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For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders list by regions page. The price for a German Shepherd puppy will vary depending on the breeder. When buying a German Shepherd puppy, it is important to remember that this is not a cheap dog breed. They are an investment, but they are also one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. If you are willing to put in the time and effort, a German Shepherd can be an excellent addition to your family. The AKC is a national organization that registers purebred dogs and maintains a directory of reputable breeders. The NDBA is a nonprofit organization that promotes responsible dog breeding practices. They maintain a directory of member breeders who meet their stringent criteria. This makes it easy to find a breeder near you who has puppies available for sale. When you contact a breeder, be sure to ask about their breeding practices. Make sure the parents have been cleared for any hereditary or congenital health conditions. You should also ask to see documentation for all vaccinations and dewormings that the puppy has received thus far. If you are serious about buying a puppy from this breeder, they should be willing to invite you into their home so that you can meet the parents of the puppy. This will give you an opportunity to see how big the parents are and how healthy they look. By meeting both the mother and father of a German Shepherd puppy, you will have peace of mind knowing that these dogs were responsibly raised by breeders who care about their breeding practices. A good breeder will be happy to provide you with contact information for previous buyers. These references can be very helpful in making your decision. Ask the reference owners how much they have enjoyed owning their German Shepherd, whether the dog has been easy to train, and if there have been any health or behavior problems. Taking the time to find a responsible German shepherd breeder in Idaho is well worth it. Not only will you end up with a healthy and well-socialized puppy, but you will also have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are supporting responsible breeding practices. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy from an Idaho breeder, you should ask the breeder if they have a good veterinarian they use. Good breeders will have a list of veterinarians they work with and will be happy to provide you with contact information. When you bring your new puppy home, it is important to get them checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible. This will ensure that your puppy is healthy and has not been exposed to any diseases. Finding a responsible German shepherd breeder in Idaho can take some effort, but it is well worth it in the end. Not only will you have a healthy and well-socialized dog, but you will also know that you are supporting responsible breeding practices. If you are not careful, you may end up buying a puppy from one of these breeders. So, how can you tell if a breeder is unethical? Here are some signs to look out for: The breeder does not health test their dogs for hereditary conditions. The breeder does not screen their puppies for genetic defects. The puppies are sold at a very young age. The breeding stock is kept in poor conditions. The breeder is not willing to provide references or contact information for previous buyers. The puppies are not well socialized. Before you buy your puppy, take some time to ask the breeder if they know of any hereditary conditions that run in the parents bloodline. A good breeder will be able to tell you whether or not their dogs are tested for these conditions. Be sure to take notice of how your potential German shepherd breeder responds when asked this question. If they cannot provide a list of health tests done on their breeding stock, it may be because they do not actually screen their dogs for hereditary problems before breeding them. Just like you would not want to be separated from your mother at birth, dogs do not either. If the breeder tells you that they sell their German Shepherd puppies when they are very young, it is a warning sign. If a breeder tries to sell you a puppy earlier than 8 weeks old, just walk away. Not only does this practice leave the dogs developmentally stunted, but it also increases the chance of serious health problems later in life. If the breeder you are talking to is reluctant to do this, it may be because they have something to hide. Take the time to call some of the references and ask them about their experience with the breeder. Were they happy with the quality of the puppies? Was the breeder willing to help with any problems that arose after purchase? If the breeder cannot provide any references, or if all of their references are family members or friends, it is best to move on. There are plenty of responsible breeders out there who would be more than happy to help you find the perfect puppy. An ethical and responsible German shepherd breeder will always be happy to provide references from past customers. This may include moving, allergies, or behavioral problems. If the breeder you are talking to will not agree to this policy, it is best to move on. They may be more