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It is, in fact, the first choice of most first-time dog owners. This adorable dog breed has a lot of features that you should know. They can be used for a lot of purposes. You can keep them as guide dogs, sniffer dogs or family dogs. In this post, you are going to know more about this dog breed. History and Popularity The history of Golden Retrievers can be traced back to the 19th century. It was bred in Scotland. Since their origin, Golden Retrievers have become popular all over the world. One of the major reason for its popularity is its friendly nature and easy-going temperament. Appearance The Golden Retriever is a stong built medium-large sized dog breed. It has a beautiful golden colored soft coat. It has a thick and feathery tail. Its oval-shaped eyes are very cute. Its ears are short and remain hung down. Characteristics 1. Friendly Golden Retrievers are one of the friendliest dogs in the world. They are great companions and love to be around you. When you are looking for a family dog, the Golden Retriever has to be your first choice. Reliable They are one of the most reliable dogs to have. They are trustworthy and loyal. You will feel their trust and reliability when you have them around you. Dog Breeders Near Me 3. Kind Golden Retrievers are one of the kindest animals you can have as pets. They are good with kids. They can be the best companion for your kids. Intelligent Golden Retrievers are intelligent animals. They can learn fast. They are widely known for being the best guide dogs for visually impaired people. Who is it not for? While the Golden Retriever is certainly a great dog to have, it is not suitable for everyone. Your lifestyle is a primary factor when deciding whether or not you can have this dog breed as your pet. Golden Retrievers do not like to be left alone. Why are Golden Retrievers so expensive? Golden Retriever are one of the most sought for dog breeds in India, hence, they are in lot of demand. Because of such high demand and low supply, they are naturally a bit expensive then the other breed of dogs that are readily available. How much do Golden Retrievers cost per month? Which type of Golden Retriever is best? There are three types of Golden Retrievers- the regular, the lowe and long hair type. Should I get a boy or girl Golden Retriever? The good news is that females are easier to obedience train. Are Black Golden Retrievers rare? Are Golden Retrievers easy to train? Is Golden Retriever smart? Golden Retrievers are one of the smartest breeds, ranking up there with German Shepherds and Beagles. Is Golden Retriever dangerous? A Golden Retriever is a large dog that has the potential for violence when it feels threatened or frightened. Do Golden Retrievers pick a favorite person? What is bad about Golden Retrievers? Golden Retrievers are a healthy breed of dogs, but they have their share of health problems. Is Golden Retriever good for India? Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are two breeds of dogs that have made quite the name for themselves in India. These intelligent canines make fantastic companion animals, as they love to engage with people from all walks of life. Can Golden Retriever protect you? Golden Retrievers are one of the most loyal and intelligent breeds around. These big boys can protect their owner with all that loyalty and intelligence behind them. Can Golden Retrievers drink milk? Dogs should have a balanced diet and drink water not milk. This is because they can get stomach aches, diarrhea or other health troubles if they consume too much milk or any other dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, ice cream etc. Can Golden Retrievers aggressive? Training can help keep your dog from being aggressive and dominant! Are Golden Retrievers lazy? In fact, Goldens love exercise and playing with their owners — but it must never tire them out or overwhelm them because of how sensitive these dogs can be when it comes to stress. Can Golden Retriever be left alone? Golden Retriever will become destructive or anxious if left alone for extended periods of time. If you go out after work, socialize on weekends, the dog may pine and be hungry with all these needs to take care of! Can Golden Retrievers eat boiled eggs? Eggs can be a great source of protein and nutrients to keep your dog healthy inside and out. What foods are bad for Golden Retrievers? There are many ingredients that you should look out for in pet food, some of which might be carcinogenic. What fruits can Golden Retrievers eat? Is your pup one of those dogs who likes to snack on the occasional fruit? They can enjoy apples as well as bananas and mango. Are Golden Retrievers big barkers? However some Golden Retrievers will let you know when strangers approach in the vicinity. What are the disadvantages of owning a Golden Retriever? They shed so much fur! Inevitably this means more work cleaning up afterward. A Golden Retriever also can not be left alone for more than a few hours, which means you will have to spare constant attention, which might be difficult for most people! Do Golden Retrievers like to cuddle? Golden Retriever loves to cuddle. They are one of those breed of dogs that would come and sit in your lap and love to spend hours with you at strech. Are Golden Retrievers the nicest dogs? The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in India and for good reason. Goldens also need some basic obedience training so they know their place among humans! How long can Golden Retrievers hold their pee? They can hold their pee for up to hours if they need too. The average adult Golden Retriever should be allowed to relieve themselves at least times a day and no less than once every 8 hours or more often in hot weather when dogs are panting heavily due to summer heat. What to Know Before owning a Golden Retriever? The Golden Retriever is a sturdy and intelligent dog that requires careful consideration. They are not for couch potatoes, but require mental stimulation in order to be happy. Can Golden Retrievers live longer than 12 years? They are larger dogs, so their time with us is shorter than other breeds of dog. However, some goldies have lived as long as 19 years which is quite rare! Why are Golden Retrievers so loyal? Golden Retrievers were bred in the Scottish Highlands to hunt birds, requiring them to be obedient and loyal. Their athleticism is also a result of their history as hunting dogs. Are Golden Retrievers jealous? Golden Retrievers are intelligent and loving dogs. What is the best age to get a Golden Retriever puppy? After 8 weeks, Golden Retriever puppies are ready to be taken away from their mother and littermates. The process of weaning the puppy is healthier for both you and your new pup! What is the best age to train a Golden Retriever? Are Golden Retrievers destructive? They may chew on your shoes or furniture as they explore the world around them. How do you know if your Golden Retriever loves you? The final sign that your dog loves you? Or bringing things to show how much he appreciates everything. Do Golden Retrievers like to sleep with their owners? Dogs of all breeds including a Golden Retriever will love nothing more than to share the same bed with their owners. Why are Golden Retrievers always hungry? Are Golden Retrievers indoor or outdoor dogs? Golden Retriever family members can experience many problems if left out all the time- Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, aggression; Behavioral problems such as digging holes even while indoors Look what I made! Are Golden Retrievers calmer than labs? The Golden Retriever and Labrador are few of the most popular breeds for a family with kids. They are great around children and love to play, but Golden Retriever also enjoy their downtime unlike most Labradors. Conclusion These were some of the things that you need to know before you decide to get this adorable dog breed. Do you think you have something more that can be added to this post? Please let us know down in the comment section. We might add it in the next update of this post. Hope you found this post helpful. Leave your questions and suggestions in the comment section below. Learn more about our training services here. Interested in applying for a puppy? Submit a free, 1-minute application on GoodDog. Apply Now on GoodDog. I feel very lucky to have found SWD after months of searching for a breeder with the right fit for what I was looking for. Jordan provided great communication, knowledge, and advice throughout the adoption process, which was essential to me as a new dog owner. I could not be happier with my puppy, and would recommend them to anyone. Thank you, SWD! From the first time we reached out that we were interested in this breed to bringing our sweet baby home we felt like a part of this family. We were drawn in by their philosophy and mission for this beautiful breed and family dogs and will forever be grateful to be a part of it. Their love and compassion for their dogs and the homes these puppies go to knows no bounds. So thankful to have our sweet girl and will always recommend Southern Water Dogs for families looking for an amazing golden. Thanks so much for helping add to our family. We were kept informed of every major phase of our puppy's development, from conception to when we picked her up. Jordan and Haley did an outstanding job of not only socializing the pups to other people, kids, etc. Our girl is such a confident, happy puppy not only because of her genetics but also because of the way Jordan and Haley raised her! Read the full disclosure here. Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States! Whether you are looking to purchase a golden retriever puppy or adopt an adult or senior golden retriever, money is often one of the first things that come to mind. Due to the huge demand for this particular breed, golden retrievers tend to cost a pretty penny. Truth be told, goldens are expensive, but they are also worth every penny! If you are looking to purchase a purebred golden retriever, you should know what to expect when it comes to the price of one of these dogs. Read on to learn more! At the lower end of this price range, you can find goldens from a home breeder without AKC documentation or health certificates. Read on for the full breakdown of golden retriever puppy prices! When buying a golden retriever, like when buying just about anything else, you get what you pay for. All of these missing costs will end up being your responsibility once you bring the puppy home and will soon add to the initial cost of buying a puppy. On the other hand, breeders who charge more for their golden puppies will likely have a higher breeding standard. This brings me to… Adopting From A Shelter Or Rescue Adopting a golden retriever from a shelter or rescue organization costs significantly less than buying a puppy from a breeder. Besides being much cheaper, adopting a golden retriever is also a more humane thing to do! These dogs too make wonderful pets and companions and are no less deserving of a loving, forever home. Another factor worth mentioning is if you adopt an adult golden retriever, you can save a lot of money on various supplies only puppies need when going into their new homes, like house training pee pads and teething toys. First-Year Average Cost Of A Golden Retriever Puppy Now that you have a better idea of the average price of a purebred golden retriever puppy, you will then need to factor in all the major supplies your new pup will need during their first year of life. Basic Puppy Supplies If you previously owned a golden retriever or a similarly sized dog, you may be able to reuse some of their supplies, such as food and water bowls, a leash, or toys. This can save you some money early on. If you have never owned a dog before, though, be prepared to shell out some serious cash! Basic puppy supplies include:.
Since your bulldog will likely eat anything he can get his grubby little paws on, you're responsible for portioning his food and monitoring his weight. Fit bulldogs have better overall health, so feed carefully for a longer, happier life. Feeding Puppies Puppies are big eaters by nature, and bulldogs are no exception. Until he's about 4 months old, your puppy should eat almost twice as much as an adult. Always defer to the portioning instructions on your food package, since the nutrition content changes from brand to brand. That in mind, though, a puppy under 4 months old should eat three to four cups of food per day, divided into four feedings. Between 4 and 6 months, cut back to three feedings for a total of two and a quarter to three cups of food per day. Amount and Frequency After six months, your dog should be on his adult feeding regimen: one and a half to two cups of food per day, divided into two meals. Bulldogs have a tendency to gorge themselves when free-fed, and eating too much too fast can make them sick. Unlike other dogs that can self-regulate their meals, then, bulldogs must be fed on a routine schedule to keep their digestion healthy and regular. Avoiding Obesity Monitoring your bulldog's weight begins when he is a puppy, because this short, stout breed is prone to joint and bone problems when overweight. Since bulldogs are naturally so pudgy and wrinkly, you may have difficulty eyeballing his weight. Instead, get hands-on—literally—to see if your dog has too much junk in the trunk. When your dog is standing, wrap your hands around his midsection with your thumbs on the spine and your fingers stretching out along his sides. If you can feel his ribs without squeezing too much, he's in good shape. If not, gradually restrict his diet and make your morning walks a little longer. Treats and Behavior Feeding your dog doesn't stop with what goes in his bowl. You have to monitor his treat intake, too, or else his health and behavior can both suffer. Never give your dog a treat without his earning it, or he won't be motivated when you try to train him. Instead, reward him with attention like playing together or going on a walk, both of which help him maintain a healthy weight. When you do give him treats in a training context, remember not to overfeed—always defer to the portioning instructions on the package. More Articles. Allergies, and more. Level Of Care How good you take care of your dog can go a long way to determine their lifespan. You can promote longer life for your Fido by meeting their dietary, exercise, and veterinary care needs, including ensuring that your pup is up to date with vaccinations. Want more years of those great moments with your pet? Taking good care of your American Bulldog involves ensuring that your four-pawed friend lives a healthy lifestyle. As stated earlier, an adequate amount of exercise, healthy diet and proper veterinary care are all essential building blocks of a healthy lifestyle. Before you visit that breeder or walk into that animal shelter for one, think again, especially if you live a sedentary lifestyle. American Bulldogs need 1 to 2 hours of daily exercise to stay happy and well-behaved. They are more athletic than the English Bulldogs, and that tells you how much they need it. Therefore, before you think of having one, figure out whether you can stick to a regular exercise routine. Did you get that? American Bulldog food needs to be rich in proteins but poor in carbohydrates. To retain that great wealth of muscles you see, these dogs need protein-rich food. However, low carbs are necessary to prevent those muscles from getting sunk into fat! However, American Bulldogs seem to violate the law of nature when it comes to feeding behaviors. American Bulldog puppies aged between 4 to 6 months need 3 cups of food coming in at 4 meals every day. This amount is significantly more than that of what adults, aged 6 months and older, need, which is 2 cups in two meals every day. Your American Bully requires a high-quality diet, and you should never at any time settle for anything short of that unless you want to bully their stomachs! For high-quality food, Pet Plate comes in as your best friend with your pet. Their preparation and storage quality standards are second to none, so your canine gets what exactly they deserve! However, your pet requires more than what that kibble offers. Multivitamins supply nutrients that are often missing in staple food, helping them live healthier lives by boosting their immune health and maintaining their coat health. That is more than I first thought. Now, taking good care of your American Bulldog entails ensuring everything is up to par, including dental health. Dental water additives help fight numerous periodontal conditions, keeping your American Bulldog happy. Do American Bulldogs Bite? However, whether by an American Bulldog or not, biting is a behavior we should fight hard to curb. And yes, training helps a great deal with keeping this undesired trait under control. These canines are just as brave and confident as they look. However, they always keep up their aggression and hostility until situations force it. This is one of the traits that make them excellent watchdogs. They use their bark to tell intruders that they know they are around and are not welcome. They will only switch to the extreme end of things when they feel that they are being ignored. Image from Dog. They keep safe all interactions with the people they love. Accidents happen. Protective American Bulldogs have ingrained hunting and guarding instincts. That means they have a big drive to protect what they believe is theirs. Family-Oriented Never leave your American Bulldog alone for extended periods as they are family-oriented. The best moments for these canines are those spent with family. They love being part of the family activities and want attention from their human partners. Stubborn But Eager To Please American Bulldogs are easy to train because of the big urge they have to please their human partners. However, at times, they have a mind of their own and tend to do things in a manner they see fit, thereby posing difficulties during training. And for training to be successful, patience and skill are all prerequisites. Grooming Tips For American Bulldogs American Bulldogs typically shed moderately all year round, although the shedding tends to increase a bit when seasons change. Here are a few grooming tips for your pup. And by the way, literally, no dog is hypoallergenic. Shedding levels differ, though. You can stop your American Bulldog from shedding hair all over the house by using a Furminator Undercoat Tool. They have short and hard coats, so make sure you get a hard-bristle brush for the job. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. Again, avoid human toothpaste as it contains Xylitol which has fatal repercussions when ingested by dogs. Consult with your vet on what product to use for your pup. Trim Their Nails Long nails can create excellent breeding zones for bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms. Nails of American Bulldogs need trimming after every few weeks, preferably 3 to 4. Fortunately, we have lots of tools for this job. Only beware that going past the nail curve risks hitting the blood vessels. Compared to most dog breeds, American Bulldogs are so expensive because they are highly loved and more difficult to breed. Can American Bulldogs Swim? American Bulldogs can only swim for a short period. Their large faces and jaws can be difficult to keep afloat for long. No, an American Bulldog is not the same as a Pitbull and the two main differences are in their sizes and coat colors. American Bulldogs are much larger. However, when it comes to color varieties, Pitbulls carry the day as they can come in any color, unlike the American Bulldogs that are only available in white, sometimes with patches of either black, red, tan, brown, or brindle. September 30, Did you know that American Bulldog is a breed that loves to eat much? That's why you should carefully keep an eye at their ration and forbid him to eat anything he can get his paws on. A dog owner is responsible for his dog, and you should become responsible for his ration to grow a healthy and happy dog, you should watch for portioning and monitor his weight, which, in the end will grant your Bully happier and longer life. While your American Bulldog is a puppy, you should feed him twice as much as an adult until he's 4 months old. Keep in mind that puppies under 4 months should eat four times a day, in general three cups of food, puppies between 4 and 6 months - three times a day and a total of two cups of food. After your Bulldog reaches the six months' age, he should chande to an adult feeding plan, which is two times a day feeding with a total of two meals a day. While choosing between commercial and homemade food, you should remember that nowadays it is only a question of time - commercial food contains all necessary minerals and vitamis as well as the homemade one. Feed your dog correctly and he will become a happy mature American Bully! It is a perfect item for any activity where strength and reliability of the collar mean much. Thus, it will do a great service in training your American Bulldog, walking on small and large distances or without a lead, as well as exercising and sporting. It is time to take care of your pet and change old into new one. This Luxurious Shining Leather Dog Harness is a perfect tool for training, daily walks, daily exercising and just for making your dog more gorgeous. Nutritional requirements of a American Bulldog What exactly should the diet of a American Bulldog consist of for optimal health? Protein from quality meat sources 2. Essential Fatty acids and omegas 3. Natural vitamins and minerals from bone and plant sources 5. Hydration — high moisture foods and drinking water 1. Protein When selecting what to feed your American Bulldog, choose a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish. As such, protein impacts canine health in many ways, including: Providing consistent energy Forms new skin, hair, nails, and other tissue. Keeps the immune system healthy. Makes hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. Properly balanced fats are essential for optimal health, and also provide energy. Dietary fat we generally refer to as a triglyceride. There are two types of triglyceride, saturated and unsaturated fat. In balance, they promote a healthy coat, skin, eyes, nervous system, control hormones, fuel brain and learning, and reduce inflammation. Carbohydrates, such as vegetables and some fruits, provide fibre, prebiotics food for beneficial bacteria , and antioxidants that are lacking in meat alone. Dogs are carnivores, but they can benefit from some vegetation in their diets for optimal health. Natural vitamins and minerals A raw food diet aims to replicate what dogs evolved to eat in the wild. As such, meat, bone, offal and a small amount of plant ingredients are all important ingredients in the diet of a American Bulldog, each adding highly beneficial vitamins and minerals to meal times. Incorporating ground bone in meals or providing recreational bones for enrichment add nutrients that will support digestion, skin and bone health, and mobility. As such, water is a vital nutrient for all cells, systems and functions, including: The regulation of body temperature Maintaining healthy organ function. The digestion and absorption of nutrients. Detoxification; water helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the body. Preventing dehydration which can lead to serious health problems, including kidney damage and heat stroke. Lubrication and cushioning of joints, thereby supporting ease of movement. Discover more about a raw food diet for dogs in our complete. American Bulldog raw feeding guide Whilst you could create homemade raw food meals for your American Bulldog, dog owners new to raw feeding can often find making their own raw dog food meals complicated. Formulating meals with the appropriate ratios of key ingredients is essential to ensure your dog receives optimal nutrients, so going it alone can seem daunting. The good news is there is a much simpler approach. By choosing a reputable supplier of pre-prepared raw dog food supplier, you can stock your freezer with quality raw food meals at the click of a button. American Bulldog Feeding Chart. At eighteen months of age, they are already considered fully grown in terms of height, but it is possible they will put on more muscle until they are two years old. Large dogs that have different-sized parents can range from medium-large to large and require a lot of protein in their diet. So, an American Bulldog puppy will need more caloric food than an English Bulldog. This is especially important during the period between six and twelve months when at least eighty percent of their adult body weight is already there. Weighing your American Bulldog is crucial in fine-tuning the amount of food per meal. High-quality kibble is a great choice for puppies because it provides the right amount of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals without much calculation on your side. Wet foods can be useful too, but only if the ingredients are well balanced. Meal frequency decreases with an increase in amount. Every individual dog requires adjustments, and the chart is supposed to give you an estimate of how much and how often. If your dog is very active, then you might want to add some treats during the day. Always promote frequent physical activity over lowering the amount of food. Dog bodies are astonishingly efficient at spending those extra calories, especially with the amount of muscle American Bulldogs have. Up until eighteen months of