labradoodle puppies for sale near pittsburgh pa

Her love for dogs prompted a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, where she concentrated on behavior and genetics. Ann has attained many performance and breed titles with her Labradors. Over the years, she began to import classic English bloodlines which improved and strengthened her foundation blood. Our Mission To breed and maintain the classic Labrador temperament for whatever your goals may be. We are a small ethical breeding facility. We are stewards of the breed, not just puppy breeders. We breed an average of litters per year of quality black, yellow, and chocolate Labradors. Consequently, a waiting list is generally on hand for upcoming litters. Our small specialized size ensures lots of hands on for every dog, every puppy, every day. We are as dedicated to them as they are to us! Our Facility Dove Hill Labradors is located 1. We are situated on 12 acres surrounded by pastures, creeks, ponds, and woods. Our Dogs We maintain approximately 15 labs, where each one is a member of the family. Some are show dogs, some are performance oriented, and some do both. ALL of our Labradors excel in temperament. Check out our sister website DoveHillsEnglishLabradors. It's part of being a dog.Onyx is a week old black pup now under the care of Najla West. What a handsome character he is. The entire staff fell in love with that face. Your policies on worming, vaccination, feeding, and training dovetail with our policies nicely. We wish all new pet owners received such good advice from their breeders. Lastly, it was delightful to learn that this owner plans to neuter this pup and pursue professional training. I feel confident this pup will have a good life! We bought Jake from you 11 years ago when we lived in Virginia. We loved him so much and he was a central part of our family. He was extremely smart, almost like a person at times, and unbelievably kind. He was so gentle with our children and such a loyal companion for us. More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Whether for show, hunting, or pure companionship, our labs are sure to please! Labs are one of the top most breeds registered with the American Kennel Club. We are lovers and breeders of both the English and American Labrador Retrievers. We have been raising Labrador Retrievers on our farm since .Our labs have the genetics to produce chocolate, yellow, and black coats. Reaching anywhere from lbs. They are pet quality pups and representatives of the American Kennel Club. For information about our breeding program i. All puppies are de-wormed and receive their first vaccination prior to adoption - dewclaws are not removed. To secure a pup from one of our litters, please fill out a Puppy Request Form found on our Contact page. This will ensure we are able to pair your family with a pup that best suits your needs. We take the health and safety of our labs very seriously, therefore, families that have visited other kennels or breeding facilities must wait 48 hours before visiting our farm. We welcome all visitors and hope you enjoy our family companions as much as we do. Please call for an appointment and directions if you are interested in visiting us in person. Be sure to check out the Upcoming Litter page for more information! Make a reservation today! Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Take a look at the three best Labrador Retriever breeders you can find in the state of Virginia. The 3 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Virginia 1. Located on rural acreage, the breeder has an expansive facility for breeding and offers boarding services with climate control, radiant heat flooring, and central air conditioning. All parent dogs are vetted for genetic conditions common in Labrador Retrievers, and only the top performers with natural hunting abilities, trainability, and temperament are bred. All puppies are born and raised at home, provided with handling and socialization, and released at 7 weeks. Puppies come with dew claws removed, veterinary records for vaccinations and deworming, and a 5-year health guarantee on hips, elbows, and eyes. Weather permitting, all puppies are introduced to birds, water, and loud noises. This breeder offers English and American Labs in chocolate, yellow, and black varieties. All puppies come with a genetic health clearance and veterinary records for exams, deworming, and vaccinations. Potential owners must fill out a puppy request form and may make an appointment to visit the breeding facility and meet the dogs. The property is fenced, allowing the dogs to enjoy the woods, open fields, and creek. Parent dogs are both English and American Labs and produce black, yellow, and chocolate puppies. All puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club and come with a month guarantee against hip dysplasia. Puppies are vet checked and come with records for first vaccinations and deworming. Tips for Choosing Reputable Breeders Breeding dogs , as well as other animals commonly kept as pets, can be profitable, leading to a rise in inhumane puppy mills. These high-volume dog breeding facilities churn out litters for profit, often ignoring the needs of the parents and puppies. In many cases, the puppies that come from puppy mills are unsocialized and suffer behavioral and emotional problems and health conditions. The facilities are poor, leaving puppies in extreme conditions in wire cages. The mother dogs are often found covered in filth with sagging nipples, crusted eyes, and parasites. When you research breeders, look for small operations with limited litters. Puppies should come with genetic health clearances, veterinary records, and vaccinations. Most puppies from breeders will be registered with limited breeding rights, meaning that your puppy will not be registered as a suitable breeding dog with the governing organization. Ollie, originally from the USA, holds his master's degree in wildlife biology and moved to Australia to pursue his career and passion but has found a new love for working online and writing about animals of all types. More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. The good folks of Virginia hold the Lab in high esteem. According to Google search statistics, Virginians rank in the 72nd percentile in Internet searches for Labrador retrievers. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: The ten reasons that I am giving for children to have a dog are not listed in order of importance. All of us have different characteristics which we find more important than others. Every reason I list, however, is important to the childhood of your son or daughter. Furthermore, telling a dog to sit, and then watching the dog do what he was told, provides children with tons of confidence. By giving children the confidence needed to consistently practice reading, they become better readers by virtue of the practice. Dog-owning children have fewer sick days off school, and children who own them often have better self esteem. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Did you know… Chesepians were the first inhabitants of the area now known as Tidewater in Virginia about whom hardly anything is known. They occupied an area which is now the independent cities of Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach. In , after a voyage of days, three ships headed by Captain Christopher Newport carrying men and boys made their first landfall in the New World where the Atlantic Ocean meets the southern mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. However, these English colonists of the Virginia Company of London left the area, and created their first permanent settlement at Jamestown. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!

These options tend to be softer than synthetic chews because, well, they are edible. Dogs go nuts for bully sticks , and they can be a great longer-lasting chew option. You might be wondering what exactly is a bully stick. Bully sticks are dried bull penises. While it might seem disgusting to us humans, they are easily digestible and completely natural. This is because as the dog chews, the stick becomes smaller and smaller, and the last little nub can be a choking hazard. By starting with a longer stick, your dog can enjoy the stick for more time before you may need to take it away. For extra safety, you can also use a bully stick holder, which prevents the dog from swallowing the small, final piece. Beef Tendons Dried beef tendons make for a tasty, durable chew for Golden Retrievers. Beef tendons are also very low in fat, which is great for dogs with sensitive tummies, as too much fat can lead to digestive distress for some Goldens. Beef Cheek Rolls While these might look similar to rawhides, they are actually made from cow cheeks. These rolls can be very long-lasting, and the roll shape provides a challenge for strong chewers. As the dog chews, the cheek becomes soft and easier to digest than a traditional rawhide. Again, the bigger the better when it comes to which size to buy for your Golden Retriever, such as these inch beef cheek rolls. The Best Long-Lasting Stuffable Chews Another great choice for Golden Retrievers are durable rubber toys that can be stuffed with any wet food and then frozen. These can be great for dogs who try to just eat edible chews, rather than actually chewing and wearing them down slowly which can be a hazard. They are also much more cost-effective, as you can reuse the rubber toy for months and even years. This option is also excellent for Goldens with sensitive bellies or allergies, as you control what ingredients are going into it. Some favorites are cottage cheese, plain yogurt, and canned pumpkin. For dogs on a strict diet, you can soak their kibble for minutes, or use an approved canned food to stuff into the toy. Freezing the toys makes them last longer, and encourages your dog to chew and gnaw to get the food out. West Paw Toppl The Toppl is our favorite stuffable food toy, as the design keeps your dog engaged without being too easy. The shape also allows your dog to get every bit of food out, so it makes cleaning the toy a breeze for you. But they also work great all on their own. Kong The classic red Kong has been around since and is beloved by so many dogs and humans. Made of durable rubber, this toy can be stuffed with all sorts of food and then frozen for your pup to enjoy. A bit of peanut butter or cream cheese will do the trick. A simple hack is to put a straw all the way through both holes before you freeze the Kong, and then remove the straw when you give it to your dog. The straw will create a hole through the toy, so that no suction is created while your dog chews and licks. You can run warm water through the straw to help you pull it out before you hand it to your Golden. If you have a strong chewer, Kong also makes Kongs in an even stronger black rubber. Golden Retrievers do best with Kongs size large or bigger. Getting a Golden Retriever puppy? While they may not be edible, dogs may ingest tiny bits of the chew as they work on it, so they are non-toxic. These tend to be harder than edible chews. The benefit of being harder is that they can last longer than something edible. The risk is that because they are so hard, tooth injuries may be more likely. It really just depends on what kind of chewer your dog is. Because they can last so long, these options are typically more cost-effective than edible chews. Nylon Bones These bones are made from super tough nylon. They are formed into different shapes and infused with enticing flavors that appeal to many Golden Retrievers. Two of the most popular brands are Benebone and Nylabone. Benebone provides a helpful safety guide to help you and your dog enjoy their products safely. This can also help you determine if this product is the right choice for your specific dog. Additionally, you can refer to their size guide to help you pick the right-sized Benebone for your Golden Retriever, as they can vary so much in size. The Nylabone Double Bone is another popular toy among Goldens. Hard Rubber Bones Hard rubber has some more give to it than nylon, but can still be quite durable. One of the best options when it comes to hard rubber bones is Goughnuts. Made from extremely heavy-duty rubber, Goughnuts come in both a stick and ring shape. They also offer a lifetime warranty in the unlikely event that your Golden Retriever does destroy the toy. Goughnuts are designed with safety in mind, making it very hard for your pup to bite through or shred the material. Using a centuries-old Himilayan recipe, yak milk is pasteurized and turned into hard cheese, and then aged and dried. Typically small amounts of salt and lime juice are added during the process. The downside of this type of chew is that they can break into smaller pieces if you or your dog drop the chew on the ground, which then creates a potential choking hazard. Additionally, for some dogs, this chew may be too hard to be safe for their chewing style. If you do want to try them out, go for the largest-sized yak chews you can find. Real Bones Giving your dog a real bone, whether raw, cooked, dried or smoked, can seem so appealing. Bones are typically large, weight-bearing bones from livestock, and as such they are extremely hard… hard enough to break teeth. Even bones like tails and necks can be hard enough to damage teeth. Additionally, bones can splinter, putting your dog at risk of a major medical emergency. Some people have been giving their dogs bones of all varieties for many years and never had an issue. If you do decide to give your dog a bone, monitor them very closely. Antlers Like bones, antlers are very hard. After all, deer and elk use their antlers to fight with other deer. But many other dogs will simply chew too eagerly and the antler can break or fracture teeth. There are also different grades of antlers, with some being harder or softer than others, and they can splinter or break too. Again, if you want to try out antlers, be very cautious and keep an eye on your dog. Rawhide Rawhide chews are a bit controversial. But issues can arise if a dog eats a rawhide quickly or bites off and swallows big pieces. They can be hard to digest and may expand in the digestive system, causing a potential obstruction. Additionally, some rawhides are treated with ingredients that may be harmful to your pup. Chewing burns energy, prevents boredom, eases stress, and can help clean their teeth. Teething pups also need plenty of outlets for gnawing. But chewing also comes along with some risks, such as: Fractured or broken teeth if the chew is too hard, or the chewer is too intense Choking if small bits break off of the bone Blockage if the dog swallows a broken-off piece and it gets stuck in their intestines Mouth injuries such as scraped or cut gums and tongue But the good news is there are some steps you can take to make chewing a safer activity for your Golden Retriever. Make sure you choose a bone that is large enough to prevent them from trying to swallow it whole like a big treat. For dogs like that, a really hard chew may not be a good choice, because they could damage their teeth as they bite down. You may be better off with a softer chew, which will preserve their teeth, even if it means they might finish it more quickly. Other dogs are more gentle chewers and will diligently gnaw, making slow but steady progress. For those dogs, a wider variety of bones are good options. You might observe that their chew broke into small pieces and is now a choking risk. Or that your pup is trying to eat the bone in one bite. If your Golden Retriever has a sensitive digestive system, this is a good suggestion, as ingesting too much of the chew at once could make them a bit ill. Check the Ingredient List Many dog owners prefer buying chews made in America because of the high standards for ingredients and preparation. Sometimes questionable ingredients can be added in during the manufacturing process. Remember that no matter what your dog is chewing, there are potential risks involved. On the flipside, your Golden Retriever needs to chew. Do your best to choose bones that satisfy their need to chew, while keeping them as safe as possible. Check Price We reviewed here 5 of the dog bones available in the market. Moreover, we also have here the reasons why bones and other chew toys are important for dogs and puppies like the Golden Retriever. In case, you are still undecided, we have here some buying considerations to filter down your choice. The best bones for Golden Retriever puppies must possess some important features. Eventually, this may also lead to more complicated health issues especially if he swallows small pieces of it. It is generally important to look for bones that are sturdy enough and come directly from real animals. Moreover, you may also consider looking for synthetic bones from nylon or other durable materials. Most of the available dog bones in the market have sizes that can fit into their needs. It is actually better not to choose a dog bone that is basically small for your dog or puppy because it might be a potential source of choking hazard. Always bear in mind that the natural ones contain more nutrients compared to the synthetic type as the previous is made out of real animals. Aside from that, the natural bones might also have marrow in it which fills the dog bone with concentrated vitamins and minerals. Some of them come with no flavoring but others have flavors that any dogs may like. Usually, the most common flavors of the bones include beef, chicken, and bacon. The flavors generally attract the puppy to return back to the bone to chew instead of the different household items that are not as yummy as those bones. Generally, it is the bones with natural flavorings that always have the healthiest options. Dog bones that do not contain those substances are generally lower in calories and provide more nutritional content for the little Goldies. The flavor of this dog bones comes from real maple wood in which can basically upgrade the chewing and fetching game of your little Goldies. The Benebone Stick Dog Chew is a long-lasting and durable chew with neon colors. Moreover, this dog bone is basically hard so make sure that your pup has strong teeth. However, it is important to check with your vet if you are in doubt. Availability: InStock. If your puppy is doing zoomies around the house, a chew toy with peanut butter on it or a bully stick will most likely grab their attention and get them focused on chewing instead of running around being crazy. After a long chewing session and a potty break, your pup will happily lay down for a nap. However, it is important that you monitor your puppy with new chew toys. For example, some toys are less durable than others and your puppy will chew through those in just minutes. He would completely ignore it until we started putting his food in there and rolling it around for him. Eventually, he started chewing on it a little bit, then realized he loved chewing on it, and it was one of his favorites for a long time. So to get your puppy hooked on chew toys, here are five tips. Put peanut butter on it If you spread a little bit of peanut butter on a toy, your puppy will love it. This worked for Oliver, especially with new chew toys. If you use a toy bin and rotate toys, you can recreate that feeling over and over again. Choosing toys that are the right size for their mouths will help them enjoy it more, and also keep them safe. They help wear them out, help relieve pain from teething, and they keep your puppy from chewing up your house. Have any questions about chew toys for Golden Retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. The best dog bones, reviewed Only three ingredients Native Pet Yak Chews for Dogs While a bone made from cheese might sound smelly and too soft, these organic yak milk chews promise to be low in odor and long-lasting. The lactose is removed during production, which makes it easier for sensitive tummies to digest. Shop on Amazon What we love: The active chewing your dog will be doing as they enjoy these treats will also benefit their dental health. Chewing on harder treats like these can reduce tartar buildup and ward off stinky breath. Save on Chewy What we love: With no artificial flavoring, you can trust this expert-crafted formula. What customers say: Several Amazon reviewers love these bones for their soft texture. Easy-to-digest rawhide alternative AFreschi Turkey Tendon for Dogs These low-fat, high-protein bones are made of just one ingredient: turkey tendon. Each chew is made of multiple strands of tendon braided together, which can help it last longer than some softer types of bones. Shop on Amazon What we love: Like rawhide bones, this turkey tendon bone will keep your dog busy for longer than a soft treat will. Dozens of reviewers say their dog goes crazy for these bones. Some people were happy with the bone lasting for an hour or two, but others were left wishing for more. These quality ingredients make them a great alternative to rawhide and plastic chews. What customers say: With a 4. One top reviewer says each treat lasts between 8 and 10 hours. All-natural ingredients, plus added vitamins and minerals Nylabone Healthy Edibles All-Natural Long Lasting Roast Beef and Chicken Flavor Chew Treats These bones contain a blend of natural ingredients, vitamins, and minerals that you can feel good about feeding to Fido. Shop on Amazon What we love: These more traditional-looking bones come in a variety of sizes, just like our furry friends do. Choose from a range of 6 sizes, starting at 1. What customers say: Several dog owners and reviewers say these chews were a lifesaver for their picky pup. Plus, they source and make all chew toys in the U. What customers say: Owners of aggressive chewers do confirm that these toys pass the durability test. However, for the same reason, there are some reviews of broken teeth. Best for large or giant breeds Nylabone Twin Pack Power Chew Flavored Durable Dog Chew Recommended for large dogs up to 50 pounds , this chew toy is designed to curb destructive chewing, even for the most aggressive chewers. The nylon is one of your best bets at keeping your chew-master entertained. Plus, the ridges and nubs can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup. What customers say: One happy reviewer says this is a great distraction for when their dog starts to chew on furniture or shoes — much tastier and longer-laster, we imagine. Dogs can benefit from chewing on bones With so many safety considerations, you might wonder if giving your dog a bone is really worth the trouble. Here are some other benefits of bones for dogs: Mental stimulation — Can distract nervous or anxious dogs. Puppy support — Can soothe teething dogs. Types of bones and their safety There are plenty of dog bones that are perfectly safe. Here are a few of the most common types of dog bones and their safety. They can break into sharp, solid pieces, making them a digestive and choking hazard. Plus, many dogs are known to fracture their teeth on these. That includes antlers, knuckles, and other types of real bones. They can still splinter like cooked bones do, but they also pose the risk of tooth breakage due to their hardness. Always confirm with a veterinarian that the ingredients check out, but these types of treats will typically have the tenderness that makes them safe for dogs. If too hard, they can fracture teeth or break apart and cause GI obstructions. Watch for broken pieces and consider switching to a digestible bone if your dog chews through a lot of these. Safety tips for giving your pup bones Administered correctly, bones can help with oral health, anxiety, and destructive chewing. First, you should know the risks of giving your dog certain materials to chew on. Second, you should know a few rules of thumb about what to look for and what to avoid. Potential risks Unsafe bones can cause a number of health issues. If the bone is too hard, you risk fractured teeth and gastrointestinal obstructions. Bring your dog to the vet immediately if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal tenderness, hunching, or other changes in behavior. On a more minor level, you risk tummy troubles with any new treat. If that happens, simply stop use and talk with your vet about what ingredients might be causing the upset. They can help you identify a gentler alternative. In general, stay away from anything that splinters, like natural bones or sticks. That includes traditional bones, like beef bones, but also other products like elk antlers. Harder synthetic bones, like Nylon or plastic bones, can be okay for some dogs, but may lead to tooth fractures or intestinal blockages in others. Ones that can break apart in some firm, solid pieces could cause GI obstructions, and too-hard bones can fracture teeth. Erica Irish, DVM In general, the safest bones have some pliability and will break into chewy little pieces as your dog gnaws. Bones