interested in making a sale than in the welfare of their puppies. A good German shepherd breeder will always have the best interests of their puppies at heart. If you cannot find one that meets all of your other criteria, it is probably best to look elsewhere. All reputable breeders will take their puppies back if the buyer is unable to keep them for any reason. How to Prepare Your Home for You German Shepherd Puppy When you bring your adorable German Shepherd puppy home for the first time, it is important to make sure that your house is ready for them. Some things you will want to do include: Putting away any small objects or items that the puppy could choke on Closing off any spaces that the puppy could get stuck in, such as under a desk or in between furniture Buying a crate and puppy pads for the puppy to use when they cannot be supervised It is also important to start obedience training as soon as possible. A well-trained German Shepherd is much easier to live with than one who is allowed to run wild. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy One of the most important things to do when you get a new German Shepherd puppy is to start potty training them as soon as possible. Socializing Your New German Shepherd Puppy One of the most important aspects of raising your new German Shepherd puppy is socializing them with other people and animals. If they do not get enough socialization, they may become shy or aggressive. Some ways you can socialize your puppy include: Taking them to the park and introducing them to other dogs Introducing them to new people of all ages Taking them on car rides to different neighborhoods Visiting the pet store Meeting friends and family members who have pets Make sure to socialize your puppy as much as possible during their first few months of life. It will help ensure that they grow up into well-adjusted adults. 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. We are located in the foothills of Boise, Idaho, and our breeding partner who will be whelping litters for us is located in Hood River, Oregon. In our program, we focus on producing beautiful and healthy dogs who are structurally sound and have excellent temperaments. Our breeding stock consists of the bloodlines of precious old working foundation lines from the countries of Germany, Czech Republic and Slovakia. Our dogs are descendants of the most influential and highly sought after bloodlines. Additionally, our dogs are titled and excel in venues such as Personal Protection, Dock Diving and Obedience. Our puppies come with a 2-Year Health Guarantee. And in this case, raise them. We expect stock coat sables with moderate to high drives, great off switches, super temperaments and high trainability. Puppies will be raised in a family home environment with Early Neurological Stimulation and will be started on crate training and potty training. Professional Training is available and recommended. If you would like to be put on our waiting list for one of our German Shepherd puppies, please email valorprotectiondogs gmail. We will ask you to complete an application, and we will conduct a phone interview prior to approving you for one of our puppies. Working German Shepherds are not for everyone. We ask that you please do your research in advance. Our goal is to ensure that each of our puppies is placed in loving homes where they will be well cared-for and utilized to their utmost abilities. About Us Based near Hailey, Idaho, North 40 German Shepherds selectively breeds long coat German shepherds that exemplify the loyalty, protectiveness, obedience, beauty, and intelligence this great breed is famous for. Our mission is to foster shepherds best suited for families, service, and therapy. We breed only one litter at a time in our home, with the puppies being raised from birth with constant human contact and love to best prepare them for a life of companionship. Contact us with any questions or to get added to our waiting list for upcoming litters. I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive. If you would like to be on our waiting list, please contact us and follow our Facebook page to be notified. Calico Junction, the breeder of our dam, Bella, and Evans Shepherds, the breeder of the sire of the May litter, Iconic, have litters available more often. Their websites are below. All our pups from this litter have been sold Ready to pick up July 11, .Four beautiful, healthy pups.Dam is in the video but the other GSD is not the sire, just one of our other non-breeding dogs who is great at helping the puppies socialize with other dogs. An amazing dog who will likely produce the same sort of high-quality offspring.