age, you should feed your puppy the full twenty-two percent of protein from dry matter and around ten to twelve percent fat per meal. Make sure the food you are feeding to your puppy has adequate amounts of vitamins A, B-complex, D, E, K, and choline. Minerals such as phosphorus and calcium play a key role in nutrient synthesis and normal hormonal function , so read the list of ingredients and nutrients on the food label. Calcium, vitamins B-complex and choline are all vital in normal bone formation and strength. Large dogs with a lot of muscle require dense bones to be able to support the pressure of the entire body. An American Bulldog puppy grows so rapidly that the bone density can often fall behind weight gain. Regularly weigh your dog to see if its weight matches that from the chart, and feed accordingly. Once your American Bulldog reaches eighteen months, you can slowly start switching to a raw diet if you set your mind to it. Do not feed puppies fewer than two meals a day. It is always better to feed them three or four smaller meals to avoid bloat or Gastric dilatation and volvulus GDV. Although it is rarer in young dogs, it is still a risk you would want to avoid. Also, make sure the food is small enough for the dog to be able to chew it properly without just swallowing. Many high-quality dog food brands have puppy food, which contains all the ingredients for a balanced diet and is appropriate in terms of size. Consult the veterinarian before adding dairy or third-party liquids to the meal. Creating new diet plans and regimes seems to be a trend that is ramping up. Some are well-received by the animal medical community, while others receive negative feedback. Kibble and wet food are convenient, and busy people find them an excellent choice. Those with more time to spend with their dog prefer a home-cooked fresh or raw diet. Every diet has pros and cons, so allow me to help you decide which one is the right fit for you and your dog. Kibble And Wet Food Diets I am sure you have read about additives whenever kibble or wet food is mentioned. Indeed, eliminating fillers from large-scale kibble and wet food production would be a very bad business decision. Storing this type of food is great too. It has a lengthy shelf-life and can be stored virtually anywhere. The packaging always has detailed information about what ingredients are in the food. Portioning is simple with kibble and wet food — you can measure the correct amount by calculating cups of food. The standard unit of measure is an eight-ounce cup. All is good if the protein content is first in line, followed by fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The long shelf-life is achieved by adding preservatives. The two types include natural and artificial preservatives. Overall health and lifespan will be improved if you opt for wet food because canning mostly includes natural preservatives. Dry food will probably be your best choice for an American Bulldog puppy, and wet food once it reaches sixteen or eighteen months of age. Wet foods can cause diarrhea in puppies, so best to avoid them at the beginning. Canned food does not have enough water content for your growing puppy or adult dog. Animal meat, organs, vegetables, and bones are all ingredients of a comprehensive meal. Many dog owners claim their dog had a longer life and better overall health on a fresh diet. Unfortunately, there is no scientific proof confirming a drastically better quality of life in dogs that are on a fresh diet. A large number of breeders and performance dog owners are adamant that their dogs have a higher level of activity and better coats when on a fresh or raw diet. The higher level of activity is plausible since the food will be digested more quickly the nutrients in this form are easier to absorb , and poops will be smaller due to the greater concentration of easily absorbable ingredients. By now, you must have realized that it is actually a slightly healthier diet than kibble or canned food, but there are some downsides. You first have to find certified and high-quality raw ingredients. Then, you have to cook and portion them fittingly. This is time-consuming and takes a while before you establish a routine that will create an efficient process. Consider your budget as well because a fresh diet does not come cheap. Their developing digestive system is not able to process the nutrients properly. Once your American Bulldog reaches one and a half years of age, you can start introducing raw food. Raw food diets are similar to fresh food diets, with one big difference — the ingredients stay raw. Veterinarians and animal medical associations agree that a fresh diet is superior in terms of nutritional value and health reasons. Prepackaged raw food meals are available for you to buy, but it is important to look for certificates that guarantee the meat passed all health checks with flying colors. This simplifies portioning and saves you some time, but every dog should have a diet tailored to its individual needs. Unlike French Bulldogs, the American counterpart is much more athletic and with fewer health problems. Purely on their role as working dogs and muscularity, owners often deem raw diets mandatory. Be Cautious Of Bacteria Whether we are talking about a Husky, American Bulldog, Pitbull, or any other breed, the type of diet does not matter as long as it contains all the required ingredients for a healthy life. Still, raw food has a major downside — bacterial, viral, or parasite infections. The meat can be certified and successfully pass health checks but still contain traces of pathogens such as salmonella or listeria. Just handling the raw food can spread germs all over the house, putting your family at risk of infection too. Certain grains like oat are tough to digest in a raw form, and the dog will benefit from them being cooked. The same goes for vegetables and fruit, though fruit is not a dietary requirement for dogs. Fruit such as plantains, fig newtons , prunes , durian , and guava are all safe for your dog if you want to add some new flavor to the diet. Keep in mind that your dog could be allergic to certain foods, so consult a vet before including them. Putting the word science in a product name does not make it better. There have been several recalls of this product line due to toxic quantities of vitamin D in the food. I would not consider products that have been recalled as the main diet for my dog. From a purely logical point of view, buying any product that has been recalled would be a hard pass for me. High-quality food does not have to come from a corporate giant. This means that your American Bulldog has a higher chance of having problems with its airways and allergens that can be inhaled. Unfortunately, this is not the only health problem that likes a good boy or girl. Obesity caused by overfeeding, hip dysplasia, and cherry eye are some of the most common health issues that plague Bulldogs. Let us quickly go through them and be done with the bad stuff. Obesity American Bulldogs grow fast. You will break out the best snacks the snack drawer has to offer and perhaps share some of them with your dog. Even if you feed your dog only the best foods on any kind of diet, there is a possibility of overfeeding it. One of the most common causes of overfeeding is treats. Most owners do not count them in the daily calories total and unwillingly teach their dogs some bad eating habits. Oftentimes, owners will want their dogs to grow faster or bigger than they naturally can, so they feed them so much meat that the dog becomes obese in just a few months. A diet should be balanced for the best result. Low-quality foods with lots of fillers that include starch and complex carbohydrates can cause sudden weight gain. You will know your dog is overweight if its size increases, but the musculation is less visible. Hip Dysplasia Everybody and their dog knows about this condition. It occurs when the ball of the femur does not sit properly in the socket joint of the hip, and the cartilage that lines the bone starts degrading until it is completely gone. Once that happens, the bone tissue becomes damaged with every move, and the dog starts experiencing pain and difficulty moving. If caught early, it can be treated with NSAIDs, but more severe cases require complex surgery or hip replacement. Cherry Eye This is a congenital condition that affects Bulldog breeds more than others. It is characterized by a protruded third eyelid that gets inflamed due to irregular eye anatomy. Dogs affected by cherry eye or protruding eyelid often have something that resembles a red cherry mass on the inside corner of the eye. Routine surgery is the most common treatment, with a rather easy and short recovery. Long exposure to foods your American Bulldog is allergic to can cause cherry eye. If you are a first-time dog owner, this American Bulldog feeding chart will be immensely helpful in getting you started. There is no one size fits all approach to dog feeding, so some effort in ironing out the details will be required. All these elements combined have an impact on the lifespan and overall health of your American Bulldog. Do not forget to provide ample exercise for your canine friend, and consult a vet if you notice a change in behavior when switching between diets. One can never be too careful. Read Next:. Share Are you aware that the American Bulldog is a breed that enjoys eating a lot? That is why you should keep a close eye on their rations and prevent him from eating anything he can get his hands on. A dog owner is accountable for his dog, and you should take responsibility for his diet in order to raise a healthy and happy dog. You should control portion sizes and keep track of his weight, which will help your Bully live a happier and longer life. Bulldogs in the United States are typically gentle, playful, and voracious eaters. Bulldogs who are in good physical shape have superior overall health, so feed them properly for a longer, happier life. Puppies Feeding Bulldog puppies, like any puppies, are voracious feeders. Because the nutritional composition of foods varies by brand, always follow the portioning guidelines on the container. Keeping this in mind, a puppy under the age of four months should consume three to four cups of food every day, divided into four feedings. Reduce feedings to three times a day between 4 and 6 months, for a total of two and a quarter to three cups of food each day. Quantity and Recurrence Your dog should be on an adult eating schedule after six months: one and a half to two cups of food per day, divided into two meals. When free-fed, bulldogs have a tendency to overeat, and eating too much too soon might make them unwell. Bulldogs, unlike other dogs that may self-regulate their meals, must be fed on a regular schedule to maintain a healthy and regular digestive system. You could have trouble judging his weight because bulldogs are inherently chubby and wrinkled. If not, progressively reduce his food intake and lengthen your morning walks. Behavior And Treats Feeding your dog entails more than just putting food in his bowl. You must also keep track of his treat intake, or else his health and behavior will deteriorate. Instead, give him attention by playing with him or taking a stroll with him, both of which will help him maintain a healthy weight. When you do offer him goodies in a training situation, remember not to overfeed him—always follow the product portioning guidelines. Feed three meals a day to American bulldog puppies aged three to six months. Puppies aged six months to one year should be fed two meals every day. When the American bulldog reaches the age of one, one meal per day is sufficient. Adult American bulldogs, on the other hand, may benefit from two smaller bowls. Excellent-quality dry dogfood can be mixed with canned food, broth, or water to give a well-rounded diet for growing American bulldogs. Puppies of the American Bulldog should be fed high-quality, brand-name puppy food. Only clean, fresh water should be used, and food and water dishes should be washed frequently. Only if the puppy has been separated from his mother or if there is a large litter and not all of the puppies are getting adequate food will a human be required to intervene in this process. If this is the case, you should seek advice from your veterinarian. At this stage, their tummies are too sensitive to give them anything. English Bulldog Puppy, 4 Weeks If you have a four-week-old English Bulldog puppy, he should still be with his mother and littermates. At this stage, he is unlikely to be ready for puppy chow, but you are allowed to see if he is interested. English Bulldog Puppy, 6 Weeks When you have an English Bulldog puppy that is 6 weeks old, you may notice certain changes. While it is still too young for him to leave his mother, weaning should begin at this stage. At least once a day, he should be given puppy chow. If your puppy is still not interested in puppy food, it is possible that it is still too early, and you should try again. Your puppy should be weaned from his mother and eating puppy chow by the age of eight weeks. Even though he is unlikely to eat much at a meal, you should feed him three times a day. Each day, roughly 1. At this stage, his hunger is likely to have increased. Make sure your dog is gaining adequate weight if he looks ravenous. As previously said, you should be able to see a waist in your puppy but not be able to count any ribs. English Bulldog Puppy, 12 Weeks When your English Bulldog puppy reaches the age of 12 weeks, he will consume around 2 cups of puppy food each day. He should still consume three meals every day because he will be burning a lot of calories from both growing and exercising. For the first 14 months, feed your dog large-breed puppy kibble to encourage moderate but steady growth. Until your dog is fully grown and eating an adult diet, avoid calcium-rich foods or supplements. The additional calcium may interfere with proper bone development. Before switching their food, seek advice from your veterinarian. Then gradually introduce your puppy to his new diet. When it comes to determining what to feed your Bulldog puppy, you have four options. An English Bulldog puppy who is free fed has constant access to the food and can eat as much and as often as they desire. This manner of feeding, while simple and convenient, poses a risk to your puppy. This strategy is effective provided your puppy only eats when he or she is hungry, which is not the case for the majority of dogs. House training and establishing feeding patterns are challenging with free feeding. It can result in obesity in dogs who are unable to stop eating when they are full. Kibble for a Bulldog Puppy The most popular all-around puppy food is definitely dry kibble. Choose a dry puppy formula that is specifically formulated for puppies. You should also look for one that is appropriate for medium to large breeds. Not all brands, however, are created equal. Avoid using substances such as Corn. Low History of the American Bulldog English bulldogs were originally used for bull baiting in 17th century England, a gruesome sport involving dogs fighting bulls. The practice has since been eliminated, and bulldogs dazzled their way into the lives of families across England even becoming a national symbol. English bulldogs were brought to North America to use their strength and determination as farm dogs. Farmers bred them with other working dogs to get the best all-around breed for their specific jobs. Their intelligence, loyalty, and agility made them helpful for both herding and hunting. Thanks to two determined breeders, John D. Johnson and Alan Scott, these dogs were repopulated and went on to become the popular companions they are today. As the breed developed, American bulldogs were known as friendly pets that were a must for families across North America. Their intimidating looks and strength made them a great breed to represent competitive sports teams. Bulldog baseball mascot, May .In the grooming department, these short-haired dogs don't require much aside from basic care. Exercise American bulldogs do best with at least an hour of exercise per day, which owners can provide through daily walks or playing in the yard. Along with helping your dog maintain its health and a suitable weight, exercise is a great way to keep this breed mentally stimulated. Without enough exercise, American bulldogs are prone to find their own entertainment—which can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing on furniture or getting into off-limits items at home. This breed is best suited for active families that enjoy plenty of playtime with their dogs. Your American bulldog will be happy to join you on walks, runs, hikes, and games like fetch or tug-of-war. These dogs typically enjoy grooming, and weekly brushing will significantly help owners manage shedding. Though their coat is relatively low-maintenance, American bulldogs are known to have issues with excess drool. Their slobber is natural; just be sure to keep any wrinkles free from excess moisture to avoid bacteria buildup or infections. Like other dogs, American bulldogs require regular baths, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Their nails should be trimmed every few weeks to avoid overgrowth and pain, while ears should be cleaned as needed to prevent infections. Training Consistent training is a must for this breed. American bulldogs are naturally protective sometimes to a fault , but they do love to learn. Training your dog in basic obedience can begin as early as six to eight weeks of age, and socialization is necessary once puppies have received the necessary vaccines to be safe in public. American bulldogs can need a helping hand when it comes to acceptable behavior around strangers and other animals. This will help your dog become a friendly companion and avoid unnecessary aggression. Since these dogs do best with love and attention from their owners, they also respond very well to positive reinforcement methods. Offer treats, affection, and playtime as rewards for desired behavior. Training should be consistent and ongoing throughout the dog's life. Responsible breeders will test prospective parent dogs before breeding to avoid passing these problems down to puppies. The following are conditions to be aware of with this breed: Elbow and Hip Dysplasia : Common in large dog breeds, dysplasia is caused by a malformation in the dog's joints as they age. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: This hereditary disorder affects your dog's central nervous system. Genetic tests can determine whether this disease is present in specific bloodlines. Allergies : American bulldogs can develop allergies caused by an overactive immune system. While many puppies grow out of it, these symptoms are manageable in older dogs. Your veterinarian may recommend a food allergy test if symptoms like redness, itchy skin, or licking paws are present. Avoid overfeeding to prevent unnecessary weight gain , which can cause joint issues. Your veterinarian may also recommend omega-3 fatty acids for joint health. Along with maintaining the proper nutrients, it's important to be aware of any food allergies your dog may have if they struggle with red, itchy skin. Talk to your veterinarian to determine a suitable diet and portion sizes for your dog based on their age, weight, activity level, and specific medical needs. Allergy tests provide the most definitive results, but owners can also slowly switch between different protein options to find the best results. Where to Adopt or Buy an American Bulldog American bulldogs are a popular breed in many regions of the United States, so finding this breed shouldn't be a major challenge for prospective adopters. Check your local shelters to meet American bulldogs in need of forever homes in your area, or reach out to breed-specific rescues to meet a variety of dogs. If you're set on starting with a puppy, it's essential to research responsible breeders before adopting. Always ask for a health guarantee and the litter's family medical history. The right breeder should also allow you to meet the litter's parents and see the conditions in which their dogs are kept. To start your search, check out these resources for breed-specific rescues, the national breed club, and the AKC:. Nutritional needs of American Bulldogs American Bulldogs are known for their muscular build and active lifestyle, which means they require a diet high in protein and other essential nutrients. Speak with your vet to find out the exact amount of macro and micronutrients your Bully needs, but in general, American Bulldogs require: Protein Protein is a crucial nutrient for American Bulldogs as it helps build and repair muscles and supports their immune system. AAFCO recommends growing dogs eat a diet with at least .Protein-rich food sources for American Bulldogs include chicken, beef and fish. American Bulldogs require a moderate amount of fat in their diet, at least 8. Excellent sources of healthy fats for American Bulldogs include fish oil, flaxseed oil, and chicken fat. Carbohydrate Carbohydrates provide energy for American Bulldogs and also help in the absorption of other nutrients. Include complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, brown rice and whole grains in their diet rather than simple carbohydrates like corn and wheat. Vitamins and minerals American Bulldogs require essential vitamins and minerals to maintain their overall health. Vitamins A, C and E support their immune system, while minerals such as calcium and phosphorus are necessary for bone health. We formulate our delicious, healthy, wet dog food and crunchy dry dog food with the best human-grade, ethically-sourced ingredients. This food contains nutrient-rich meat, organ and bone and is free of grains, legumes and any byproducts, making it an irresistible and wholesome choice for your pet. Coconut oil adds health benefits like easy digestion and energy. We also use non-GMO chickpeas, which provide protein, iron, copper, zinc and magnesium. Tips for feeding American Bulldogs If you are wondering how much should I feed my dog to avoid issues like obesity, you should feed an adult American Bulldog twice a day. Puppies may require three to four meals per day. The amount of food your dog needs depends on their age, size and activity level. Measure their food to avoid overfeeding and obesity and establish a consistent feeding schedule. This can help your American Bulldog maintain a healthy weight and prevent digestive issues. At Open Farm, we offer percent ethically-sourced, nutrient-rich dog food options , including freeze-dried, wet and dry kibble. Shop our dog food, treats and bone broth today to give your American Bulldog the best diet to keep them healthy and happy. Share this post. Some Bulldogs are known to jump six feet or higher into the air. American Bulldogs are intelligent and affectionate, delivering them great, protective family dogs; although, they have high exercise needs and want an experienced, active pet parent. American Bulldogs can make loving family companions. Bulldog does require particular care needs to keep him healthy and ensure longevity in his life. Diet A proper diet is more important to care for your bulldog puppy. Unfortunately, many cheap versions of dog foods are available today, and many do not put meat first as the first or main ingredient. American bulldog puppy needs a well-rounded diet of proteins, fats, carbs and vitamins, and minerals. Nutrition: While your American Bulldog is a puppy, you should feed him twice as much as an adult. American Bulldog puppies under 4 months should eat four times a day, as usual, three cups of food, puppies between 4 and 6 months three times a day, and a total of two cups of food. What should you give pup? Start with a portion of high-grade dog food, with meat as the first ingredient. Unprocessed protein should be no fewer than 30 percent and crude fat no less than 20 percent. As well, the fiber content needs to be 4 percent or less. Grooming Bulldogs enjoy being groomed except for nail trimming, and their greatest love is taking a bath. The Bulldog has a smooth, short coat and is naturally a reasonably clean dog. Keep a Bulldogs coat shiny and beautiful, and it must be groomed about 4 times a week. How to clean American bulldog Pup Ears and Teeth? They do, however, need to be brushed regularly to help keep the shedding fur from building up and the natural oils in their skin from causing skin issues. In addition, your bulldog pup should get proper dental care. Maintain normal vet visits, check their ears weekly, and keep up with monthly nail clipping and normal dental care. This kind yet courageous dog can be bathed regularly every week up to no longer than every six weeks depending on its lifestyle. How to trim American bulldog Pup coat and toenails? Nails that are left to develop too long can cause damages to you and your dog. Take one paw of your bulldog pup into your hand. Gently squeeze the paw until you see the nails. Then, clip the nail in short sections using the nail clippers. Cut the nails to just under the arch of each nail. Check the nail closely. File down each trimmed nail with a nail file. This assists in preventing snagging of the nails by filing away the points. Filing the nails also makes the nails shorter length without hitting the quick. They need exercise outside of the home regularly. In addition, they require the exercise of any sort regularly to retain their heart and bones healthy. The American Bulldog is a powerful and high-energy dog that needs between 1 to 2 hours of