at an English Bulldog puppy for sale. .We make sure to only feed the best food and breed genetically healthy lines. Pick your breeder carefully and as a result, you will be assured of the healthiest English Bulldog puppy having the least amount of issues. When you purchase a puppy from Dazzling Bulldogs, you will have lifetime advice and guidance any time day or night. Fur Ever Family Dazzling Bulldogs was created solely to unite loving companion puppies with owners who need them as much as they need us. If you have any questions please feel free to call us directly at the number below. We would love to speak with you and guide you in the fun and exciting process of finding your newest family member! Show me the Puppies Get ready to fall in love with Dazzling Bulldogs, the premier English bulldog breeder that is dedicated to providing the ultimate bulldog experience. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Orlando FL? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Orlando FL? First off, each of the Orlando Bulldog Breeders will set a price for their pups which is partly affected by their experience and reputation. Secondly, the color and markings of each individual pup can affect their price, as can unusual eye colors like blue. What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Orlando near me? In fact, you can even arrange to pick up your new dream pup at your nearest major airport! How do you check Bulldog breeders Orlando? Our standards are pretty high when it comes to accepting new businesses into the Uptown network. Our mission is to showcase only the best pups from the companies with the highest standards of welfare and quality. You can check out our Breeder Pledge for more information. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other networks with Bulldog puppies Orlando? That means you know that every business listed on our network has a great track record of producing the best quality pups. What are puppy mills really like? The conditions in these mills are pretty unpleasant, with female dogs forced to have multiple litters of sickly pups every year. Sadly these pups often have serious health or behavior issues. Are there any Bulldog puppies for sale Orlando right now? We have to tell you that you might want to take all these little cuties home. Those cute little wrinkly faces were made to melt hearts! What sort of dogs are Bulldogs? Bulldogs have come a long way since their original purpose of herding cattle. The Orlando Bulldog for sale at Uptown would rather chill out with their family, preferably on the couch, than engage in too much activity. How big does a Bulldog get? Height wise, Bulldogs are a medium-sized breed, so a Bulldog Orlando pup will end up at around inches tall when fully grown. One thing all Bulldogs love is their food, so you will need to take care not to overfeed them, despite those pleading looks. Are Bulldogs good to train? Do Bulldogs make good family dogs? They definitely do. Their sweet and affectionate natures mean they just love spending time with all members of the family, both young and old.

Our History Simply Shepherds Rescue is an all-volunteer non-profit companion animal rescue organization working in the South Suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. Our primary focus is on rescuing abandoned, neglected and homeless German Shepherd dogs. We provide education to the public about responsible pet ownership in socializing, training, and caring for their family companion. We work hard in finding the perfect match for our dogs and their new permanent loving forever homes. We do not have a shelter so we depend on loving foster homes to provide a temporary sanctuary for our animals in need. We are comprised entirely of experienced volunteers united and inspired by a common compassion for all animals. We depend solely on donations and adoption fees to help us save the animals that come into our care. Each orphaned animal we help is provided proper veterinary attention and then is placed into our foster program. Our foster program is the key to helping a homeless animal become a loving pet. Some of our dogs need extra special care and attention to recuperate from medical, mental, or physical neglect and some just need to regain their confidence and trust in people. All of our dogs receive TLC and basic family member training. What is fostering? Fostering is a second chance. Sometimes it is the only chance. We have the knowledge, the tools, and many other resources to help these wonderful creatures. What we don't have are enough foster homes. Can you open your heart and your home and become a foster parent for a loving dog in need? Please contact us to find out what you can do to give a dog a chance. Separate Lifetimes We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own, live within a fragile circle; easily and often breached. Unable to accept its awful gaps, we would still live no other way. We cherish memory as the only certain immortality, never fully Irving Townsend Help Our Cause Your support and contributions will enable us to help these animals. Your generous donation will fund our mission. Donate Now. The adoption fee of German Shepherd in Illinois will range from two hundred fifty dollars up to four three hundred fifty dollars. Choosing a Good German Shepherd Rescue If you are trying to adopt a rescued German Shepherd from German Shepherd shelters, you might be confused about what you should consider. If you would ask people like your friends and family, they might have different opinions that would confuse you. But there is not so much to consider. The fact that you chose to adopt a rescued German Shepherd than buying one is already one