We are a German Shepherd breeder that specializes in quality, intelligent dogs with proven superior genetics. We sell German Shepherd puppies that are the perfect choice for professionals and families. We focus on producing a stable, protective line of German Shepherds that you can trust with your children. Sweet tempered companions that will protect your family and property Our German Shepherds have incredible pedigrees and we carefully choose only the best genetics to constantly improve upon the German Shepherd bloodline. We have German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas, but arrangements can be made to sell a puppy to any state within the 48 contiguous states. We are always happy to talk or visit with you and would love to show you our beautiful German Shepherds. Our German Shepherd Dogs can be used for search and rescue, tracking, guarding, guide dogs for the blind or physically disabled, police work, show and of course a family pet. Our dogs are well socialized with children and other pets. Our puppies are AKC Registered and come with a health guarantee. Our high quality puppies are excellent with children and very easy to train. We have carefully selected world class German Shepherds with proven superior genetics. Our puppies have the potential to become champions in the show ring and your family hero. The West German bloodlines are bred to have great personalities and superb temperaments. They go through extensive training and rigorous testing to earn their titles. The West German Shepherd bloodlines are not just tested on their beauty and showmanship, but also on their ability to perform difficult tasks that require a high level of intelligence, motivation and desire to please their master. As a German Shepherd Breeder, it is our desire to provide you with an exceptional puppy that can bring you the same joy that ours have brought to our family. Our German Shepherds are the perfect choice for personal protection and are great companions for all ages. Testimonials: "Hi. He blended right into our family and we don't remember life before him. His temperament and intelligence are above average. At the vet I heard the vet and techs in the back gushing over how behaved he was and they sent me home with extra goodies for him hehe. He's already house trained. I've already been able to teach him two commands "here" and "place". He's also the best snuggler and is sooo very patient and forgiving with my tornado of a two year old son. He is the best dog I've had in my entire life and love him to the moon. I can't wait until he's old enough to start going on adventures with us. Thank ya'll for a wonderful dog! We get soooo much attention with her! We've had people literally pull off the road just to comment on her! Lots of people asking if we are going to breed her! We are meeting with someone on Friday to evaluate her for protection training. She's my girl and she knows her job well! Btw, people always ask me where I got her.I tell them all about you guys! Here are pictures of Liberty sunbathing with her sister, Queen Bitsy! She loves her boy! We have created a list of the Best German Shepherd Breeders in Texas to help you find a healthy puppy. You can ensure that our list will not include any backyard breeders or puppy mills. Nobleheim German Shepherd Breeders is the perfect place to find a happy, healthy German shepherd puppy with excellent working qualities. Which shows their worth as a good dog breeder. The German shepherd puppies from Nobleheim are the perfect addition for anyone who needs a friend that will always have your back. Each puppy comes from a lineage that has been carefully selected through both tests and trials that ensure you that, they get the top quality puppies from this breeder. The quality of their dog is a top priority for Nobleheim German Shepherd. The litters of Nobleheim German are bred from V and VA-rated males with pedigrees that show evidence of quality. All pups come with a health and genetic guarantee that you can count on. That means that any pup you will get from this breeder, comes from an elite breeding program. Additionally, they have extensive experience and expertise raising dogs, which means you know your pup will be healthy! To learn more about the full pricing information about Elite GSD puppies contact them directly. The Von der Otto only breeds the highest quality German shepherd and they work very hard to maintain the integrity of this breed. All their puppies come with a written guarantee, microchip, AKC papers for registration as well as pedigree information available at the time of purchase; also included in this package are worming treatment records and shot schedule instructions right from birth! They are committed to producing loyal, healthy puppies with personalities and conformation that meet the Standard of Excellence set by the SV breeders association in North America. A well-socialized pup bred by passionate people who care deeply about helping you find your perfect pet! Furthermore, they offer a variety of German shepherd dog training services, including puppy crate training, housebreaking, leash training, and a full range of obedience training and behavior modification. All of the German shepherd puppies in Texas are raised and bred according to SV standards. Every puppy receives routine veterinary care, checkups, vaccination and comes with a health guarantee that you can trust! Henry and Terry Gimpel operate this kennel. Both have been working with German Shepherds since .They value the fine structure, genetic health, and soundness of the breed, as well as their work ethics. They are dedicated to producing the best German shepherds around the US for their clients. For more information about their dogs and puppies, visit their website. German Shepherd Breeder Info:. If you are raising your dogs