exercise a day. This should include an everyday walk at a medium pace or off-leash for at least 30 to 45 minutes. In addition, they require purposeful high-intensity activities and play to tone their muscles and tire them further. Dog vaccinations include the injection of antigens alternatively of the actual viruses. This is because they are injecting a part of the virus into an individual trigger an immune response. This immune response is more useful in preserving the individual against the virus injected into the body. Give them lots of love and attraction Bulldog puppies are considerable family dogs that are more than willing to love all family members and love attention back. They can be quite the cut-up and keep their owners on their toes with their funny dispositions. Bulldogs tend to love children particularly, so by socializing and giving them lots of love and attraction to your puppy to kids of all ages starting from puppyhood. You will be nourishing that natural, sweet nature in them that they have for children. American Bulldog Puppy Training The American Bulldog was the first bred as a strong and athletic all-purpose effective dog to catch hogs and cattle. These dogs are adorable, and as adults, they are great, stocky, and intelligent. Puppyhood is the most suitable time to train your American bulldog, as the personalities of the greatest bulldogs are developed and structured at a young age. You can give the below training to your American bulldog Puppy. Potty training: To avoid undesired accidents within the home, you must potty train your puppy. Take your pup out every hour on the hour to the spot you require the dog to eliminate throughout the day for several days. Obedience training: American Bulldogs are a highly intelligent, strong-willed, and generally stubborn puppies breed. Unfortunately, these qualities of a puppy can make them more challenging to train, particularly for first-time dog owners. They will require knowing that you are the dominant one in the connection, and training them will need a lot of devotion and patience. Socialization: Bring them with you to a range of places. This can help your dog learn how to act with different people and animals further as to how to act in numerous things. Socialize will end up your dog familiar stable, pleasant, and fearless adult. Keep your American Bulldog on a leash when including it to new people, such as neighbors. Learn the basic commands like return, sit, stay, heel, down. The only way to discipline is by leading them with confidence and quality. But, like any dog, this pup can be destructive if left with nothing to do. As a result, American Bulldogs are generally excellent watchdogs. These pups generally bark when a stranger approaches the door, or a new animal is in the vicinity. Biting: All dogs, including Bulldog pups, will bite when they are young. Bulldogs can bite, and they bite very hard. Then, they go through a phase called teething, during which time they will put anything and everything they can in their mouths. Bulldogs are not aggressive by nature, but like any dog, they can become aggressive when provoked. But regardless of the bulldog breed, all bulldogs have a flatter face with a more defined jaw. When it comes to feeding your American Bulldog puppy, it is important to choose a high-quality food that is designed for large breeds. Puppies grow quickly and need plenty of nutrients to support their growing bodies. Look for a food that is rich in protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid foods that are high in fillers or contain artificial ingredients. Your American Bulldog puppy should eat three to four times a day, so divide their daily ration into smaller meals. Puppies under six months old need to eat more often than older puppies. Always have fresh water available for your puppy and monitor their food intake to ensure they are getting enough to eat. A healthy American Bulldog should eat about 2 to 3 cups of food a day, divided into two or three meals. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian how much food your dog needs. Puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs may need more food. Senior dogs may need less. There are a variety of raw meats that you can feed your American Bulldog. Some of the most popular include chicken, turkey, beef, and lamb. You can also find specialty raw foods that are made specifically for Bulldogs. These can be found at most pet stores or online. You should also wash the meat thoroughly before feeding it to your dog. Raw meat is an excellent source of protein for your American Bulldog. It can help to build muscle and keep their coat healthy. Raw meat is also easy for them to digest and can give them the energy they need to stay active. If you are unsure of what kind of raw meat to feed your American Bulldog, you can always ask your veterinarian for advice. They will be able to recommend the best type of food for your dog based on their individual needs. Blue Buffalo is considered a good source of nutrition for American Bulldogs. It is a high-quality food that contains all of the necessary nutrients and vitamins that these dogs need to stay healthy and active. Additionally, Blue Buffalo does not use any cheap fillers or artificial ingredients in their products. This makes them a safe and healthy option for American Bulldogs. Is Pedigree Good for American Bulldogs? Just like with any other type of dog, it is important to do your research before you decide to feed your American Bulldog Pedigree. While Pedigree is a popular brand of dog food, it may not be the best option for American Bulldogs. There are a variety of factors that you should consider when choosing the right food for your dog. This includes the ingredients, the size and activity level of your dog, and any health concerns that your dog may have. One of the main things to consider when choosing food for your American Bulldog is the ingredients. Another thing to consider is the size and activity level of your American Bulldog. If your dog is on the smaller side or is not very active, he may do better with food that has fewer calories. Conversely, if your dog is larger or more active, he may need food that has more calories to help him maintain his weight. Finally, you should also consider any health concerns that your American Bulldog may have. If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, you will want to choose a food that does not contain any ingredients that could trigger an allergic reaction. There are a few commercially available dog foods that are specifically designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and these may be a good option for your American Bulldog. Can American Bulldogs Eat Chicken? Yes, American Bulldogs can eat chicken. In fact, chicken is a great source of protein for them. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly to avoid any food safety issues. Can Bulldogs Eat Bread? Most bread is perfectly safe for American Bulldogs to eat, but there are a few things to be aware of. Additionally, some bread can be very high in sugar, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems. Chocolate is toxic to American Bulldogs and can make them very sick. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is a stimulant that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in large quantities. Can Bulldogs Drink Milk? Yes, Bulldogs can drink milk. In fact, many American Bulldogs enjoy drinking milk and it can be a good source of nutrition for them. Just be sure to choose low-fat or skim milk to avoid any health problems. Can Bulldogs Eat Fruit? Yes, Bulldogs can eat fruit. In fact, some fruits, such as blueberries and strawberries, are packed with nutrients that can be beneficial for them. Just be sure to wash the fruit thoroughly and remove any pits or seeds before feeding it to your Bulldog. Can Bulldogs Eat Peanut Butter? Yes, American Bulldogs can eat peanut butter. Can They Eat Table Scraps? Table scraps are often high in fat and calories, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems. There are a variety of dog treats available that are safe for American Bulldogs to eat. Just be sure to choose treats that are low in fat and calories, and avoid any that contain chocolate or other potentially harmful ingredients. Foods that are high in fat, sugar, or calories can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
For this reason, we included these online Boxer breeders for you to check as well. Thus, you can also check a Boxer breeder here. The great thing is that it has an online marketplace to search for a Boxer puppy from any of the states. Since they cover all kinds of breeds, you may find an available puppy through this website. Another thing to note is that you also need to prepare for other costs. In short, aside from the actual cost of the puppy from a breeder, you still need to spend money on other items. Like a new baby in the family, your pup needs some items and some changes. A new puppy at home is a concern for all the family members. Thus, they need to prepare for it as well. As you have your meeting, try to make a schedule of tasks and distribution of responsibilities. Prepare your home. Preparing a home for your Boxer puppy means making it a safe place to play and live. Thus, you need to secure every item that can potentially harm your pet. Moreover, you need to secure your items that your pet can damage, such as shoes, carpets, floor mats, and so on. Shop for supplies. Like all other puppies and babies, Boxer pups needs items for its daily life. The essential things it needs would be beddings, food, and food bowls. You also need to buy a leash and collar for identification. Create a schedule. Besides your pet, you also have your responsibilities. Try to schedule how your pup should do for the day and when you need to pay attention. The great thing about creating a schedule is that it will benefit both you and your pet. Choosing a Good Boxer Seller and Breeder The best Boxer puppies only come from those who take an extra mile in caring for them. Below are certain qualities that you should look for in a Boxer puppy breeder. The Boxer breeder should only breed Boxer puppies. A single breed should be the first thing to remember when searching for a reputable Boxer breeder. Every breed has a mating season to which they breed. If the Boxer breeder sells quite a lot of pups but only has a pair of parents, you can think that it forces the parents to mate so they can have puppies to sell. The Boxer breeder should train pups in their first weeks. Every reputable Boxer breeder gives all the pups around eight weeks at least to stay with their parents. In such a time, the breeder should train the pups before it moves to its new home. The Boxer breeder would continuously be in touch. Other states. For the complete list please see our Resource Page page. Because the boxer is so popular, the price for one will vary depending on where you are looking. For example, if you live near Detroit or Lansing, you should be able to find a boxer puppy around the middle of that price range. If you want one from a reputable breeder, however, it could cost significantly more. Prices may also vary because of the age of the boxer. Puppies are cheaper than older dogs, so you will want to shop around and compare prices before committing to a purchase. If you would like to adopt a boxer instead of buying one from a breeder, check out some local shelters or organizations that place rescue animals in homes. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Michigan When choosing a boxer breeder, you will want to be sure that they are reputable and that your puppy is being cared for properly. If they have one, this should give you an idea of how much work goes into breeding boxers responsibly which can give you confidence in your choice of breeder. Although anyone can call themselves a dog breeder, it takes dedicated breeders with years of experience to truly take care of their dogs. The Michigan Boxer Club has approved member breeders who put health above all else when breeding their dogs. You should contact them if you are looking for someone who breeds responsibly and cares about the health and happiness of their dogs. In addition to checking out the parent club, you can find a list of member breeders in Michigan on our site below. Visit Your Michigan Boxer Breeder in Person Once you have found a few reputable members, take the time to visit them in person. This will give you an opportunity to see what kind of environment your puppy is coming from and should provide some peace of mind that he or she has been properly cared for. Not only does this give you a chance to interact with the puppies, but it also helps you get comfortable with the parent club members and gives them a chance to meet you as well. Taking these first steps can help build a relationship between all parties involved which will hopefully lead to successful future transactions. Now that you know how important it is to find a responsible breeder, where do you begin? ReadPlease is dedicated to making your search easier by helping connect potential breeders and responsible dog owners. Take a look at our list of approved boxer breeders in Michigan below to get started on your search today. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Michigan When meeting your Michigan boxer breeder for the first time, you should be sure to ask them if they have any references for you. They should realize that you will want some sort of contact information, this is important information to gather before deciding on a breeder. Once you have some references, contact them to get their honest opinion about working with one another and how it went overall. The more references you talk to, the better your chances are going to be satisfied with your choice in breeder. If you are satisfied with all of your references, then it is time to put in an application for that adorable puppy. You want to make sure that you are getting a healthy dog with no genetic problems. Not only will meeting past customers give you peace of mind, but it can also help build a lasting relationship between all parties involved which in turn helps their next potential sale. Just like normal references, ask if they have any other people who have purchased from them within the last year or two that you can talk to about their experience with the breeder. This gives you a chance to really get into detail about how everything went and start building a rapport with these future friends of yours who just happen to own adorable boxers Does Your Michigan Boxer Breeder Have A Good Veterinarian They Use? There is nothing worse than having a sick puppy and not knowing what to do about it. This is why it is important to find out if your breeder has a good veterinarian they use and trust before you purchase your boxer from them. Not only does this help build a relationship between everyone, but it can provide you with someone who will be there for you when problems arise with your dog. The veterinarian can also offer advice on how to care for your boxer as well as give you the chance to ask any questions that come up about their health or behavior. Look out for The Signs of An Unethical Boxer Dog Breeder in Michigan When looking for a boxer breeder in Michigan, it is important to note the signs of an unethical breeder before visiting them. You should be wary if they refuse to show any paperwork for your future puppy such as the AKC papers, pedigree information, vaccine records, etc. Another big sign would be if they ask for money upfront before giving you any information on the potential parents, puppies themselves. Just like with anything else, you want to be wary of any contracts that are too long or confusing. Having these questions ready can help you quickly screen the different Michigan boxer dog breeders. As with any other dog, problems could arise at any time because of the genetic makeup of their parents. Things such as hip dysplasia or heart disease can be passed down from one generation to the next which is why it is important to ask your breeder about these potential genetic problems in your future puppy. This will help you avoid expensive vet bills until you know more information on what exactly is wrong with your new pup. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Before bringing your new boxer puppy home, you will need to make sure that their designated area is ready for them. This includes having dog crates that are large enough for them to grow into as well as newspapers or pads on the floor where they can use the bathroom. Making certain areas of your home puppy-proof is very important. Make sure there are no chemicals, cleaning products, or small objects available for them to swallow or play with. They could cause serious injury to your dog which is why it is so crucial for their safety. Finally, make sure to keep a close eye on them until you know they are comfortable in their new home. There are a few things that you can do to help with this process though, including crate training which is seen more often in puppies. Potty training your new boxer puppy is a big job, but with the proper guidance and patience, you can teach them to go to the bathroom outside just like any other dog. Good luck finding your next loving companion! 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. Find more Boxer puppies for sale in closest states: Wisconsin , Indiana , Illinois , Minnesota , Iowa , Ohio If you have never owned a Boxer before, or are interested in reading more information, check out our Boxer Dog Breed Information page. Latest Dog Articles The first pregnancy of the she-dog If you decided your favorite pet to have an offspring, be responsible in such a case. To do this, follow simple rules that will help her to get healthy offspring without problems, and do not forget to visit the vet. Estrus and mating During estrus you need Dog's training: basic rules of success Dog and owner relationship is a set of complex and fitness of their characters. You have to get in contact with your new pet and it happens in different ways with each dog. You can immediately begin to squeeze one dog and to keep distance from the other o Proper care of a puppy If a person has a puppy of small breed it is easier to take care of it. For this, you will need a small comb and brush. 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Boxer BoxerT The well-conditioned middleweight athlete of dogdom, the Boxer is a powerful dog with an intelligent and alert expression. While they are instinctive guardians, the Boxer loves to be with his people. This personality has allowed them to succeed as couriers during war time and as seeing-eye dogs for the blind. Appearing in both fawn and brindle colors, the Boxer currently ranks as one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics. History Developed in Germany in the 19th century, Boxers were originally used for dog fighting and to run down and hold large game such as wild boar and bison until the hunter could arrive. The breed is known for standing up on its hind legs and batting at its opponent, appearing to box with its front paws. Imported to America after World War I, they began to grow in popularity in the late s. Temperament One of the breeds most notable characteristics is its desire for human affection, especially from children. The Boxer requires little grooming, but needs daily exercise. The Boxer gets along great with children, often protecting them from outside threats. The are also very intelligent, therefor easy to train and housebreak. Working Group; AKC recognized in .Large game hunter, guard and companion dog. Exercises Grooming From ancient Germany precisely around the 19th century had the now extinct mastiff breed Bullenbeisser and bulldogs brought in from England. At the time of their arrival, they served as hunting dogs for bears, deer, and other ferocious beasts, it would capture the prey with the help of its awesome teeth and detain it until the hunter arrives. And in the first boxer standard club was launched with a comprehensive document that is still in use today. Shortly after, the breed made its way into other European countries and got into the U. S in the late 19th century with the American Kennel Club taking registration of its first boxer around .During the first world war, boxers played the role of a military dog as a pack-carrier, a guard dog, and an attack dog, later they were taken home by the soldiers and got introduced into the domestic world as a show dog, best companion, and a reliable guard. One with so much life, energetic, curious, attentive, active, smart, sociable and incredible fun with children is the boxer, they are also known to be very patient and highly protective of their family members making them the love and desire of many homes. As active dogs, they need a lot of exercise to keep them mentally fit, apparently having a mind of its own, you will find your boxer entertain itself by digging the ground often, chewing, and licking the mouth to beat boredom. They are also very stubborn in character which makes them a terrible choice for first-timers with dogs, they are generally a bit difficult with adult dogs including dogs of a similar breed but friendly with puppies. They usually do not bark unless there is a genuine reason behind it but they love to growl. If you have occupied home with people around all the time or you want a canine buddy the whole time, then a boxer is just the perfect breed to get. Being a highly active dog, they dread loneliness and they can cope finely in both a house and an apartment as long as you provide it with enough room and spaces for exercises and activities. What you must have is a large yard if you are living in a house for it to dig the ground and run around as it likes. And more so, if you are given to being away from home most of the time, getting a boxer may not be the best for you and the dog, because they usually get aggressive when left alone. Boxers are known as loud snorers and they drool greatly too. Boxers are playful and very energetic dogs as such regular exercises are part of a good canine relationship, especially a breed of this sort. Your boxer should be allowed to play in a fenced area and on-leashed since it is likely to jump and leap around in excitement. This puts a boxer as a bad choice for a frail owner as they may find it a tad impossible and daunting keeping up with its excessive activity demands. Being a breed with a short and thin coat its grooming demands are quite easy and little, all it needs is a light brushing of the hair twice every week to maintain its good and gleeful looks. Bathing should be a once in a while since boxers are generally clean dogs and its nails, be trimmed once every month or as often as they grow worn on surfaces, its teeth should also be brushed daily to avoid tartar formation and other dental crises. Our Boxer puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Frequently Asked Questions Are Boxers good family pets? Yes, boxers are particularly fond of their family members especially when goodly trained. Are Boxers trainable? Though the boxers can be a little headstrong, they are very intelligent and with a proper training environment, they respond well. Are Boxers friendly with kids? They are very fond of children and they love playing games with them. Are Boxers friendly with other animals? Boxers are naturally patient with puppies, pooches and small animals but a bit unaccommodating of adult dogs and other animals. Are Boxers good apartment dogs? They can live anywhere you make as a home all you need is to provide it with enough space for exercise. How is Boxers shedding? Given the shortness of their coat, they shed minimally and occasionally, you can also regulate the shedding by frequent brushing of their coat. Are Boxers good for first-time owners? Not quite, as their exercise needs are way too high for their inexperienced hands. Are Boxers loud barkers? But growling is a thing they do most. Are Boxers tolerable to heat and cold? All they need is moderate exposure to heat and cold because of their thin fur body. How long can Boxers live? The average life-span of boxers is 10 years Are you interested in purchasing a Boxer? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price? Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The French Bulldog is a clown in a lapdog. They enjoy playing and entertaining their family, as well as cuddling and snoozing with their favorite person. They are amiable, sweet, companionable, and willing to please. A short walk on lead is sufficient to meet most of its physical needs. Frenchie snores and may wheeze and drool. Require minimal coat care Facial wrinkles should be regularly cleaned. Brachycephalic syndrome stenotic nares, elongated soft palate Intervertebral disk disease CHD seldom causes symptoms or problems Allergies History Where are French Bulldogs from? In the nineteenth century, the Bulldog was fairly popular in England, especially around Nottingham. The French women, especially, were attracted to these little Bulldogs, especially those with erect ears a common but disliked feature in England. Dog dealers brought more of the clownish little dogs to France, where they soon became the rage of Paris. The dogs were dubbed Bouledogue Francais. How big do French Bulldogs get? Some Bulldogs are quite small weighing less than 25 lbs, however, dogs in this breed on average, weigh 28 lbs. What are some French Bulldog facts and information? Facts French Bulldogs are best known for: Bat ears. Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article.