act of kindness. You might already know that there are so many rescued German Shepherds in the world and only a few German Shepherd shelters. If the German Shepherd comes at you with no hesitations and no aggressiveness, you would know that it was a good rescue. If the German Shepherd is warm and inviting on your first encounter, it is already a good rescue because there are no signs of any trauma or aggression. How do I pick a good rescue German Shepherd? You might ask yourself what kind of German Shepherd should you adopt and rehome. You can look for outgoing dogs. You can tell that by observing their body language when you first met. If you are also not down to unlimited patience, you can also avoid a shy German Shepherd. These dogs can be a little bit of work because they are afraid and run away from you. If you are outgoing and a very hands-on person, you might not enjoy your German Shepherd in North Carolina because of its shyness. However, this is only a guide, and if the personality of the dog is not that of a big deal for you, you can pick any dog you want. Dogs can be trained and can also be flexible like some people are. If you love a challenge, you can pick any dog you want. Summary In summary, you can pick any German Shepherd you want in Illinois, but you can pick one that is not suitable for you. If you wish to avoid that mistake, you can use the guides above in choosing the suitable German Shepherd rescue in Illinois for you. Other States. While shepherd dogs look as cuddly as a teddy bear with their beautiful fur and brown eyes, their muscular stature gives them a quiet strength. They were beat out of the 1 spot only by the affable Labrador Retriever. If you live in Chicago, IL, and are thinking about acquiring one of these big guys for you and your family, here is how you can adopt your own German Shepherd. Why Adopt a German Shepherd? Some of the more than dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club are more common than others, and the German Shepherd is one of the most popular. That aspect is not surprising as German Shepherds were first bred to be both capable working dogs and devoted family pets. Police departments and militaries choose German Shepherds because of their keen intelligence, fearlessness, trainability and remarkable physical capabilities. Families choose the breed because they know that a German Shepherd will love them dearly and keep them safe. However, Chicago residents that are thinking of buying or adopting a German Shepherd should bear in mind that doing so involves taking on a significant amount of responsibility. While German Shepherds may seem quite content to sleep or lie around the house for hours on end, they need their daily exercise to maintain optimum health. Dogs that do not get taken on walks or for exercise tend to become hyperactive or destructive, and this is especially true of active breeds like German Shepherds that were bred to work as well as play. This spike has raised concerns among animal rights advocacy groups worried about how these dogs will fare in the long term. Many of the people who adopted Huskies did not understand what they were getting into, which is why many of them wound up being surrendered to shelters or abandoned. If remaining in place has you climbing the walls and you think bringing a dog into your home will make things better, you should understand that you will be signing up for a 10 to year commitment. While a German Shepherd will fill your home with love and protect you with its life, adopting or buying one will change many parts of your day-to-day routine. Dogs need exercise and discipline as well as affection, and you may want to think twice about getting one if you are not able to care for it in the right way. Adopting a German Shepherd from a Center Can Be Risky People looking to add a dog to their life can either contact a breeder or visit an adoption center or shelter. While going this route does offer a far less expensive path to dog ownership, doing it is not without its risks. Others bring their pets to shelters because of aggressiveness or destructive behavior. A good shelter dog can be a loyal and loving member of the family for years to come, but a bad one can damage your home or even pose a threat to your safety. If you do decide to adopt a German Shepherd from a center or shelter, you should visit a vet for a thorough check-up as soon as possible. The Dog Adoption Process Most German Shepherd owners fondly remember the day they picked up their dogs, and they tend to forget about all of the hoops they had to jump through during the adoption process. The steps taken by breeders, shelters or adoption centers can seem intrusive or overly zealous at first, but they are needed to match dogs with suitable owners and ensure that pets are placed in loving homes. If you decide to buy or adopt a German Shepherd, this is what you can expect. You can expect to be asked about your home, schedule, the ages of your children and whether or not you have other pets. This interview serves to ensure that the breed you have chosen will thrive in its new environment and ensure that you understand what owning and caring for a dog involves. This visit serves two primary purposes. A home visit can prevent dogs from being placed in dangerous situations, and it also allows breeders or shelter representatives to give helpful advice. Common suggestions include fencing in back yards and moving tempting items out of reach. The money raised is usually used to provide care and medical treatment. The cost may be higher if the adoption center has spayed or neutered the dog. This visit is structured to address any adjustment problems and make sure that your dog is happy in its new home. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are great family companions in general. These large but adorable furry angels are impressive in so many ways. From their impressive athletic build to their high level of intelligence which in turn makes them super easy to train, to their beautiful energetic nature and overall impressive work ethic, it is no wonder the dog breed has been ranked one of the most sought-after and popular dog breeds in the United States by CNN. If you are reading this article, you probably are searching for a suitable German Shepherd dog to adopt and are living in the state of Illinois. It is worth stating that this article is simply a guide to help you in making the right pick and nothing more, so do your personal research on any of the rescues seen in the guide. We have provided access to their contact information and other valuable information to assist you in your search for the right German Shepherd dog for you and your family, so do read on till the end. This is a non-profit rescue organization that is licensed by the state and is located in the Chicago area of Illinois. It was founded by Marianne Perlman in and has since then been devoted to finding German Shepherds that are needy and saddened in high kill shelters, and on the streets of Chicago, providing sufficient or proper rehabilitation for them while looking for perfect homes and families to be adopted into. The German Shepherd Rescue Inc is totally foster-based. They are run by volunteers with a common love for the German Shepherd and with a common goal of taking proper action to ensure these dogs get the best care possible. They place the homeless German Shepherds in foster homes donated by their members all over the state, provide the appropriate medical care through evaluation by a licensed vet and possible treatment, and then find suitable homes willing to adopt these German Shepherd dogs. As a non-profit organization, the proceeds gotten through donations and through adoptions go into the care provided by the rescue for the German Shepherd dogs. Every dog is microchipped, and updated on their vaccinations and deworming, they are also placed on preventives for heartworms and fleas and given proper training and socialization opportunities.

Like most reputable breeders, we do have a waiting list. Looks can and will change as the puppy ages! Our process is different than most others. We don't have a whole bunch of puppies and then just hope to sell them. If we have enough interest in the potential litter families will mark their interest in our private customer portal , only then do we proceed with having that litter. The family selection date for our puppies is when the puppies are at least 6 weeks old go home at age 8 weeks old and families will choose their puppy in the order of reservation received. The average waiting time for one of our puppies is about months, unless you are extremely flexible regarding gender, color, size and coat-type. Please read the FAQ tab on this site and then complete the application to receive an invitation to our informational Zoom meeting. During the meeting, we show you our customer portal and explain our waiting list process in detail. We can refer you to a licensed pet transporter who will personally deliver from our home to yours, if needed. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Raleigh North Carolina and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Doodles are her love and she has more than goldendoodles placed in homes throughtout the United States from Sophie's Goldendoodles. In , she began to feel frustrated with the number of Goldendoodle breeders in Idaho that didn't know what they were doing. They would make claims that weren't true and let puppies go to their homes when they were too young, not checked by a vet, or sick. Breeding wasn't restricted to a credible goldendoodle registry. She started researching ways to make the breed better and ran across a miniature Australian Labradoodle at a park in Boise, Idaho. She was thrilled to see the requirements to register the Australian Labradoodle and the gentle nature of the breed. The intent was to create a breed that was allergy and asthma friendly with the temperament of a service dog. The journey was inspired by a vision impaired woman in Hawaii who needed a Guide Dog which wouldn't aggravate her husband's allergies. For years, Cyndi has refused to breed labradoodles because the Lab is a working dog. The distinction is the Australian labradoodle has a service dog temperament which is fantastic for families. Labradoodles are a combination of Poodle and Labrador Retrievers. Labradoodles are very smart and loving! They have great temperaments, eager to please their families, typically easy to train and they are very loyal! These great quantities make for excellent service dogs. The puppies get these great quantities from both their parents of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. If you desire a dog that is family-friendly, medium energy, has unconditional love for you or your kiddos, comfortable inside or outside, loves the water and the land, full of adventures then you should definitely consider a Labradoodle! Fill out our Puppy Application if you are interested in one of our litters! As we have a good idea of coat, color and size when we pair parents, we can't guarantee these. Same as humans, genetics are made up of so many generations. You never know when a grandparent gene will show up!! They will need to be brushed regularly and groomed when necessary! Our F1 Labradoodles are typically low maintenance! Our solid color puppies will sometimes have a white patch on their chest! This typically comes from the poodle genes! Micro Mini: Up to 25lbs we do not currently breed this size, but this is a future goal!! Mini: lbs. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Boise Idaho and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