at home, make sure you are getting the right food and the right amount of exercise. This breed is a favorite in many circles of animal lovers and dog enthusiasts and their love for this canine is obvious in the loyalty that these dogs display. These dogs are very dominant and can be aggressive to strangers, other dogs, and even other dogs they do not know. But with proper training and socialization, German Shepherds make wonderful additions to most families. German Shepherd puppies should be socialized from an early age so that they will develop an appropriate personality. This breed tends to be more independent than most other dogs and requires a great deal of space to play and run around. They are very energetic dogs and can get bored if they do not have any activities or outlets for their energy. If you are considering German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas, they must go to a responsible, experienced breeder who has a good reputation. A good breeder will work with you to develop a personalized plan and a training schedule that will help your dog reach his full potential. Because of their confident and domineering personality, German Shepherds can be aggressive towards strangers, other dogs, and people they do not know. You should also consider your living circumstances when considering German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas. This breed requires a large amount of space and cannot be placed in smaller apartment apartments. Because they are very territorial, living with your other pet dogs including other breeds is not recommended. An important characteristic of this breed is its need for attention. These dogs are excellent at responding to voice commands, but they can become distracted by loud noises or activities around them. To alleviate this personality trait, you should work with an experienced breeder who can provide you with training strategies to keep your German Shepherd on a leash. German Shepherds are a very active breed. Because they are naturally athletic and alert, they need a fenced-in yard where they can run and play. Because of their powerful physique and athletic abilities, they should have an outdoor play area where they can run, jump, and play with other dogs. Do your research about German Shepherds before considering German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas. Visit the local breed clubs if you live in a city with a German Shepherd club. Visit shelters and rescue groups to get a feel for the type of dogs being raised and the care they receive. Look for dogs who are free and willing to spend time with new people, and those who seem to have stable, well-balanced, and responsible owners. You should not have any problems with finding homes for your German Shepherds as they are a breed that has been successfully bred for centuries. Make sure the food you choose contains the vitamins your dog needs to stay healthy. German Shepherds are prone to hip and knee problems, so talk to your veterinarian before starting a dog diet with your German Shepherd. Although some people raise black German shepherd puppies for sale in Texas, you may want to consider adopting from another reputable shelter or rescue group. A black German Shepherd is likely to be less aggressive than a purebred German Shepherd, and if you take proper care of your pets, they can make great companions. You can find several shelters and rescues where German Shepherds are available, so you can get a much better match for your family. Once you have been saving your German Shepherd puppies for a while, you will be able to look for one that is suitable, loving, and smart, and with a natural love of humans, which makes them great dogs to have around. Share this:. Our dogs are hand picked from top German breeders and are from world class West German bloodlines. We are conveniently located 40 miles from Ft. Worth and approximately one hour from Dallas TX. We are proud of our Kaiser facility and all of our outstanding dogs. Each of them is a special part of our family. It takes a great deal of experience, education, and knowledge about the breed to successfully produce world class German Shepherds. My husband Paul and I work together to ensure the highest breed standards are met. Our goal is to continue to not only meet those standards but to improve the breed. They are hand picked from top German breeders and are imported. They are from top West German bloodlines. Selective breeding program to produce superior offspring. We produce a limited number of litters each year in order to personally assure the very best care possible. Healthy puppies and adult dogs is a top priority to us. Our adult dogs have been DNA tested for degenerative myelopathy. Their hips and elbows have been certified as normal. We do a great amount of education with our new puppy owners regarding GSD growth and development, health maintenance, the importance of ongoing socialization and many other important topics about the GSD breed. We make it a practice to stay in touch with our puppy owners for ongoing education and support. We love to see our pups grow into amazing adult dogs as part of a loving family home! We also have a professional trainer available. She has worked with many of our