Perfect for puppy and small dog value pack; Great New Dog Gift? No boredom here! Lamb Chop squeak toy and teething toy keep your dog busy? Good for dental hygiene. This dog package welcomes new puppies with toys, treats and puppy necessities. Your new dog or small dog will bark for joy at this petite and pawfect gift basket. The perfect puppy care package to welcome new dogs. Now puppies can enjoy lamb chop just like we did as kids, and she squeaks. Everything a new puppy and their pawrent will need, use and appreciate! Perfect in every way!!!! Thank you so much!!!! Rated 5 out of 5 Laura — August 27, Item came quickly and as described. I gave it as a gift and the new owners were pleased, as was the puppy! Rated 5 out of 5 Jacqueline — August 27, So cute. The packaging is beautiful and the turnaround time was just as fast as Amazon, for a better quality, more personalized product. Love it. Rated 5 out of 5 Amanda — It was a gift. She liked it. It is a perfect gift to surprise a friend. Her puppy loves all the treats and toys too. Rated 5 out of 5 katherineelizabeth01 — Bought as a gift, was shipped and arrived promptly! Rated 5 out of 5 Kaver — August 28, This was the perfect gift to send to my long distance friend when they got an English bulldog puppy! Shipping was fast and it comes with lots of goodies perfect for new pet owners. Rated 5 out of 5 Molly —. If you buy a product from a link on our site, we may earn a commission. From pee pads and treats to toys and blankets, there are so many great gifts you could buy for a baby pup. The Dodo found some of the best new puppy gifts on Amazon that any puppy parent would love to receive. A new BFF is definitely something to celebrate, so start the party by gifting one of these awesome puppy-approved items. These adorable plush toys from ZippyPaws look like your favorite celebratory drink, but instead of bubbles, these have squeakers inside. Makes a fun gift for a new pet owner. It comes equipped with a heat pack and a battery-powered pulsing heartbeat that calms anxious pups both big and small. With over 25, five-star reviews on Amazon, pet parents love this comforting toy. This set of bandanas comes in various plaid patterns and colors and are made out of super-soft cotton fabric. These may be the first and last bandanas you ever buy for your dog. And this one from Top Dog comes with all the bells and whistles — food storage, collapsible bowls, a water bottle sleeve and a back panel that perfectly fits over suitcase handles. It comes in several different sizes and colors and is machine washable. Plus, the company promises it will never shed or fade. By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy. More from DodoWell. Will Love Featuring festive treats, toys, and so much more. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on December 9, We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Photo: Courtesy of Bark Box As nice as it can be to receive gifts over the holidays , it's often even more rewarding to be the one doing the gifting.As pet owners can attest, there's nothing more satisfying than presenting your pup with a treat or toy that you know they'll absolutely love—even if they just tear it apart a few minutes later. And if you can, why not give them a whole bundle of presents rather than just one? That's even better. Luckily, there are tons of great dog gift baskets available that are guaranteed to bring joy to both you and your four-legged pal. These 13 Dog Subscription Boxes Are the Gift That Keeps on Giving From adorable boxes filled with Christmas-themed cookies for dogs, to useful bundles featuring items like collars, leashes, and more —there are so many fun options for treating the pup in your life this season. Below, we've rounded up our 13favorite dog gift baskets, all of which you can buy just in time for the holidays. Because seriously, is there any better way to spend this time of year than by making your best friend even happier than they already are? It includes eight Christmas-themed cookies, four icing cups, and a packet of mini bone cookies, all of which are individually wrapped to keep them fresh long after the holidays are over. That is, if your dog doesn't devour them all before New Year's Eve! Featuring four toys including a reindeer, obviously and two big bags of seasonal treats, the box will put any pup right in the holiday spirit. This one contains five toys including a getaway car and a paint can plus a bag of treats aptly named "Marv, Duck! With this box, you and your dog's next movie night is bound to be a success. Upgrade your pup's walk style with a new leash, collar, and waste bag dispenser, all made of soft but durable material and designed in a lovely dusty blue color scheme but you can choose from a ton of other color options if you prefer. Everything comes packed in a pretty box that's tied with a gold bow, so you can rest easy knowing you're treating your furry pal in style. All the snacks that it contains, such as organic chicken bites and grass-fed beef jerky, are made with pups' health in mind, and there's a handful of toys thrown in to ensure your pal has some fun. There are two different kinds of toys, a bag of treats, a bandana, and a blanket, all festively themed for the season. There's even a "Happy Holidays" banner you can display for cute photo ops! Containing a toy, treats, a poop bag dispenser, bags, and even a blanket perfect for cuddles or protecting your couch from all the hair! In this jam-packed gift box, there are some good-looking treats, but also a dog-shaped soap dish, dog-themed socks, and many more items meant for owners to enjoy. Happy holidays to us all! If you're planning on giving the bag to another dog owner, you can even add a personalized handwritten message on a dog-themed card , of course. There are tennis balls, plush toys, and a rope toy, all intended to keep pups entertained for hours on end. Get ready to watch your pup have a ball pun intended playing with these holiday-themed items and count down the days until Christmas with the Advent calendar on the back of the box. Primitives By Kathy Rustic 2-Piece Treat Tins If you purchased any of the smaller items above, consider placing them in the rustic 2-pice treat tin set. Each treat tin is designed with a slatted wood printed background. Choose from a variety of styles and gender. My wife gifted me with a few of these sculptures over the years, and they are beautifully crafted and designed. Comes in a sweet gift box and makes a perfect new puppy present. Pawprint Imprint Kit Every puppy should have their pawprint preserved. Perfect for holiday cards, framing, ornaments, and more. This product is percent pet safe and accommodates a paw up to 2. I tried this kit on my puppy Alvin with paw-fect results. You get two impression cards in each box. DogMinder is the ultimate companion journal we created to track vet visits, medications, emergency contacts, and daily records. Comes in a gift box with easy-to-follow instructions. Features a water bottle holder, zipper side pocket, two lined food containers, two collapsible bowls, front magnetic pocket, adjustable shoulder strap, and more. Customized Dog Feeding Tracker Never worry about overfeeding your puppy nor wonder if puppy was fed. This customized dog feeding tracker is made with a natural wood finish. Custom sizes and messages available. Simply flip the paw after your pup has been fed. Make it easier with the Puppy Potty Target Training fire hydrant. Place this near the area where the puppy should pee. Puppy will mark their spot, it easily washes off, and stands 7 inches high by 4 inches wide. Choose from a variety of colors. Easily train your puppy to paw at the bells when they have to go outside to do potty. Comes with easy-to-follow instructions. Fabric Toy Bin Every new puppy parent needs a fabric toy bin or two. Nicely prized, these cute bins feature dog-inspired words and dog bone handles. Each bin measures .Each bandana comes with two snaps on each side that allow for sizing adjustments. Sort By: Forever Buddies Care Package An adorable pet themed mailer holds treats for both the dog and his owner and is a great way to send well wishes, celebratory wishes, thinking of you, new home and is suitable for about any occasion you can imagine. Our gifts for pets and owners are unique and our customers and recipients love them! Our dog lover gifts are a huge hit with not only family and friends, but across the corporate industry as well as they contain treats for both the owner and the dog! These wildly popular pet lover gifts are a perfect choice for almost any gifting occasion as they include goodies and treats for both the dog and his owner. With treats for both the owner and their favorite fur baby, this gift delivers the just right touch. This dog lover gift can be used for either! Send them a gift they can share! Our Smiles and Wags Dog and Owner gift is sure to please as it comes with treats for the owner and a beautiful bakery fresh and hand decorated doggy biscuits just for Fido. This gift would be perfect for get well, birthdays, gift for appreciation, and thank you and more. This gift is a dog lovers dream come true because it has goodies inside for both of them. So go ahead and send for the sick dog lover or for the dog whose feeling a bit ruff; this gift is sure to make your well wishes even more extra special. Sharing it with your favorite canine! We designed this special pet lover gift with treats for both the family dog and for the owner as well. Fido will enjoy an assortment of yummy gourmet biscuits while the family enjoys fabulous cookies and more! Lots of yummy treats for everyone inside this pet lover gift. Our dog lover gifts have been a very popular gift to send for every gifting occasion. Well, this is the perfect gift for that funny-fun-loving dog that you know that always brings a bright smile to your face or the owners. Filled with only good nutritious treats for the dog and our favorite candy for the owner, this gift also has a purple plush owl that dogs just love to toss around. This gift is perfect for any gifting occasion. This pet lover gift includes only the best in American candy and delicious treats and a penguin toy for Fido. Rewards for both! Fido is sure to enjoy the variety of gourmet biscuits while the family will enjoy the makings of one fine homemade pizza and more. Our dog lover gifts are always a hit and are enjoyed by the whole family; even Fido! Fido is sure to enjoy the variety of gourmet biscuits he is to receive while the family will enjoy making one fine homemade pizza. Our dog lover gifts are always a hit and certain to be enjoyed by the whole family; even Fido! Yes, there is a common theme here and Jack is the name. With goodies for both the dog and the owner this gift will certainly hit its mark. Fun for both to send for a birthday gift, retirement gift, or any gifting occasion at all. This colorful Macaw dog toy stands almost 14 inches tall and is just begging to be played with. Bring out the wild side of this gift with those yummy treats. Filled with an assortment of goodies for both the dog s and the owner our collection of dog lover gifts meets the goal with both style and taste. While there is no alcohol inside this gift it does include JD Old No. Send the gift that is certain to be the talk of the neighborhood. A great idea for those who watch your dog when you vacation or a perfect way to say thank you or even happy birthday! Yes, this gift can deliver the sentiments you wish to send as it is filled with yummy treats for both. Celebrate the occasion in style and they may just bring back the awesome handled tin for you to refill again! Filled with a large selection of biscuits and treats to satisfy one or more spoiled dog s and their owners or enough to treat a whole kennel full of pups, techs and vets; this dog lover gift delivers in a very real way. A perfect pet and person gift for vet clinics, shelters, fundraisers, veterinarians, breeders and even for that one or two spoiled dogs that are something to bark about.
Reviewed by Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Apr. Golden Retrievers are medium-sized sporting dogs that weigh 55—75 pounds, with females weighing on the lower end of this range. Their height can range from 21—24 inches tall. They have a broad head, short ears, deep chest, and muscular build. Caring for a Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are known for their thick, water-repellent, lustrous golden coats. But their golden fur can range in color, so you can find white Golden Retrievers to red Golden Retrievers. No matter the color, Golden Retrievers have a double coat. This means that they have a thick undercoat of short hair covered by a layer of longer hair. Due to this double coat, Golden Retrievers shed a lot. They also tend to develop matted hair behind their ears and on their hind limbs. So, Golden Retrievers require a lot of grooming—either at home or by a professional groomer—to keep their coats healthy. Goldens have a moderate amount of energy, even in their senior years. They enjoy a wide variety of activities such as running, going on long walks , retrieving, and swimming. They make excellent therapy dogs and guide dogs for people with impaired vision. However, due to poor breeding, some Golden Retrievers may develop a handful of health issues. Make sure to do your research when looking to adopt a Golden Retriever, or find a reputable Golden Retriever breeder so that medical issues are less likely. Hot spots develop more often in warm, humid environments and after swimming because moisture gets trapped near the skin. This moist skin causes discomfort that leads to scratching, chewing, and licking. These behaviors then cause the normal microbes on the skin to multiply, and the skin becomes inflamed and infected. A hot spot usually develops quickly and can lead to hair loss, redness, and moist skin that may ooze, crust, or develop thick scabs. If you notice any signs of hot spots in your Golden, take them to a veterinarian. Hot spots typically resolve quickly with medication. Atopic Dermatitis Atopy Atopic dermatitis atopy is an inflammatory and extremely itchy skin condition that Golden Retrievers are predisposed to. It can be triggered by environmental allergens such as insects, fleas, pollen, dust mites, or mold or by a food allergy , often to the protein in the diet. Goldens are believed to have a genetic predisposition. Golden Retrievers with atopy are constantly scratching, chewing, or licking themselves. This self-trauma leads to hair loss, thickened skin that can be red or black in color, or a rash consisting of macules discolored skin or papules raised skin lesions. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder that happens when the thyroid gland loses its ability to produce thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as: Unexplained weight gain Recurring skin and ear infections Thinning of the fur Dry, scaly skin Golden Retrievers are predisposed to hypothyroidism and typically develop symptoms when they are middle-aged. Although this endocrine disorder is common, it can be well-managed with lifelong medication. This can cause pain and, over time, arthritis. Hip dysplasia can develop in one or both hip joints. Some Golden Retrievers are born with congenital hip dysplasia—which is rare—while others can develop this condition during their senior years. Hip dysplasia can be managed with joint supplements and certain medications, but in serious cases, surgical intervention may be required. Elbow dysplasia encompasses several different inherited orthopedic conditions that ultimately lead to degenerative joint disease DJD within the elbow. Eye Conditions Golden Retrievers are prone to a few different eye conditions, including: Pigmentary uveitis: An inherited eye condition where brown or black cysts develop on the eye. They are usually benign and develop when a Golden is at least 5 years old. Treatment usually includes eye or oral medications. Over time, pigmentary uveitis can cause cataracts and glaucoma , which require emergency treatment. There is no cure for PRA, but blind Golden Retrievers can still live long, happy lives with proper care. Cancers Goldens can develop a few types of cancer as well. Lymph nodes that commonly enlarge with lymphoma are on the neck, behind the knee, and inside the thigh. There is a relatively high prevalence of this condition within the Golden Retriever breed. Hemangiosarcoma HSA : An aggressive form of cancer that most often originates in the spleen, liver, or heart in Golden Retrievers. This type of cancer forms a blood-filled tumor that can rupture at any time and cause a dog to bleed internally. A ruptured tumor can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. It develops during the first year of life, so responsible breeding is key to ensuring prevention of this condition. SAS occurs when fibrous tissue slowly forms in the heart and causes an obstruction of blood flow. Over time, this condition causes the heart to stop functioning properly, resulting in heart damage. Golden Retrievers with SAS often have a heart murmur that can be heard during a routine physical exam, but dogs with mild to moderate SAS may not show any symptoms. However, those with severe SAS are lethargic, tired after short periods of exercise, may collapse, and can die suddenly. What to Feed a Golden Retriever Golden Retriever puppies should be fed a large-breed, high-quality puppy formula until they are 1 year to 18 months old. Once they reach maturity, they will need to be transitioned to a large-breed, high-quality adult. How to Feed a Golden Retriever Full-grown Golden Retrievers do well with twice-daily feedings, in the morning and evening. Golden Retriever puppies need to eat more frequently—about three or four times each day on a consistent schedule. Golden Retrievers love to eat, so a slow feeder bowl can be a great way to help them slow down their eating and prevent digestion issues. If your dog eats too quickly, it can cause vomiting and possibly bloat —an emergency situation where the stomach twists on itself. Follow the feeding guidelines on the back of the bag of the large-breed puppy formula, based on their age and expected body weight. Once a Golden Retriever is 1 year old, transition them to a large-breed adult formula that has fewer calories to prevent unwanted weight gain. Your veterinarian is your best resource for determining how much to feed your Golden Retriever to maintain a healthy weight. Nutritional Tips for a Golden Retriever Starting a Golden Retriever on a joint supplement early in life can help slow down or possibly prevent arthritis. Talk to your vet before giving your pup any supplements like Movoflex , Synovi Chews , Dasuquin , Cosequin, or Flexadin. Another supplement to consider for a Golden Retriever is omega-3 fatty acid fish oil. This helps to reduce inflammation in the joints, makes the coat more lustrous, and protects the skin barrier from allergens in the environment. Behavior and Training Tips for Golden Retrievers Golden Retriever Personality and Temperament Golden Retrievers generally have a great temperament—they are often friendly with children, other pets, and even strangers. They enjoy being the center of attention and being petted. In fact, Goldens will often nudge you gently so that you continue to pet them. They may try to eat socks, shoes, furniture, or get into the trash. To keep your Golden Retriever safe and prevent digestive issues or gastrointestinal obstructions , keep a watchful eye on them when they are puppies. Cute Golden Retrievers have a lot of energy and require lots of exercise to be happy and healthy. They are considered a quiet breed, as they bark infrequently and are not known for digging up yards. Golden Retriever Training It is usually easy to train Golden Retrievers due to their kind temperament and their eagerness to please. They are very food-motivated, so using small treats as rewards is highly effective. Socialization is also a very important part of training Golden Retrievers as puppies. Fun Activities for Golden Retrievers Agility. At what age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? As larger dogs, Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to reach their full weight. Most Golden Retrievers will be close to their adult height and weight around a year of age but may need one more year to fill out their chest fully. A six-month-old male Golden Retriever will weigh between 35 to 45 pounds, while their female counterpart will weigh around 30 to 35 pounds at the same age. As for their height, most Golden Retrievers will still need another three to six months to reach their adult height. At this age, they will likely be a few inches away from their adult height, which ranges from .Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on bonding with your pet, puppy-proofing your home, training, microchips, and more! How much bigger will my Golden Retriever get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much bigger your Golden Retriever will get. If they are less than a year old, they still need more time to reach their full adult size. Many Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to completely fill out, though their weight at one year old is usually close to their full adult weight. A puppy is rarely larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you a general idea of their maximum weight. If their paws still look large or oversized next to their body and legs, they are probably still filling out and have some growing left to do, as this is a classic sign of adolescence in canines. What is the size of a full-grown Golden Retriever? As adults, Golden Retrievers will appear overall symmetrical and have a powerful body hidden beneath beautiful, golden fur. Golden Retrievers are stunning, sunny dogs that easily steal our hearts. Unfortunately, as a purebred dog breed, they are more susceptible to genetic diseases, which can compromise their lifespan and quality of life. However, many genetic disorders can be treated or prevented with regular veterinary care. Remember that prevention is almost always easier and less expensive than treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend a large-breed growth food to your Golden Retriever puppy to support their growth rate which can help prevent or decrease the severity of hip dysplasia in adulthood. According to the Veterinary Centers of America , Golden Retrievers are also more prone to gaining excess weight. Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to various genetic health disorders, such as oral tumors and aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is most commonly found in large, purebred dogs, including Golden Retrievers, and occurs when the aortic valves to the heart narrow. Aortic stenosis causes the body to struggle to pump blood through the valve, creating additional stress on the body. If untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to muscle failure and even fatality. However, veterinarians can treat many genetic diseases like aortic stenosis and oral tumors through surgery and medication. Even with proper prevention and wellness care, necessary veterinary visits can be expensive, with many treatments costing thousands of dollars. Out of over 20, pet parents surveyed , only .The last thing you should be focused on when the worst happens is how to finance a needed surgery or treatment for your beloved pet. This is where pet insurance comes in. Just like people, dogs are living longer lives and will need additional veterinary care to maintain a happy quality of life. Let pet insurance help you with these costs should the worst happen to your dog. Wellness plans are also available as an add-on to help with the ongoing costs of regular veterinary care , like x-rays and exams. Act now and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your Golden Retriever is covered should anything happen. Compare top Golden Retriever pet insurance plans side-by-side with Pawlicy Advisor today! Key Takeaways On average, male Golden Retrievers weigh pounds and females weigh pounds. At full height, Goldens stand between .Although puppies groww extremely fast, the Golden Retriever breed can take as long as 2 years to reach full maturity. Owners should keep an eye on their Golden Retriever's diet because they are very prone to obesity. Pet insurance helps cover the cost of care necessary to give your Goldie a happy, healthy life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Here are some things to consider: Size Do you want a big or a small golden? Sex Do you want a male or a female? Style Or a stocky, blocky-headed golden retriever? Color Do you want a dark gold or red golden , a cream-colored golden , or something more in the middle? Personality Do you want a calm golden or more of an energetic one? Nobody will be able to tell you what you want out of a dog but yourself. Consider your lifestyle, home, whether or not you have kids , what you like to do on the weekend, etc. If you want to get a good feel for what a puppy will be like, look at their parents. Temperament and health are hereditary and no puppy test or observation will be as accurate as what their parents are like. So that being said, pick a good breeder that is breeding dogs that resemble what you want. There are two important things here: Talk to the breeder and tell them what you want Observe the puppies and look for the puppy that resembles what you want Talk To The Breeder The breeder has spent the last eight weeks with the puppies and knows them best. By telling them what you want they can help you decide the right one for you. But assuming the decisions lays in your hands, this next section will help you out. Selecting A Puppy From The Litter When we went to pick our puppy from the litter we knew exactly what we wanted: a big, calm, sweet boy. He had probably worn himself out trying to impress them because two days later we were wondering what happened to that calm puppy as a fluffy little tornado was tearing around our apartment! Are they submissive? This might give you some insight into their personality. Take note of their energy levels. Consider how your puppy interacts with people. How are they with you, whoever is with you, and the breeder? Are they fearful? A friendly dog will be outgoing and interested in you. Toss your keys or a toy. Put the puppy on their back. Either cradle them in your arms on their back, or roll them on their back on the floor. A dominant pup may squirm a lot, but a well-adjusted pup should calm down shortly. They should be ok with being handled. Shoutout to Vet Street for a few of the tips above. In addition to choosing the right puppy, you also want to choose a healthy puppy. Now even if you have your checklist and run each pup through these tests, it may all go out the window if a puppy picks you. But as we tried to give each puppy a chance and interact with all of them, Oliver kept coming back to my wife and nuzzling his nose into her to tell her that he was the one. Conclusion When picking a puppy you first want to decide what you want. Then pick a breeder that breeds dogs that resemble what you want. When it comes to actually picking the puppy from the litter, talk to the breeder about it and try to see which puppies match up with what you want. However, know that puppies may be different than how they initially appear. And finally, you might not even need to worry about picking the right puppy because the right puppy just might pick you. Have any questions about picking a golden retriever puppy from the litter? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is about to pick up a puppy, please share this with them! Related articles:. As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? This could cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills down the road. On the other hand, when you buy the animal from a licensed Golden Retriever breeder, you can pick out your future puppy with confidence. Not only will proof of his pedigree show that your breeder is certified, but it will also verify that your puppy is a true Golden Retriever. The best puppy breeders take pride in providing healthy dogs through careful genetic research. They should be so confident in their work that they offer you a health guarantee , which will tell you what to do if your puppy faces any unforeseen health issues. Since breeders are there from the day the puppies and their parents! And picking the right pet for your family starts with finding a breeder you can trust. No matter how nice they seem or how attractive their website looks, you should always do a little bit of research before choosing a Golden Retriever breeder. Here are important points that all breeders should address: Image Source Does the breeder give back to the breed? Breed preservation should be the primary goal of Golden Retriever breeders. They should participate in keeping the species alive through membership at a Golden Retriever breed dog club, a performance club, or an obedience club. What type of experience does the breeder have? Do they stay true to the pure genetic traits of the breed? Do they provide health screenings and health guarantees? Can you meet the puppies and parents in person? How many litters do the females have each year? Female Golden Retrievers can have up to two litters per year. However, breeders who follow ethical practices will only allow the females to have four to six litters in their lifetime. A female can breed between the ages of two and eight. Once you choose a breeder that seems like a good fit for you and your family, you should write up some questions to ask them. And in return, expect some questions about you, your lifestyle, and your home! One of the first things any breeder you inquire about should provide is a list of former buyers. Reviews posted online are one thing, but being able to talk with customers directly speaks volumes about the legitimacy of the breeder. When you speak with their former customers, ask questions about their buying experience and how their dog is doing years after purchase. Puppies should receive some level of preventative care that is appropriate for their age. Newborn puppies up to eight weeks old should stay with their mothers, but they will also receive their first round of core vaccines during these few weeks. They should have a yearly examination by a licensed veterinarian that will perform vaccines, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, as well as general health checkups. A reputable, passionate breeder will be more than happy to receive updates and questions about their puppies well into adulthood. With that being said, the breeder should also provide a health guarantee. A health guarantee states that you are not financially liable for any genetic issues in the puppy, as long as the health condition is verified by a certified veterinarian. This is an essential point that you might not think twice about. A good Golden Retriever breeder will ask questions to determine if your household is a good fit for their puppy. Image Source 1 Why do you want a dog? This is a simple yet important question that you should have an answer to. Golden Retriever breeders that dedicate their livelihood to continuing the pure genetic bloodline will want to know what appeals to you about these energetic companions. Additionally, the breeder might ask who will be walking, feeding, and playing with the dog. Golden Retriever puppies require tons of attention, especially during the first two years of their lives. If the breeder asks this, they want to know how your children will be participating in the handling of the puppy. They also want to understand how you plan to introduce the puppy to other pets so they can coexist safely within the same home. No matter how nice a breeder may seem, you want to avoid accidentally contributing to backyard breeders or a puppy mill disguised as a reputable breeder. Doing so can cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills and years of potential heartbreak. Here are some of the most critical and obvious warning signs of an untrustworthy breeder. Less experienced breeders will charge on the lower end, and more experienced breeders usually with generations of pure genetic proof! Additionally, some of the best breeders will only sell trained puppies to ensure their pooches are family- and forever-home ready. Therefore, you should receive standard documentation upon adopting your new Golden Retriever puppies, such as care instructions, registration papers, vaccination records, and necessary contracts. The contract may also state that you agree to surrender the puppy instead of adopting him out to a shelter or the pound. Some warranties will say that the breeder should have the right to reclaim the puppy in an unexpected situation like this. If you do ask for references, and they give you a list of written reviews instead of contact information for former clients, this is a red flag. A refusal for a tour means that the breeder knows potential clients may be turned away by the environment. If you are invited to tour a facility, learn about what a professional kennel should look and smell like first. The bottom line is, you need to do plenty of research. In addition, prospective owners may wish to ask about the health of close relatives, such as the brothers and sisters of the parents. For example, while it is possible for any Golden with normal hips to produce dysplastic offspring, a Golden Retriever with normal hips from a litter where the majority of its siblings have hip dysplasia may be at particularly high risk to produce dysplastic offspring. Thus, the health status of close relatives is an excellent topic for discussion between the owner and breeder. Hip, elbow, eye, thyroid and heart data on siblings can be researched using the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website www. In addition, any health concerns that are particularly important to a prospective owner should certainly be discussed, and might include very early cancers, epilepsy, and skin or allergy problems. Breeders and owners should also discuss any health guarantees provided by the breeder. Many breeders will agree to take back puppies for health reasons for a refund within a specified time frame. Some breeders provide guarantees against specific health conditions. For health conditions not covered by these provisions, veterinary health insurance is available. Breeders should be happy to hear from owners of puppies and dogs that they have bred, provide useful guidance when needed, and use information on the health of the puppies they produce to make future decisions. Thus, continued contact between breeders and puppy owners is generally beneficial long after the puppy moves into its new home. Thus, a good breeder will provide a genetic background and early environment that maximize the probability of producing physically and mentally healthy puppies. This will include careful evaluation and selection of health and temperament traits of the parents; and providing optimal feeding, socialization, and preventive medical care to the litter. However, it is important for prospective owners to realize that the proper nutrition, veterinary care, preventive health care, socialization, exercise and training provided in the new home are also critical to developing young Golden Retrievers into healthy, well-mannered members of society. In particular, puppy classes and basic obedience classes are wonderful opportunities for socialization and for owners to learn to communicate with their new canine family member, as well as to take advantage of training in the presence of people and dogs. The age window for maximum learning potential in the dog is limited so this should be a priority for every family with a new Golden Retriever. However, learning also continues throughout life, so most new owners will benefit from attending several good training classes. A puppy class and basic obedience class in the first year of life, followed by a 6 to 8 week training class every couple of years is a goal that many owners find fun and this usually fits into even the busiest schedules. The health consequences associated with excess weight in puppies and dogs include an increase in the prevalence and severity of joint diseases, increase in a number of other serious diseases, and decreased lifespan Kealy et al, ; Smith et al, .A general rule used by many breeders is that weight gain in a growing puppy should be slow and steady without growth spurts, the ribs should be easily felt but not prominent, and the food should provide what is needed for growth but not enough extra to produce fat. Keeping puppies lean and fit appears to play an important role in reducing hip dysplasia and extending lifespan, and is something every owner can do to protect their Golden Retriever. In terms of hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals lists the overall prevalence of hip dysplasia in x-rays from Goldens submitted for evaluation to be .However, many breeders and owners do not submit x-rays from obviously dysplastic Goldens or place obviously dysplastic Goldens prior to age 2, so breed estimates have been based on veterinary teaching hospital populations. These estimates of hip dysplasia incidence in Golden retrievers vary from about .Consistently raising puppies lean would be expected to further reduce the percentage of Goldens with hip dysplasia, while also extending average lifespan. Routine grooming, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, and parasite control are also part of Golden Retriever ownership. In addition, a useful guide covering some preventive health care information is available online here. Obtaining a Golden puppy with healthy ancestors and close relatives, possibly purchasing health insurance, training the puppy, providing proper exercise and nutrition, routine grooming, and outstanding veterinary care are all components of improving the odds for a long, healthy and wonderful relationship with a Golden Retriever. Effects of diet restriction on life span and age-related changes in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc. Estimates of prevalence of hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers and the influence of bias on published prevalence figures. Lifelong diet restriction and radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis of the hip joint in dogs. More Information.
Crate training is a great option for leaving our dogs temporarily while our backs are turned. But what if your dog needs a little more exercise and movement than that? Or you need to leave your dog unattended for a slightly longer period of time. Or allowing you to leave them for a short period of time safely but still able to stretch their legs and play. The Best Indoor Dog Playpen Do you want your dog near you, but safely out of the way while you complete a task or have unsuitable small kids toys out? Then temporarily popping up an indoor dog playpen can be really helpful. With 2 easy access doors, it is simple to use and convenient in a variety of locations. This outdoor playpen has stakes that can be secured into the ground for safety. Portable Dog Playpens Another handy use of the dog playpen is on the move. Taking your dog on holiday, visiting friends or just keeping him secure in various parts of your home or back yard? Then a portable dog playpen might be just what you need. This dog playpen with floor zipper bottom is a spacious tent that can be customized by making it soft and cozy inside with blankets and toys. The mesh material is designed to promote better circulation of airflow and to keep outdoor critters and bugs out. The mesh design is waterproof as well, making this an ideal outdoor playpen. It lso comes in a good large dog playpen size! With zippers to easily zip up the door and a removable top, it is also water resistant and can be used in or out of doors. The inside is made of oxford cloth and it has two zipper openings for easy in and out access. The bottom also unzips. It folds up easily and comes with a carrying case. These outdoor puppy pens are ideal for when you need to do some gardening or work outdoors. They are also very handy if you are staying somewhere that is unfenced or has access to livestock. Not to mention safe for your pet and durable, with rust-resistant coating. It can also be used with other OxGord playpens so that it can be expanded to suit even the biggest area and liveliest dog! Choose the 40 inch option for a Labrador, and get as many panels as you can fit! It features a durable and shiny black finish that looks great outdoors in a yard. This playpen also features a double latch for security and a premium design that is stable and protective so your dog is safe and contained. Metal Dog Playpens Traditionally dog playpens were normally made of metal. Its eight 2 foot wide panels can be configured into different shapes and sizes. Each configuration is a 16 square foot enclosed area when completed, which provides plenty of running room for your precious pup. The wire design is also safe and durable, so your dog stays contained inside and you can leave them with confidence. Go with the 48 inch height option for adult Labradors. It is collapsible and can be set up or broken down as needed, and can be used in or outdoors. It measures 64 inches, which is more than enough room to contain a large dog. Plastic Dog Playpens Plastic playpens are durable, easy to transport and lighter weight than their metal counterparts. It can fit puppies and small to large dogs of all sizes, and can be used both indoor and outdoors. Measuring 21 square feet of exercise space, the IRIS playpen is durable and rust-proof, and features non-skid rubber feet so that your flooring is protected. Check it out on Amazon here. This is a large dog playpen indoor area that you can customize to train puppies or just have an open space for your dog to exercise inside the home. They make it easier to keep the area clean and any potential hazards away from your pet. The mesh screen allows you to watch your pet and keep an eye on them, and the waterproof design means you can keep it outdoors so your puppy can get some fresh air and fun in the sun. All of the panels are zippers, meaning your pup will stay in safely while getting their daily dose of fresh air. It offers a great combination of durability and mobility. Zip front door and top make for easy access and give your pup the freedom to go in and out as they please. Perfect for camping, traveling and keeping your puppy contained indoors when needed. This dog playpen is sturdy. Small Dog Playpens Do you need a small dog playpen for your young puppy? Are you short on space and need somewhere to keep him safe temporarily? Then here are a couple of great little puppy playpen choices. This small puppy playpen is portable and lightweight. Water resistant, this playpen also has a removable zipper top. Great for indoors, outdoors and travel, this playpen is super easy to setup and breakdown, requiring virtually no room for storage. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Disclaimer: this article contains Amazon affiliate links, which support Dog Gear Review if you purchase the product after clicking on it without costing you anything extra. Using affiliate links will never compromise us writing unbiased, honest reviews! Having an area where your new family member is safe when you cannot monitor them is a key to keeping your sanity during the first weeks. As they start to understand what they can and cannot chew and get better with potty training, you can offer them more freedom, but using a pen initially can give you a well-needed break knowing they cannot get into trouble while you are dealing with something else. In our case, it was also crucial because our older dog, Mia, is not happy about having Zulu around, so we needed to keep them entirely separate for the first weeks. This allowed them to decompress and get comfortable with the new situation without being able to interact. This 9-panel setup easily fits a small crate and potty areas while still leaving plenty of playing space. I also used some of the panels to create barriers at the doors and the stairs to separate the two dogs while they were settling into our new life. The pen is available in four heights 24"" and comes in 8, 16, 24, and panel versions. The stakes connecting the panels can secure the pen outdoors. For indoor use, they just introduced accessories : floor protectors for the end of the stakes and the Muffler Tubes to reduce the sound of the rods shaking when the dog moves the pen. These make the pen a lot more convenient for indoor use! The pen also comes with a door, so you have easy access. The latch holds the door with a safety latch, so Zulu never managed to push it open - unless we forgot to close the door all the way in until the lock clicked. There are many options that you can use for flooring. I wanted something waterproof and thick enough to stay in place. My goal was to protect the floor from the pen sliding on it, create a non-slip surface for Zu, and make cleaning up accidents easier. If you are willing to spend more, garage flooring like the G-Floor Cover is a great option. I used a cheap floor mat from Home Depot that we already had. It is not ideal once the puppy starts chewing on things because the spongy material is easily chewed through, and they can swallow it. In the initial period, I wrapped the mat with old sheets and blankets and replaced that every day with a new one, which made cleaning up easier. Later I removed the mats and just left a thicker blanket there for her to lay on. What to put in the pen? The main guiding principle here is to only have items in the pen that are safe for the dog. Be sure to think through what your new dog can destroy or get tangled in and only let them play with those outsides of the pen when you are supervising. Also, double-check that there are no cables they can reach from the pen and pull in to play with. My experience is that a litter box is much easier for puppies to understand than using pee pads because it provides clear boundaries they need to enter for the potty area. Also, when you remove the pads, many dogs transition to the carpet since it is close enough in look and feel in their mind. The litter is a different surface and feeling than anything else in a home, so I feel this makes transitioning easier. It should be low, so they can step in easily but plenty big so they can turn around in it to find the perfect spot. In the beginning, she needed two boxes, so there was always one close by, then I removed one as her potty training improved. It is dust-free and does an excellent job absorbing what needs to be absorbed. I used the top of the storage boxes by the litter box because Zulu ran to the box at the beginning and started peeing when only her first paws were in there. I think the sides of the boxes were too tall for her tiny legs at the beginning, and it was hard for her to get in quickly. Having the tops by the boxes made cleaning up these accidents very easy. It also has a handle, so if the dog tries playing with it, you can secure it to the crate with a carabiner. Also, they could swallow the filling, the zipper, or other parts, resulting in an emergency vet visit. Zulu had a few weeks in the beginning when she left this mat alone and was very happy sleeping on it, then later started chewing it, so now we are back to using blankets and towels. I opted for crate training because when we are at search training or staying over somewhere, Zulu needs to stay in a crate, so I like to regularly use it at home as well to ensure she is comfortable in it. Zulu is also a shy pup, and she really likes that she can hide in her crate if she gets overwhelmed with visitors or something else. Keeping her crate closed for the night sped up her potty training process. We started with a simple wire crate, then received a Collapsible Crate from Impact Crates , and Zulu felt a lot safer in its more closed design. The Impact Crates are on the high end of the crate options on the market but they are made of aluminum, and the Collapsible design we received folds down to just 8 inches, making it great for traveling. It is also IATA-approved, so we can use it for flights if we need to fly again with the dogs. They also offer a puppy divider that you can safely secure so you can already use it for a puppy and give them more room as they grow. We also have two other articles on the different enrichment toys and engagement builder interactive toys that we used with Zulu. Having a set of different chews on hand was great to help her settle down and give her something to do. Latter comes in different thicknesses and lengths, so you can choose the ideal size for your pup and size up as they grow. Setup change over time Below is the first setup, and the next image is how it looks today. After 2 or 3 weeks, I needed to remove the flooring so Zulu could not chew the floor mat. The pen is also secured to the heavier Impact crate that helps to keep the pen in place. Keeping a pup contained and monitored helps set them up for success because you limit their ability to make mistakes without you noticing what they are doing in time. Outdoor Pen Mia always loved spending time on the deck, so I wanted to give Zulu the chance to enjoy the same while keeping her contained so she could not chew on the patio furniture, get in some trouble or annoy Mia. This was also important to expose Zulu to the smells and noise of our area when she was still not allowed to go for walks. The FXW pen can be used both indoors and outdoors, so I moved a few panels to create a patio section for Zulu. This also allows them to get used to each other without interacting when I am not monitoring them completely. There is a little rust here and there on the panels used outside after two months, but altogether, they are holding up well enough. Summary I hope you found this guide helpful! Feel free to reach out with questions if I missed anything! Suggested Articles November 26, The holiday season is just around the corner, so it was time to create our gift recommendation list for dogs for ! We only recommend products that we tried and liked because we all want to find gifts that will be a success. In times of overconsumption, we want to provide a list of functional and well-made products to ensure they will not just sit in the corner or be thrown out after a few days. November 25, Dark days are here, and most of us need to face walking in the dark before or after work, so this is the best time to collect a few different options that provide visibility for our dogs! When thinking about visibility, there are passive or active options: passive being a reflective harness or vest that only lights up when, e. November 23, We know how hard it is to find exciting or unique toys the dogs will not ruin in the first 5 minutes, so Zulu and Mia worked hard to test out a few options for you over the last weeks! They are not super hard chewers, but both of them are hard on their toys, so our requirement for this list was to find toys that the dogs are excited about, AND the toy needs to survive at least three days of play. November 21, Do you have a dog who only cares about food? Here are a few ideas on how to make their holiday season even more special! The Bonus Bites Freeze-Dried Training Treats are single-ingredient treats, so you can safely give them to dogs with food allergies. November 20, Dog puzzle toys are here to entertain and challenge our dogs, but they are meant to be used with supervision. Many articles confuse them with treat dispensers that can be used while the dog is left alone. For example, a Kong or similar hard rubber toy that can be stuffed with treats is an enrichment toy but not a puzzle toy. October 23, What is a Coyote Vest? How does it protect a dog? Why would a dog need a coyote vest? We have another article going into all these topics, but I wanted to have a summary here as well. Coyotes typically stay away from people and dogs, but our town has a serious problem with coyotes who were born in the town and are not afraid of cars, people, or even big dogs. October 22, While many think dog and human treadmills are the same, and companies are just trying to make more money by repacking them into seemingly dog-specific products, there are actually a few significant differences. Here are a few reasons why. October 20, What is a dog treadmill? How does it work? There are motorized and non-motorized dog treadmills. The motorized ones are similar to the human treadmills, with a few crucial differences that we address in a separate article. October 12, What is canicross? Canicross is a sport where people and dogs run together. Sometimes the dog runs by their person, but most of the time, they run up front, pulling on a bungee leash while taking verbal cues for direction. What do I need to start running with my dog? We loved the original Freemotion harness, and we were excited to test the new one! The photo below shows the original version that we reviewed in .The most obvious difference is that the original harness only came in black, while the 5. They also added a small reflective loop to the top above the shoulders , an existing feature of the Nansen nome harness 5. I did go to several baby stores, Wally world, etc and all of them were too small and bulky. After having looked at Tractor Supplies website I decided to drive out and see for myself. After speaking with a very helpful sale s woman dog owner I cam home with this. H - Tractor Supply Co. We also use a Midwest crate that we house him at night. When Romeo gets a little bigger I plan on moving it back into the foyer and when needed connecting this barrier to it. Using the supplied latches and some medium sized office clips it holds securely. This way he will have his crate for sleeping with a gallon water bottle and a play pen to get around in. Using this play pen is a first and we have seen some serious benefits already. It keeps him out of trouble! Leaving it where he can see us and our other dog keeps his anxiety way down along with a pillow and toys. Food training with another dog is simplified where he is in the same area as the other dog but is kept in his pen to eat his own food with no wandering. It is light weight and ultra portable where my small wife can easily operate it, fold it up and transport it. It comes with stakes if you want to stake to the ground outside and I think you can order extra panels but they did not have those in the store. The door works surprisingly well and latches exactly like their crate we have. Keeping a large pillow inside keeps him from scooting the pen to far out of shape to make it collapse or run off with it and so far so good. I choose the 36" tall pen as it will remain tall enough for him until 6 months of age but he may be too heavy by then, we'll see. Being a tall man I can reach over the top to grab a toy or place him down in but I wouldn't recommend this unless you are 6'4" and beyond. This is not meant for permanent use, large dogs or multiple dogs by any stretch. I've owned MANY dogs from 8 weeks on and wanted something where I was not chasing him all over for over watching. Couldn't stand locking him in a crate for "time out" breaks as that always turned into eruptions of whaling. Its not cute or pretty and it isn't supposed to be but it does work. One benefit to this design is that the one gallon water bottle we have will work on the wire pen. If need be on can be hung and used very easily link below of the one we have. Sorry but I did not weigh it or remember to look on the box as to how much but it was one of the criteria for purchase. When home and assembled I had my wife fold it up and then pick it up to see what she thought. Good to go and plenty light enough for her to maneuver. There's nothing to assemble for exception of these weird little panel braces if you want to use them. They are for straightening out two panels but were unnecessarily difficult to use and were thrown away. There are four "latches" that are smallish leash style clasps that are for joining two ends together. That's how I figured out that the black metal office binders hold it together very firmly were the dog cannot get them undone.