need some level of processing and preservation to keep them shelf-stable. Talk to your vet if you have dog bone confusion As with any new product for your pooch, the best source of truth is always your veterinarian. When in doubt, trust the experts. Chew toy alternatives to dog bones Luckily, there are many softer alternatives to dog bones, like dental chews , rubber chew bones, and fabric tug-of-war toys. These come with their own set of risks, but one great alternative is a kong. These highly popular toys are made of rubber and look like a hollowed-out beehive. Like a bone, the kong can keep your dog busy licking and chewing for hours as they try to reach the inner deliciousness. But the kong poses much less risk of GI obstruction or fracturing teeth. Here's what to know about it and how to keep your pup safe. Here's what to know about Cytopoint for dogs. Made by Purina, this bone for dogs comes in miniature, small, regular, and large sizes. It is a heart-shaped tube with real meat in the center. You can also get a Busy Bone Dog Treat with chicken and cheese flavoring, but most owners commented that their dogs found the real meat much tastier. If your dog has softer teeth and has issues with chewing, this bone breaks apart reasonably easily. It is not to be fed to puppies and should only be given to dogs at least a year or older. Some owners found that their dogs reacted severely to the bones and even got sick, while others' dogs loved it. The vast majority of owners found that these pet treats for dogs worked tremendously, and their pets loved them. They helped clean their dogs' teeth and keep their breath from smelling bad. It takes minutes to eat, so it's not as long-lasting as some of the other bones we showed you. Dogs seem to love the taste, according to some Purina Busy Bone reviews. Some owners with older dogs have issues chewing or aren't able to gnaw like they did when they were younger. They found that their dogs could eat these dog treats without a problem; the exterior broke apart quickly. A minority of customers did have problems with Busy Bone Dog Treat. They found that their dogs became sick from it. This could be from the outside, which contains wheat and rice. Some dogs' systems are not set up to digest grain and rice. If you're unsure about your dog eating these, please take them to see the vet and see what the doctor has to say. It's better to be safe than sorry. Edible chew bones are the best option for your pooch. They can have very flexible purposes, whether it's for eating or chewing. Some of the best bones for dogs are packed with nutrients and other active ingredients that help the dog's teeth be healthy. In other cases, they come in different forms and flavors that will certainly entertain your dogs and keep them happy. Buyer's Guide to the Best Bones for Dogs in the Market If you're a dog owner, you may observe that your pooch always loves a good bone. However, before you buy one, make sure to consider a few factors first: Ingredients Check for natural ingredients when buying the best bones for dogs. You may consult with your vet about the safe ingredients for your pooch. As for choosing the best bones for puppies, make sure to look into their ingredients more attentively. Puppies are more prone to allergies and stomach issues. Flavor You can't test the flavor of dog bone treats for your pooch. However, you can always check the reviews. For instance, the Purina Busy Bone reviews show how their pooch reacts to this product, and dog owners usually make a recommendation. Size The dog bone to purchase will depend on the size of your dog. The real question here is, are you choosing the right size for your dog? Most dogs love to chew those edible dog bones. However, we can't avoid the fact that it may be a choking hazard for small dogs. Safety This should be a priority when choosing the best bones for dogs. So, you don't have to worry about your dog's safety when giving this treat! However, there are more dog bones that are not safe. Check out the common dog bones and how safe or unsafe they are for your pooch: Cooked Bones You may think they are the best bones for puppies, but they're not exactly the safest option. Puppies are aggressive chewers. Cooked bones are very brittle and break into sharp pieces that may harm your dog's mouth and stomach lining, regardless of their age and breed type. Raw Bones This is quite a popular option. However, they are still not a safe option for your dog. Though they are more solid than cooked bones, raw ones can fracture the teeth and may become a choking hazard. Dog Bone Treats Soft dog bone chews are the best bones for dogs. They are not only easy to munch and digest, but they can also be very flavorful. Your dogs will love it! They can be tender and packed with nutrients. Some of the best dog bones for dogs are even designed to improve teeth health and facilitate your dog's dental hygiene. Check out for reviews like this one or similar to the Purina Busy Bone reviews. Synthetic or Toy Dog Bones This option is ideal if you want to keep your dog entertained. These toy dog bones come in different forms and may be hard or soft toys. Choose pliable or softer toy dog bones to prevent any damage to their teeth and result in any broken pieces of the toy that may later harm your dog. What are the Best Bones for Puppies? Most pet owners would consider raw bones the best bones for puppies. However, it may do more harm than good to the young ones. If you are looking for the best bone for puppies, you might want to consider puppy teething treats. These are edible chew bones that are soft and tasty for puppies. Your pups would love to chew this for hours without you ever worrying about choking. Plus, they have more nutrients compared to chewy dog bones for adult pooches. The Best Bones for Dogs: Key Takeaways Chewing provides dogs with cerebral and physical stimulation, reducing their tendency to act destructively out of boredom. Plaque can lead to poor breath and a range of dental issues. Therefore, chewing on hard toys or dog chew bones can help remove it. All fresh bones and store-bought chews can lead to choking, particularly if you don't watch your dog as he chews or if you pick the wrong-sized bones. The Best Bones for Dogs: Before You Go For first-time dog owners, you may be tempted to throw a raw bone at your pooch for them to chew on. Unfortunately, there are more hazards of giving them a raw bone than you think. The best bones for dogs are edible ones that often appear as treats in the dog food market. They have additional nutrients your dog needs. They are also chewable and flavorful, making them the best bones for puppies. With these dog bone treats, your pooch will not only love it but so will you for the peace of mind they bring. There is some debate over this subject. Some people think that all bones are ok. Some people think that cooked bones are bad but raw bones are ok. Others think that the reverse is true. One thing that many of them have in common is that they believe that bones provide necessary vitamins and nutrients to a golden retriever, as well as helping to clean the golden retriever's teeth. Actually though, most veterinarians and other golden retriever experts do not recommend giving golden retrievers bones for several reasons. The first issue is that there are better and easier ways to keep a golden retriever's teeth clean. Most bones are so hard that, when chewing them, golden retriever's can actually crack and break their teeth. Brushing your golden retriever's teeth with toothpaste that is specially designed for golden retrievers or giving your golden retriever treats that are specially designed to help with tooth cleaning is a much safer method of cleaning your golden retriever's teeth. Some great ones can be bought at amazon website. Another issue is the dispute over the nutritional value of bones. The nutritional value is not in the bone itself, but in the meat and cartilage that is still attached to it. If you are looking for a vitamin supplement, I would try the Pawstive Health Brand, it is breed specific. Anything that can be gained by eating meat off of a bone can be found in the proper golden retriever vitamin. By far, the biggest problem with feeding your golden retrievers bones is that most types of bones are impossible to chew or digest properly. If the bone is small enough or the golden retriever is large enough this can create several issues. The most immediate danger would be a choking hazard. If the golden retriever manages to swallow a large chunk of bone then another problem can arise. Since most bones cannot be digested properly, they can get stuck in the golden retriever's stomach or intestines. This blockage can cause toxic build up, bloat, infection and other life-threatening issues. In such cases, your golden retriever's life is on the line. If you're lucky enough to catch the problem in time then your only option is expensive emergency surgery. So, if you want to give your golden retriever something to chew on, give him a toy. If you want him to have the best nutrition, find an appropriate brand of golden retriever vitamin. Avoid the temptation to give him a bone. After all, there's no reason to take any risks with your golden retriever's health when you don't need to. Tweet Pin Are you always searching for a great list of the best dog bones for golden retrievers? We have compiled a list of great products to help you find the best dog bones for your golden retriever. There are a range of products here because much like people, all golden retrievers are different. They may prefer different things, have allergies to certain products, or just refuse to chew on different kinds of bones. Hopefully you will be able to choose the best option for your pet. We like to keep a few different kinds on hand so that our furry friends are never bored with the same kind of dog bone! These are fantastic because they are interesting and easy for your dog to chew on. They are made in the USA and they have fantastic reviews! These fantastic chews are shaped so that your pet can grab them and get a really good grip on them. They are made from just two ingredients: nylon and bacon. Aside from the wishbone shape there are TONS of other options for shape and size. We love that they are natural and safely processed so your pet can get hours of great chewing without ingesting unknown chemicals and other harmful ingredients. These are about 6 inches long which makes them large enough for your golden retriever to chew on without fitting the entire thing in their mouth! They are also available in 12 inch size if you have an aggressive chewer! It is a fairly new idea to be heavily marketed but is a pretty typical chew option for dogs. This particular variety is made from Elk antler and is cut into pieces that are roughly 7 inches long. These are very hard and dense. They will keep your golden retriever entertained for quite awhile! Jumbo Stuffed Beef Dog Bones These are similar to the bully sticks we listed above and are made by the same company! We love that they are high quality and made in the USA. These are stuffed beef dog bones. Their tempting centers make them a dog favorite! Your pet will be entertained while they try and get to the tasty center of these bones. Nylabone Pro Action Dental Chew The Nylabone brand has been dedicated to preventing periodontal issues in dogs from the start! Their chew toys are one of the best dog bones for golden retrievers because they are long lasting and serve a dual purpose. Nylabone Pro Action Dental Chews keep your pet entertained while they chew and they also help remove plaque from teeth! All of these best dog bones for golden retrievers are available on Amazon! We love items that are easy to find and order, and hopefully, this info will help you decide on the best bone for your golden retriever. There are many options, and you may find that combination of several types works best for you and your pet! Do you have any favorite dog bones for golden retrievers that we missed? Share in the comments! In the ever-evolving world of pet products, finding the perfect dog bone for your precious puppy can be quite the challenge. With an abundance of options flooding the market, it's essential to select a bone that not only satisfies your furry friend's chewing needs but also promotes their overall health and well-being. In this article, you can explore the 19 best dog bones for puppies in .From durable and long-lasting choices to those specifically designed to aid in teething and dental care, this comprehensive list of top-notch options makes your search easier. Whether you're a first-time puppy parent or a seasoned pro, continue reading to dive into the world of canine chews and discover the perfect bone for your furry companion. These bones provide puppies with a safe and appropriate outlet for their natural chewing instincts. They serve multiple purposes and offer several benefits to puppies: Teething Relief: Puppies experience discomfort and pain during the teething process as their adult teeth start to come in. Chewing on a bone can help alleviate the discomfort by providing a soothing sensation on their gums. Dental Health: Chewing on bones helps promote good dental hygiene in puppies. The act of gnawing on a bone can help remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. Mental Stimulation: Puppies have a lot of energy and a natural urge to chew. Providing them with appropriate bones to chew on keeps their minds engaged and prevents boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. Jaw and Muscle Development: Chewing on bones strengthens the jaw muscles of puppies and helps develop their chewing abilities. It also aids in exercising other facial and neck muscles. Reducing Anxiety: Chewing can be a calming activity for puppies, helping to alleviate anxiety or stress. Bones can provide a healthy and constructive outlet for them to channel their nervous energy. However, it's crucial to choose bones specifically designed for puppies, as their teeth and jaws are still developing. These bones are softer and more appropriate for their delicate mouths, reducing the risk of fractures or dental damage. Additionally, it's important to supervise puppies while they chew on bones and choose bones that are size-appropriate to avoid choking hazards. Pupper Dental Chews Pupper Dental Chew, designed specifically for dogs, tackles the challenge of hard-to-reach spots and stubborn build-up that often lead to dental problems and bad breath. It offers a solution to pet owners who want to proactively address these issues. By utilizing the abrasive and mechanical action of the chew sticks, these dog teeth cleaning treats effectively target and remove build-up, ensuring a cleaner and fresher breath for furry companions. Promoting healthy teeth and gums, the chew's pliability enhances its effectiveness in maintaining optimal oral hygiene. It is worth noting that Pupper Dental Chew is free from wheat and corn, making it suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities. The creators of Pupper Dental Chew have prioritized the overall well-being of dogs by carefully selecting premium ingredients. Parsley and turmeric, known for their beneficial properties, are incorporated into the treats, ensuring not only effective cleaning but also easy digestion for your canine friends. It is made with all-natural, human grade ingredients that are grass fed and free from hormones and antibiotics. This chew provides essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc for strong bones and teeth. The chews are designed to promote healthy gums and clean teeth, thereby preventing dental disease and bad breath. The chews also help reduce plaque build-up thanks to the natural enzymes found in the premium ingredients. Nature Gnaws Bully Sticks These premium natural beef dental bones provide a satisfying and long-lasting chewing experience for even the most aggressive chewers. With their rawhide-free composition, these dog chew treats offer a safe and healthy alternative to traditional rawhide products. Nature Gnaws Bully Sticks are made from high-quality beef, ensuring a flavorful and nutritious chewing session. The thick and sturdy design of these dental bones guarantees extended durability, allowing dogs to enjoy their chew for an extended period. This helps promote healthier teeth and gums by stimulating natural chewing instincts and reducing tartar build-up. Nylabone Healthy Edibles Natural Puppy Treats These low-calorie treats are packed with essential vitamins and minerals to promote dental health in puppies. They provide a safe and nutritious chewing experience, free from rawhide and artificial flavors or preservatives. Nylabone Healthy Edibles Natural Puppy Treats have the perfect texture for cleaning teeth and massaging gums. This puppy chew helps reduce tartar build-up and bad breath, while providing essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums. The treats are also free from wheat, corn, soy, and gluten to protect sensitive stomachs. Designed with a unique shape and pliable texture, these teething rings serve as an ideal aid to alleviate discomfort by gently massaging the gums. Not only does this provide relief, but it also offers a delightful treat for your puppy to enjoy. They are specifically formulated to be gentle and safe for delicate teeth, ensuring that your puppy's oral health remains intact. Additionally, these teething rings offer a safe outlet for their strong chewing urges, redirecting their focus to an appropriate and beneficial chewing activity. The texture of the treat has been designed to massage the gums while also scraping away tartar and plaque build-up. Chewmeter Himalayan Yaky Cheese Chew Crafted with precision and care, the chewmeter yaky Himalayan Dog Chews follow an ancient recipe inspired by the majestic Himalayan mountains of Nepal. Each chew is expertly handcrafted at a third-generation family farm, employing techniques that have been passed down through families for centuries. The milk used in the chews is sourced from the finest cows in the state, guaranteeing top-notch quality. The ingredients used in chewmeter yaky Himalayan Dog Chews are entirely natural, devoid of any binding agents, preservatives, or additives. Through a meticulous curing process, the lactose is removed, resulting in a guilt-free treat that can be enjoyed by dogs of all ages and sizes. These chews are gluten-free, grain-free, and soy-free, making them suitable for dogs with dietary sensitivities. The roasted pork skin provides a long-lasting chew, helping reduce tartar build-up and bad breath while promoting dental hygiene. The all-natural chews are free from grains, gluten, preservatives, additives, hormones, and antibiotics, making them safe for even the most sensitive stomachs. Pork Chomps Roasted Pork Skin Dog Chews are highly digestible and provide essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals for an overall balanced diet. The treats are also low in fat and calories to ensure that your pup can enjoy a guilt-free chew session. These treats are designed to freshen your canine companion's breath while providing a delightful snacking experience. As your dog enjoys these tasty treats, the unique scrubbing action helps to effectively clean their teeth and combat bad breath. The twist design of these dental treats plays a crucial role in reducing tartar buildup, promoting better oral health for your furry friend. Additionally, the nubs and ridges on the chews contribute to maintaining healthy gums, ensuring comprehensive dental care. Milk-Bone Brushing Chews are formulated with calcium, a vital nutrient that supports strong bones and teeth in dogs. This ensures that your dog's dental health is not only fresh but also fortified. With a minty taste that dogs adore, these chews make for an enjoyable and refreshing snacking experience. These 5 to 6-inch dog chew treats are crafted with care to provide a long-lasting and enjoyable chewing experience for your beloved canine companion. They offer a challenge that aggressive chewers will appreciate, keeping them engaged and occupied for extended periods. Say goodbye to destructive chewing habits and provide your dog with a safe and satisfying outlet for their chewing instincts. Mighty Paw Yak Cheese Dog Chews The limited ingredient composition of this yak milk cheese sticks makes them an excellent alternative to bleached rawhide chews. Moreover, they are an ideal choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs and allergies to chicken, beef, pork, and grains. By eliminating unnecessary additives, we ensure that these sticks are fully digestible, lactose-free, grain-free, gluten-free, chemical-free, and preservative-free. Not only are the Mighty Paw Cheese Sticks free from unwanted ingredients, but they are also rich in protein and calcium. These essential nutrients support healthy muscle growth and promote strong bones in your furry companion. The combination of ingredients creates an irresistible flavor that is sure to keep your pup's taste buds satisfied. The process of making the yak chews results in a product that is low in fat and calories. This makes it an ideal guilt-free snack that can be enjoyed daily without compromising your dog's health. Further, these chews help reduce plaque build-up and tartar while promoting healthy gums and teeth. With its enhanced strength through Bamboo Fiber and Nylon, it is the perfect teething toy for both puppies and dogs who love to chew vigorously. This durable stick toy boasts the appearance and texture of real wood, providing an engaging chewing experience for your canine companion. It satisfies their natural chewing instincts while offering a tough, safe, and non-toxic alternative to genuine wood, without the risk of splinters. NutriChomps Dog Chews, 6-inch Braids When it comes to nourishing every member of the family, including the four-legged ones, meticulous attention to ingredients is essential. That's why NutriChomps, crafted with real chicken and pork skin, is poised to become your dog's go-to treat. Not only are these delectable delights packed with flavor, but they are also fortified with vital vitamins and minerals, ensuring both deliciousness and nutritional value. By incorporating vitamin E into the formula, NutriChomps supports the circulatory system health of your canine companion. The addition of manganese sulfate contributes to optimal nervous system function, while riboflavin supplements aid in maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and abdomen. With NutriChomps, indulging in dog treats takes on a whole new meaning, as it becomes a healthy choice for your beloved pup. These delectable chews are designed for long-lasting enjoyment and provide essential vitamins and minerals for overall nutritional balance. With their delicious bacon flavor, your canine friend will never want to put them down! Milk-Bone Gnaw Bones are fortified with a combination of vitamins and minerals that aid in maintaining the health of your pup, from strong bones to skin and coat maintenance. Their unique shape and texture also help clean teeth while reducing tartar buildup. With a design that is flexible and pliable, these treats effectively fulfill the strong chewing urges without causing harm to a puppy's delicate and developing teeth. These dog chew bones are not only tasty but also provide a longer-lasting and highly digestible treat. With the combination of wholesome ingredients, an ideal shape, enhanced flavor, and a chewier texture, these daily dental treats from Blue Buffalo work in harmony to promote clean teeth, fresh breath, and overall healthier teeth and gums for your beloved canine companion. These chews provide a long-lasting, satisfying chew that is free of preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, and additives. Ideal for aggressive chewers, these treats are beneficial not only to your dog's teeth but also their overall health and wellbeing. In addition to their beneficial chewing effects, these chews also promote optimal digestive health by aiding in the digestion of food. The unique texture is gentle on your pup's stomach while providing them with an enjoyable snacking experience. Dreambone Twist Sticks DreamBone chews provide dogs with all the advantages of a rawhide chew, but without the rawhide itself. These no-rawhide chews are carefully crafted using real chicken, beef, bacon, cheese, sweet potato, and wholesome vegetables to create an irresistible taste that dogs simply can't resist. Specifically, the DreamBone Twist Sticks for dogs are made with real chicken and wholesome vegetables, offering a delectable flavor that dogs will find irresistible. These twist-shaped chews provide the same benefits as a rawhide chew, but without the rawhide component. Suitable for dogs of all sizes, these easy-to-digest chews are enriched with essential vitamins and minerals. They are not only highly digestible but also percent delicious. Related Content.