puppies and their new families with outstanding results. She is warm, patient and loves what she does. She is careful and has a loving touch for her puppies; each one captures her heart. She has been extremely helpful to us when we have not been certain about next steps for our pup. Kaiser is not a puppy factory, but a caring, loving, thoughtful, and well read about the German Shepherd breed. So grateful for Terri and Kaiser pups! If you are in search of a truly captivating and extraordinary canine companion, look no further than our handpicked selection of these stunning and remarkable dogs. Exquisite Elegance Our Black German Shepherds possess an undeniable air of elegance and sophistication. Their sleek, dark coats command attention, setting them apart from the rest. With their strong and athletic build, these dogs exude power and grace in every movement, making them a true sight to behold. Known for their unwavering loyalty and devotion to their families, these dogs form deep bonds and become integral household members. With their protective nature and inherent sense of guardianship, they will go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of those they love. We carefully select breeding pairs with excellent health histories, and each puppy undergoes thorough health checks to ensure they start their lives on the right paw. Our commitment to responsible breeding practices ensures that our Black German Shepherds are happy, healthy, and ready to become valued members of your family. Finding Your Perfect Match We understand that finding the right companion is a deeply personal journey. That's why our knowledgeable team is here to guide you every step of the way. We take the time to understand your lifestyle, preferences, and expectations to help you find the perfect Black German Shepherd that aligns with your needs and desires. Take the Next Step! Are you ready to experience the elegance, intelligence, and loyalty of a Black German Shepherd? Explore our available puppies and discover the one that captures your heart. Your ideal companion awaits you, ready to bring joy, companionship, and a touch of elegance into your life. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas cost? Everything from coat type long haired German Shepherd puppies Texas , coat color white German Shepherd puppies Texas, red and black German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas, pedigree AKC German Shepherd puppies for sale in Texas , and the experience of German Shepherd breeders in Texas can affect the cost of puppies. Will I be connected with local German Shepherd puppies Texas only? We understand how tough it can be to find a great dog breeder, especially with the recent epidemic of online puppy scams out there. We do not run our own breeding facilities. Instead, we focus on matching loving families with the best puppies possible from the best breeder businesses possible. What is a German Shepherd puppy mill? Mill German Shepherd puppies in Texas are more likely to develop behavioral problems and genetic illnesses, to require expensive vet care, and to pass away earlier than average. Do you have German Shepherd puppies for sale Texas right now? How does your MatchMaker service work with German Shepherd puppies? From there, taking home your new best friend is a breeze. Anyone who has bought a puppy recently knows that online scams are more common than ever before. We wanted to make a place where ethical breeders and loving families can escape those scams—a place with zero puppy mills or dishonest breeders.
They are the perfect size for apartment dwelling and cuddling on your lap. These little pups have the best mix of Chihuahua and Pug genes - the fiery personalities and sass of the Chi, with the cute little faces and tails of the Pug! They are becoming super popular and if you are looking to add a dog to your family, this little pup might be perfect! We will lay out everything, including temperament, appearance, training tips and a care guide! Keep reading to find out everything you should know about the Chi Pug Mix. If you want to see more chihuahua pug mixes, stories of pets, or share your pet's story check out our free Facebook group. What Makes a Chug Dog? Like many of the most popular dogs these days, the Chug Dog is not purebred. This wrinkly-faced dog is actually a designer breed. The sassy and loyal Chihuahua is mated with the adorably gentle Pug to create the Chug Dog. The resulting mix is friendly, loving and little - just perfect for snuggling on your lap! And with the Pug genes, they are even a bit goofy and googly-eyed. They are so cute and entertaining - the perfect family dog. Standard Chihuahua Like we mentioned in our Long-Haired Chihuahua article, Chi dogs are one of the oldest breeds still around today. And there is actually some confusion around where they come from. Their namesake, Chihuahua, is a state in Mexico. This fact leads most people to believe that these tiny pups originated there. In reality, Chihuahuas date back to around AD and their closest ancestor, the Techihi dog, is from pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. So while Chihuahuas are popular in Mexico, they are not from there. Both Chihuahuas and their ancestors served ancient royalty