Moses Bielenberg, Brittany spoodle. Among the most desired dogs: oodles of doodles, including Bernedoodles , a Colorado specialty. Doodles have been around for decades. The trend started in the s, when an Australian breeder mated a miniature poodle and a cocker spaniel to create the cockapoo. Soon poodles were being fixed up with all kinds of breeds. In the s and s, the Maltipoo Maltese and toy or miniature poodle and Lhasapoo Lhasa apso and poodle joined the lineup. By the turn of this century, goldendoodles golden retriever and poodle and Labradoodles Labrador retriever and poodle had almost surpassed their purebred parents as favorite family pets. The cute variations of the doodle name also play a big role. Golden-, Labra-, Aussi-, sheepa-…. I retired five years ago and now just breed dogs. Labradoodles were my starting point for real dog breeding. I still have some Australian Labradoodle litters, but usually just for breeding stock. Fortunately, her family helps out. I am passionate about dog breeding and doing something to improve the breed. Her twelve-acre property was originally intended to support her horse habit, but that changed in .Today it houses her signature Bernedoodle brand and the kennel where she keeps five stud dogs and five females for breeding. And Bernedoodles are now a big business. There are currently over Bernedoodle breeders in the nation, with countless more unlicensed backyard breeders. Montrose alone has five reputable breeders, as well as the largest reproduction specialty clinic for doodle mixes on the Western Slope. The breed has never been more popular. Courtesy of Maia Brusseau While many people wait for Bernedoodles, some people just want companionship these days. As a result, shelters have seen a surge in adoptions during the pandemic and have had trouble keeping up with the demand. Therefore, we were ecstatic to return to work and see that the demand for adoptions had sharply increased. Spring is always a popular time, due to an abundance of litters and warmer weather. Compound those factors with a rising need for companionship during isolation, and our level of interest skyrocketed. This year could have easily beaten those numbers, but the group has had to go to virtual appointments, and the wait is four weeks. Both breeds are very popular, and the COVID stay-at-home orders seemed to increase the demand for puppies across the board. But the biggest rise is Bernedoodles because of their temperament — so happy and energetic, and they can be very intelligent and easy to train. But that presents a challenge during stay-at-home orders. A good brush collection will be super-useful, and a great groomer would be even better! Chad Chisholm Oodles of Doodles A doodle results from any purebred dog bred with a purebred poodle, which can be either parent. From there, the mixing can produce hundreds of doodle types, with varying percentages of poodle. There are large, medium, small, miniature and even toy versions of many of the breeds; nothing is out of doodle realm. WCCO -- If you've been thinking about adopting a dog, you already know pets are in high demand. WCCO's John Lauritsen shows us how to avoid adoption scams while making sure a dog fits into your family's budget. She's playful. She doesn't shed," Naomi Schuler said. She eats a lot of masks. And in the middle of it all is Willow, a 6-month-old Bernedoodle who's the newest member of the Schuler family. Knowing the kind of dog they wanted helped the Schulers find a reputable breeder at a time when adoption scams are at an all-time high. That's more than 10 times the pre-pandemic amount. To avoid losing out, the Humane Society recommends visiting the breeder. Dogs should be living in clean conditions and in good health. Angelica Dimock, a veterinarian, said. Other red flags include a seller who asks for an unusual payment method, like a money transfer that can't be reversed. It's also good to run the seller's name through a pet scammer's list and use websites that refer families to reputable rescues and shelters. While they did background checks on breeders the Schulers also created a pet budget. Food is an expense that varies greatly. The Humane Society offers ongoing services to help with challenges at home. And they believe money should never get in the way of a pet finding its forever home. The Humane Society receives hundreds, even thousands of applications when a new transport of puppies comes in. While dogs are in short supply, they have an abundance of cats and rabbits right now. We've posted links to reputable pet-finder websites for you on wcco. More from CBS News. The front door flung open and Jackie strutted out to meet us cradling a black and white, drooling, fur ball. She wore jeans with holes in both knees, a purple tank top, long ponytail, and the grin of a child introducing her parents to their first grandchild. I wrestled the puppy out of her arms and kissed the top of his soft head, he licked my face in return. For her tenth birthday, we surprised her with a Sheltie, Jasmine. A weathered woman, her hair in a kerchief, led us to a pen filled with wagging tails and slobbering tongues. Then came the pandemic. When Walter was old enough to leave his mother, Jackie, and her husband, Lorin, drove to Ohio, fourteen hours round trip, to claim him. They brought toilet seat covers, masks, sanitizer, wipes, and a cooler of food. At home, waiting for Walter, were two different sized crates, a