Boxers in the News Welcome to PortCity Boxers, where we are passionate about raising the best quality Show Boxers and beloved family pets! During her debut into show life at the Tarheel and Concord Clusters, the week of her second birthday, she beautifully progressed from class seconds, to class firsts, onto achieving Two Reserve Winners Bitch placements under Judge Mr. Hiroshi Kamisato and under Judge Ms. Carolyn I. Gary L. Thankyou Ms. Alexander, Mr. Kamisato and Dr. Sparschu for your recognition and most of all… A huge thankyou to you Vicky East, for the Wonderful Care and Excellent Handling you gave to our girl!! Woohoo, we are so excited and proud of you sweetheart! Thanks for taking time to visit us! Our Boxers are bred for a genetically healthy disposition, intelligence, and companionship. With proper care, you will find your Boxer to be a wonderful friend to your family. We are located in the beautiful town of Wilmington, NC. As a small family oriented breeder, we focus on producing the perfect line family pets and show quality puppies. We believe in quality, not quantity. Each of our dogs were chosen for their bloodlines to ensure great dispositions and healthy pups. We offer a natural alternative for the care and nutrition of our dogs to promote a healthy Boxer. These loving dogs will make a wonderful addition to your family. A Boxer will love you and protect you for life. A Boxer is highly intelligent and can learn anything you're willing to teach. Boxers love children, and the two can help wear each other out. A Boxer will help keep you in shape because of all the exercise he requires. A Boxer is a multi-talented dog that excels in canine activities. When you want to go out, it's difficult to find a more desirable escort than a Boxer. A Boxer's short shiny coat comes in a handsome fawn or brindle, and is easy to care for. A Boxer combines strength and agility with elegance and style. Beneath that serious facade beats the heart of a clown. For the complete list please see our List of Boxer Breeders page. Purchasing a boxer puppy in North Carolina directly from a breeder can be expensive; however, it is also the best way to ensure that you are getting an animal that has been raised with proper care. Some breeders do not have the right facilities needed to raise healthy dogs and oftentimes these animals may be sickly or lack proper socialization skills due to improper care during development. What Are The Extra Costs? There are very few extra costs associated with owning a Boxer in North Carolina outside of routine vet visits, food, and other supplies that your new pet will need in order to live comfortably. A responsible breeder will typically keep all of their breeding dogs inside of their home and raise them with love and attention. They should also be able to tell you about their history; including any titles that either parent might have earned. A good breeder will give you health guarantees for your new pet as well as plenty of information on how to properly take care of your Boxer throughout its life. Responsible Boxer Breeders will typically not sell puppies to people who plan on leaving them outdoors or alone for long periods of time without supervision because it is important for them to receive plenty of attention while they are young in order for them to grow up healthy and happy. This will give you a chance to learn as much as possible about any sire and dam as well as the environment that they were raised in. Visiting your breeder will also give you a chance to see their home and how they keep their dogs. This will give you a better idea of what type of environment your puppy is coming from and if the breeder is someone that has invested time into raising healthy puppies. You should be able to tell if someone is being honest with you or not from how they answer your questions and whether or not they seem knowledgeable about the breed itself. A good breeder should be willing and able to help you decide what puppy would best suit your lifestyle and family needs, which can only be done if they know everything about you. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in North Carolina It is a good idea to always ask for references from your breeder or anyone who has purchased a puppy from them in the past. If they have any, you should be able to get in contact with at least one person who can tell you about how their experience was with the breeder and whether or not they were satisfied with the way that everything was handled. If you cannot find any references, then this is something that should raise a red flag and may cause you to reevaluate why there are no people willing and able to speak on their behalf. Not having references does not necessarily mean that someone is a bad breeder; however, it does mean that you should take the time to dig a little deeper. A responsible breeder will usually have plenty of satisfied buyers that are willing to share their information about the transaction with future potential owners because it helps ensure that the people they are selling their puppies to will be good homes. Meeting past customers will also give you an idea of how the breeder interacts with their buyers and if they are willing to allow them to ask questions before, during, and after the sale. A good breeder will not only have a veterinarian that they trust and depend on to take care of their dogs, but they will also be willing and able to share the information about them with you. It is extremely important to find out how often your breeder takes their dogs to see a vet because this can also give you an idea as to just how much attention they pay towards making sure that they stay healthy and happy. If someone cannot afford proper veterinary care then breeding these animals should be A Reputable North Carolina Boxer Breeder Will Ask About Your Living Situation Most breeders want to make sure that their puppies are going into a loving home where each one can thrive and receive all of the attention it deserves. You may find yourself at the receiving end of a lot of questions from your breeder which is perfectly normal. You can usually find this information on their website or by calling your local department of agriculture. Look out for red flags when dealing with an unethical breeder in North Carolina; these may include: Claiming that their lineage is rare or includes show-quality dogs without any proof. Lack of Health Certificates Provided. Constantly being asked to pay a higher price after you have already committed. This may also happen if your breeder tries to do business over the phone and refuses to provide any documentation at first. Refusing to provide their contact information, address, or name. Take the time necessary when looking at boxers in NC that will make sure that their lineage is healthy and well taken care of. If your breeder cannot provide you with any information pertaining to potential health problems then this is not someone you should do business with. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy There are a number of things you will want to consider preparing for before your boxer is set to arrive. First, make sure you stock up on all of the necessary supplies like food and water bowls, toys, treats, bedding, etc. Remember; puppies tend to chew on everything so make sure you keep important documents like remote controls and cell phones out of reach or else they might end up getting destroyed. Puppies also love leather; if given the opportunity they will start chewing away at your furniture corners which will make for a mess to clean up. Potty Training Your New Boxer Puppy Training your boxer to go potty outside will get easier with time; this is one of the most important things you can do when raising your new pup. Remember, patience is key when training any dog; it can be frustrating at times, but you should never hit or otherwise punish your puppy for having an accident. This will only make them more afraid of you and afraid to go near their potty areas in the future. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Wilmington North Carolina? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. Boxer puppies for sale in Wilmington NC The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Wilmington for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. Wiki Wilmington Drop us a line! We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery.

If you notice any changes in activity levels, eating habits, mood, or any other element of their lifestyle, make sure to inform your vet immediately. The sooner the issue is identified, the faster it can be treated. Your vet may be able to advise you on a good brand for them, especially if your dog has been diagnosed with certain dietary or health issues. In general, opt for a high-quality dog food that utilizes quality food sources for protein, fats, and especially carbs. Stay away from brands that use fillers, preservatives, or other ingredients that can compromise the nutrient content of the dog food. It is important to always follow the feeding instructions provided for each food. This ensures that your dog gets the right amount of calories according to its size and activity levels. When in doubt, ask your vet how much your dog should be eating each day. Some German Shepherds tend to grow quickly within a short time as a puppy. This may be a trait that your German Shepherd Elkhound may inherit as well. This can cause various joint issues later on. You should always speak to your diet before making any changes to your diet, however. Norwegian Elkhounds have a higher propensity than German Shepherds to gain weight. Due to this, it is best to limit treats and snacks and stick to a set number of meals per day. Make sure the snacks and treats are of the same high quality as their dog food. This mixed breed is usually high-energy and does need quite a bit of exercise. Depending on what parent your pup takes after, your dog may need between an hour to two hours of exercise a day. Remember to never let your dog off its leash, however, especially around wide-open spaces or wooded areas. Elkhounds tend to roam and this instinct may be strong in your pup as well. If your dog appears to have lots of energy after your daily walks, it may be time to increase how much exercise they get. Do this in minute increments and monitor your dog closely afterward. If they still seem to be hyper, they probably need more exercise. If they are calm, you have found the right time stretch. In case your German Shepherd Elkhound is tired after your workouts, you may be overdoing it and need to cut back. You can play fetch with your dog and throw a Frisbee around too. You will also find that this mixed breed responds well to swimming and water sports. As this mixed breed has a double coat, you can expect a fair amount of shedding. If your pup takes after their German Shepherd parent, you will have to contend with a lot of shedding. Your dog may also blow their coat a few times a year. At this point, the shedding will increase for a short time. Then, your dog will grow a new coat for the new season. Despite all this, the grooming techniques for a German Shepherd Elkhound are rather simple. Regular brushing is key here. Normally, brushing your dog three times a week or so should help to keep the shedding under control. When your German Shepherd Elkhound blows their coat, try to brush them every day. There will be less of a mess around their house. For the best results, use three different types of brushes. A slicker brush helps to get rid of matting and most of the loose fur. This can be used for each brushing session. An undercoat rake works to get rid of loose hair in the coat closet to the skin — this can be used more occasionally. A de-shedding brush is a great tool to have during the shedding season. It makes it easier to get rid of large amounts of loose hair in a shorter time. If your pup takes after their Elkhound parent, you will find that their fur is highly resistant to dirt and grit. As a result, you will only have to bathe a German Shepherd Elkhound every few months or when they have become very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo to keep them clean. A German Shepherd Elkhound can live in an apartment or a smaller home as long as they get their daily exercise. If you live in a small space, it is important to take your dog out for as long as is necessary or they may begin to exhibit destructive behaviors. See also Czech German Shepherds In general, though, these dogs function best in homes where there is a yard. This will allow them to run around several times a day and may not require as much exercise. You should also be mindful of the fact that these dogs can be quite vocal, particularly when they are left alone. There is a limit to how much you can train your German Shepherd Elkhound out of this habit. It may not be something your apartment neighbors will appreciate. As for weather and climate, these dogs thrive in moderate or cool to cold climates. They can even be kept outside for short periods when it is snowing. Only ever take them out for exercise early in the morning or later in the evening. These dogs are highly trainable. Not only do they take great pleasure in having a job to do, but mental stimulation also makes the German Shepherd Elkhound satisfied. This dog will also be eager to please its owner. Due to this, giving them positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping commands and lessons stick with your German Shepherd Elkhound. Never use punishment, however. Also, be aware that these dogs have an independent streak. Your dog may be more likely to listen to you this way. Remember to always choose a reputable breeder. They will do extensive genetic testing on both parents to reduce the likelihood of genetic issues cropping up in the puppies. It is unlikely to find this dog in a shelter as they are an expensive designer breed. You may want to focus your attention on shelters that only handle German Shepherds or Norwegian Elkhounds to improve your chances. These dogs are loving and loyal and even protective of their family. They may not always be the best choice for households with very small children, though. These dogs may be as large as German Shepherds, but it is also likely that they will only be slightly bigger than the medium-sized Elkhound. Both these breeds have some excellent traits that they can pass on to their puppies. As such, it is a good mix to have. We hope you learned something new about the unique and interesting German Shepherd Norwegian Elkhound. Now that you know what to expect from this mixed breed, you can determine whether they will be the right addition to your family. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Puppies for Sale The decision to rescue a dog or to go through a breeder requires a lot of research. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help you find a good rescue or a reputable breeder who provides healthy Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix puppies for sale or adoption. Most animal shelters and rescue centers report that most rescue dogs in their premises are a result of a lifestyle change or an unexpected incompatibility with the breed. This means that there may be good Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix puppies or adult dogs who are in need of a new forever home. Finding a reliable Elkhound German Shepherd rescue or shelter may be as easy as browsing the internet. Check out local Elkhound and German Shepherd rescues to see if there are any of these dogs available for adoption. Unfortunately, there are numerous pet stores and puppy mills masquerading as reputable breeders. Take caution, and check out different online forums for discussions about where to find your future puppy. Make sure to ask a few questions, and visit the parent dogs or at least the mother. At the end of the day, use your due diligence. Whether you intend to adopt or to work with an ethical breeder, be ready for a brave and friendly companion. The Furhaven Orthopedic dog bed is an excellent choice since it has medical-grade memory foam along with soothing gel foam. This dog bed actually looks and feels like a therapeutic mattress. It also features an elevated headrest that your Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix will enjoy using. They praise its lightweight and durable construction, size and affordable price tag. We recommend this crate as it has a divider feature so it can suit your Elkhound German Shepherd as he grows. This implies that this crate will be the only one that your dog will ever need. Barking could be a major issue with these dogs. For individuals looking for a watchdog or guard dog to protect their property, this might be a good trait. Fortunately, you can train your dog out of it. German Shepherds are known to be quite aggressive, but this reputation is actually not deserved. They are watchdogs in nature and reserved towards strangers. However, they are not naturally aggressive dogs that will always attack. They are also highly intelligent and very easy to train. This makes them very easy to control. This makes the mix very unlikely to be an aggressive dog. Due to their high intelligence, Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds are moderately easy to train. They will master instructions and commands quickly, but they might not always obey them. Conclusion Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds are adorable dogs that make excellent companions, but they require a lot of exercise, care and attention. They are best suited to active families or individuals who can offer them the love and attention they need. This includes training them properly, and exercising them both physically and mentally. However, these loyal, brave and protective pups will repay you with love and affection for a long time to come. Checkout Our Favorite Dog Products 1. Also provides sustained energy for sporting dogs and dogs with high physical demands. The Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel Puzzle Toy gives your dog the same feeling as though he was outdoors chasing live squirrels. With features and tools that dig out dirt, hair and allergens everywhere your pet gets. Lifespan Sociability Finding one of these pups may be difficult due to the rarity of Norwegian Elkhounds in most areas. There are not currently any major breeding programs creating these breed hybrids. In fact, the remains of a skeleton resembling a Norwegian Elkhound was found among the stone age tools in a cave in Norway. These dogs were companions of the Vikings and were often spoken of in myths and legends. They historically have served as hunting dogs to track large animals like elk, moose, and deer. They have also been used as herding dogs and livestock guardians, defending flocks against large predators like bears. They are highly versatile dogs that can do just about any job you throw at them, but they have been bred far away from their original herding roots. Some people use them as farm guardian dogs because of their protective and loyal nature, but there are many dogs that are far better options for herding. One Breed is a Westminster Champ German Shepherds have taken the coveted Best in Show title at the annual Westminster Dog Show multiple times in the over years the show has been occurring. The most recent German Shepherd win was in .A Norwegian Elkhound has not taken the top prize yet, but in , a Norwegian Elkhound was in the top seven finishers. German Shepherds and Norwegian Elkhounds are both breeds that love to be with their family and usually bond strongly to the whole family. While German Shepherds are typically good with children, Norwegian Elkhounds are less tolerant of children. These dogs would likely do well in a home with older children that understand proper dog etiquette and when to give the dog its space. Keep in mind that the levels of protection and wariness these breeds exhibit may make them wary of strangers, including family and friends, so be prepared for visitors with high-value rewards and praise. Proper socialization at an early age and positive encounters with other animals will help give you the best chance of your dog accepting other animals. When it comes to small animals, these dogs may play too rough or see the animals as prey, making them a poor fit for homes with small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. However, with proper supervision and introductions, they may be able to live harmoniously. Early introductions and proper socialization seem to be key when it comes to successfully keeping these dogs with other animals. They usually come in a medium gray color accented with black-tipped guard hairs and light silver accents. The origins of the Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd dog are heavily influenced by their parent breeds; however, there is no exact date or location where the hybrid was born. One theory is that it was the result of a mating between German Shepherds and Norwegian Elkhounds by breeders who wanted to create a dog that has the hunting skills of the Elkhound and the work ethic of the German Shepherd. However, some dog experts believe that the creation of this hybrid breed was not intentional. Rather, they say it was an accident due to both breeds having similar characteristics and appearing to be very similar physically. He wanted to create a working dog that would have intelligence and loyalty like no other to herd livestock and protect them. So he crossbred various working sheepdogs from rural Germany eventually came up with his favorite type. It is from this organization that the breed got their name. The German Shepherd Breed Standard was also established in , which describes a dog that is very athletic and muscular, has a keen intellect, is able to work hard for hours on end without getting tired, and possesses high energy levels. Since then, they have only become more popular with time! If you need a great family dog, then yes, a German Shepherd is definitely one of the best options. Usually, they get along well with children and some smaller pets while being wary of strangers. Compared to other dogs, they can also be trained relatively easily. Although it will take some effort on your part, you will eventually find that a German Shepherd is a big dog capable of doing many things — from hunting to herding your children to sleeping by your feet at night. Norwegian Elkhound History A Norwegian Elkhound was originally bred in Norway in after the Norwegian Hunters Association held its first dog show, and it is believed that these dogs existed long before then. Furthermore, based on historical records, it is believed that the Norwegian Elkhound has been used in war since at least years ago! Because of their skills when defending and hunting, which makes them an excellent guard dog. These ancient working dogs are a very intelligent and loyal breed that loves to work hard with their owner. The Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a body that is on the slim side but has a muscular build. Their coloring is usually medium gray, and they have black-tipped guard hairs and light silver accents. Their ear tips and tail tip are usually black as well. Their eyes are normally dark brown, while the forehead usually comes in a lighter gray color. They also have medium-sized ears which need to be carried up and close to their head, pointing slightly forward with rounded tips towards the top of their skull. Their head is broad and wedge-shaped with a strong muzzle, a defined stop, and a black nose. Their tail is moderate in length and is tightly curled. It has strong bones and a well-muscled body that gives them great speed while running but also makes them agile enough to make sharp turns while doing so. Key Characteristics of Norwegian Elkhound and German Shepherd Mix Dog lovers who are interested in getting a Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd dog should know that there are many defining characteristics of both the parent breeds. Here are some of the key differences: Size Their height and weight can vary greatly since there is no breed standard for this Norwegian Elkhound mix. Based on the parent dogs, the Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd is a medium to large-sized dog that typically weighs around 48 to 90 pounds. Their height usually ranges from 20 to 26 inches at the shoulder. Size can also vary depending on whether you are talking about a male or female in the Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd. Female dogs are always smaller than their male counterparts, and this can also be determined based on genetics. Temparement and Personality The Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds are a loyal and intelligent breed that has a zest for life. They are an agile, playful, and active dog who can do everything from hunting to herding your children. Generally, they are a very friendly dog and tend to get along with all people, other dogs, and even cats. They can be protective of their family or property if need be; however, once they realize you are a friend, they will welcome you with open paws! Although this dog is usually friendly, they can also have moments where aggression is displayed. Thus dog owners need to understand that this is a very protective breed of dog, and they need to be socialized from an early age to avoid problems later on down the road. Their temperament is affected by many factors, such as their upbringing, how they were trained, and the experiences they have had in life. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd puppies with nice temperaments will be eager to meet new people, and their tails will likely wag after meeting someone. You should also have an opportunity to visit the home environment so you can see how the puppies are raised and how they interact with both people and other animals. They can be solid black, gray, white, silver, and tan. Both parent breeds have a thick, double coat, so you can expect the same thing from this mixed breed. Providing your Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd does come with a double coat; know that they shed twice a year heavily when their coats grow in and out. As for their bathing needs, this dog does not need to be bathed more than once a month. Trim nails when they start to get too long. Also, be careful about their ears. Their ears should be cleaned and checked ideally once a week for redness or bad odor. Using cotton balls, clean the inside of the ears and wipe away any excess dirt. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. However, this mixed breed should be monitored closely because they are prone to weight gain when not fed properly. The amount of calories depends on the size of your dog. It may also depend on whether you have a male or female, but either way, most Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds need about 25 to 30 calories per pound per day to maintain their ideal weight. The good news is that there are a lot of resources out there on the best dog food for medium to large dog breeds like Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mixes. Health There are many known health problems that come with this dog mix. One of the most common conditions is hip dysplasia. This condition is something they share with their parent dogs. This condition can be painful and make it difficult for your dog to walk properly. It is imperative that you feed your dog food formulated for larger dogs as well as monitor their weight because this can minimize the impact of joint disease. In addition to hip dysplasia, you also need to watch out for elbow dysplasia, allergies, digestive problems, renal problems, progressive retinal atrophy, degenerative myelopathy, progressive retinal atrophy, thyroid problems, and osteochondritis. Training and Exercise Needs Descending from both famous hunting and herding dogs, Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mixes have a lot of energy and endurance. They require daily exercise not only because they need to expel their energy but also to keep them from getting bored. If they have nothing to occupy their time, they will likely find something like digging or chewing on furniture. There are many different ways to exercise your dog, from digging, fetching balls, rolling in leaves and sticks, going on walks as a family or with other pets. When taking your dog for an exercise session outside of the home, you must keep them on a leash and always be careful about potential dangers. They are well known for being intelligent dogs and will be able to learn how to listen to commands quickly. Crate training and house training are two basic training that you would want to begin with. Keep in mind they are barkers, so take that into consideration when you are going to adopt them. You may want to reconsider your decision if you live in an apartment complex or a neighborhood with a lot of close-by neighbors. Children And Other Pets If they are well-socialized and have had plenty of exposure to kids, Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mixes have no problem getting along with children. As with every dog, you should teach your children how to approach and interact with dogs in a safe way. However, introducing an adult Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd is another story as it can possess its own challenge. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds are perfect for experienced owners who can handle the challenges of owning a large and active breed. Also, consider whether you can commit to the exercise, grooming, and feeding needs. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix As with all hybrid dog breeding projects, it can be challenging to predict in advance what types of traits a puppy might inherit. However, what we can say for sure is that the Norwegian Elkhound GSD hybrid dog will grow up to have a working dog temperament, a thick double-layer working dog coat, and a very bright, brave, loyal personality. This is a good example of how unpredictable hybrid dog breeding can be. Some puppies may look much more like one parent dog than another, especially in the earliest F1, F1b litters of puppies. So that is what we will do in this section — learn a bit more about the Norwegian Elkhound dog and the German Shepherd dog parents. In terms of their lineage, the Norwegian Elkhound is descended from the truly ancient line of Arctic spitz-type dogs — herding, sledding, hunting, and hauling dogs that often appear fox-like in their facial features and sport a thick working-dog coat. The breed history states that these dogs are perhaps one of the oldest breeds on the planet with more than six millennia under their belts. German Shepherd history The German Shepherd dog actually does hail from Germany, where the breed was originally developed to herd livestock and was later conscripted for military K-9 and police dog work. Captain Von Stephanitz expertly repurposed the breed to keep it from becoming irrelevant when the rise of technology meant livestock herding dogs were no longer in high demand. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mix history From this overview, you can discern that your Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd dog is going to inherit a strong dose of the energetic, active working dog temperament from both parent dogs as well as the thick, double-layer coat. In fact, the concept of a companion canine is actually a relatively new idea! In this section, we take a look at how the temperament and personality traits of each parent dog might combine in a hybrid puppy. Norwegian Elkhound personality and temperament The purebred Norwegian Elkhound dog is incredibly smart. But when it comes to choosing a pet dog, this is not always a good thing. These dogs are quick learners and get bored very easily. They can do it all — run, swim, jump, herd, hunt — and are well known for standing their ground against predators three or four times their size. German Shepherd personality and temperament The famous GSD personality and temperament have been immortalized time and again in famous films like Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart. German Shepherds are actually extremely people-centric and tend to want to be with their people all day, every day. A lonely or bored German Shepherd is going to be a destructive German Shepherd, unfortunately. These dogs are known to be vocal and talkative, something first-time GSD owners often have to get used to. They are also incredibly brave and loyal and have a decorated history serving in the military, police force, search and rescue, and many K-9 roles. This hybrid dog breed will not fare well if expected to be self-entertaining for hours most days. Norwegian Elkhound size, height, and weight The Norwegian Elkhound typically weighs just 48 to 55 pounds and stands .There typically is not much difference in size, height, and weight between females and males. German Shepherd size, height, and weight The German Shepherd typically weighs between 50 and 90 pounds and stands 22 to 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulder girdles. With the GSD, there can be up to a pound weight difference and a two-inch height difference between adult males and females. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd size, height, and weight Where you will see the greatest height and weight variance in Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd puppies is in early F1, F1b litters, since the German Shepherd dog can be quite a bit taller and bigger than the Norwegian Elkhound. If you really need a smaller adult dog, the best way to reduce the risk of having your little puppy grow up to be 90 pounds is to work with a hybrid breeder that specializes in later-generation hybrid breeding F2, F2b, or later generations. With later hybrid generation breeding, you will see a lot more consistency in every trait between puppies within a single litter. Norwegian Elkhound training and exercise needs The Norwegian Elkhound is a Spitz-type dog breed that is classified as a hound. Hounds are known for their strong ability to follow a trail and to track and hold prey for their human hunting partners. These dogs have such an irresistible desire to explore and run and track that they can very easily become lost or come to harm. The independent spirit of the Norwegian Elkhound can also make training and socialization challenges. Yet these dogs need it to learn how to tell the difference between friends, neutral situations, and genuine threats. German Shepherd training and exercise needs The German Shepherd dog is also high energy, a high activity dog breed that has an incredible athletic ability. These dogs love to run and jump and play and typically excel at the entire spectrum of canine athletics. German Shepherds, like Norwegian Elkhounds, need early and ongoing socialization and training and should not be let off-leash in an open area. They need help learning when to welcome a new friend and when to guard or protect against a threat. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd training and exercise needs Training and exercising a Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd dog mix will mean devoting at least one hour per day to your dog. This can be a significant time commitment and it is worth considering in advance whether your schedule can accommodate this commitment. But what you will have is a lot of shedding — a LOT. Norwegian Elkhound longevity and health issues According to the Canine Health Information Center CHIC database, the Norwegian Elkhound breed has the following known possible genetic health issues you need to be aware of: Hip dysplasia.

Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Print We recently brought home Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to train her and raise her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. That means Bubba will be with for almost a year and a half. We train one or two of these puppies each year, and over the years we have gotten pretty good at it. We also train adult dogs for hunting and competition, so we see a lot of dogs come into our program. Dogs that have each been raised differently. There are some definite training tips that can help you help your lab grow up to be the best version of himself. Training and socialization for very young Labrador puppies — week one The first week of a puppy being away from its litter is very stressful for the puppy. Most often, the first two days, the puppy will sleep a lot! The pup is adjusting to all the changes, and they need time to do that. After the first couple days you may notice a spike of energy. This is your sign that the puppy is adjusting well and is ready to be exposed to a few more things. Labrador puppy training that first week home Here are the things we work on during week one. A nylon adjustable one is usually best since puppies grow quickly. It often takes the puppy a few days to adjust to having a collar on. Intro crate We introduce our puppies to a crate on day one. Literally the day we bring them home. Most puppies will cry, bark or howl while in the crate the first few or many times. Ignore it, it does not hurt the puppy at all. Always wait until the puppy settles down and is quiet, even if that quiet only lasts for just a minute or two. Learn more about crate training. Intro to housebreaking Another day one lesson and one that will last for a few weeks or months. We introduce housebreaking day one by allowing the puppy to run around an enclosed area under close supervision. If your puppy then goes potty outside, great! The thing to remember about housebreaking, is that your puppy should never be allowed to roam the house or a room without supervision. The only way to housebreak a dog is for them to get caught in the middle of an accident. That is how they learn that what they are doing is not right. Learn more about housebreaking. Intro leash We introduce a leash to our puppies around day three of being home. But once they start getting more energy and get more inquisitive, we use a Flexi-lead attached to the nylon collar to take the puppy outside. This accomplishes two goals. The gentle tugs on the leash and pressure when the puppy strains against the leash are great training for handling pressure as they get older. Intro to pressure and correction The last thing we introduce to our new puppy during the first week home is pressure and correction. This is an often-missing element to training that can severely handicap a dog that you want to be a hunting companion or competition dog. The kind of pressure I am talking about is very mild such as saying NO to the puppy when they are chewing up your shoes or scratching through the carpet. This is the way mama dogs carry their puppies and it does not hurt them at all. This does not hurt the puppy; it is exactly what a mama dog does to teach her puppies. Learn more about introducing pressure and correction. Commands to start using that first week home The first week there are some commands we start using so that the puppy will associate the words we use with actions. Puppies play and explore with their mouths, and often they will think it is great fun to bite your hands and feet. If this does not curb the behavior, I grab her lower jaw, wrapping her gums around her teeth and squeeze. I have found this to be very effective, especially if you start this the first week you have the puppy home. The longer you wait to start, the harder it becomes to stop this behavior. It takes very little pressure to stop a 7-week-old puppy from biting. Learn more about how to stop your Lab puppy from biting you. Off command The OFF command is also started day one. The OFF command is used to stop a puppy or dog from jumping on you. It can also be used to keep a dog off a sofa or other furniture. Starting day one, I gently use my knee to push down the puppy each time they jump on me. I say OFF when I do this. Usually, a gentle push with the knee is all it takes with a very small puppy. They learn this command very quickly. If your puppy is a bit more energetic or stubborn and tries to jump on you despite your gentle pushes, then you may need to use a little more force. Even if you were to knock your puppy backwards onto her back, that is not going to hurt her seriously. But it will likely make a good impression and cause her to think twice before jumping on you again. With jumping, consistency is important. You must knock your puppy off every time she jumps on you. Learn more about how to stop your Lab from jumping on you. We use this as a que when we are taking the puppy outside to go potty. We use this while the puppy is on a leash, and we are pulling them toward us. I only use this command for very young dogs. Your goal is to get the puppy to rest in your arms and not move. But if you keep at it, you will see your dog settle for longer and longer periods of time. Introduction to retrieving Lastly, since all our puppies are retrievers, we start introducing the puppy to retrieving. The first few times are simply throwing a toy a few feet and if the puppy runs out and gets it and comes back to you, great. Then take the item and throw it again. If the puppy does not come back or does not even run out to get the item, then stop for the day. Just let the retrieving develop naturally. Next week we will start more formal retrieving training. Final thoughts on what you should do that first week with your new Labrador puppy As you can see, there is a lot of training that you can do with your seven- or eight-week-old puppy. And while you can wait for training, your puppy is ready and able to learn quickly right now. I will be posting weekly on the training we are doing with Bubba, so you can get a week-by-week snapshot of how we raise and train a puppy up to be a excellent, responsive hunting or competition dog as well as a well-mannered family dog. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Quiet nights and crate training. This article will take you through everything you need to know, from what to buy, to how to help your pup settle in on his first day and night. Bringing a Puppy Home Bringing home a new 8 or 9 week old puppy is a potentially stressful experience for you and the pup. Of course, it will be better if you have been able to visit your puppy regularly before collecting him. But for most people, time and distance make this an unlikely option. Everything he sees, smells and hears, in your home will seem very strange to him at first. Fortunately, most puppies leave their mother and siblings at an age when they will readily accept their new friends and family. In a few days time, he will have settled in and accepted your home as his, and your family as his own. Holding Your Puppy The first thing to master when bringing home a new puppy is holding them the right way. This is the most comfortable position for puppies. But if you have had a long car journey, the first thing your puppy will need is to pee! Carry him in your arms to the area you want him to use for toilet purposes, and put him down there. Your first steps in potty training have begun. Maintaining Regular Bathroom Breaks Puppies vary widely in how often they need to empty their bladder. Some may last an hour or more from day one, whilst others seem to need to go every 15 minutes or so. During the course of the day, take the puppy to the toilet area at regular intervals half hourly at least to begin with. In addition, take him there every time he finishes a meal or wakes from a sleep. Set an alarm on your cell phone to remind you. Many Labrador puppies are very greedy and will eat astonishing quantities of food. New puppies are especially prone to upset tummies. The new environment and the stress of leaving home all add to the risk. You can reduce that risk by feeding little and often. If you want to change diets, do this gradually once the puppy has settled in. How often to feed Four times a day is the minimum number of feeds for an 8 week old puppy. Five or even six portions are better for a puppy with an upset tummy. Remember that the daily quantity is the same. More portions means smaller portions. If you get this right, there will be little or nothing left to put in the bowl when mealtimes come around You can find out more about using puppy food in training games by joining our Puppy Parenting course Meeting the Kids Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time for all the family. For much of the first day, your puppy will probably be cuddled and admired. Kids should also be aware of safety precautions, such as learning to let the pup be if he seems uncomfortable. Some older dogs will play too roughly with a puppy. Others will growl and appear to reject the puppy at first. These are normal reactions but they do indicate that you are going to need to keep a close eye on things for a while. A baby gate or other barrier is a perfect way to keep a puppy from annoying the resident dog or cat while they adjust to the newcomer. As the day draws to a close, your thoughts will turn to night time, and getting your puppy to sleep! Or he howls the house down either constantly or intermittently throughout the night. There are two approaches to choosing where a puppy sleeps for those first few nights. One is to get him used to his permanent sleeping quarters right from the start. The other is to have him next to your bed until he has got over his homesickness usually three or four days. And if you keep going back, the howling may well increase. Leaving a puppy to cry alone in a strange house is also probably very distressing for the puppy and not a great way to start their new life. But we recommend having the puppy next to your bed for the first three nights. This reduces the risk of getting into an increasing spiral of night howling or having your puppy miserable for the first week. Just pop his blankets in there and put the box right next to where you sleep. Night waking Most 8 week old puppies wake in the night to pee for the first week or so. But the first few days is a time for settling your puppy in, building their confidence and avoiding bad habits such as whining or howling, getting started The best way to meet all those goals, is to keep your puppy very close to you until their homesickness has passed. Bonding with your puppy Your main objective now is to bond with your puppy. Spend lots of time with your puppy. Make him feel at home. Pay him a lot of attention when he is quiet, fuss and praise him when he pees outside. Once he has settled in, there will be plenty of time to think about crate training and learning manners, but for now just enjoy his Labrador puppy loveliness, and that scrummy new puppy smell. It will be gone all too soon, replaced by a bouncing, boisterous, and joyful friend who all too often smells of pond water. What you are doing is establishing good habits, which will last a lifetime. What About Crate Training? A quality dog crate is an excellent source of help with potty-training. But a puppy should not be left inside a crate for longer than his immature bladder can hold its contents. For some puppies, this is not very long at all. Socialization is a big part of bringing home a new puppy. This is the process we take puppies through, to make sure they are comfortable with all aspects of living in human society. For instance, dogs need to be confident around things like vehicles and machines. They should be happy to meet people of all different shapes and sizes and to go boldly wherever people want to take them. A confident dog is not just a happy dog; he is a safe dog. Socializing also means taking your puppy out and about. Naturally, many worry about exposing a not-yet-fully vaccinated puppy to the risk of infection. Yes you can! If you use modern dog training methods, you can get going right after bringing home a new puppy! In the first week puppy training is based on a series of fun games. So that your puppy will be learning without even realising. The games you play should lay foundations for future good behavior, teaching your puppy not snatch, to say please, to focus on you, to love their crate, to wear a harness or collar and to run towards you rather than away from you. A lot of people worry about whether or not to take a puppy to classes, and some are unable to do so. But there is a great deal you can do at home by yourself. You can avoid this by getting off to a great start with recall training in the very first week. The video below will help you. And never chase after a puppy. Puppy recall training starts right after bringing home a new puppy. Build an association between the act of running towards you and the sound of the recall word or whistle. If you call the puppy and he does not come, you will have begun to teach him that the recall command is optional. Check out our puppy recall training video to give you an idea of how easy it is to build this a good association if you start off in the right way. You can find out more about building a great recall from the beginning in Total Recall. But for now, in these first few days at home together, make sure no one calls the puppy to them. When they want him, they can simply pick him up. If he runs away, all they need to do is run in the opposite direction and he will come chasing after them. For the first few days after bringing home a new puppy, focus on bonding and helping him to feel safe. Consider having your puppy next to your bed for the first few nights. This will comfort him while he is feeling homesick and missing his mom and playmates. Expect to get up in the night to take your puppy out to pee for at least the first couple of weeks. Set a reminder to avoid teaching your puppy to cry for your attention. During his daytime naps, dive into the feeding, potty training, and obedience training guides mentioned in this article, and head over to the forum for support from our other readers, many of whom have been where you are now, and come safely out the other side! If you want help choosing an adorable puppy name, make sure you take a look at this article too! By Tom Massey Jan 26, With their earnest eyes, friendly faces, and sleek coats, Labrador Retrievers have an irresistible charm. But beyond their picture-perfect appearance, are Labrador Retrievers good for first-time dog owners? The answer to this question may not be the same for everyone. Get to know more about this iconic breed to discover if a Labrador could be the right choice for your first foray into the world of dog ownership. From their personality and behavior to their health issues and exercise needs, first time owners can learn a lot by doing upfront research about Labrador Retrievers and their breed-specific needs. They tend to be protective of children, and they are eager to please their human family members. As pack animals, dogs want to be with their social circle throughout the day — that is, you and your family. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most sociable dog breeds. If you work full-time outside the home, your Lab will need a visit about every four hours. They grow into medium-large dogs, with sturdy frames, who weigh between 60 and 80 pounds for males and 55 and 75 pounds for females. Most adult Labs need a daily cardio workout, and many Labradors can exercise for two or more hours every day. In addition to playing endless games of fetch, these water-loving dogs enjoy swimming. Interactive puzzle toys provide both physical and mental stimulation for your curious, lively Lab. Look for toys that are dishwasher safe, since Labrador Retrievers tend to explore with their mouths. If you consistently give your Labrador better options, though, you can avoid chewing disasters that will make you gnash your own teeth in frustration. Fortunately, Labrador puppies are easy to train — and the sooner, the better. Training classes, even virtual ones , are widely available. If you decide to get an untrained pup, be prepared to consistently attend training sessions and follow-up with daily reinforcement activities at home. It can make welcoming a new Lab into your home a calmer experience, saving you unnecessary behavioral issues. Regular check-ups with a trusted veterinarian can help you spot warning signs, so your Lab can get any needed treatments to live a healthier life. Bloat Labradors bring their zest for life to the food bowl. As a result, they tend to wolf down their food too quickly. These inexpensive devices often look like puzzles or feature spiral patterns. When you pour food into a slow feeder, it falls into small compartments or channels. In order to enjoy the food, your Lab must slow down and carefully remove the food from the maze-like interior of the bowl. Make sure your lab rests for an hour after a meal or after drinking a lot of water to reduce the chance of bloating. Obesity Like people, Labrador Retrievers are not immune to weight gain. Follow a regular feeding schedule and be careful how much food you offer. Obesity in dogs can worsen conditions such as arthritis, hip or elbow dysplasia, and heart disease. Cancer and Heart Disease Most Labradors live about years. As your Lab ages, they might face serious health issues, such as heart disease or cancer. These two issues are prevalent in many breeds of dogs, with canine cancer rates about triple those of humans. Labrador cancers usually manifest as masses or growths, such as mast cell tumors. Labradors are prone to a type of heart disease called Triscupid Valve Dysplasia. This disease, which is present at birth, can cause fluid buildup and gradually enlarge the right side of the heart. While there is currently no cure for TVD, it can be managed with medication and some exercise restrictions. In milder cases, Labs with the disease are expected to live a fairly normal lifespan. Joint Problems Even younger Labrador Retrievers can sometimes have joint issues, such as hip or elbow dysplasia. If left untreated, this can cause pain and loss of full mobility. Regular checkups with your vet can help screen for this issue, so it can be treated early and the progression slowed. Aside from surgery, a common treatment for these Labrador joint dysplasias includes special orthopedic braces. Another treatment option is hydrotherapy, which is simply exercise done in a heated pool — sometimes, incorporating an underwater treadmill. Eye Issues Labradors can also be susceptible to retinal dysplasia, an eye disorder that causes blind spots and sometimes, complete blindness. Labs are also more likely than other dogs to experience progressive rod-cone degeneration, which is caused by a genetic mutation and leads to blindness. Neither of these conditions is painful, and most Labradors adapt well to vision impairment or loss. Arthritis While not much can be done for genetic conditions, problems like arthritis — which affects about one-fifth of adult dogs, regardless of breed — can be avoided or minimized simply by keeping your Lab from becoming obese. There are also certain nutritional supplements that can help Labradors repair torn cartilage from osteoarthritis and reduce the pain your dog might feel. The downside of this adaptation is that Labrador Retrievers shed much more than some other dogs. Labs need to be groomed at least once a week. This may include cleaning their floppy ears, which can be prone to irritations. A variety of brushes help keep shedding under control. However, if you have any concerns or are pressed for time to groom your dog, always consult a professional groomer to help you along the way. In addition to a grooming routine to reduce shedding, you may need to vacuum more frequently. A robot vacuum, available in a wide range of prices, can reduce the effort needed to maintain a tidy home. Experienced breeders and trainers, like the staff at Snowy Pines White Labs , can answer your questions and guide you through the process of choosing your perfect pup. Share on. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on.

An hour later, the puppy has been running around the house, chugged a bunch of water, pees in the house again, and it starts all over… So how do we stop this cycle from happening? Step 1: Take Them Outside Often Some people recommend taking your puppy outside every 20 minutes, while others recommend every hour. The point is, take your puppy outside often before they need to go. Puppies can hold their bladder for about an hour per their age in months, so a two-month-old puppy can hold it for about two hours, a three-month-old puppy can hold it for about three hours, and so on. But now that playtime is over they suddenly remember they have to pee and this nice carpet looks like the perfect spot! You can use this to your advantage by taking them to the same spot every time. To stop this, you need to clean up accidents with an enzymatic cleaner , not regular soap and water. One issue that many people make we made it, too is praising them too loud and too soon, and interrupting them. Then grab them and bring them outside to their spot and if they finish going, praise them like normal for going outside. So if you do all of the steps above, how long should it take for your puppy to be potty trained? All puppies are different, but it can take two weeks to a few months for your golden retriever puppy to be potty trained. Learn more » Golden Retrievers are intelligent, social dogs that love being around people. Potty training a Golden Retriever puppy can be frustrating and messy, but with some consistency and patience, your dog can be taught how to appropriately handle his business. Just keep in mind that accidents will likely happen. A puppy can typically hold its bladder 1 hour for every month of age, which means a 3-month-old pup can control its bladder for 3 hours. Once you pick a bathroom spot for your Golden, always take him to that spot on a leash. Reward Your Puppy Every Time He Eliminates Outside As soon as your Golden does his business outside in the designated area, reward him with praise or give him a yummy dog treat. Crate Train Your Golden A dog crate can come in very useful when potty training a puppy, as it allows you to watch for signs he needs to go out. Just make sure the crate you use is big enough for your puppy to move around freely but small enough to stop him from using a corner as a pee and poop spot. When done correctly, crate training can teach your dog to enjoy spending time in his crate. Image Credit: Parilov, Shutterstock 5. Clean Up After All Accidents Dogs have the habit of eliminating in the same places over and over again. This is why you should clean up after any previous accidents your Golden pup has had. Use an effective enzymatic cleaner that will do a good job of cleaning up and removing the smell of pee and poop. Image Credit: Olimpik, Shutterstock 7. When food is offered at the same times each day, potty training your Golden Retriever will be easier for you and your pup. Conclusion Potty training a Golden Retriever is not all that difficult to do if you follow these helpful tips and tricks. There is nothing cuter than a puppy… until it makes that first hot, steamy mess on your new Persian rug. Potty-training frustrations have formed more than a few wedges between new pet parents and their fur babies. Fortunately, with a bit of knowledge, consistency and patience, spending time on your knees scrubbing up pet stains can be a thing of the past! Training Methods to the Madness There are four popular house-training methods utilized by owners: Crate training Constant-supervision Umbilical-cord training. Some people stick to one method, while others use a combination of these different approaches to best suit their lifestyle. Crate Training Crate training works on two genetic principles: the safety of a den and the need to keep it clean. When the pups are old enough, they learn to eliminate outside of their den. Your puppy has these same genetic rules in his brain: the den is a safe place and it needs to be kept clean. Crates utilize these instinctual rules. Therefore, if you put your puppy in the crate, he learns to hold his bladder until you take him to the appropriate spot. The crate is a tool to utilize any time you cannot actively watch your puppy. When your puppy is out, you MUST supervise him at all times. Any time he has an accident in the house, this sets your training back. Some people feel that crate training is cruel. Crates are simply tools. Crate training gives you a break. So go take that bubble bath without fear of an accident! Crate training means no indoor messes to clean up, and no indoor potty smells to trigger repeat performances after being attracted by the scent. When puppies get used to sleeping in their own filth, they lose this natural instinct to keep their crates clean. If crate training is only used to confine your puppy for long periods of time, he may associate it with negative things — such as isolation. Make sure you use the crate in positive ways so your pup associates comfort and good things, such as food, with the crate — not just being left alone. Who Should Use Crate Training? Paper Training Paper training teaches a puppy to go to the bathroom on paper or puppy pads. This allows you to control where your puppy piddles. Begin by putting the puppy in a confined area of the house with tile flooring for easy clean up. Puppies like to eliminate on soft places, so putting paper down gives them this solution. Put paper or puppy pads on all hard surfaces. Your puppy will avoid eliminating on his bed and will use the paper, since it covers all other surfaces. Once he gets the idea, you can slowly begin eliminating the paper, starting with material closest to the bed. Leave a small piece of slightly soiled paper where you want your puppy to continue to eliminate. This utilizes the principle that puppies like to eliminate where they smell their previous offerings. The goal is for your puppy to learn to go only on the paper. If you want to eventually have your puppy eliminate outside, you can then slowly move the paper towards the door, and then put some paper outside. When your puppy goes to the paper inside, you can open the door and let them go on the paper outside. You then slowly take away the inside paper until they are going to the door to use only the outside paper. Cons of Paper Training If your goal is to get your puppy to eliminate outside, paper training can lengthen house training because your dog is taught to go inside the house first and you then have to basically re-train them. You also have a lot of stinky messes to clean up. Who Should Use Paper Training? Paper training gives your puppy room to play, while still allowing him to eliminate without the need for owner intervention. Constant-Supervision Training Constant-supervision training means that you never take your eyes off your puppy. You learn how to identify when you puppy needs to go, and at the first signal of circling or sniffing you scoop up your fur kid and take him to his potty spot in the yard. This training method requires a lot of intense observation and is best suited for only the most vigilant of owners. Pros of Constant-Supervision Training Your pup has a lot more freedom, and you are there for his every action. When you turn your back for a second — and you will — your puppy will sneak off and make a mistake in the house. This method can take longer than crate training. You must have the time to completely devote to your puppy during the housebreaking period, or you will be cleaning up a lot of messes on your carpet. Constant-supervision training may be best if you have plenty of time to devote solely to the new addition. You must also be constantly home during the potty-training period. You still watch your puppy during his every waking moment, but you use a six-foot leash to keep him tethered to you. You then watch for the signals that your puppy needs to go and take him outside. Pros of Umbilical-Cord Training You only need a leash to start the training, and you can also train your puppy to walk on the leash at the same time. Your puppy gets the exposure and socialization that comes with going everywhere with you. Cons of Umbilical-Cord Training You must have your puppy tied to you at all times, which can be difficult. This can be dangerous if they get caught up in something. If you like constant-supervision training, but want the added security of not losing track of your pup, umbilical-cord training may be a better option. Again, you must be able to keep your puppy with you wherever you go during the day. Your puppy is not eliminating in the house to be spiteful. Do NOT personalize this process. At 8 weeks, most puppies cannot last past two hours. At 12 weeks, this time extends to three hours. At 16 weeks, puppies can wait up to four hours between potty breaks. Punishing a puppy when you find the mess is not helpful and damages your relationship. If you find a mess, simply clean it up. Puppies operate on schedules. When you adapt to the same schedule, you can anticipate their needs and set them up for success. Puppies potty after a long nap, after a meal and after a good play session. They will also need to go out first thing in the morning and right before bed. Your puppy will give you signals when they need to go , such as moving away from you, circling, sniffing or squatting. Puppies tend to go back to the same place they have soiled before. If you do have an accident in the house, you must eliminate all traces of the odor to avoid a repeat offender. Reward your puppy for going to the bathroom where you want. If you catch them in the act of making a mess in the wrong place, distract them, and then pick them up to take them to the proper location to finish. With consistency, they begin to make the word association. The best way to house train a puppy for you may be sticking to one plan, or utilizing multiple approaches to achieve a perfectly house-trained pet. With a little guidance and a lot of love, you and your puppy will find the right balance of a well-behaved dog and an unsoiled Persian rug! This series contains everything a Golden owner needs to know on the subject and should have your puppy or dog toilet trained in the fastest, most effective and painless way for all involved. We strongly recommend reading through the whole series before you begin, to give yourself the skills and knowledge for the greatest chance at speedy success. He is crated overnight and has access to a crate during the day but continues to have accidents in the house — both 1 and 2. He seemed so hungry we started free feeding him, and he both plays in and drinks a lot of water. This puppy is whip smart about everything else…he learned to sit, down and shake paws at just 9 weeks and learns very quickly. Any suggestions? What goes in must come out. Praise and treat him when he voids outside, then crate him for a couple hours before taking him out again. Follow a consistent routine and your furry Einstein will earn his freedom in short order. This is perfectly normal for any spirited young pup. To curb unwanted behaviors, you need to think like him. First, the nipping. Find long-lasting, satisfying chew items he enjoys. When he nips, hide your hands and if he gets pushy simply ignore him. Walk away if you have to. Same technique applies to the barking. Dear Karen: I was so touched by your story on the loss of Otis, the cat. He, too, was diabetic and would have been 15 in April. The loss of such a great cat is hard. I have two other cats, but none can compare to sweet Taz. I thought both times that was it. But after each adventure he would return with tales of the outside world. I feel your loss and know you gave Otis a great life. Box , Grantham, PA .Please include hometown and phone number.

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 Nashville Tennessee 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! Questions about Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Nashville TN? We have answers. What is an overview of Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Nashville TN. Goldendoodles for sale in Nashville are wonderfully sweet dogs with the friendliest of temperaments! These dogs are lively, and great with children of all ages, making them fantastic family dogs! How does Uptown Puppies work? Uptown Puppies eliminates any kind of risk of bumping into puppy mills and people selling Goldendoodle puppies Nashville with bad intentions. Do you sell the cheapest Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Nashville? How do I know that my Goldendoodle Nashville puppy will be healthy? The state of health that all the Goldendoodle puppies for sale Nashville are in, is very important to their breeders and businesses. They all get thorough health checks from head to tail! Gastrointestinal, respiratory and cardiovascular systems are all checked, as well as other important parts of the body. Just make sure to take your pup to the vet to verify its health as soon as it arrives. Is walking enough exercise for my Goldendoodle for sale Nashville? These are lively and agile dogs that love to play and even swim! Make sure to walk them for at least an hour every day, and get adequate time to play in the park! Do you recommend specific food for Goldendoodle puppies Nashville? Speak to your vet and see what they recommend. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? Meeting up with Goldendoodle breeders Nashville and businesses in person is a really special treat! Uptown offers you the best breeders, businesses and companies that have passed all our requirements. They truly make the grade! Are there any Goldendoodle puppies in Nashville available now? Nashville Goldendoodle puppies for sale are in big demand these days! You just have to check out Instagram to see how many millions of people love theirs! When you see a Groodle pup on Uptown, you need to contact its breeder or business quickly - some are even more hypoallergenic than others, so make your move fast! Is a Nashville Goldendoodle for sale hypoallergenic? There are plenty of Nashville Goldendoodles for sale that are hypoallergenic. This means less sneezing and coughing, and less hair all over your clothes! If you want the most hypoallergenic Goldendoodle, go for an F1B Groodle. This is a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle and Poodle. What other hybrid breeds are there besides Goldendoodles Nashville? Goldendoodles for sale Nashville are a spectacular hybrid breed. However, there are many other hybrid breeds that you can actually find on Uptown Puppies. We are a small family breeder here in central TN about an hour from Nashville. We have dedicated our efforts to breeding the family friendly and sweet Mini Goldendoodle. Sweet, cute, and low-shedding are a few words to describe them. Every one of our parents has passed genetic testing and is proven to give us high quality and healthy puppies. They are among the very best for family pets. .To all of you who adopted from us in the past: Thank you for all your text messages and emails detailing just how awesome your puppies are! You can Contact Us if you have any questions or would like to reserve a puppy from a future litter now. Before rambling too long, I want to mention that we clearly recognize the fact that each puppy is unique. Because of this, and the large amount of time we spend with all of our dogs and puppies, we are more than happy to answer any questions you might have regarding personality, size, or anything else related to the Mini Goldendoodle puppies we have available for adoption. He already knows how to sit, lie down and shake! Thank you for being so kind and easy to work with. We will definitely get our next puppy from Willow Hill Doodles. We had the smoothest experience along every step of way with Carl now Dundie. Within the first week he was making strides in house training and is such a well behaved pup! From the first day, Dundie has loved other dogs and everyone he meets. We strongly recommend Willow Hill Doodles to anyone looking for a furry addition to their family! They were wonderful to deal with. Made the process very easy. Took the time to answer my zillion questions. Paoli came healthy and well socialized. I highly recommend getting a puppy from them!