as hunters and lapdogs. They kept rats and other small rodents away while providing valuable companionship. In some of those ancient cultures, Chihuahuas were thought to be connected to the afterlife and were sometimes sacrificed or eaten. Thankfully, Chihuahua lovers these days would never dream of this practice! In fact, they are one of the most popular tiny breeds around. These sassy Chihuahuas found their way to America in , were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC in and have enjoyed great publicity and popularity ever since! The Chug Dogs certainly have a little sass, but their personalities are a bit more tame thanks to the Pug genes. Pug Breed Like the Chihuahua, the Pug is a small ancient breed. But that is where their similarities end. These little, wrinkly-faced pups were so prized by the royalty that they were sometimes guarded by soldiers! China began freely trading with Europe in the late s and shared their love of Pugs. Soon, European royals fell for these large-eyed cuddle bugs too! In the Victorian Era, Pugs soared to popularity. They were prominently featured in parlor paintings and other decor of the times. Today, Pugs are known for their adorable faces and goofy personalities, sometimes referred to as the clowns of the dog world. They will do anything to make you laugh! And who would not love those curly little tails. Major Heart-Eyes. So what makes the Chug Dog shine? Cost of a Chug Puppy Oddly enough, sometimes the tiniest little dogs cost the most. But sometimes, they are the cutest, cuddliest, best dogs! So the price is well worth it. This price can go up depending on the pedigree, generation, and general demand. If you have no preference on what your Chug Dog looks like, a first generation puppy is a great, cheaper option. But if you prefer your puppy to act or look more like the Chihuahua or Pug, it is best to buy a later generation. It is difficult, if not impossible to determine how designer breeds will look or behave - it all depends on how the genes combine. But, breeders can make predictions based on the generation. For example, when a Chihuahua mates with Pug, a first generation Chug Dog is born. Overtime, the genes become more concentrated and have less variability. So it becomes easier to guess what the resulting Chug Dog will look like or act like. So what does the Chug Dog usually look like? But on average, the Chug dog is small, around 10 to 20 pounds and less than a foot tall. They typically have the smushed, flat and wrinkly faces of the Pug. Talk about cute! Their coat is always short and high-shedding, unless they come from a Long-Haired Chihuahua. And when it comes to color, the Chug Dog is usually tan, brown, cream, black, or a combination. They do not require much grooming, other than a quick brushing or two. But their wrinkles may get a little dirty between baths. So it is best to gently wipe them with a damp cloth if you notice any dirt or grime hanging around! Caring for Your Chug Dog In this section, we will cover everything from training and grooming to feeding and exercise. In terms of care, the Chug Dog is pretty low maintenance, making them ideal for a first-time pet-owner. But like any dog, they do require lots of love and attention! Chug Temperament and Training This tiny dog is loyal, confident, and intelligent. With proper socialization and training, they easily make friends with people and animals alike. But like the Chihuahua, they sometimes do not know just how small they are! They might suffer from Small Dog Syndrome if they are not introduced to a wide variety of experiences from puppyhood. This can lead them to be aggressive and yappy toward strangers, small children, and other dogs. But do not worry, this can all be avoided by making sure your Chug Dog is comfortable around others. If you happen to order lots of Amazon packages and do not appreciate your dog barking every time one is delivered for example, teach him that the doorbell is nothing to be feared. You can do this by ringing the doorbell, then giving your dog a small treat. This will help your Chug feel relaxed when the bell rings. And just like that, you have avoided having a yappy pup! Overall, the Chihuahua Pug Mix is playful and loving. They adore attention and are super smart. They can be a bit stubborn thanks to the Chihuahua genes, but this can be overcome by a dedicated pup-parent. When training your Chug Dog, it is best to keep sessions short and fun, so that they have the largest impact. These dogs are not known for their willingness to please or long attention spans, so they will do best with about minute training sessions. We always recommend adopting a positive training method that is based on a reward model. For example, find out what your Chug Dog values most - whether that be love and praise from you, small treats, or a favorite toy. Then, reward them with it when they complete the proper tasks or display the desired behavior. If your dog is highly food-motivated, make sure to account for the extra treat calories in their daily needs! Since Chug Dog are so tiny, it is easy for them to quickly gain unhealthy weight. On another note, puppy classes can also be a great option for training! Most classes are structured to include brief