So, finding high-quality dog food containing only necessary and healthy fats is best. Likewise, treats should be given not in excess but only when deserved. Pugs are more than happy to spend most of the day on the couch, and while Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are similarly relaxed, they are a bit more energetic and willing to participate in activities. Regardless, your dog will need moderate daily exercise. Early socialization and obedience training will be essential to train your Pugalier properly. Pugs are sensitive creatures and do not respond well to harsh training methods. Without positive reinforcement and rewards, your dog can get hurt feelings and lose the desire to train. When training your Pugalier, you should never use punishments or other negative reinforcement. Instead, focus on the positives by providing rewards, praise, and treats for desired behavior. If the coat is more like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, they will require multiple brushings per week as well as a bath every month or so. However, you can minimize the chances of your pet suffering a chronic disease by maintaining regular veterinary appointments. Minor Conditions Pugs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are susceptible to eye conditions such as corneal ulcers and cataracts, so watch out for any signs of eye discomfort, irritation, or pain. Your Pugalier will also be prone to patellar luxation , which is essentially a displaced kneecap. The severity of this condition varies, and it can predispose your pet to other conditions later in life. Hip dysplasia is another condition to be aware of, which often appears as weakness or pain in the hind limbs. You may notice your dog limping, struggling to stand, or having difficulty climbing furniture or stairs. Serious Conditions A serious condition that your Pugalier is at high risk for is obesity. Mitral valve disease is another concerning condition that your dog may be prone to. The mitral valve is a structure that prevents blood from flowing backward through the heart. When Pugaliers develop mitral valve disease, the valve degenerates and becomes less effective. The cause of this condition is unknown, but genetics is suspected to play a significant role. However, spaying can be more expensive than neutering due to the invasive nature of the surgery, and a female Pugalier may cost a bit extra upfront. It is said that Charles II was so enamored by his dogs that he brought them everywhere he went. An assassination attempt on Prince William was thwarted due to his Pug barking at the sight of the intruders. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, on the other hand, were bred to aid in hunting efforts and still retain these keen instincts. However, they are also more than happy to snuggle up on the couch. They can thrive in nearly any family situation or housing and only require moderate exercise. They get along with other pets, making them an ideal companion for a multi-pet household. Bringing a Pugalier home will require a lot of work, especially if you acquire one from a breeder. You must dedicate a significant amount of time to researching any breeders you approach, as the Pugalier is considered a designer breed and may be irresponsibly bred as a result. If you think the Pugalier is the right fit for you, we recommend beginning your search at your local animal shelter. Wherever you find your Pugalier, they will undoubtedly become a cherished friend for life. See also:. What is a Pugalier? This cross can also be referred to as a Cavalier Pug mix. This hybrid dog is a relatively new designer breed combining to types of canines that have been around for many centuries. The average Pugalier can weigh between 6. Penny weighs 7. Pugalier appearance 2Pug West the Pugalier Photo: 2pug. They can have the eyes of the Pug, which are slightly protruding. Their coat can be soft to touch with wavy hair. Pugaliers can be black, brown, grey, white and fawn with medium-length hair and a dense coat. Ruth shed some insight on the appearance of her Pugalier, 2Pug West. Depending on how much Cavalier is mixed with Pug can really changed the appearance of a Pugalier. He does appear to have longer and floppy ears and his nose is not as flat as a purebred. Cavaliers make affectionate, loving, loyal and playful companion dogs. Pugs tend to have sweet personalities but they can have a stubborn streak. Pugaliers will usually be bright, funny and sociable pets, so they can make an excellent choice for families with children. Penny described the personality of her dog to give our readers an insight into Pugalier temperament. They have such a sweet nature! She loves cuddles but also loves her alone time. She loves to greet you when you get home by jumping and silently howling but after a few minutes, she will snooze on the couch. They are very gentle but when excited can be a little rough in a play type of way. She is also very inquisitive and will sniff everything and everyone! I also find with mine, he is extremely playful and enjoys exercise. Finally, Jack finished off our round up of Pugalier personalities. Do Pugaliers suffer from separation anxiety? Separation anxiety can occur when pet parents leave their canine companion at home alone. It usually manifests itself as incessant barking, howling or whining, destructive chewing or digging and even defecating or urinating inside the home. Jack the Pugalier does suffer from separation anxiety. I did find our Pugalier was showing signs of separation anxiety before. But we got a second puppy in the house and it absolutely helps with this. Do Pugaliers like to cuddle? While they like to dish out affection to their owners, Pugaliers are likely to enjoy some attention for themselves. Ruth explains that her Pugalier, 2Pug West, demands a lot of attention. He requires lots of attention and prefers to nap and lay down with us rather then being on his own. Do Pugaliers make great family pets? Channelle believes Pugaliers are a great option for family pets based upon her experience with Penny. They are friendly, loving, loyal and gentle for the most part unless they are super excited and want to play but they never hurt you! Pugaliers would be an ideal pooch for first time dog owners, the elderly or a family with children. I can guarantee, anyone who brings a Pugalier into their life , would have a gorgeous friend for life! Are Pugaliers easy to train? Channelle provided our readers with some insight into how she trained Penny. They can be with persistence and positive reinforcements. We had adopted Penny when she was 6 from a shelter so she was a little harder to train but now she is great! Pugaliers love to dig and a prone to separation anxiety but if you train them at a very young age, they will be the perfect pooch! How much exercise do Pugaliers need? Wag Walking recommend 30 minutes of exercise a day. Penny, for instance, relishes the chance to explore despite having low to moderate exercise needs. A small backyard is perfect for them, even a decent sized apartment. If you have a few toys for them and a decent sized area for zoomies, they will be happy! Are Pugaliers hypoallergenic? Do Pugaliers shed? Dog Time give the Pugalier four out of five stars with regards to shedding. It really depends how frequently you groom them I guess. We brush Penny a few times a week and she is professionally groomed once every weeks and now she hardly sheds at all. Penny also has more of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel coat which is much longer than the more common Pugalier you see which has more of a pug coat. I guess you just have to keep on top of it. Do Pugaliers need regular grooming? Pugaliers will benefit from regular grooming to remove dead hair and debris from their coat. Like we said above, Pugaliers can differ from dog to dog depending on which traits they inherit from each parent. Not necessarily. The only thing that should be done regularly is cleaning between their wrinkles. I also find depending on the bloodline of your pug, they do shed a lot of fur so look into getting some special shampoo and brush them regularly to get rid of excess fur. Do Pugaliers have any health problems? The research I did prior to getting Jack told me that cavaliers and pugs are prone to hip dysplasia. Are Pugaliers fussy eaters? Compared to a lot of the common dog treats, he actually prefers fresh fruit and veggies like avocado, bok choy, sweet corn and tomatoes. Do Pugaliers get along with other dogs? Having said that, we recommend pet parents to socialize their puppies from a young age and expose them to lots of people and vaccinated dogs to help their social skills develop. Pugalier price Pugaliers can range in price if you buy them from a breeder. But this was 6 years ago and I also drove very far to the countryside. In more metro areas, pugs and pug mixes are generally a lot more expensive. Are Pugaliers expensive? Is this a cross breed that is suited to first-time dog owners? Ruth says yes based upon her experience with Penny. Our Pugalier is extremely smart and picked up tricks very easily, so for that it made it super easy as new dog owners. If you have another dog already, Pugaliers would make a great addition to your family. Otherwise if you are home frequently, they would be amazing as a first pet! Pugaliers to follow on Instagram If you want to learn more about Pugaliers, we recommend following some members of the breed on social media to learn more. Here are some Pugalier accounts to check out on Instagram. She has been vaccinated, vet check cleared, is up-to-date with worm and flea treatments, and is eating and playing well. We've got a lovely pair of pugalier puppies available to the right homes. These are first generation crossbreds, born from a purebred fawn pug mother and a purebred Blenheim Cavalier King Charles Spaniel father. Both parents are our family dogs and of excellent conformation and with friendly sociable personalities. Puppies' D. They will receive their first vet check and vaccination, worm and flea treatment before going to new homes. So far the puppies are very chubby and growing well since the litter is small and their mother has plenty of milk. We have a boy and a girl. The boy has white patches on his back, snout and paws and the girl is an even reddish fawn colour. This is typical as Blenheim is a recessive gene. Being first generation crossbreds, the puppies are likely to grow up to have an even balance of characteristics of both breeds, but it's possible they may end up looking more like one than the other. Either way they will make great family pets, very people-oriented and docile. Perfect for children and anyone who loves a chilled out lap dog. We're located in the North Shore of Auckland and are happy to host visits if you want to meet these cute little bubs. Any questions feel free to ask. We filter many scam listings out, but scammers are very clever and in a few cases appear to be fully legitimate listings. We recommend meeting prior to money changing hands. Ask about the pets health, history, and terms of trade. Most money should only change hands on trade. If you notice anything odd or unusual, exercise caution in dealing with this person. If you think you're being scammed contact the police and contact us to remove the listing. Pets4sale does not represent or endorse the person making this listing. Contact Information.
How does the Labradoodle growth chart work? The following numbers are estimates based on the litter of a Labrador Retriever crossed with a standard Poodle. If your pup's Poodle parent is a toy size, then they are likely to be significantly smaller than these estimates. Their health is what matters most, so if you have questions or concerns about your puppy's development, reach out to your veterinarian. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? Labradoodles typically need 12 to 18 months to reach their full size, especially if their parents were on the heavier side of the average weight spectrum. Large breeds grow slower and take longer to reach their full size compared to small and medium-sized dog breeds, which usually reach maturity within nine to 11 months. How big should a 6-month-old Labradoodle be? A 6-month-old Labradoodle may weigh anywhere between 40 and 55 pounds. As a general rule, male Labradoodles weigh more than their female counterparts. In terms of height, a 6-month-old Labradoodle puppy will stand around 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, but this varies based on their genetic makeup. Pro Tip: Download our new puppy checklist for tips on how to set up a vaccination schedule, essential pet care supplies, and more. How much bigger will my Labradoodle get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much more your Labradoodle may grow. Most Labradoodles need anywhere from 12 to 18 months to reach their full size. If your pup is younger than a year old, they are likely still growing. Refer to our Labradoodle weight chart to estimate how many more pounds they might put on as they mature into adulthood. If they look oversized compared to their limbs, then they're probably still filling out. Oversized paws are a classic puppy feature indicating that your pup still has more growth underway. Lastly, if you purchased your puppy from a breeder, you can contact them about your Labradoodle's weight. Alhough the breed varies greatly in size, knowing the weight of your puppy's parents and those of previous litters can help you predict your Labradoodle's adult size. What is the size of a full-grown Labradoodle? As a hybrid dog breed, Labradoodles vary significantly in size based on their geneology. Per Agape Labradoodles , adult Labradoodles typically weigh over 45 pounds, with some Labradoodles weighing as much as pounds. However, most Labradoodles will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. In [terms of height], Labradoodles stand 21 to 24 inches tall when measured from paw to shoulder, or approximately two feet excluding their neck and crown of the head. How do I make sure my Labradoodle is healthy? Our Labradoodle puppies are important, cherished family members who we want the best for. One of the best ways to help your Labradoodle thrive is by taking them to regular veterinary appointments to have them routinely checked out and evaluated. Prevention is always better than treatment, and regular veterinary exams provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to screen your Labradoodle for disease. Your puppy will need to see the veterinarian several times in their first six months of life for core vaccinations against things like Rabies, and then at least once a year as an adult for annual health check-ups. Like their parents, Labradoodles are also more susceptible to hip dysplasia , a common orthopedic condition that occurs when the hip joint forms improperly. Hip dysplasia can lead to pain in their back legs, impaired mobility, and even lameness if not treated - fortunately, the condition is treatable with surgery. When over 20, pet parents were surveyed, only .As loving pet parents, it can be devastating to think that our four-legged friend could develop a painful disease that requires expensive treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Most pet parents opt for accident and illness pet insurance plans as they cover both injuries and most illnesses, such as hip dysplasia or eye diseases. Pet wellness plans can be added to your insurance coverage to help you pay for preventive veterinary care, like your regular vet exams, x-rays , dental cleanings , vaccinations, and more. Like humans, dogs are living longer, which creates an even bigger need for excellent veterinary care so that our dogs can live their happiest and healthiest lives. Pet insurance helps alleviate the financial strain that's often caused by vet visit costs. If your Labradoodle puppy gets sick or hurt, you and your veterinarian can work together to provide your pup with the best treatment plan - without worrying about how much it might cost. Key Takeaways Adult Labradoodles weigh pounds on average. The parent Poodle breed has toy and standard size variations that impact the size of the offspring, along with other genetic factors. Most Labradoodles grow until months of age. The breed is known for several congenital health disorders, and is especially prone to hip dysplasia. Pet insurance can protect your puppy and provide a financial safety net for vet costs throughout their life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. By that time, your dog would have reached its final height. As for its weight, it might take a few more weeks for your dog to add those last few pounds and reach percent of its total body weight. When you first bring your puppy home, he might be only eight weeks old and reach about 30 percent of its final body weight. You can expect your pup to get to 75 percent of its final size by 24 weeks. Two Labradoodles are at the park. You can find out when your canine is fully grown by considering its family history and genetics. That will give you an idea of the final size your puppy will reach upon adulthood. Usually, Labradoodles come in three sizes known as: Mini Labradoodles Medium Labradoodles Standard Labradoodles Furthermore, the size of your dog will depend on its gender. Male Labradoodles are about 5 percent larger than the female breed on average. Often, DNA testing is the best way to get an accurate idea of how big your dog will get. When do Labradoodles stop growing? You can also get a DNA home testing kit to determine size. The Embark dog DNA test kit tends to have the most accurate results and has high ratings. The steps for DNA testing are simple. Your pup needs to undergo a cheek swab, and then you can mail in the DNA. You will get results back to you in about two to four weeks. Miniature Labradoodles are usually around 30 pounds in weight once they are fully grown into the adult stage. By 14 weeks, a Mini Labradoodle is often half its fully grown weight and size. However, it does take about one year before it reaches approximately 97 percent of its grown adult size. The first Miniature Labradoodle came about in the early s when Dr. Kate Schoeffel began breeding the canine into smaller sizes. When taking care of a Mini Labradoodle, get dog food developed specifically for its size. Nonetheless, the smaller size makes the dog more manageable for many families, and the compact breed gets along better with children. An Apricot Mini Labradoodle my puppy Max! By eight weeks, Medium Labradoodles tend to reach about 8 to 10 pounds in weight. The medium-sized dog can take more than a year before reaching its full adulthood size. Once they reach full adulthood, Medium Labradoodles are 30 to 45 pounds in weight. Female ones tend to reach 17 to 19 inches in height while males are 18 to 20 inches in height. These dogs are fully matured by 11 to 12 months. The full size of Standard Labradoodles tends to vary greatly. You can expect the fully grown standard Labradoodle to weigh anywhere from 60 pounds to as much as 90 pounds. Such large dogs may not fit in with a family with small children. By eight weeks, these puppies can range from 10 pounds to 20 pounds in weight. You can expect the canine to weigh more than 45 pounds upon reaching adulthood. In height, the dog can range from 17 to 23 inches. When you first get a puppy of a standard size, you may get worried about its constant growth. You may think the dog will grow out of control and become impossible to manage in adulthood. However, there are simple formulas you can use to figure out the size it will reach. Labradoodle sitting in the studio. By eight weeks, your puppy has reached around 30 percent of its final weight. As such, you can simply multiply its weight by four and subtract two or three pounds. At around three months, your pup should have reached around 40 percent of its final weight. At this stage, you can multiply its weight by three and subtract a couple of pounds. These two basic formulas will help you determine the size of your canine once grown. Labradoodle puppy sitting on a tree trunk. Picking the Right Dog Size for You and Your Family When choosing the perfect pup for your home and your family, there are many things to consider. You will need to see whether your place can handle a large dog or whether your cramped apartment means only a small canine will work. Do you have small children or teenagers? That will also determine the size of the dog you choose. Below, we discuss the different issues that will impact the dog size that will work best for you and your family. Consider the Size of Your Home Do you live in an apartment or a large three-bedroom house? If you live in a small apartment, a Miniature Labradoodle is the best choice for you. These pups tend to fit well in smaller spaces, unlike their larger counterparts. If you live in a two-bedroom townhouse with minimal outdoor space, the Mini Labradoodle is also a good choice. However, if your house is relatively large, you can choose a larger Labradoodle. The Medium and Standard-sized Labradoodles need a bigger place to play both indoors and outdoors. Do You Have a Yard? These dogs can get boisterous , so you will need fencing to keep them safe. If you have a Mini Labradoodle and no yard to speak of, you will still need to take your dog for long walks and a game of fetch at the local park. To keep Labradoodles from getting bored and destroying your home, make sure they get 30 to 60 minutes of exercise every day. A backyard is one the best location for your dog potty area. You just need to plan and tools to create it! Do You Have Children? If you have small children, such as toddlers under five years, you should choose Miniature or Medium-sized Labradoodles. Yet, if you are a parent of teenagers, any size should work well. The standard-sized breeds fit well with older children and teenagers. In such a case, any size of Labradoodle will work. A child hugs Labradoodle at the beach! Do You Exercise Outdoors? Do you live an active lifestyle and spend time going on runs or hikes? If you like to exercise outdoors, you should get a Standard-sized Labradoodle to take on jogs. Sometimes, a canine can give you that push you need to go for a run. However, if you only want to take a few short walks around the neighborhood, you should consider getting a Miniature Labradoodle. A happy woman holding her lovely golden Labradoodle in her arms. Conclusion on Labradoodle Full-Grown Sizes You can expect your Labradoodle to reach its full size by around 12 months. When picking your Labradoodle, consider your family, home, and lifestyle. You can choose from miniature sizes to medium and larger standard size. Soon, you will have fun playing with your pup and taking him for a walk around town. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Final Thoughts What Is a Labradoodle? They are a friendly and outgoing breed that makes wonderful pets for individuals and families. The original goal behind breeding Labradoodles was to produce an even-tempered and hypoallergenic dog. While Labradoodles are increasing in popularity, they are still not recognized by the American Kennel Club or other major kennel clubs. The American Kennel Club only registers purebred dogs. Registration requires that both parents of a puppy must be registered as the same breed. Labradoodles may have two purebred parents, but they are different breeds. Since the first crossbreeding, there are now three sizes of Labradoodles. A Labradoodle comfortably sitting on the road. Sizes of Labradoodles Many dog breeds have size variations available. Labradoodles can be Miniature, Medium, or Standard. These three stylish Labradoodles help to demonstrate the curly coat type. They still have furnishings and could be trimmed to Teddy bear like Wavy coat but notice the loose Poodle curls on the chest of the middle dog. Extremely low shedding. A Moyen is a medium-size Poodle that does not qualify for purebred competitions because of its mid-range size. Smaller Moyen will produce a Miniature Labradoodle. Miniature Poodles are not much smaller than Moyen, topping out at 25 lbs. The Mini doodle is comparable to the Moyen Poodle in size and weight. Moyen is another word for Medium. Both large dogs produce large offspring. Within the standard category, you will see some variation between males and females. Males will generally grow taller and weigh more than females. But, you can estimate when your Labradoodle will stop growing. You can tell that your dog is almost done growing because he is near the top of the weight spectrum for Miniature Labradoodles. If you bring a Medium Labradoodle into your family, you should not expect to have a 70 lb guard dog. Miniature and Medium LDs with Lab dominant genetics will tend to be larger. Labradoodles are highly-active dogs that need lots of exercise. Regular playing, running, and walking are necessary for a healthy Labradoodle. Feed your Labradoodle high-quality dog food to help maintain a healthy weight. If you know your Standard Labradoodle should be about 90 lbs maximum, a Medium should not be more than 45 lbs, and a Miniature tops out at 30 lbs, you can tell if you are overfeeding your dog. Overfeeding and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity and related health problems. Breed Facts The size and weight of your adult dog are important information to have before choosing a breed. There are a few other facts about Labradoodles that you should know whether you bring home a Standard, Medium, or Miniature. Activity Level Labradoodles are a highly active breed. A bored Labradoodle will seek stimulation by being destructive or hyperactive. Ideally, you will provide at least 60 minutes of exercise for your Labradoodle every day. Walk, run, fetch, or go to a dog park. They can live up to 16 years. Proper diet and exercise contribute to a long, healthy lifespan for your dog. An Apricot Labradoodle puppy happily laying in the dog park Allergy Affects Most Labradoodles are hypoallergenic, but not all. The original Labradoodle crossbreeders wanted to create a hypoallergenic dog that is also outgoing and friendly. The hypoallergenic Poodle combined with the happy-go-lucky Labrador Retriever achieves that goal. As breeders have produced more variations within the Labradoodle category, some traits have shifted. Not all Labradoodles are hypoallergenic. If this feature is a top priority for you, look for an LD with wavy or curly hair. Doodles with straight hair are not hypoallergenic. Happy Oodle friends Max the happy Mini Labradoodle in the middle Considerations When Choosing a Labradoodle Adding a canine to your family is one of the most enriching experiences we can have as humans. They add joy and love to our lives as few other pets can. Labradoodles are especially friendly and affectionate. Bringing an LD home means that you have time and energy to make sure it gets enough exercise to be healthy and happy. Ask yourself if you can commit about an hour each day to exercise and play with your dog. Think about the size of your home. A large, active dog in a small space is not fun for anyone. Consider whether your space is fitting for a Miniature Labradoodle that will weigh lbs, a Medium Doodle that will weigh up to 45 lbs, or a Standard Labradoodle that could tip the scale up to 90 lbs. A happy woman holding her lovely golden Labradoodle in her arms. Final Thoughts Labradoodles make excellent pets for individuals and families. They are congenial and active dogs who love to run, play, and make new friends. They get their sweet personalities from their Labrador Retriever parent. The dominant genes at breeding determine the adult weight of your Labradoodle. Miniature and Medium Labradoodles who get their size from their Labrador parent will be on the larger end of the weight estimates. You can estimate when your Labradoodle will stop growing by doubling its puppy weight at about six months old. Regardless of which size Labradoodle you bring into your family, it will be done growing by its second birthday. At that point, you want to feed and exercise your dog to maintain a healthy weight. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Some of these may be genetic, while others can be environmental. Here are some factors that affect labradoodle puppy growth. Genetics No matter what breed of dog it is, genetics plays a very important role in the growth of a puppy. Labradoodles are a mix between Labrador Retriever and Poodle. These dogs share genetic traits from both parents. The size of a labradoodle depends on its Poodle parent. For example, if the Poodle parent is a toy or miniature, you will get a mini and medium-sized labradoodle. However, if the Poodle parent is standard size, you will get a standard-sized labradoodle. Nutrition Selecting a nutritious diet for your Labradoodle puppy is essential to his well-being and development. Giving him all of the nutrients he needs to flourish and grow. Puppies are in a period of rapid growth, so they require more nutrients for bone and joint development than adult dogs. Puppies who receive adequate nutrition grows to their full potential. When feeding your pup, make sure the food contains all essential nutrients as well as the right levels of fat and protein. Your veterinarian can advise you on the ideal food to provide them with. Physical Activity Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy. If not given enough exercise, they could develop health issues such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease. When your puppy is young, it is best to limit their exercise as excessive physical activity can cause joint damage that will impact their development later in life. Walking and jogging are two activities that puppies enjoy doing, but these should only be done in small amounts in order to protect their joints. Health The growth of Labradoodle puppies also depends on their overall health. Labradoodles may suffer from health conditions that hinder their growth, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These conditions make it difficult for them to walk or lead an ordinary life. So, make sure you buy a Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder and screen them for any health issues. It is also advisable to take them for regular vet visits. Many new pet parents often wonder what size their Labradoodle will be when they grow up. For Labradoodle puppies, puppyhood lasts from birth until about five or six months old. During this stage, you will see a massive growth spurt in Labradoodles. They will keep growing until they reach adulthood. However, this may not always be the case; some may need additional pounds to gain before reaching this milestone. Conclusion A Labradoodle is a designer hybrid dog created by crossing two breeds — Poodles and Labrador Retrievers. As such, these dogs possess high energy levels, are friendly, and are highly affectionate. If you are planning to get a Labradoodle puppy or already have one, it is essential to monitor their growth, as their size can be drastically affected by certain factors. With some simple formulas, these charts may even allow you to predict their future weights. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. It takes traits from both breeds, and new puppy owners will quickly see this combination was chosen intentionally. The Labrador retriever is an intelligent, loyal breed with an excellent temperament for nearly any family or living situation. Unfortunately, these dogs also shed a lot, which can be a hassle. It also makes a Labrador a poor choice for public social situations, such as outdoor dining at dog-friendly patios. Instead, the coat traps dirt, allergens, loose hair and other debris inside it. This means less shedding but also means daily brushing is required. The poodle is also an intelligent breed that makes a perfect addition to most homes since it was bred to be a companion animal. Any puppy is a lifelong commitment. Understanding what to expect at every life stage will help you prepare to give your cute little puppy a long, prosperous, happy life. A normal-sized labradoodle will live an average of 12 to 14 years. Smaller labradoodles resulting from a miniature or toy poodle crossbreed will generally live a little longer. However, you must remember that this lifespan is only an average. There are plenty of labradoodles who live into their late teens. A healthy diet, regular exercise and periodic vet visits are crucial to your labradoodle puppy living a long, healthy life. These main life stages include puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle-aged and senior. Each life stage is discussed in more detail below. Puppyhood If you adopt a labradoodle puppy, this will be the first stage you get to witness. A labradoodle puppy will remain in this life stage from birth until five or six months. Birth to 7 Weeks From birth until about seven weeks of age, labradoodle puppies stay close to their mother. They spend all their time eating, sleeping, growing and cuddling with their littermates. As they get closer to seven weeks of age, they may begin exploring their world a little. Around seven weeks of age, a labradoodle puppy will start becoming more interested in people. This is also when it begins forming bonds with you and other humans in the home or family. These adorable puppies will become more playful and curious at about eight weeks old. Instead, you want to create only positive experiences during this time to ensure it grows into a secure young adult dog. This is the perfect time to start positive training techniques. Teaching your labradoodle puppy about action and reward now will benefit its lifelong training. During this stage of puppy development, socialization is crucial. Now is the perfect time to take it to new places, introduce it to new people and provide it with new experiences. The most important part of this stage of puppy development is that your pup becomes a free and independent thinker. With its curiosity at an all-time high, this is the perfect time to bring your new companion everywhere. Socialization and bonding are other vital aspects of this stage of puppy development. Pet owners will find their puppy wants to be with them all the time and may become mildly anxious when separated from them. Most of its time will be spent eating, sleeping or getting into trouble. Your growing canine should have lost its baby teeth, have all its adult teeth and be out of the biting stage it may have had during puppyhood. Thanks to the Labrador genes, your labradoodle will always love to chew. You can stop destructive chewing behaviors by providing a chew toy or two or 20 to keep it occupied. It may become territorial, but regular socialization can help ease these issues. Your labradoodle will also begin showing quite a bit of strength, so continuing its training during this time is crucial. Acting out, wandering and even behaving aggressively are all normal during this time. Adulthood For a labradoodle, adulthood starts somewhere between two or three years of age and lasts until around its seventh birthday. During adulthood, labradoodles are at their prime. Their adult coat will grow in, which may be thicker or denser than their puppy coat. This breed is very intelligent and easy to train, so if you want to keep teaching it new tricks, you can. Weight Management Your labradoodle will reach its adult size between two and three years old. They can tell you if your dog is a normal size or needs diet and exercise. Middle-Aged Your doodle puppy will turn middle-aged around seven years old. This life stage is relatively brief and only lasts until the dog turns nine or .During middle age, most dogs are still active and overall healthy. It may exercise less and sleep a little more as it transitions between adulthood and its golden years. A middle-aged dog may begin to develop some health problems, especially as it gets closer to its senior years. The primary issues of concern are obesity, joints and teeth. The teeth and joints will become especially vulnerable during this stage, so you must take your dog for regular teeth cleaning and wellness visits. In addition, your vet may recommend supplements to protect the joints. Extra weight will also place unnecessary additional stress on the joints and heart of your dog. Senior Your dog will officially be considered a senior from around nine to 10 years of age until the end of its life. During their golden years, your labradoodle will require extra care and attention. Health problems are most likely to occur during these years, and your vet may suggest two annual well visits instead of only one. After 10 years of age, your dog will likely encounter issues staying warm. You might consider a heating blanket in their bed, keeping the house slightly warmer during winter or providing extra blankets to snuggle under. Your dog may also have problems with its eyesight. The most common issue for senior labradoodles is their joints, which tend to ache as they get older. In addition, they may have mobility problems caused by sore and stiff joints. For example, consider a ramp to help it get into the car or up your porch steps. Developing one or more health problems could mean a shorter lifespan for your labradoodle. A few of the most common health problems affecting labradoodle puppies or adults include: Allergies usually to food Ear infections which can lead to hearing loss after repeat infections Epilepsy. December 2, Fact Checked The Labradoodle is a relatively new breed in the history of domesticated dogs, having only made its debut in the s, and thus far without AKC acknowledgement. Initially developed in Australia by combining the strength, loyalty, and intelligence of a Labrador Retriever with the low-shed coat of a Standard Poodle, this breed was originally intended to produce an allergy-friendly guide dog. Today, these dogs have moved well beyond their initial plan to become beloved household pets throughout the world. For first-time Labradoodle owners, research almost always includes questions on size. So what should a potential Labradoodle parent expect of a labrador full grown? Crossbreeding Surprises The practice of dog breeding as a whole has the same process, regardless of breed: selecting a parental pair with the highest level of positive characteristics and the lowest level of undesirable ones. While labs as a whole are considered medium-sized dogs, the poodle has more available size variance built into its breeding bloodlines. Labradoodles are bred according to three size guidelines per the Australian Labradoodle Association: Miniature Labradoodles have a height between 14 and 17 inches. Medium Labradoodles have a height between 22 and 17 inches. Standard Labradoodles have a height of at least 22 inches. Because the difference in height between two sizes is relatively minor e. On average, Labradoodles weigh around 50 to 65 pounds and do have consistent exercise and interaction needs. They do best with a yard they can run and play in, as well as pet parents that can give them simulation with love, treats, and training on a regular basis. Since labradoodles are crosses between two different breeds they tend to be less prone to breed specific health problems. However, they are not immune to developing health issues. Feeding your favorite CBD dog treats to your labradoodle can help manage their pet pains that come along with getting older. When Do Labradoodles Stop Growing? Generally speaking, most Labradoodles stop growing at around 12 to 18 months. While they may reach their full height, they still tend to fill out and continue to gain weight past this age. Genetics are the sole determining factor of how large a Labradoodle puppy will get. Depending on his parents and the particular mix of genes he inherits, he may be miniature, medium, or standard. He will generally be tall enough to enjoy head pats with only a minor stoop, if any, required of his parent. While Labradoodles are widely touted and sold as hypoallergenic dogs, their cross-bred origins mean that this property can vary from dog to dog. Most allergies are triggered not by fur or hair from a dog, but from canine skin dander that is sloughed off along with the hair follicle itself. Curly-coated Labradoodles will also need brushing to remove dirt, debris, and mats from their coat, or else it may become painfully tangled. While he may be a bit larger than a lapdog on average, the Labradoodle is a fantastic size for home and family life. He will fit into standard collars, leashes, and dog beds without a problem, although he will likely require a large-sized dog door, if one is being used. Accessed October 16, .As much as we want them to stay little forever, Labradoodle puppy growth happens. And it is very fast. In fact, puppies grow much faster than human babies do. An 8 week old Labradoodle will already weigh between 7 and 12 pounds! And by her first birthday she may weigh upwards of 80 pounds. How Big Do Labradoodles Grow? When fully grown, these dogs stand between 21 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder, and weigh from 55 to 90 pounds. Miniature Labradoodles are considerably smaller, standing somewhere between 10 to 18 inches tall and weighing from 15 to 25 pounds. These dogs are the result of mating a Lab with a miniature Poodle or Toy Poodle. Sometimes when Labradoodles reach a size which is in between these two ranges, they are described as medium Labradoodles. Males tend to be larger than females in any Labradoodle type. Predicting Labradoodle Puppy Growth Many people want to know how big their puppy will be when fully grown. Every dog is an individual. Mixed breed dogs like Labradoodles can even differ in size significantly within a single litter. The amount of variation in size between siblings depends a lot upon the difference in size between their parents. Labradoodle Parent Breeds Whenever two different breeds mate, their puppies may grow up looking a lot like one parent, or some combination of both. This is why there is such variance within designer dog breeds. In the case of the Labradoodle, some puppies can be more like the Labrador Retriever while others are more like the Poodle. The Labrador generally weighs between 50 and 80 pounds and stands from 22 to 25 inches tall. They typically carry their size on a well-built, muscular frame. Standard Poodles reach 17 to 24 inches tall and 40 to 70 pounds. Miniature Poodles stand 10 to 15 inches tall and weigh 10 to 15 pounds. In profile, the ideal Poodle has longer legs relative to their body than the ideal Labrador, so they give the impression of being leaner and more lithe. They will end up broadly the same size as both of their parents. For example, Labradoodles might look relatively stocky, like a Lab, or more tall and slim, like a Poodle. These methods are simply for reference and in no way should replace regular vet weigh-ins and check-ups. The Two Month Rule At two months, whatever he weighs will be roughly one quarter of his adult weight. The Four Month Rule At four months take how much he weighs, double it and add 10 pounds. When do Labradoodles Stop Growing? Most breeds tend to do the majority of their growing during their first 6 months of life. Growth slows down dramatically at around the time dogs reach sexual maturity, and female dogs start their seasons. Large and small dog breeds have considerably different growth patterns. In fact, bigger dogs can take twice as long to reach full size as small dogs. By contrast, miniature Labradoodles are generally fully grown at 11 to 13 months old. Spaying and neutering is an effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancies, and prevent some health problems. In other words, without testosterone male dogs grow taller than normal. Prolonging the growth period like this is not a good thing and can lead to joint problems such as cruciate ligament ruptures. Many vets believe this is of particular concern for Labradoodles, because they are already at increased risk of joint diseases such as hip dysplasia. Small-breed dogs can be spayed or neutered at about 6 months of age. When spaying a large breed female, there are a number of factors, such as lifestyle and risk of disease, to consider. There is a healthy amount of evidence now that spaying and neutering might not be the best idea for many dogs. And that they are more prone to some illnesses when they have these hormones taken from them. Proper nutrition is needed for normal health and Labradoodle puppy growth. Fuel for growth For example, puppies of all breeds need more calories every day relative to their size than adult dogs. However, overly rapid growth caused by too much fat relative to protein in their diet can cause number of growth disorders , several of which are incurable. This is particularly a problem for large and giant dog breeds. Eating too much as a puppy also predisposes dogs to obesity in later life. Labrador Retrievers in particular are known for being insatiable when it comes to food. Left unchecked as a puppy or adult, this can result in an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease further down the line. Vitamins and minerals Puppies also need precise amounts of vitamin D, calcium and phosphorous in their diet, to support healthy bone development. These include demineralization of the bones and skeletal deformities as they grow. This is why malnutrition from eating the wrong type of food is just as dangerous as eating the wrong amount of food. He might have a parasitic infection which is preventing him from benefiting from all the nutrition in his diet. Or, he might simply be small but healthy! Never try to make him grow faster by feeding him more. Overfeeding can cause digestive problems and create a fat puppy. You want to make sure that his mental and social skills are developing properly as well. If not well socialized in this time, they can become fearful of anything unfamiliar. Even at the tender age of 8 weeks, basic training and socializing can start. Use positive training methods with food as incentive. But we do know that the best indicator of how big a puppy will get is to look at the parents. Watching a puppy grow up is an amazing experience. Enjoy it while it lasts. Related Articles. The age a Labradoodle is full grown depends on their size. Mini Labradoodle finish growing first between 11 and 13 months, Medium Labradoodles stop growing between 12 and 15 months while Standard Labradoodles stop growing between 12 and 18 months. Mini Labradoodles are fully grown between 11 and 13 months of age. Medium Labradoodles are fully grown between 12 and 15 months of age. Standard Labradoodles are fully grown between 12 and 18 months of age. These ranges are only guides. There can be a lot of variability for growth rates of Labradoodles as they are a mixed breed dog. One of the best ways to get an idea of when your Labradoodle will finish growing is by asking your breeder what age their parents stopped growing. An adult sized dog raincoat to keep them dry during wet weather An adult sized dog life jacket to help with swimming in lakes and oceans An adult sized dog jacket for cold winter weather A dog cooling vest if you live in a hot climate High quality no-pull dog harness to reduce stress on their neck while walking And other similar products Labradoodle via tobymackthebigdood How Big Is A Labradoodle Full Grown? How big a Labradoodle is fully grown depends on whether they are a Mini, Medium or Standard Labradoodle. Mini Labradoodles are 14 to 16 inches .Mini Labradoodles are the smallest, Medium Labradoodles are the middle size and Standard Labradoodles are the largest. Mini Labradoodle Size Mini Labradoodles get to a height of 14 to 16 inches .They are one of the smallest Labradoodle sizes however some breeders create an even small Labradoodle called the Toy Labradoodle. Medium Labradoodle Size Medium Labradoodles get to a height of 16 to 20 inches .Medium Labradoodles are slightly smaller than Standard Labradoodles. Standard Labradoodle Size Standard Labradoodles get to a height of 20 to 26 inches .They are the largest and most common Labradoodle size. Mini Labradoodles weigh between 15 and 25 pounds 6. Medium Labradoodles weigh between 25 and 50 pounds
mini bernedoodle puppies for sale midwest - The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Learn more » Congratulations on your new golden retriever puppy! You now have a beautiful, smart, and loyal dog who will love you for life. To make sure they grow into a healthy and happy companion, you need to feed them the right amount of food. At months old, which is usually when they are ready to leave their mother, a golden retriever puppy should be eating 3 cups of dog food divided into three meals per day. This is based on a typical large-breed puppy food. Different brands will give a feeding guide on their packaging. However, how much and how often to feed your golden retriever will keep changing during this time of rapid growth. Golden Retriever Puppy Feeding Timeline Image Credit: PxHere All puppies are different as are the foods, but some general guidelines for feeding your golden retriever during their first year are: 0—6 weeks: A golden retriever puppy can start eating solid food when they are 3—4 weeks old. Give them a total of 3 cups of dog food per day by their third month, 3 to 4 cups by the time they are 6 months old. The AKC recommends waiting until large breed puppies are at least 12 months old before switching them over to adult dog food and more likely 18 months. The amount will depend on their weight and activity level, but a rough guide is 1—2 cups per meal. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock Large breed puppies like golden retrievers should eat three to four small meals a day for the first 3—6 months of their lives. Smaller portions spread throughout the day are easier on their tummies and help prevent bloat, a serious condition that can be deadly for dogs. It also helps them maintain their energy level throughout the day. Puppy food has more calories and fat to support their growth, as well as extra vitamins and minerals for their developing immune and nervous systems and bones. The protein source matters, too. Puppies need animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb for their growing muscles. Choose a Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies grow quickly, which means they need extra support for their bones and joints. Formulations for large breeds contain the correct calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. They can help you choose the right food for your puppy based on their age, weight, and activity level. But puppies need to be fed on a schedule to prevent them from overeating and becoming overweight. How do you know if your puppy is getting enough to eat? After that, their growth will start to slow down. He Has a Healthy Appetite: A healthy puppy is interested in food and eager to eat. He Has Plenty of Energy: A well-fed puppy is full of energy and ready to play. Make the most of mealtime with these tips: 1. It also helps other aspects of puppy training, such as potty training and crate training. Image Credit: Alena Marchuk, Shutterstock This means leaving food out all day for them to graze on whenever they want. Leave food down for 10 minutes and then pick up what is not eaten. If they have not eaten anything, offer it again in an hour. Slow them down by scattering their kibble around the bowl, using a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat. This will help them learn to eat slowly and enjoy their food more. If your puppy is not drinking enough water for your liking, try adding a bit of broth to their bowl to make it more appealing and help them stay hydrated. Resist the Urge to Sneak Them Table Scraps Puppies are experts at giving those big, soulful eyes that make it hard to say no. But resist the temptation to give them table scraps or human food. Aside from teaching them bad manners, it can also lead to health problems, like obesity. A lot of human foods are not safe or healthy for dogs. For instance, garlic and onions are toxic to dogs. Oily food can upset their stomach, and carbs add a lot of calories. This helps them learn that mealtime is a specific time and place and not something that happens all over the house. Let Your Puppy Eat in Peace. This includes other pets in the house and small children who might want to bother them or try to steal their food. Otherwise, meals can become a stressful experience for your puppy instead of a happy one. Conclusion Feeding your golden retriever puppy the right amount of quality dog food will establish a strong foundation for their health and happiness. In addition, make mealtimes more meaningful by turning them into lessons and bonding moments between you and your dog. The puppy phase is over before you know it, so enjoy it while it lasts! Golden Retrievers are very food motivated. If your puppy seems to be getting fat, you may need to switch to the lower end of the above recommendations. Alternatively, if their ribs are becoming too prominent, you should work to the upper ends of the guidelines. Golden Retriever puppies have much smaller stomachs than adults. This means their daily food allowance should be split into smaller, more frequent meals. Rather than just feeding them once in the morning and once in the evening, as you might plan to do eventually, their food will need to be split into 3 or even 4 portions, like so: 8 — 12 weeks: 4 meals a day 3 — 6 months: 3 meals a day 6 — 12 months: 2 meals a day However, like the feeding charts, this should only be used as a guide. Feeding too much food at once can lead to cramping, vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort for your puppy. How to Choose the Best Golden Retriever Puppy Food Puppies need a balance of certain nutrients and vitamins to support their growth — not just as much food as possible. In fact, simply giving as much food as possible is linked to certain joint-related health problems. So, when searching for a high quality puppy food, there are a few key ingredients you might want to search for. This includes a real meat source, and the correct amount of nutrients like calcium and iron. Commercial Food vs Homemade Food There are pros and cons to every type of puppy food available. Dry food is long-lasting and easy to use during training, but can contain filler ingredients. Wet food is palatable and easy to serve, but can be more expensive and harder to use during training. Homemade food is often very appealing in terms of taste for our dogs, but is the most likely type to contain nutritional imbalances that can lead to serious health problems. So, they will continue to grow and develop physically until somewhere between 12 and 18 months. You may want to transition your puppy to a new food when you bring them home, rather than whatever your breeder was giving them. Ideally, you want to make the change over the course of a week. Replace a very small amount of their old food with their new food at mealtimes. Over the week, you can change these amounts by decreasing their old food and increasing the new. By the end of the week, they will be eating only the new food. Changing abruptly can cause stomach upsets and symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. But, Golden Retrievers should generally look lanky rather than chubby. But, the most successful rewards in this type of training are often food, such as kibble or small chunks or meat and cheese. Doing all of your training in the morning can lead to stomach upsets if your puppy ends up eating a large amount of their daily allowance all at once. Instead, try and complete shorter training sessions before each mealtime, and give whatever allowance is left for each meal after training is done. This can also benefit your training, as a hungry dog will be more motivated to work for those treats! Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.