Aggression is a serious issue and should not be taken lightly. A professional will be able to assess the situation and help you come up with a plan to address the aggression. Other Considerations To Keep In Mind With proper training and socialization, your Goldendoodle will learn to control their biting behavior and will be a well-mannered companion for years to come. However, the key is to start early and be consistent with your training. If you allow your dog to mouth and nip sometimes but not others, they will be confused about what is acceptable behavior. In addition to that, dogs are much more likely to pick up on good habits if you teach them from a young age. Finally, be patient! Like all dogs, Goldendoodles need time to learn what is expected of them. With a little time and effort, you can help your Goldendoodle learn to keep their teeth to themselves. Of course, it also includes lots of tutorials and resources on how to tackle excessive Goldendoodle puppy biting. Do not scream or hit your dog, as this will only make them more likely to bite again in the future. This will help your dog understand that biting is not an acceptable behavior. If your Goldendoodle continues to bite, you may need to seek professional help. When Do Goldendoodles Stop Biting? So, when do Goldendoodles stop biting? This is a common question among Doodle owners, and unfortunately, there is no single answer. One of the most common questions new Goldendoodle owners ask is when their puppy will outgrow the biting phase. Typically, Goldendoodles grow out of their biting phase once they get all of their adult teeth. Until your pup has grown into all of its adult teeth, there are a few things you can do to help discourage your pup from nipping. For starters, never play rough games with your Goldendoodle that involve hitting or wrestling. These games only encourage them to bite. You can also provide them with plenty of chew toys to help satisfy their need to gnaw. Early socialization is also vital, as this will teach your puppy how to appropriately interact with you, other people, and other pets. With a little time and effort, your Goldendoodle will learn to control their biting impulses and become a well-mannered companion. If your Goldendoodle is older than a year old and still biting, there may be an underlying issue, such as anxiety or boredom. The good news is that you can easily fix the boredom issue by giving your pup plenty of attention, playtime, and exercise. With the help of a professional, you can develop a training plan that will help your Goldendoodle learn to curb their biting impulses. Goldendoodle Biting: Final Thoughts Goldendoodles are wonderful, loving companions. However, like all dogs, they need to be properly trained and socialized in order to become well-mannered members of the family. While Goldendoodles are generally friendly dogs, they can sometimes bite due to excitement, boredom, stress, or fear. If your Goldendoodle is biting, there are a few things you can do to discourage this behavior, including providing chew toys, increasing mental and physical stimulation, and desensitizing them to their triggers. If the problem persists, seek professional help from a certified trainer or behaviorist. With some patience and training, you should be able to stop your Goldendoodle from biting for good. When Do Goldendoodles Calm Down? These cute pups are known for their energy and excitable nature, this is a perfect addition to your family, but you need to know how to manage the excitable moods. Like most breeds of puppies, as they age, they will become calmer. Most Goldendoodles will start to calm around months of age. People can sometimes feel confused as puppy teeth are lost at months, but you can still expect excitable behavior for months after this. When doodles are less than a year old, they generally have surplus energy, leading to intense periods of play and longer naps. So, if your doodle is larger, their puppy behavior can be harder to deal with as they have more strength; this can be difficult for an owner. Three Stages Of Aging There is a general three-stage experience that most Goldendoodles progress through. This will occur in most Goldendoodles but can vary. Do note that if your Goldendoodle is quiet and tired, this could signal something is wrong; always consult a professional opinion if this is the case. Puppy stage expect constantly high energy Adult stage still high energy, but gradually lessening Senior stage more restful These dogs tend to spend most of their lives in the second adult phase, but the most energetic stage is the first one. If you are looking for what size crate to get for your goldendoodle, click HERE Tips And Tricks Even though crazy energy is expected from your pup, you may want to find some resources or games that can help manage this behavior. Over excitement is expected from Goldendoodles, so these tips will not get rid of it. These are great ways to stop the energy from becoming undesirable behavior, though. In the early stage puppyhood , diversion and prevention are the best ways to minimize overexcitement. Most dog breeds need a healthy walk or play daily to tire themselves out; in this case, Goldendoodles have so much energy that this is one of the most important aspects of caring for one. If your doodle is overactive, it can help to take an hour of walk time daily to burn some of that energy. However, you may see an energy spike from just one missed session. A bonus tip for a good walk is to go somewhere where they can run around off-leash; this is great for an energy-filled doodle. Getting your dog active is the first step to take if you want to manage their behavior. Toys Can Be Helpful Playing fetch with sticks is a classic game and can help with overactive doodles, but consider investing in some specialized toys. If doodles are bored, they can become excited when something unusual happens, resulting in a crazy episode. Mental stimulation through toys can result in fewer overreactions and seemingly calmer behavior. Even a simple chew toy can help relieve stress, helping to reduce barking and overstressed out behaviors. Indoor dog games and toys are great, allowing doodles to play without the hassle of scheduling outside time. Good toys are rubber chew toys, tennis balls, stuffed animals, flavored toys, ropes, treat dispensers, puzzles, and squeaky toys. Note that squeaky toys are a favorite — so if you buy one, you will be putting up with additional noise! Scent Training Scent training or nose work is a simple pastime for Goldendoodles and can wear them out mentally and physically. This is also a great indoor activity. Inability to focus and lack of concentration are standard crazy doodle behavior. Scent training can be done at home to engage their attention and promote calmness. Good hides for Goldendoodles are boiled chicken, dried liver snacks, or even grated cheese; see what your dog reacts best with. Once your dog has found the hide, reward them with an extra set of treats. As you play, progressively make each hide more challenging to engage them. This could be done by placing hides in a plastic container that makes an interesting noise, getting your dog to reach into boxes with their nose, or reducing the number of hides but putting out extra boxes to search through. The increase in difficulty will help boost self-assuredness; while doodles often have self-confidence, this is still an excellent exercise for them. Sniffing is mentally and physically tiring for a Goldendoodle, which can help use up their crazy energy. However, it can help assess how you and your family react to their bouts of energy. This can reinforce the behavior, and the cycle repeats. Some even suggest practicing bringing the energy level down during playtimes. Try playing for a couple of minutes and then being calm for one. This shows your doodle the difference between play and calm and can help them get used to both. We can all be so busy with work and our lives, so scheduling in walkies can be difficult. Dog walkers are easy to find these days; thanks to the internet, try some helpful dog-walking apps, such as Rover, to connect with trusted walkers. This can take some of the pressure off of you and can keep your doodle active. A bonus to getting some help with walking is that if your doodle is extra active, you also have extra energy to play with them if someone has helped you walk them! Remember To Be Calm Sometimes if we are stressed, dogs can sense this and become anxious too. This can then lead to over-excitement, and undesirable behavior, which in turn stresses us again, and the cycle keeps escalating. Calm yourself and then calm your dog; practice just relaxing sitting around your dog. This is a great way to teach them patience and to help you not react to their energy. When your doodle sits calmly, remember to praise them for being good. Practicing a sit command is always a good way to train your dog; it helps create patience and be easy going about things that excite them. Overactive Behavior When A Goldendoodle Is Older Once the puppy stage is over, a reduction in energy levels and manic behavior is expected. Goldendoodles are fun and excitable for life! Excessive Barking Sometimes learned behaviors from puppyhood will continue later on in their lives, for example, problem chewing or excessive barking. This needs to be dealt with earlier to nip them in the bud. There are strategies and training to curb this problem, and it can be linked to learned puppy behaviors. Strategies include playing tricks and babying the doodle; you may also have to block out windows to stop excessive barking. If this action becomes painful, biting, or continues after 12 months of age, it can be time to seek advice from a professional or start at-home training. Play biting should stop significantly when the puppy teeth have been replaced; this should be at approx 8 months of age. However, the general rule of thumb is that by 3 years of age, they should not be hyper or crazy anymore. The key to addressing crazy doodles is to redirect the problem behaviors and to use positive reinforcement. Tackle each problem e. Key activities to help Goldendoodles are: Exercise daily; make sure to tire them out. The thing that makes Goldendoodles so incredibly popular as pets — especially with families that have children — is their outgoing personalities and the fact that they have a real zest for life. Vibrant, social dogs, Goldies do tend to be high-energy and boisterous pups right through their lives, which many owners love about them. You need to be prepared for this before deciding to take one of these darling dogs on. Sure, when Goldendoodles are puppies, they may run you ragged with their cheeky, mischievous behavior. After all, all dogs struggle to control their excitement when they are young. Yet, also like other dogs, Goldendoodles, too, do mellow as they age into adults. As they move from the neonatal period to the transition period to the socialization period, they will not only learn vital motor skills and start to play, but they will also begin to develop relationships with the other dogs and people around them. See Also: Click the image This stage is crucial to how your pup continues to relate to other animals and people as they grow. A top-quality breeding facility will ensure their puppies get plenty of handling and exposure to new stimulation. They will also make sure that all time spent around people is very positive for your pup. These early experiences shape how your dog will continue interacting with people throughout their lives. When you finally bring your Goldie home, they will be slap bang in the middle of the first fear stage. This often lasts from 8 weeks up until 10 weeks. Although dogs are very sensitive to new experiences, especially negative ones, during this brief period, a lot of love, delicious treats, and avoiding activities that seem to spook your pet can help them successfully navigate it. The remaining 2 weeks of these vital first 3 months are the best time to get going with their early training. This is when you are going to lock in toilet training and teach your puppy how to behave around the house. Still, they will be well on their way with the basic and most important aspects of training — the actions that will set them up for life. Depending on their Doodle type Standard, Mini, Medium… , they could be anywhere from half to most of the way to their adult size. Yet you will need to remember that they are still very much a puppy in their thinking and how they respond to things. At this time, it will still be all too common for them to become so frantic and over-excited that their good manners and their training go right out the window. See Also: Click the image You may also start to see an increase in undesirable behaviors such as chewing as their teething really ramps up. Keep this in check by providing appropriate chew toys for them to chow down on. This can help save both your belongings and your poor fingers — ouch! Make sure also that during play, you are very consistent in what you are letting your hound get away with. Mouthing behaviors are only natural, but let your dog know when they go too far with loud pain noises. Withdraw from the play altogether when they push things too far. Remember that it is far easy to train proper behavior from the beginning than correct it later in life. Your dog may try to assert their dominance over you at this time. Like teens, adolescent dogs are all about finding their place in the world. This is when that early training is really going to come into play, as you will be able to redirect their negative behavior and reconfirm the boundaries that they are already more than well aware of. Remain vigilant, though, as part of the testing of what they can get away with involves beginning to think about escape. Make thorough use of toys and games throughout this period. See Also: Click the image Adulthood Just when it feels like you have hit the end of your tether for one bouncy pup all about the place, your Goldendoodle will enter adulthood somewhere around months and start to calm down. While some days it may still feel like your cute canine has ingested an entire pot of coffee or turned into a Mexican jumping bean, especially in the first few years of their adult lives, in actuality, they will have much more control of their own behavior now. They should hit their golden years somewhere between 8 and 12 years of age, depending on their size. With that infamous Goldendoodle vivacity, this is especially vital for these pups. A garden is great for bigger dogs as they can happily chase a Kong Toy or something similar about the place, effectively keeping themselves out of trouble. Alternately you could send the kids out with them, and they could all wear each other out, resulting in a lovely peaceful evening for you. If this is not an option, games of fetch in a well-secured dog park can do the trick just as well. A dog-walker can also help take some of the strain of exercising a particularly lively Dood. Mental Stimulation Boredom can be the absolute enemy of calm, especially when something noteworthy does happen, such as the arrival of a visitor or a trip around the block. If your pup is frequently left alone for long hours, you will find that they are extra-especially lively when they finally get their family back home with them and have something to do again and someone to do it with. Again, this is where canine toys can save you a lot of hassle. These days there is an excellent variety of them with some seriously cool features. The thing about Doodles is those Poodle smarts of theirs make them particularly susceptible to boredom. Puzzle toys offer intellectual challenges whereby your pup has to figure out how to get to a tasty treat, for example. This can easily keep them entertained for hours at a time. The result is a much calmer, happier dog who may not even notice when someone does ring the doorbell. See Also: Click the image Training Training and socialization are also both so, SO necessary for helping your Dood manage their own behavior. Socialization gets your pooch accustomed to meeting new people, being in unfamiliar places, and dealing with different dogs and other animals. Training puts specific commands at your fingertips which can be employed when your pup is getting a little too over the top. Positive reinforcement is a good strategy, but be sure you are only reinforcing the behaviors you want to see continued. If you make a fuss of your fur baby when they are running around or jumping up, if you act as delighted to see them as they are to see you, then you are telling them with your actions that this is the right thing to do. Make a real effort to only pay attention to your pooch only once they have calmed themselves down. New Activities If you have the time, then helping your dog learn new tricks and skills can go a long way to keeping them both physically and mentally happy. Canine sports were practically invented for these offspring of working dogs. They excel at so many of them and will thoroughly enjoy participating. These kinds of activities also serve to reinforce and extend their basic training giving you even more commands you can use for behavior control. Goldendoodles are also big fans of the great outdoors in all its forms. Goldies, being the descendants of two water-loving breeds, will also likely love the chance to swim and hang about in streams, lakes, rivers, and the ocean. Too much of certain kinds of foods could heighten energy to unmanageable levels. Also, take care with the amount that you are feeding your dog each day. Likewise, snacks can cause issues here. A surprising number of calories can be found in even the tiniest treats. If you are using these for training, you may consider switching them out for a clicker or praise-based methods. If your food-focused friend is clearly never going to go for that, a surprising alternative is frozen vegetable treats. These seem to go down very well with most Doodles, according to their owners. A commonly held belief with canines is that getting them fixed can help them to be calmer, and there is some truth in this. Your puppy will likely be every bit as rowdy, but your older dog will be less of a puppet to their hormones. Goldendoodle puppies, like all other puppies, are feisty, fast, playful little things. This lasts a lot longer than you might think, given how quickly they grow to their adult size. Somewhere between 12 and 18 months of age, your dog will mature, and this will be when you will see them having a little more control. Although, they will likely be every bit as energetic as they ever were. This can be tempered somewhat through exercise and play. Is it normal for a Goldendoodle to be energetic? High-energy levels are a feature of the Goldendoodle breed and a trait that they inherit from their intelligent, working-dog parents. In this respect, it is perfectly normal for your Goldie to enjoy plenty of walks and fun. How often should I walk my Goldendoodle puppy? Daily walks are a necessity for every dog, although some breeds require a longer time outdoors than others. Goldendoodles have quite high exercise needs compared to some of the smaller, more sedate Doods. Although this will need to be tailored to their age, a good rule of thumb is to exercise them for five minutes per month of their age — twice a day. So, with a 4-month puppy, two minute walks a day would be sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. Although energy levels of these fine canines vary depending on age, life stage, and individual differences, they do tend to be at the higher end of the spectrum. For this reason, they do best in high-energy family homes or with people willing to take them on plenty of long hikes and with both a garden and the time to play with them. If you think that you can offer a Goldie that kind of life, then you will, no doubt, end up adoring your newest family member almost but not quite as much as they will adore you. His guardians set up a puppy training session with me to stop his nipping, address his resource guarding, potty training and basic obedience. Skye was a little subdued when I arrived for the session. His guardians told me this was better behavior than he normally exhibited. Sometimes dogs with lower confidence will act shy or reserved in new situations. A great way to help dogs or puppies with this problem is to teach them new tricks or commands. I also strongly recommended that the guardians look for socialization opportunities. Getting Skye around other dogs of a similar size, maturity and energy level will help boost his confidence in many areas. I got a firsthand look at some of his rambunctious behavior when the families son arrived home from school. Many puppies get mouthy and nippy when they are overtired. I think a lack of naps may be contributing here. I also recommended that the guardians consider setting up a puppy playpen that is attached to a kennel. This way they have a place that they can put the puppy any time that he starts get overly rambunctious. By putting him in a room and closing the door, we can help the puppy practice being alone for short periods and also influence him to take a nap. Because the puppy play area is gated off, we know that the puppy is safe. You can read about the puppy playpen that I set up for my dalmatian puppy quest by using this link. Because Skye has already started to climb up out of a smaller play pen the family sets up on occasion, they may also need to take a look at this link. A lot of this is a result of Skye having playful puppy energy and not being very socially experienced. Fortunately Skye will start a puppy socialization class tomorrow hosted by myself and a couple of my apprentices. Because he is getting off to a late start, it may be a slower process than if they had started introducing him to other puppies earlier, but he is absolutely young enough to rebound. By introducing a command word and associating it with the act of elimination and the reward at the right times, we can help Skye learn that there is a benefit to eliminating outside. Potty training is all about repetition, careful observation and rewarding the dog at the right time. After we wrapped up the potty training discussion, we moved into the living room so that we could practice having the dog come to us on command. A couple of minutes into this exercise, Skye wandered off on his own. When we came back inside, we finished with the recall exercise, sort of. He was doing some snacking earlier and Skye was more interested in looking for any food he may have dropped. By sitting in a circle on the floor a few feet away from one another and using hand motions, the command word at the right times and promptly rewarding Skye when he came on command, his family will be able to train their dog to come. I recommended that the family practice this recall exercise several times a day for the next week or so to really