bursts of training, with ample play time with other dogs in between. So your Chug Dog would have a great opportunity for socialization as well! And because they always seem to be cuddling in your lap, it can be tempting to feed them people food. But it is best to stick to feeding a high-quality dog food, formulated for tiny breeds. You can also supplement and provide variety by offering treats. Surprisingly, Chug Dogs only require about calories per day which equates to about one cup of dry food. Of course, this all depends on the weight and activity level of your Chug, so you can consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations. To keep your Chug Dog from getting hungry throughout the day, we recommend splitting his daily food allowance into two meals. Feeding morning and night will help establish a balanced routine and keep your dog happy. Some tiny breeds only require about 30 minutes of activity per day and thrive with two 15 minute walks per day. But this is not true of the Chug Dog. These little guys are a bit more energetic and high-strung, and they require at least 45 minutes of activity per day to be happy and content. We recommend providing three 10 minute walks throughout the day, combined with a more vigorous 15 minute play session. This could be tossing a ball or gently playing tug-o-war! As you get to know your dog, you can decide if he needs more or less exercise each day. And as a quick note, it is best to leash train your Chug Dog and always keep them on a leash while walking. They have a pretty high prey drive and are prone to chasing after squirrels and other small animals. But, you can always let them run free in the fenced areas of a dog park! They will certainly appreciate the freedom. Health Considerations Chug Dogs have an average lifespan of 11 years, but may live up to 13 years. They are pretty healthy, but unfortunately they are prone to the same breathing issues as Pugs. Because their faces are flat, their airways are short and it is difficult for Chugs to breathe in extreme cold, heat, or after extensive exercise. You can read more about this condition, known as Brachycephaly, here. Chugs are also more prone to an eye condition, retinal atrophy, thanks to their Chihuahua genes. This typically does not become a problem until your Chug is much older, as it is a progressive degenerative disease. As always, we recommend staying on top of annual veterinary checkups and preventative medications in an effort to help your Chug Dog live his best, longest life with you! Breed Summary: The Chug Dog This little dog is adorable, funny, and the perfect addition to your life! Their size and exercise needs make them perfect for apartment-dwellers. And they are pretty low-maintenance, so Chugs are a great dog for first time pet-owners. They can be a little sassy and stubborn, but nothing that socialization and training cannot overcome. Chug Dogs are gentle, loving, and loyal when it comes to their families. They want nothing more than to make you laugh! So what do you think? Is the Chihuahua Pug Mix the perfect dog for you? Let us know! Chihuahuas have big, expressive eyes with a saucy expression. Combine the two and you've got an animated-looking pupper named Chug with adorable cartoon-like features and a playful personality to match. While both of the Chug's parents are popular dogs that originated centuries ago, this mixed breed is relatively new and rare. But these fun-loving and smart dogs are quickly gaining fans. The Chug dog doesn't need much grooming or a rigorous exercise routine, but they do need a lot of quality time with their families and like to be regarded as "top dog. Typically, they stand 6—12 inches tall and weigh between 10—20 pounds. Will they have the Chihuahua parent's perky ears and apple-shaped head? Or will the hybrid pup look more like the pug, with a big head, lots of deep wrinkles, and globular eyes that hint at the dog's sweet disposition? Full-grown Chug dogs can have a mix of all these adorable traits. Pug and Chihuahua mix dogs can have coat colors that run the gamut—Chugs can be brown, cream, fawn, black, blue, gray, or white. The patterns are also quite diverse, with coats that could be tricolor, bicolor, sable, brindle, black and tan, and more. Whether or not this hybrid breed will shed a lot is a toss up. Chihuahuas have two main coat types: smooth and long. The smooth coats are shiny and short , and these dogs have a ruff of thick, longer hair at the neck. Chihuahuas with longer coats have soft, sometimes wavy hair. Regardless of coat types, these dogs aren't big shedders. However, pugs can have a fine, smooth, soft coat that does shed quite a bit. Meanwhile, Chihuahuas are little dogs with big personalities with an err of self-importance. Often, when you blend the two breeds, you get dogs that are exceptionally playful, love to curl up with their humans for affection, and are incredibly loyal , Burgess says. Half pug, half chihuahua, the Chug makes for a great lap dog. Plus, both parents are intelligent, so Chugs make for top-of-the-class training students. But, one thing to be aware of: Chugs can be prone to barking , and Burgess says they aren't shy about letting you know they're feeling ignored. They also prefer to be the top