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mini bernedoodle puppies for sale midwest - We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Labradors are incredibly athletic dogs that love to run, play, and swim. Since they're such an active breed, their legs and muscles are their most significant attributes. If you notice that your Lab's legs are uneven, should you be concerned? Dogs with longer back legs should be presumed normal and healthy unless the dog is showing signs of pain or discomfort. If your dog reacts when you touch their back leg joints or changes their behavior, you should speak with your vet about your concerns. There are several reasons why your dog's back legs might be shorter in the back. Some aren't so concerning, but there are some potential health concerns that may occur. You should be aware of those and signs to look out for. As long as your dog is acting normally, there should be no reason to be concerned. Even though it may look uncomfortable to you, there are some completely normal instances where this may occur. Puppies often go through awkward months as they develop into the fully grown pets we know and love. Some parts of their body grow faster than others. This often results in some very uneven body compositions. Perhaps the most important thing you can do during this time frame is to puppy-proof the house. The goal of doing this is to try and decrease the likelihood of an injury. Some ways to prevent accidents include blocking off any staircases and keeping an eye out for items that could become jumping hazards. It can be very uncomfortable and debilitating to dogs. Hip dysplasia is when the hip joints become loose or deformed, causing various health conditions. This disease can be found in dogs of any age or breed but is very common in breeds like Labradors and other large breed dogs. Some of the symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs include the following: Inability to walk or stand up Limping Inability to jump or climb Sitting in abnormal positions Hopping while running Reduced activity level Stiffness in the back legs, which causes the back legs to appear longer than the front. If your dog is diagnosed with hip dysplasia or Arthritis, talk with your vet for more information and suggestions to help your dog feel more comfortable. Also, you might want to talk with other Lab owners who might have gone through the same thing with their dogs to see what they did. Dwarf dogs result from breeders choosing to breed popular dog breeds with small dogs to create a smaller "cute" version of the dog and create an illusion of a permanent puppy. Dwarf dogs have many health concerns since they tend to be very different from their original breed. Dwarfism in dogs characteristics include the following: Smaller than other dogs of the same age and breed. Slow growth Bone structure abnormalities that are inconsistent with the breed. Spotty coats If you suspect your dog has dwarfism, you should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible. If your Labrador is mixed with an unknown dog, another breed may influence its body structure. If you think that your dog could be mixed with an unknown breed, a DNA kit may be a worthy investment. The information you get from this product will help you gain some valuable insight into what other breeds are present in your dog. They can also swim and retrieve birds and ducks for their owners. Their muscular hind legs are a valuable tool as they swim tirelessly through frigid waters and can push ice out of their way. Old English Sheepdog Old English Sheepdogs have a sloping topline, meaning their back is at a slight slope due to their high rear legs. Depending on how severe the case is, it may cause extra strain on the legs that are taking most of their weight. If you are an active person who spends time running or biking with your dog, be sure to pay attention to how your dog is feeling and stop for breaks if necessary. Standard Body Measurements in Labradors Labradors are medium-sized and can reach around .The back should be level, while not sloping up towards its rear legs. Their hind legs should be level with their front and be very muscular. The most important thing is that your dog is healthy, happy, and well taken care of. Conclusion Overall, if your dog shows no signs of discomfort, the difference in leg size shouldn't be an issue unless you plan to put your dog in shows. If your dog is still growing, that's most likely the cause of appearing high in the rear. They can help you rule out some possible causes, such as hip dysplasia, dwarfism, and Arthritis. Be sure to look out for hazards around the house and yard to prevent any future injury. It just means that the angles in her back legs are straighter than is desirable. Having back legs that have good angles i. If you watch your pup walk you may notice that her tummy kind of bobs left and right, side to side as she goes along this is a consequence of walking with legs that are a little straight. She may also look a bit like she is standing on tippy toes on her back legs - that is, the larger part of her foot pad is not fully in contact with the ground, and the nails on her middle two toes may wear a little bit more be shorter than the outside two toes. Or you may not notice this till she is older. None of this is necessarily a problem. If you had been a person wishing to use your pup to breed from eventually, then this news would mean that you should not be breeding from this pup. But if she is just a pet then there is nothing you need to do and nothing to worry about - I would just do the usual thing of not over-doing the exercise, don't let her run up and down stairs and avoid jumping anything much till she is a year this is good practice for anyone, regardless of leg comformation. At your next vet visit ask the vet to explain to you what they mean, with a diagram. When your dog is older you can also ask the vet to check how good your pup's hips joints are, if you like - but this is a totally separate matter to having straightish back legs. Don't worry too much at this stage. There are a few reasons why your dog may have longer legs in the back than in the front. If your dog is of a particular breed, it may have longer back legs. Breeds trained for dog shows and running may often have a high rear appearance due to longer back legs. Do you have a young dog still in the puppy stage? It may simply still be adjusting to its body during a growth spurt. Unfortunately, long hind legs in a dog can be a sign of an underlying health issue such as hip dysplasia. This painful condition occurs when the hip joints become loose or deformed. Any breed can be affected by this condition. Dogs of all ages can also suffer from it. It is most common in larger breeds of dogs such as Labradors. How can you tell if your dog is suffering from hip dysplasia or has healthy long hind legs? If your dog suffers from hip dysplasia, the back legs will often become stiff. This stiffness makes the hind legs appear longer than they really are. Other signs of this disorder include hopping while running, inability to jump, limping, and reduced activity. While it is not a life and death issue, your dog could be a dwarf. In the pursuit of having a cute version of a big dog, some breeders will breed large dogs with tiny dogs. So how can you spot dwarfism in your dog? Look out for a disproportionate head, spotty coats, and an abnormal bone structure inconsistent with its breed. Pay attention to the growth of other dogs of the same age and breed. If your dog exhibits slower growth than those other dogs, it is displaying another sign of dwarfism. You may have to make some extra trips to the vet and be knowledgeable about various accommodations for it. Is it normal for a dog to have longer back legs? Having longer legs in the back is perfectly normal and healthy for a dog unless the dog appears to be in pain or discomfort. Some breeds naturally have longer legs in the back. If your dog yelps in pain upon being touched on its back leg joints or appears to be less active, this is cause for concern. The muscular back legs of the Chesapeake Bay Retrievers make them excellent swimmers that can endure long swims in cold icy waters. The high back legs of an Old English Sheepdog give their backs a slight slope and provide great agility for hunting animals. It is also normal for a dog to have longer back legs if it is a mixed breed. Certain breed standards require taller back legs. So, if one breed that usually has more even legs is mixed with a different breed known for tall back legs, the body composition may be affected. Do some dog breeds have longer front legs? Some dogs have very long legs in general. As mentioned earlier, some breeds naturally have longer back legs. However, it is not common for any dog to have longer front legs. If your dog has longer front legs, it most likely has some deformity. The following dog breeds have legs that would be perfect on any catwalk: Scottish Deerhounds. They must be waddling over you this moment, and the next moment, they are running after a butterfly in the garden. Labradors can have longer back legs than their front legs, and that is completely normal. And if these conditions persist, then most probably, your Labrador is suffering from Hip Dysplasia or any other underlying health issue. However, their legs male or female must measure anywhere between 14 to 18 inches. According to researchers, show-breed Labradors usually have a leg-to-body ratio of about .At the same time, the Labradors who are bred for the field have longer legs than their bodies. The longer leg over the body proportion helps them with their athletic and working instincts more profoundly. Labradors usually do not have very long back legs, but Labrador Puppy Hind Legs can appear longer. If you experience notice so, take a deep breath and just calm down. But their bones are still developing, and for some, it makes takes the age of 2 years to come into their desired shape. However, if your Labrador still has longer back legs, this might be a matter of concern. Even how much uncomfortable it may appear to you; this can be completely normal for the dog. Some of their body parts grow faster than others showing some type of deformation. However, in reality, uneven body composition is most likely temporary, especially if your dog is less than two years. Dwarfism is a specific genetic condition that can make a Labrador appear smaller than its standard size. While seeing such dogs, people often refer to them as cute, but having one at home feels like a challenge to them. When noticed closely, their shorter legs become conspicuous. Dwarfism in Labradors can not only lead to shorter height or shorter legs, but it can give birth to many other physical ailments as well. For instance, Labs suffering from Dwarfism may have a disproportionate head, slower growth, and several bone structure abnormalities. The most common reason why your Labrador has a smaller front leg and longer hind leg is Hip Dysplasia. It is a common but very uncomfortable condition that Labradors often suffer with. Hip Dysplasia, though, is common in many dog breeds; with Labradors, it is extremely common. A Lab suffering from the same can experience pain and difficulty in walking and standing, thus decreasing physical participation, limping, and difficulties while jumping. In addition, due to Hip Dysplasia, some Labradors make also experience stiffness in their back legs which can result in making back legs appear slightly longer. Hip Dysplasia is hereditary in Labradors, and excessive intolerance during their puppyhood also can lead to the same. Along with that, they should be muscular even more than the front legs. Though if not, then probably your Lab is suffering from some underlying health problem. Upon suspecting the same, you can take your dog to an expert Vet. Consider finding a veterinary orthopaedic surgeon since these doctors are specialized in treating bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and other skeletal structures and disabilities related to the same. If a Labrador is bred with some dog breeds who have longer hind legs, it can produce a litter with the same physical build. This can be a result of the DNA dominance of another breed involved. Labradors have equal from and back legs, whereas their hind legs are more muscular. However, there is some dog breed that naturally has long back legs. Such breeds include Irish Wolfhound. Breeds with longer back legs Overview of common dog breeds with longer back legs While not every dog breed exhibits the characteristic of longer back legs, there are several breeds where this feature is more pronounced. These breeds often have unique body structures, and the longer back legs play a role in their overall appearance, function, and agility. Despite their overall short stature, their back legs are slightly longer than their front legs. This distinctive feature was originally bred into the Dachshund to help them burrow into tunnels and navigate tight spaces when hunting badgers and other small animals. Basset Hounds Another breed famous for its unique body structure is the Basset Hound. With a low-slung body and droopy ears, Basset Hounds also possess longer back legs compared to their front legs. This breed was developed for scent tracking and needed a sturdy structure to support their large head and powerful nose. The longer back legs provide additional support and stability, enabling them to efficiently track scents without tiring easily. Labrador Retrievers Labrador Retrievers , one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, also exhibit a slightly longer back leg structure. Bred as working dogs, Labs were initially used for retrieving game during hunting. Their longer back legs offer them increased power and agility, making them excellent swimmers and efficient retrievers on land. Greyhounds Greyhounds are well-known for their incredible speed and sleek body structure. Their longer back legs play a crucial role in providing them with the power and acceleration needed to reach high speeds in a short time. This feature, combined with their lean bodies and deep chests, enables Greyhounds to excel in sprinting and chasing activities. These are just a few examples of dog breeds with longer back legs than front legs. In the following sections, we will dive deeper into the anatomical differences and reasons behind this unique trait. Anatomical differences The role of skeletal structure The skeletal structure of a dog plays a significant role in determining the length of their legs. Factors such as the slope of the croup and topline, as well as the angulation of the hip and shoulder joints, contribute to the appearance of longer back legs in some breeds. In some breeds, like the Greyhound, a sloping croup and a curved topline contribute to the perception of longer back legs. Angulation of the hip and shoulder joints The angles at which the hip and shoulder joints are positioned also play a part in creating the appearance of longer back legs. Breeds with a higher degree of angulation in their hip joints tend to have longer back legs, as this allows for increased power and propulsion during movement. On the other hand, a more upright shoulder joint may cause the front legs to appear shorter. Musculature and its influence on leg length In addition to the skeletal structure, the musculature of a dog also contributes to the perception of longer back legs. The development of specific muscle groups in the hind legs and forelegs can influence leg length and overall body shape. Hind leg muscles Dogs with longer back legs often have well-developed muscles in their hindquarters, such as the gluteal, hamstring, and quadriceps muscle groups. These muscles provide power and strength for activities like running, jumping, and swimming. As a result, breeds with longer back legs typically excel in activities requiring bursts of speed or powerful movement. While the foreleg muscles might not be as pronounced as the hind leg muscles, they still contribute to the overall balance and strength of the dog. In some breeds with longer back legs, the front legs might appear shorter due to the difference in muscle mass and development compared to the hind legs. In the next sections, we will explore the evolutionary and breeding factors that have contributed to the development of this unique trait. Evolutionary and breeding factors Natural selection in wild canines The leg length in dogs can be attributed, in part, to the process of natural selection. Wild canines have adapted over time to perform specific functions in their natural habitats, which in turn has influenced their leg length. Running and endurance Longer back legs are advantageous for canines that rely on running and endurance in their daily lives. For example, wolves and coyotes, which are ancestors of modern domestic dogs, have longer back legs compared to their front legs. This anatomical feature allows them to cover long distances with ease and maintain their speed and stamina while hunting or traveling. Leaping and hunting abilities In addition to running and endurance, longer back legs also contribute to enhanced leaping and hunting abilities. Wild canines need to be agile and swift to catch their prey, and the powerful hindquarters of dogs with longer back legs provide them with the necessary strength and acceleration. Selective breeding in domestic dogs In domestic dogs, the leg length differences can also be attributed to the process of selective breeding. Breeders have carefully selected and bred dogs for specific functions or aesthetic preferences, resulting in breeds with longer back legs than front legs. Working and sporting breeds Working and sporting breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers and Greyhounds, were bred to excel in tasks that require agility, speed, and power. Longer back legs provide these breeds with the necessary physical characteristics to perform their intended functions, whether it be retrieving game, herding livestock, or racing. Aesthetic preferences and breed standards In some cases, breeders have focused on creating dogs with unique appearances, resulting in breeds with pronounced leg length differences, such as Dachshunds and Basset Hounds. Dogs with longer back legs exhibit unique movement patterns that are influenced by their anatomy. Galloping and trotting Dogs with longer back legs tend to have a more pronounced galloping gait, which allows them to cover more ground with each stride. This powerful, efficient movement is especially beneficial for breeds that excel in running and endurance activities. Additionally, some breeds with longer back legs may display a unique trotting gait that enables them to move swiftly and smoothly over various terrains. Breeds with this anatomical feature possess increased strength and power in their hindquarters, which enables them to leap higher and climb with more ease. This can be particularly useful for breeds that are bred for tasks requiring agility, such as retrieving game or navigating challenging environments. Potential health issues While longer back legs offer several advantages in terms of movement and physical abilities, they can also be associated with certain health issues. Hip dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a common condition in some dog breeds, in which the hip joint does not develop properly. This can lead to arthritis and pain, especially in breeds with longer back legs. Regular check-ups, proper exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of hip dysplasia in dogs. Patellar luxation Patellar luxation , or dislocation of the kneecap, is another condition that can affect dogs with longer back legs. This condition can cause discomfort and mobility issues if left untreated. Spinal issues Some breeds with longer back legs may be more prone to spinal issues, such as intervertebral disc disease IVDD , particularly in breeds with elongated bodies like Dachshunds. Regular veterinary care, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the spine can help prevent or manage these issues. In the next section, we will provide tips on proper care for dogs with longer back legs to ensure they remain healthy and happy throughout their lives. Proper care for dogs with longer back legs Exercise recommendations Importance of regular physical activity Dogs with longer back legs benefit greatly from regular exercise, as it helps maintain their muscle tone, joint health, and overall well-being. Engaging your dog in activities tailored to their breed and individual needs can ensure they remain fit and healthy. Suitable exercises for different breeds Each breed may require different types of exercise to accommodate their unique anatomy and capabilities. For example, Labrador Retrievers enjoy swimming and retrieving activities, while Greyhounds thrive with short bursts of sprinting. Nutritional considerations Proper diet for maintaining healthy joints A balanced diet is crucial for all dogs, but it is particularly important for those with longer back legs. Nutrients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain joint health and prevent issues like hip dysplasia. Importance of weight management Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for dogs with longer back legs, as excess weight can put additional strain on their joints and spine. Regular exercise, portion control, and choosing the right food can help keep your dog at an optimal weight and reduce the risk of health issues related to their unique anatomy. Preventative healthcare Regular check-ups Routine veterinary check-ups are crucial for dogs with longer back legs, as they can help detect and address potential health issues early. Screening for potential genetic disorder Some breeds with longer back legs may be prone to specific genetic disorders. Early screening through genetic testing can help identify any predispositions your dog may have, allowing you to take appropriate preventive measures and seek timely treatment if needed. Taking proper care of a dog with longer back legs involves a combination of appropriate exercise, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary care. By addressing these aspects, you can ensure that your furry friend remains healthy and happy, while also enjoying their unique physical abilities. Can uneven leg length cause health issues in dogs? While uneven leg length can sometimes be associated with health issues such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, or spinal problems, proper care and regular veterinary check-ups can help to minimize risks and address issues as they arise. Do dogs with longer back legs require special care or treatment? While dogs with longer back legs may not require specific treatment, they may benefit from certain exercise types, a healthy diet, weight management, and regular check-ups to help maintain joint health and reduce the risk of health issues related to their unique anatomy. Understanding this can help you appreciate their uniqueness and provide tailored care. After all, these traits make them a one-of-a-kind companion. Sharing is caring!