instill a solid recall command into their dog. I recommended that they keep these practice session short; 1 to 2 minutes in length. This is how other dogs communicate a bite was too much. He had been growling when they approached him with one and had started going under the couch to chew it. I pulled out a rawhide so that I could see how Skye reacted when I tried to take it away from him. Usually puppies at this age are simply growling as a reflex when anyone gets near them when they have what they consider a high-value object. Many people mistakenly think that resource guarding is a sign of aggression. It is not. I have worked with many dogs who are well-trained and very well behaved that still developed a resource guarding habit. I demonstrated how the guardians can practice holding onto an object that they allow Skye to chew on. This will give him the ability to maintain control of the object and mitigate skies resource guarding. The idea is to desensitize the dog to the touch or presence of humans around or near his mouth when he has what he considers to be a high-value item. I recommended that the guardians practice this exercise multiple times a day until they no longer receive a response from Skye. It will be important that they practice this activity several times a day for the next week. Resource guarding can be a scary thing to witness and can be dangerous once a dog matures. If the guardians are not seeing a difference in a week, I asked them to let me know so I can share some additional tips to eliminate this behavior. By the end of the session, Skye seemed to be mellowing out. He was no longer play-attacking or mouthing the families son in a playful way, and was easily redirected when someone came to the door. Many of these unwanted behaviors are things that he will grow out of or learn or unacceptable and puppy socialization class. Share this:. Goldendoodles are one of the dog breeds with the most excess energy. As smart, active dogs, goldendoodles require lots of exercise, mental stimulation and positive reinforcement. Continue reading to learn more about how to identify and calm down a hyper goldendoodle. They love nothing more than snuggling up with you after a long day and will always be over the moon to see you. However, doodles are naturally energetic dogs with boundless enthusiasm and zest for life. Your pet might whine and bark as a way of letting you know it needs attention and exercise. Add more exercise and playtime to its routine to prevent this from happening. As you can tell, the main reason for a hyper doodle is a mixture of natural temperament and lack of exercise. That said, all goldendoodle owners should expect the first three years to be jam-packed with playtime and high-energy behavior. Even after your doodle loses its puppy teeth at around six to eight months old, puppy-like behavior is likely to continue. Generally speaking, doodles are most hyper during the early stage of life, then become a little more docile at three years old and calm down a lot by the time they reach .Want a Calm Dog? Dogs are very sensitive animals and naturally match your energy levels to please you and fit into your environment. Stress, anxiety and anger are very distressing for dogs and might cause them to act out. Regularly getting into a frenzy of love and fuss can also be detrimental. If you get super-excited every time you come home and see your pet, you teach it that overexcitement is acceptable. Likewise, if you speak loudly and get very animated, you teach it that this behavior is normal. The answer is a resounding yes! However, proper training and a health-promoting daily routine are essential for bringing out the best in your pet. Below are the key components for evening out the energy levels of a hyper doodle. Early Training Methods Prevent Too Much Energy in a Goldendoodle Puppy Issues such as play biting, excessive licking, chewing, mouthing, tugging and wrestling are common among goldendoodle puppies. Regular Exercise For a goldendoodle, exercise is paramount. What constitutes enough exercise? For most doodles, daily exercise split into two walks around your local area or a dog park is ideal. Dog parks are great because they provide opportunities for socialization and training, which can help your dog learn how to maintain a calm demeanor. Keep in mind that the above timeframes are for outdoor walks — time in the backyard or indoors playing should be separate. Scent Training Scent training is one of the most effective ways to occupy a goldendoodle and keep it happy. Playing fetch offers physical stimulation, and providing toys offers mental stimulation, but nose work combines both. Reward your dog every time it finds a hidden treat. Increase the difficulty of the hiding places gradually over time. They help your dog relax, unwind and de-stress. Some ideas for toys include: Squeaky toys. Many Goldendoodles can be described as crazy. They are energetic and spirited, having an obvious love for life. They often bounce off the walls, trying to get anyone they can to play with them. They are rarely relaxed, and many owners wonder when they have time to sleep with all that playing. It is one of the reasons why people fall in love with them, given their fun-loving personalities. However, it can also be difficult to deal with at times. Goldendoodles have constant energy, making it nearly impossible to keep up with them. Like all Dog Breeds, Goldendoodles Vary in Energy Levels While it is common for Goldendoodles to be crazy, they do not all share the same spirited personality. Many Goldendoodles can actually be described as calm , which many doodle owners would be shocked about. These calm doodles are not hard to come by, as many are quite relaxed. However, unless you are adopting an older doodle, it is difficult to tell which ones are going to be hyper and which ones are going to be calm. In the book Goldendoodle, by Kathryn Lee , she mentions how it is difficult to decide which doodle puppies will be the relaxed ones. Many owners have difficulty taking care of puppies, as they are already high maintenance, so they do not want one overactive. She said that a Goldendoodle before the age of eight weeks would likely change in terms of temperament, so it is impractical to try and get the calmest puppy from the litter, as this calm puppy may become energetic with age. Goldendoodles are a mixture of both Golden Retrievers and Poodles. These breeds had to learn how to fetch and retrieve during hunting season. They were primarily used to retrieve waterfowl. The same can be said of a breed comprised of the two. Goldendoodles are often intelligent. They require mental stimulation to be happy. Establish a routine and good habits to help your dog feel secure and calm. Prevent unwanted behaviors through training and supervision instead of being reactive. Consistently reinforce good behavior to establish good habits to establish good habits. Crate training: Goldendoodles are known to enjoy the comfort of their crate as a safe haven, so when your dog is acting crazy teach them to be a calm dog in the crate. Scents: Introduce different scents around the house and yard and reward them for finding them to keep them entertained and curious. Use scent training to train them to identify and follow different scents as a fun game. Dog toys: Provide a variety of dog toys to keep them engaged and active. Dog training: Consistently train and reinforce good behavior to establish good habits. Consider hiring a professional dog trainer to teach them new tricks and commands. Use small pieces of chicken as a high-value treat during training. Use a harness for walks to prevent them from getting away and a collar with identification tags for safety purposes. Dog park: Take them to the dog park to socialize and play with other dogs. Allow them to run around and get their zoomies out with some playtime. Kong: Fill a Kong toy with peanut butter or other treats to keep them busy. Coming home to ruined furniture, toys, shoes, and other valuables is never pleasant. Chewing is fun. It keeps their minds active and allows them to clean their teeth. You can help alleviate boredom—and save your furniture—by providing toys for your Goldendoodle to chew. That might be anything from a bone to an actual chew toy. Another sign that your Goldendoodle is bored is if they just lay around and do nothing. You may even hear a few huffs or puffs from them. These are dogs with nothing to do. Because Goldendoodles have a lot of energy, you need to give them opportunities to release their energy and stave off their boredom. A great way to keep them active and entertained is to take them for a walk. Even a few minutes outside can make a real difference for them. Regular walks can also make them excited. Finding your dog digging in the yard can cause you quite a headache. Like chewing, your dog will start digging holes to entertain themselves. Regular exercise can help keep them calm and from destroying your yard. Dogs tend to exhibit certain behaviors because they know they will get a response. This is why training can be difficult. If you only give your dog attention now and then, it can reinforce bad behavior. An example is barking. If your Goldendoodle wants your attention, then they might bark excessively. You respond to them, usually telling them to stop, and it gives them what they want. A negative behavioral trait is born. Any time the Goldendoodle wants your attention in the future, all they have to do is bark a lot. Once all other reasons have been eliminated, if your dog starts to bark excessively, you can ignore them. Another way your dog may beg for your attention is by laying on you. They might lay their head or their entire body on you. They want to be close to you, but they also want your attention. This can sometimes make your Goldendoodle appear quite silly or crazy. They may appear desperate to be near you. Giving your dog plenty of attention can make them appear less crazy in this manner, too. Most young dogs have a lot of energy. Goldendoodles have even more energy. The Golden Retriever and Poodle have a lot of energy because of their use in sports. They need enough energy to hunt waterfowl down, swim to it, and then take it back to their owners. Because of their high levels of energy, your Goldendoodle will also have a lot of energy. This stage of their life can last up to 18 months. There are a few things you can do to help release some of their energy to keep them from acting crazy. One of the first tips is to be mindful of rewarding energetic behavior. One common trait dogs possess is expressing excitement when you return home. Your natural instinct may be to coo at the dog or be as excited as they are. This rewards their zany behavior. That can lead to other problematic behaviors like pining, wetting the floor, and barking. A better option is to ignore them. When the overexcitement transitions into happy greetings, you can start greeting your dog in return. Another great method to keep your puppy in control is to tire them out. The best way to do this is by exercising them. You may want to try teaching them new games like fetch and nose games. Goldendoodles will likely naturally pick up how to play fetch. Their instincts have been honed to retrieve objects for centuries. Even something like a short walk can be enough to tire them out. Puppies need shorter walks than adult dogs, surprisingly. They may seem like they have more energy, but it really only comes in bursts. You can play games with them indoors. Some Goldendoodles will love playing Tug-of-War or chasing a soft ball through the hallways. By playing with your Goldendoodle, you can give them the attention they need and tire them out. For many owners, that age is around years old. If your Goldendoodle is still acting crazy beyond four years of age, then it may mean you have a very active dog on your hands. As long as you tire them out and keep them mentally stimulated, everyone should be happy. It might also mean that you reinforced bad behaviors. Training your dog or going through professional obedience training can help undo those behaviors. How to Relax a Goldendoodle Thankfully, there are ways to calm a Goldendoodle down. They can be relaxed, even if it may not seem possible at the moment. Below are the three most common ways of calming a doodle down: Exercise The first way to relax a crazy Goldendoodle is to increase the amount of exercise it receives. A Goldendoodle needs a minimum of two hours of exercise daily, however, they enjoy getting even more. A doodle needs more than just a daily morning walk. They need to be active throughout the duration of the day, getting ample amounts of movement. Depending on the age and temperament of your dog, you may need to take your doodle on multiple walks throughout the day. Stimulation The second way to relax a crazy Goldendoodle is to provide it with enough stimulation. Goldendoodles can get bored easily, due to their high intelligence and hyper personality. This means that they need stimulation often. Whether it be through socialization or purposeful playtime, your doodle will appreciate it. If your doodle starts to run out of new stimulants, you may notice that they get themselves into trouble or even become lethargic. This can be easily fixed, however, by working on a new trick or purchasing new toys. Training The third way to relax a crazy Goldendoodle is to train them. Training is pivotal for any dog, and the doodle is no exception. In order to combat their sometimes fanaticism, the owner needs to teach them appropriate behavior. This is most easily done through rewarding their good behavior. Their dog may be perfectly calm in the home. The second a stranger visits or they encounter another animal, however, the dog goes crazy. Socialized means that the dog was allowed to visit other people and dogs. They became used to meeting new people to the point that it no longer phases them. It should be noted that even socialized dogs may be a little excited when new people show up or a new dog crosses their path. The key difference is that a socialized dog will lose interest. To keep your dog calm, you need to socialize them early. Allow them to go to the park and hang around other dogs. Invite your friends and family over to the house. Even older dogs can be socialized if you continue to take them to the park. Socializing your dog can keep them from acting crazy. Closing Thoughts Goldendoodles may seem crazy, but they just have a lot of energy and zeal for life. You can calm them down by regularly exercising them, giving them lots of attention, and providing mentally-stimulating toys and chews. Many Goldendoodles can be described as crazy because of their high energy levels, but not all of them are hyperactive. To keep a Goldendoodle calm, you need to provide mental and physical stimulation to help alleviate boredom. Goldendoodles require regular exercise to release their energy. Chewing, digging in the yard, or excessive licking can indicate boredom. They may bark excessively or exhibit other behaviors to get attention.

With over 40 years of experience, Shawn trains people to properly establish and maintain leadership roles with their canine companions. Shawn has trained with several acclaimed canine experts and refined The Dog Way training methods through experience and observation of dogs' natural interactions within their groups. Deciding you want to purchase a pug puppy is exciting. However, you want to make sure you find the right puppy for you. Make sure you seek out reputable breeders so your puppy does not come with any health problems. Visit the puppies in person and choose the one that suits your needs. Ask the breeder plenty of questions about the puppy's current health and pedigree. Before bringing your new friend home, make sure your house is puppy proofed. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Pug puppies come with a unique set of needs. Puppies in general require more care than an adult dog. Before embarking on your journey to find a pug puppy, consider whether you can accommodate one at the moment. Make sure you have time for a puppy. Puppies need extra feeding, as well socialization and training. If you have a very busy schedule, you may want to wait for things to settle down before getting a puppy. Pugs, as a pet, require some maintenance. The folds in their faces need regular cleaning, and they're also prone to a great deal of shedding. Make sure you can live with frequent grooming, and accept the fact your house will never quite be hair-free. Like all breeds, pugs are prone to certain health problems. While a good breeder is adept at breeding out such problems, there are certain problems that are hard to breed out. These are usually simply due to how a pug is built. Learn the risks associated with pugs and make sure you're prepared to deal with them down the road. All pugs, regardless of breeding, are prone to eye problems. Pug's distinctive, bulging eyes expose a large area of their corneas, which puts their eyes at risk of drying out or forming ulcers. You may have to deal with frequent vet visits to deal with eye issues. Pugs are very prone to overheating because their flattened faces makes it hard for them to breathe. This problem can be even worse in hot weather, and overheating can cause serious health issues for a pug. Behaviorally, pugs are a more social breed. They are more prone to separation anxiety issues than other breeds. If you're gone a lot, a pug may not be the right dog for you. When searching for a breeder, there are a few places to scratch off your list right away. Puppy mills and very obviously bad breeders should be avoided. You're more likely to get a pug with existing health problems, or the risk of developing health problems down the road. In general, do not trust a breeder who simply sells dogs online from any given buyer. A breeder who does not ask any questions is probably not a good breeder. Responsible breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes. Puppy mills sometimes sell puppies to pet stores, so avoid buying a pug from a pet store. Puppy mills may also sell pugs online. If you can simply look at a picture of a puppy and purchase it, this is probably a puppy mill. Start your search locally. If you're lucky, you will be able to find a breeder who lives nearby. Look for ads in the newspaper, online, at local pet stores and veterinary clinics, and at any local pet clubs. A breeder in your area is convenient, as you will not have to travel far to see the puppies. Just because someone is a local breeder, do not assume they are an ethical one. Make sure to visit any breeder in person and look at the puppies physically before purchasing one. Unfortunately, not all areas have pug breeders close by. In some cases, you may have to travel to meet and select a puppy. There are many places you can look online to locate the nearest pug breeder. The Pug Dog Club keeps a list of reputable breeders online. You can search for the closest breeder there. The American Kennel Club also has a database of dog breeders. You can search there by breed. Remember to have patience. Even if you find a good breeder relatively close to you, they may not have puppies available for a while. You may have to wait a few months before taking home your pug puppy. Call a few breeders during your search. Pay close attention to your interactions. Learn the signs of a good breeder. Only work with breeders who are responsible and care about their dogs. Their facilities should be clean and spacious. They will be flexible in scheduling a time for you to see the puppies. A solid breeder will usually only breed one type of dog, or only a few types of dogs. The breeder should be very knowledgeable of pugs. During your initial conversation, the breeder will want to go over some basic pug care information with you. Good breeders do not have anything to hide. Not only will the be willing to let you see the dog's pedigree and meet their parents, they will actually encourage this. When you select a breeder to meet up with, make sure to ask a variety of questions. You want to make sure their puppies are a good match for you and your home. You also want to make sure the breeder is responsible and that the puppies are in good health. Interacting with a dog's mother and father can give you a sense of your puppy's future temperament. Ask questions about the breeder's credentials. Ask how long they've been breeding pugs. A more experienced breeder is more likely to produce healthier puppies. Ask about the puppy's parents. Make sure the parents do not have any inheritable diseases. Ask if you can see the health certificates for the parents on request. You should also ask about what treatment the puppies have received. Have they been vaccinated or de-wormed? Have they been spayed or neutered yet? When you get a chance to interact with the puppies, look closely at the puppy's you like. Pugs are prone to certain abnormalities. You can detect a potential issue by examining the dog's eyes, as well as how it breathes and moves. Watery eyes, squinted eyes, or glazed over eyes are signs of poor health. Hold the puppy close to you to hear it breathe. Raspy, labored breathing is generally a bad sign. Watch the puppy moving and at rest. It's not uncommon for pugs to breathe through their mouths when running around. However, a resting puppy should be able to comfortably breathe through its nose. There should be no signs of limping or an uneven gain if the puppies are old enough to walk. If you notice a puppy walking funny, listen for a clicking noise from the hips. This indicates the dog may develop hip problems later in life. As you interact with the puppies, aim for one with a good temperament. You want a puppy that's not too shy, but also one that's not overly rambunctious. You want a puppy that allows you to pick it up without squirming. A very aggressive or very standoffish puppy can be a problem. Once you've selected two or three pugs you like, request one-on-one time with them. You want a puppy that is friendly away from its litter. A friendly puppy will wag its tail, allow you to pet it, and look at you when you talk. A good breeder will be as scrutinizing of you as you are of them. Breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes, so don't be put off if a breeder asks you a lot of questions. This is a good sign. The breeder wants to make sure you will take good care of the puppy. They will also want to know about your general lifestyle and how you plan to care for the dog. If this is your first pug, don't panic. A breeder is unlikely to reject you simply because you don't have specific experience with pugs. As long as you've done some research on the breed, the breeder will probably be willing to sell to you if you're responsible. A good breeder will always be willing to provide this information. After selecting the puppy you want, ask for its pedigree as well as a certificate of health. These