pen, red collar and leash, plaid harness, puppy chow, bully sticks, digestible chews, and a variety of squeaky teething objects. The new family of three settled into a routine. Jackie and Lorin took Zoom calls on laptops in makeshift offices during the day, taking turns walking Walter. In the evenings, Walter cuddled on the sofa between their thighs, as they watched coronavirus updates and dog training videos. They spent last weekend with us at the beach. He has also filled mine. Toronto Scammers taking advantage of rising demand for pandemic puppies The COVID pandemic has meant a spike in demand for puppies and an opportunity for scammers who are charging inflated prices for dogs not ready to be adopted out or with missing or bogus papers. Stefany Nieto had wanted a dog before the novel coronavirus struck and has fostered them in the past. But now, she figured a puppy would be the perfect distraction to fill the time, since like many, she is working from home. Nieto started searching for a Bernedoodle — a Bernese mountain dog and poodle hybrid — but she found few breeders out there with puppies that aren't already spoken for. Everything was just sold out within seconds. Like, puppies are just flying off the shelves, so to speak," said Nieto. So, she turned to sites like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace and found what looked like a promising post. Stefany Nieto had wanted a puppy before the pandemic, but thought this would be a good time to get one since she is working from home. Twitter "They said we had one boy left, so we jumped on it. We asked, 'Can we see him? Can you tell us more about the parents? So they arranged to meet a woman outside a home in Brampton. She wouldn't let them in. Nobody wants to get sick. If you can't see the parents of the puppy, huge red flag, but we just kind of excused it because of COVID.But days later, after consulting an online community of Bernedoodle owners, they figured out that Kubo was only four weeks old -- far too young to have been sold. When they tried to contact the seller, she didn't return their calls, texts or emails. It turns out she didn't live at the home where they met her.

Vet visits, injections and health checks are all too often in the early stages and, following all that, the final decision you have to make is whether or not to have your Boxer spayed or neutered. Spayed or Neutered? The procedure usually involves cutting a small incision in the abdomen. Whilst recommendations vary, vets typically suggest that you should have your Boxer spayed or neutered between the ages of four and nine months. This is thought to have long-term health benefits, as well as helping to prevent behavioural traits, such as marking and aggression. Whilst some recommend spaying before first heat as young as five months , others suggest that this can increase the risk of mammary tumours. We would always recommend consulting your vet for a personalised opinion. Most studies have said that spaying a dog can calm them down in most cases. However, it should not be seen as a cure-all for puppy problems. There are many reasons why you should have your Boxer spayed or neutered, not least of all because it will likely improve their quality of life and stop you from worrying about a litter of puppies. Spaying is proven to reduce the risk of breast cancer and uterine infections, and neutering similarly prevents testicular cancer. So, if you want to prevent these major Boxer killers, neutering and spaying is a sure fire way. Neutering your male Boxer will also ensure that he is on his best behaviour at all times. Neutering prevents aggressive and territorial behaviours, and also means that he wont be spending his entire walk hunting for a partner. So, if you want to prevent these embarrassments, get your Boxer neutered early on! See also Is Your Boxer Bored? Millions of animals are euthanised every year because there are simply not enough willing owners to cater for endless litters of puppies. Having this done will prevent unwanted litters and ultimately save the lives of millions of baby Boxer that would end up in shelters. Remember… No, the procedure is not painful. Female Boxers can reproduce as young as four months old, and male Boxers can as of six months. JingleBell: What is the best age to have a male boxer neutered? My male boxer puppy is 6 months old. What is a good age to have him fixed? I'm afraid to stunt his growth. I also have a female boxer that is spayed. He has started being aggressive towards her. Nothing serious, just rough houses a bit too much. Will getting him fixed help this? Answers and Views: Answer by rescue member Way time — get him neutered. The younger the dog, the less it bothers him, and the faster he recovers. I've had young dogs like yours neutered by the dozen, they are up and running the same day — the hard part is keeping them relatively calm they usually feel so recovered in a matter of a day. This is a very long answer to what most people think is a great question that only needs a short answer. But, it is not that easy. I am 47 until recently with new research I would spay or neuter my dogs male or female at 4 to 6 months. Often on the very day, they turned four months old. Many say the earliest the better because of this or because of that. Now I see things differently. First only spat or neuter if you in no way whatsoever want puppies. Let me explain. Wanting a puppy is different from wanting puppies. A puppy, you get from a reputable breeder. Littered are generally more than one puppy. No one else. IMO a reputable breeder does not have to show the dog or get any titles in it. A reputable breeder does all. Not all breeders must show dogs. If the breeder