papers should assure you the puppy is in good health, and that its family tree is relatively free of inheritable conditions. Puppies need frequent vet visits. You should have a certification on hand showing what vaccinations and other treatments your dog has already received. As you prepare to bring your puppy home, make sure you're ready. Your puppy should enter your home with all the supplies it needs to thrive ready. You will need the following: [7] X Research source A crate to transport your puppy home and for crate training later Bedding Collar, leash, and identification tag Toys Grooming supplies i. Before bringing your dog home, you will need to pug proof your house. Pugs are inquisitive animals and prone to getting into things. You want to make sure your pug cannot get into any dangerous substances or places. Make sure all electrical wires are covered or out of reach. Keep things like household cleaners and detergents out of reach. Place them in high kitchen cabinets. Prevent access to staircases, as young pugs can easily slip and fall on the stairs. A good breeder will present you with a contract prior to purchase. This outlines your basic responsibilities and the breeder's return policy. Read the contract carefully before signing. If there's anything you don't understand, ask the breeder. You want the option of returning a dog in the event it has a health problem you cannot afford to treat. Once the contract is signed and your home is ready, you can bring your new friend home. You can now enjoy your pug puppy, and begin the process of training and caring for your new lifelong friend. November 19, iStock. Just look at them! These little dogs have wrinkly, happy faces and delightful personalities. Instantly recognizable for their smushed-in faces, expressive bug eyes and curlicue tails, the Pug dog breed can be traced back more than 2, years when they were the highly regarded pets of Chinese emperors. While Pugs undoubtedly are adorable and popular dogs, knowing a bit about the breed before bringing one home is essential to ensure that the pup will be a good fit for you and your family. While cute, their face shape requires some maintenance and are responsible for some of the health issues that Pugs tend to face. Pugs also are known to be prolific shedders, so managing their coats takes a little extra work. Invest in a good de-shedding dog brush and consider bathing your Pug with shed-control shampoo, like the Shed-X dog shampoo. Pugs Can Suffer From Breathing Problems Pugs can suffer from breathing issues associated with brachycephalic syndrome. Dogs with this syndrome have shorter noses than most dogs, and while this gives Pugs their adorable smushy-faced appearance, it also means that they must work harder to breathe than their longer-snouted brethren. Brachycephalic issues can include shortened airways, a narrowed trachea and nasal passages, as well as issues with the soft palate and voice box. Wylie says. Wylie also recommends walking Pugs on a dog harness to limit pressure placed on the upper airways and trachea. If a Pug sounds like the right fit for your family, Dr. Wylie recommends establishing a relationship with a veterinarian early on to see if your dog may need surgery related to brachycephalic syndrome. Pugs Are Prone to Weight Gain Pugs are hearty, muscular little guys, and they are prone to weight gain. There are foods, like the Royal Canin Pug dog food, specially formulated for Pugs to help them maintain a healthy weight. Wylie adds. By Kate Hughes. I adopted Wilma quite quickly as I had the opportunity to save her from an undesirable situation. I instantly fell in love, but with little experience in owning such a breed there were a few surprises in store. Taking on a pug is a hella' lot of responsibility. It is particularly unfair to leave this breed home alone for long periods, so have a think about how much time you can offer, or if you can rely on anyone for regular doggy-sitting duties. Your clothes will never be the same again Fawn pugs have a double coat, and therefore malt. A lot. The days of stepping outside in a hair-less outfit are a distant memory. They eat like there's no tomorrow For such a small breed you wouldn't think they have a lot of room for food, but they damn sure MAKE room. Aaaand it goes straight to their waistline. Don't give in to their pleading little eyes. They know how to play you.These cute little wrinkles can harbour some pretty gruesome bugs, especially as pugs submerge their entire face into the food bowl at dinner time. Their ears need a clean too, I use doggy ear wipes. Dry it out thoroughly afterwards with a clean tissue. Conclude the session with a treat. They find it difficult to breathe Yes there are some health issues than come with the breed. Because of their shortened snout, their airways are obstructed. Most brachycephalic breeds flat-faced are not as healthy as their long-nosed peers. This is a big thing to consider as pugs will most likely need BOAS surgery nostrils widened and elongated soft palette cut back in order for them to live a more comfortable life. Always use a harness, and get a comfortable necktie so they can still wear their ID tag at all times. Now, I have to decide which Pug puppy to bring home. I'm so nervous that I'll choose the wrong dog. How can I possibly know I am choosing a Pug puppy that is the best one for me? They're all going to be so cute! Answer: Hi Ashley. We agree that all of the puppies are going to be adorable and cute! However, there are definitely some guidelines that you can follow when you are trying to pick out the perfect Pug pup. We are not sure if it matters to you if you have a male or female. There are not that many differences, despite what others may say. While potential health problems may not be visible, there are 3 things that everyone should do: Check the eyes, breathing and gait. The Eyes: The eyes are not only the window to the soul, they can also give you a clue about the health of the dog. Watering, squinting or a glazed film on the eyes is a sign of health issues. Breathing: Hold the puppy close to your ear and listen carefully. Do you hear rattling and rasping? This is a sign of a breathing problem. Does the puppy have to breath through his or her mouth? If the puppy is at rest, they should be able to breath fine with their mouth closed this can be a stenotic nare issue, which often needs to be corrected with a surgical procedure. Watch the puppy walk: While young pups under the age of 6 weeks may still be gaining their footing, take note of any limping or odd gait issues. If you do notice an odd gait, listen for any clicking noises coming from the hip area. This sort of issue may be caused by underdeveloped hip bones joint and socket , a health problem not uncommon with the Pug breed. Interaction and Activity Some people will tell you that you should pick the puppy that comes right over to you first. This is not the best advice. Puppies that are very bold like that may be harder to train. Their enthusiasm may be great fun for a while, but keeping up with and trying to train such a puppy may turn out to be stressful. When you are choosing a Pug puppy, it is usually best to choose one who is quiet and calm. However, you most certainly need to make sure that the pug is not too quite due to an illness or extreme shyness. You don't want to bring home an ill pup and choosing a dog that is overly shy may make for a pet that is afraid of everything and will be in need of extensive of socialization training. It is recommended to have a close look at several puppies that stay in the background. If a Pug puppy is laying listless without any energy at all, this is a warning sign that the dog may be unhealthy. A calm Pug that does respond to you when picked up is what you should be looking for. Listen to the breathing for any signs of labored breathing or rasps. If the breathing is clear, take a look at the eyes. They should be bright and clear without an excessive discharge. With 2 or 3 puppies now left for you to decide on, take a look at how each one responds to you and how they respond to each other. Wiggle a toy in front of a puppy or whistle to him or her and see if the pup shows natural curiosity. The one for you should come over to you to investigate. Allow the whole litter to play with a toy. Take notice of the ones that seem to be bossy and the ones that seem to play fair. Take note of the ones who cower in the corner if the others fight for the toys. You will want to choose a Pug puppy who falls somewhere in the middle. This will ensure you have one that has a calm, yet curious personality. Finally, when you have it narrowed down to 2, do not feel rushed. Take time to sit down with each and talk to them. Does the pup look at you when you talk? Does he or she keep their tail high or wag the tail to express happiness? At this point, you should get a good feeling about which puppy is the one that is meant for you. Please remember, that just because you have an appointment to pick up a dog does not mean that you must go home with one. If the litter seems ill, all of the dogs seem aggressive or you do not feel a bond with any of the puppies it is absolutely acceptable to relay this to the breeder. While you may be very disappointed at first, in the long run you will be happy that you waited. When you are holding the Pug puppy that is right for you, you will know it. And what a lucky guy or girl that will be! Ready to begin his or her new journey as part of your family! 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. This question is usually accompanied with wanting a list of questions to be asking the Pug breeder. Based on this feedback I wanted to give you the ultimate list of questions to ask, plus all the warning signs that should make you walk away. Not just warning sings about the Pug puppy, but also her mother and the breeder too. Things to know before buying a Pug puppy The moment you see that adorable Pug puppy for the first time will last with you forever, it certainly did with me when we first met our own dog. Just take a step back for a second. I wish we had, but luckily, our dog ended up being ok, but it could have been very different: Pugs are a notorious breed for health problems and unscrupulous breeders. With their cute squashed faces and cuddly squat bodies, they will tug at your heart strings. You will be tempted to just take that Pug puppy and go. But please, please, please… before you do that, here are some things you should check before you pay your money. Your pug will become a huge part of your life, but make sure you know what to look for before you buy a puppy. Read these before you spend the money. By doing this due diligence you should hopefully get a puppy that not only fits your family and lifestyle, but also lives a long and happy life. You want to choose one that has a track record, online reviews, and a good reputation in the Pug world… not some first timer nobody has heard of which would be a big red flag. Be suspicious of low prices: If the Pug puppies are advertised as a lower than average price, be wary. The old adage about if it looks too good to be true is almost always the case with puppies. Low prices can be a sign of an unhealthy litter. Find out how many litters the mother has had already: Pug mothers should not have anything more than one litter each year. The best scenario would be a litter every couple of years. More pregnancies than this mean she has been over-bred and both her and the puppies could have health problems. Look out for serious conditions and hereditary issues including dwarfism, hip and spine issues, soft palate issues, eye problems, and hearing problems. I would recommend getting a puppy from a Pug older than this just to be sure. Before 8 weeks of age, they should still be with her, and it can also help you understand what type of dog your puppy will grow up to be. If the breeder refuses access to the mother, walk away. Ask where the puppies have been living: If the Pugs have been in a dark garage away from human interaction it will mean they will be harder to socialize and harder to train. Ask how often the Pugs have been handled: When puppies are regularly handled by humans, they will be much easier when taken home. Ask whether a vet has checked the puppies: Puppies should have been checked by a vet and had their first set of vaccinations before going to their new home. Ask to speak to a previous buyer:A reputable breeder will let you talk to people who have bought a Pug puppy from them before. If they are unable to supply references and contacts, they could be hiding something. I hope you find these questions to ask a Pug breeder helpful. Please do print them off before you visit the litter and decide to buy. The personality of the Pug breeder This is so often over-looked, but I wanted to add it on as something to look for when buying a Pug puppy. Only buy a Pug puppy from a breeder who is prepared to take the time to answer any questions and concerns you might have. Breeders that treat buyers with respect will most likely extend that kindness to the Pug mother and her puppies. This gives you an indication of what health problems could in store. These can include: Allergies. Pugs Are Royalty In ancient times, pugs were bred as companions for Chinese emperors. Later, they lived with ruling families in the Netherlands. Get a Lint Roller Pugs shed… a lot! Some pugs even come with double coats, meaning they have both an undercoat and topcoat of fur. Make sure you stock up on lint rollers, and invest in a good vacuum cleaner. See here to learn how to deal with a shedding pug. On your lap, in your bed, even at your feet while you use the bathroom. Get used to never being alone again, and forget about your personal space. Feeling Hot Hot Hot Like all flat-faced breeds, pugs sometimes have breathing issues. They do best in moderate temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold. Here are some tips on how to help them stay cool. Their big eyes can lead to corneal ulcers or dry eye, their smushed face can lead to breathing issues, and their wrinkles must be cleaned. Trips to the vet for general check-ups are a must, along with regular grooming nail trims, wrinkle wipes, and ear cleanings. They live to eat, and are prone to obesity. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are super important, as is watching their weight. Always use positive reinforcement when training them, but definitely expect some push back. Learn to Love the Pug Symphony Pugs wheeze, snort, sneeze, and snore. These creatures will keep you laughing, and put a smile on your face every single day. They give unconditional love, and make great family dogs. Their size, temperament, and great personalities make them the perfect pet. Photo by Pets by Petra Do you have a pug? If so, what makes them great? Finding a reputable breeder is one of the most important steps in your Pug adoption journey. Not all breeders are made equal. Here are some key criteria to consider when looking for a Pug breeder. Seek out reputable breeders Chances are your first port of call is going to be Google. Start your search locally by checking local classifieds online. You may also want to ask around in your local area. Friends, newspaper ads, the local veterinarian are all great options. A reputable breeder will include details and pictures of their pups and dam. They will also provide ample information and include details of health testing, conformation, and any after-sales policies. Check to see how many litters they have produced in the last 12 months or so. Good breeders breed less. Sometimes your gut instinct is the best way to find a reputable breeder. A good breeder will be happy to answer any and all of your questions and have ample knowledge of the Pug breed. If they seem defensive, secretive, or callous, then walk the other way. Do they follow breeder best practices? When it comes to your first visit, be vigilant. Make sure that your breeder is following breeder best practices. Breeder best practices coverage, health, conformation, and after sales policy. Your breeder should not let their puppies go to new homes before 8 weeks of age. You should never buy a Pug younger than this. Your breeder should provide proof of relevant health checks, conformation, and provide you with an after-sales policy. Beware puppy scams and red flags Unfortunately, the world is full of puppy scams. Some people who claim to be dog breeders are after one thing and one thing only. Your money. Key signs that your alleged breeder is a scam artist: They promise a free puppy They promise a highly discounted puppy They sell sob stories They keep asking you for more money They are very far away 6. Even if you feel sorry for the puppies in these mills, the best way to stop this practice is not to fund it by purchasing a puppy from them. Puppy mills are large-scale breeders who breed pups in poor conditions. Oftentimes pups from puppy mills develop physical and behavioral health issues later in life. We also recommend avoiding purchasing puppies from pet stores. Not all health conditions are visible or immediately obvious. But nonetheless, there are some basic checks you can observe to ensure that your Pug is in top-notch condition. Cloudiness, redness, gunk, and discharge are all signs of ill health. Likewise, a Pug with watery, squinted eyes may also be unwell. If her eyes are also glazed over or irritated then this could be a sign of a hereditary ocular disease. These are all causes for concern. Your puppy should be able to breathe comfortably when at rest. Any uncalled for raspiness or breathing difficulties are signs of ill health. Coat Pug puppies should have super shiny, clean coats. Frame Pups should be slightly plump with a well-proportioned frame. Shorter than average legs are a sign of a genetic condition called Dwarfism. Unfortunately, Pug Dwarfism is a serious issue and often leads to a myriad of health issues and a short life expectancy. Look for signs of limping or unsteadiness. Listen out for any clicking sounds from the hips. These are all signs of future joint problems. Since puppies come in a litter, oftentimes there will be more than one to choose from. Try to pick a pup with a well-balanced temperament. Not too shy and not too crazy. Think about what kind of character will fit best with your home life. Is your household mellow and quiet or busy and noisy? Do you have kids? Do you have other pets? No problem. Remember, a reputable breeder will be happy to answer any of these questions and be adequately knowledgeable. Even that is a bit excessive. Overbreeding is a serious problem and can lead to health issues for both mom and pups in the long run. Your breeder should be able to provide you with proof of any relevant health checks and notify you of any hereditary issues. This is because some genetic health issues do not show up until later in life usually after approximately three years of age. It is wholly in your right to ask to see the parents in person. In fact, the pups should all be with their mother until at least 8 weeks. Ask where the puppies are living and ask to see them A good breeder will keep their pups in the home. They will be more than happy to show you around. If the pups are in a dark, cold, isolated area such as a garage or yard — or if the breeder refuses your request to visit- then this is a big red flag. Ask if the puppies have been regularly handled Make sure that your puppy has been well socialized with people. In the best-case scenario, your pup will have had contact with people of various ages and possibly even other dogs and animals. Adequate socializing is super important for preventing any behavioral issues later in life. A good breeder will be able to give you a detailed medical history for each pup. All puppies should have been checked by a vet before being homed. Ask for references or to speak to a previous buyer Good breeders will be happy to provide references. If people have had a good experience with them in the past, they will be more than happy to offer a reference. If your breeder refuses to offer you a reference then this is a big warning sign. Ask for a contract Make sure you and the breeder sign a contract before you take your new pup home. A good breeder will always present new owners with a contract prior to purchase. The contract should include all breeder and owner responsibilities and any details of a returns policy. Some breeders will even offer a year health guarantee against genetic defects. In order to avoid scam artists, there are a few tell-tale signs that you can look out for. These are major red flags. Reputable breeders who love their Pugs will never do these things. Signs of a puppy scam include: Promises of a free puppy Promises of a highly discounted puppy Asking for money just to complete paperwork Offering long-distance puppy delivery Sob stories are a huge red flag. If you come across an advert selling you a pup on the basis of a tragic life event e. Whilst this is not always a scam, puppy scam artists do like to use this method. Usually, if somebody can no longer look after their beloved dog, they will not ask for a lot of money to rehome them. In fact, oftentimes, the dog will be offered to a loving home for free. Bring Your Pugs Home! Sourcing your new Pug pup can be a lengthy process. Now you know what to look for when buying a Pug puppy, and the tips and tricks to filter the right Pug breeders. Eyes checked by an eye specialist for Entropion, Distichiasis double eyelashes and Pigmentary Keratitis Heart testing for heart murmurs Whilst health testing is ideal, tests need to be breed appropriate and have a tangible outcome. May-Hegglin Anomaly was found in only one dog, a Pug or Pug cross. Dogs in the susceptible group may never develop the condition. A flowchart for diagnosis was developed as part of research that led to the susceptibility test. What is a well-bred Pug like? Contrary to belief, when a Pug breathing can be heard, this does not always indicate health issues. Some of her Pugs have competed in Obedience. I think Pugs are only limited by what their owners are willing to do with them. Health is not something considered highly in unregulated breeding. The only way for these colours to be there is through cross breeding at some point. Along with the colours will come genetics for diseases not previously found in Pugs. Follow the Dogs Australia three Rs ; Right time — Is it the right time now to get a puppy for your family? Right breed — Have you researched all you need to know about your breed from its natural instincts to grooming? Right Breeder — Is your breeder responsible, operating under a code of ethics, with regulations and health checks? From getting a dog to keeping them happy we will have you covered at dogsaustralia. It champions the highest standard of animal welfare through education and fostering dog-loving communities. 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