cannot get a home for all the puppies, then they should not have bred the dogs. .The more I have seen about this subject from reputable studies the more confident I am in saying the only cancers it really lessens the chance of from what I have read are the ones connected to the items being removed because they are not there to get uterine or testicular cancer. Chances for prostate and breast cancer are lessened since the sex organs removed create hormones that can lead to those cancers. What are the Outcomes of Neutering my Pug Puppy? Fixing a dog is not a solution to straying, aggression, or any one of the many things that many people including vets claim. It is not a wonder cure. Proper training hopefully positive training is what makes for a well-behaved, well-mannered dog of either gender. Rough play is just that, play. Again, if you think it is too rough, correct it. When you adopted the dog, you became its parents. I have seen many people adopt a dog at 8 weeks old and either expect it to be completely trained including ere and poop at that time. I've seen others who flat-out do no training and expect the dog to be obedient. Most often I have seen this in owners of small dogs. All dogs can be trained and bad behavior is bad behavior. If you had two children who played like that, would you just sit back and watch or would you discipline them? Do you oh I have a habit of saying you when I mean a person or owner, I'm not talking specifically about the person answering the question, but everyone have a child and then teach him or her nothing? Do you expect the child to learn not to put their hand in a fire, walk in front of cars, stay with you in a store, or even play nice with siblings and friends from the day they are 8 weeks old and forever without intervention, teaching, and discipline? Okay, the same thing with a dog. You don't take a misbehaving boy to the doctor and say I'm having problems with him and have great difficulty controlling him, please take off his balls. Not funny but I know some readers are now cringing or laughing. It is not good for all dogs to get fixed early in life. Well, some of those hormones are necessary for development. Sometimes it does affect the size. Some dogs get larger and others don't grow as much when they are snipped not all but some , but the hormones for muscle development, tendons, and connective tissue are not all present at the time they are needed if they are fixed too soon. Females get an extra umph of the hormones in their heats seasons, earthen, or whatever you want to call it that is why it is so important to allow a female to have their first heats before breeding the first time. Without these hormones, the joints and related tissues do not develop as well as they can, especially in larger breeds! In the smaller breeds, who generally do not have hip dysplasia problems, it is not as important, so they can generally be snipped earlier. This allows proper development. The development could be key to functioning longer in life without pain…running with their human jogging partner, playing with friends, etc. If you cannot do the 2 years, then try your best for one year. This is done to improve behavior and prevent reproduction. Neutering can be done as early as 8 weeks of age. This is a very important surgery that should only be done by a veterinarian who has experience performing this type of procedure. The surgery involves removing the testicles so that sperm production will cease and no more hormones will be produced by these glands. It also helps with behavioral problems in dogs that originate from sexual frustration, such as mounting and humping. Yes, boxers do calm down after being spayed or neutered, but this is not the whole picture you should know. It may help reduce some unwanted behaviors such as roaming and marking, but there are many other factors that can contribute to these behaviors as well. You see, boxers are a very active breed. They need lots of exercise and playtime in order to release the energy that comes with being young, active dogs. Benefits of Neutering a Boxer Dog While it does seem cruel, there are actually a number of benefits when you neuter your boxer, most health-related. A study has concluded that the lifespan of dogs increased after being neutered. Its findings suggest that dogs will live an average of .When dogs are neutered, they are less likely to develop prostate cancer, which can be a serious condition in older dogs. Neutering your pup also reduces his risk of contracting a urinary tract infection, which can be painful and inconvenient. It can also help prevent your boxer from developing testicular cancer. This reduces the risk of contracting a contagious disease like canine herpes, which can be easily transmitted during mating season. Neutering your boxer dog also makes him less aggressive and less likely to bite, or start humping when they are young puppies. Cons of Neutering a Boxer Dog There are a few cons to neutering your boxer dog, and these should be considered carefully before making a final decision. The first one is that there is a slight risk of your dog developing a joint disorder as a result of neutering. This frequently occurs in large breed dogs when they are neutered too young before one year old. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cranial cruciate ligament injuries are examples of common joint issues that can develop. The fact that a change in behavior is not always assured after neutering your boxer is possibly another drawback. After surgery, some dogs actually become more aggressive, but this is more of an anomaly than the rule. It rarely happens to most dog breeds except spaniels such as the Cocker Spaniel, and it is not a health risk but rather just an aesthetic one. Also: best age to spay a female boxer The best age to neuter a male boxer or spay a female boxer is after 2 years old. Most veterinarians will advise neutering a Boxer between the ages of 6 and 12 months as they have not reached sexual maturity and can be easily trained to be housebroken. In fact, this also becomes commonly regurgitated around the internet in articles which is not that accurate. A study discovered that this is not always the case and should be looked at on a breed-to-breed basis just like Dobermans need to be neutered after 1 year of age. Neutering your male boxer does not affect his ability to fight or bite, but it does reduce his aggression toward other dogs. It also reduces the risk of prostate disease and testicular cancer later in life. There are some articles and comments out there that talk about neutering your dog before 6 months, which is very dangerous advice to follow. There runs a high risk of your boxer experiencing significant side effects of neutering. Neutering your boxer dog before 6 months of age can result in his height and growth being stunted and may also affect his ability to develop strong bones and muscles, which can be problematic if he is expected to put on a lot of weight as an adult. They will be able to tell you precisely when your boxer is ready to be neutered and help you determine whether the benefits outweigh the risks. Now, thanks to technology, you can speak to one without leaving your home. When should we neuter dogs? March 01, When should we neuter dogs? It depends By R. Scott Nolen Published on February 18, Spaying and neutering pet dogs and cats not meant for breeding has long been the standard in veterinary medicine. Yet, recent research linking gonadectomy to higher incidences of certain diseases in neutered dogs is raising questions about a procedure once thought relatively safe. Earlier this year, the AVMA House of Delegates devoted a portion of its Veterinary Information Forum to this issue after two studies published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science in July reported associations between neutering and higher rates of joint disorders and cancers in some mixed-breed dogs and dogs of particular breeds. The team of veterinary researchers from the University of California-Davis also reported certain dog breeds were at greater risk of disease if spayed or neutered before 1 year of age and, especially, if spayed or neutered before 6 months of age. For instance, the recovery time is longer and the procedure is more expensive for older dogs than for younger dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Retention of deciduous teeth is not uncommon in toy dog breeds, and retained teeth have frequently been removed at the same time the dog was neutered. That may not be possible if gonadectomy is delayed until after the first year. Science says? Veterinarians and the animal shelter community have long promoted neutering pet dogs and cats not meant for breeding, most notably to prevent litters of unwanted puppies and kittens. Although various alternatives to gonad removal exist, such as vasectomies and hysterectomies, gonadectomy is by far the most common procedure practiced by veterinarians. Still, the relationship between sex hormones and canine health is not well understood. But there is reason to suspect that absence may contribute to negative health outcomes as well. Benjamin Hart led the research teams that produced the recently published studies. The first, published July 7, looked at joint disorders, cancers, and urinary incontinence associated with spaying and neutering in 35 dog breeds. The second, published July 31, covered joint disease and cancers in mixed-breed dogs of various weights. Each individual animal must be considered, and veterinarians should inform the client about all the issues and let them make an informed decision about their pet. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. Both reports provide guidelines for minimizing disease risks associated with spaying and neutering. For example, the recommendation for female Golden Retrievers, given the increased occurrence of cancers regardless of age at the time of spaying, is to leave females intact or spay them at 1 year of age and remain vigilant for cancers. Hart explained. As with all studies linking gonadectomy with higher disease rates, the UC-Davis studies have been criticized. During the HOD information forum, Dr. The American College of Theriogenologists and the Society for Theriogenology maintain that companion animals not intended for breeding should be spayed or neutered unless the procedure is contraindicated. Moreover, any potential consequences to the individual animal must be weighed against the necessity for population management. Kendall Houlihan, an AVMA assistant director of animal welfare The simple fact is that there is no single recommendation concerning gonadectomy that is appropriate for every dog. There are just too many variables to account for, including breed, sex, age, and body type. Whether to spay or neuter must therefore be decided on a case-by-case basis. During the HOD reference committee discussions, Dr. Rens van Dobbenburgh, president of the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, said similar talks were taking place across the Atlantic, where opinions on the timing of spay or neuter are mixed. The good news is there is no shortage of resources to help veterinarians in that decision-making process. Its purpose is to provide WSAVA members the latest information to aid them in making recommendations as to the most appropriate approach to neutering in their patients.