dog in your household and, preferably, the only dog. Living Needs These small dogs can happily live in apartments and small homes and do not necessarily need access to a yard. Chugs also like to feel like an important part of the family and don't enjoy being left home alone, especially for extended periods of time, Simon says. Because of this, they'd do best in a home with retirees or work-from-home humans. While Chugs are playful pups, they're not the most athletic of dogs. Their short, wide head the technical term is brachycephalic makes heart-pumping exercise difficult. Positive reinforcement training sessions are super important, especially if your Chug has the take-charge attitude from his Chihuahua side of the family. Most dogs love food and treats, and Chugs are no exception, Burgess says. Plus, their fun-loving nature makes training entertaining—as long as you keep your sessions short and exciting. If he has the Chihuahua's smooth coat, occasional brushing and regular baths will keep him looking stylish and clean. But if your Chug's coat leans more toward the longhaired Chihuahua coat, he'll need a good brushing weekly to prevent any tangles or mats. Or, if he has the smooth shiny coat that's closer to that of the pug parent, weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush or a rubber grooming mitt will help remove loose hairs. To help ward off dental disease , include daily tooth brushing in your dog's care routine. Other grooming rituals to keep your Chug in tip-top shape include trimming his nails every couple of weeks and cleaning your dog's ears on a weekly basis to help prevent any ear infections. As far as exercise goes, Chugs aren't endurance athletes , Simon points out. But they do love exercising in small bursts and need about 45 minutes of exercise a day, she says. They enjoy being brought to new places, so mix up those walking routes and take them to a dog park where they can socialize with other four-legged friends of their size. The Chug's idea of activity, Burgess says, can also simply be following you as you do chores around the house. They like to keep close tabs on their humans! Some inside playtime, either with interactive toys or playing fetch with a favorite plush, will keep him happy, too. Health The Chug's lifespan is 10—13 years. While both parents are prone to their own unique set of health problems, the Institute of Canine Biology says mixed breed dogs are typically less likely than their purebred parents to inherit genetic disorders. That said, a Chug can inherit some health conditions. Pugs can be prone to several health issues, including epilepsy , allergies , hemivertebrae misshapen vertebrae , hip dysplasia , and nerve degeneration later in life. They can also be subject to a variety of skin infections. Chugs with shorter noses and excess skin may struggle with their breathing, especially in warmer weather, Simon says. And, like many small breeds, they can develop dental disease. Pet parents who are looking to bring a hybrid puppy home need to do some important research. The Chug is a relatively new "designer" hybrid breed—and these adorable dogs with pug and Chihuahua traits are in high demand. This can mean some Chug breeders might operate without the dogs' health as a top priority. To make sure you're working with an ethical Chug breeder and that you're bringing home a healthy dog, be aware of these common puppy mill red flags : A breeder offers to ship a puppy. A kennel produces multiple breeds of dogs. It's difficult to find contact information on a breeder's website. The breeder will not let you meet the puppy's parents or siblings. History Chugs are a fairly new mixed breed, and their origin isn't well-documented. However, both of the dogs' parents have long histories. The emperors of China once considered pugs prized possessions, and the dogs lived in luxury guarded by soldiers, according to the Pug Dog Club of America. These happy, sweet dogs were also beloved by monarchs of Europe. The history of Chihuahuas is not as straightforward. Some say small hairless dogs from China were brought to Mexico by Spanish traders, who then bred them with small native dogs. Yet another theory is that Chihuahuas descended from a Central or South American dog known as the techichi , which would have been a larger version of the Chi that can be traced back to the 9th century and the Toltec civilization. Fun Facts The most common way to refer to the pug-chihuahua mix is Chug. But they also go by some fun names, like "pughuahua" and "pugwawa. But the Chug's parents are fairly popular dogs in the United States. Chihuahuas are No. Was this page helpful? As the popularity of mix-breed dogs increases, so does the potential for puppy mills and backyard breeders. You can find a good breeder by asking for referrals from pet care professionals, such as vets or trainers, friends or family members, or by attending a local dog show in your area. Be Sure to Bundle Up! Since they are short-haired dogs, Chugs do not like cold, wintery weather and love being dressed in a coat or sweater for wintertime walks. Small but Mighty Your Chug could come with a muscular face that strongly resembles that of a Boxer. They were actually named after the Pugyal Kingdom. He can be a sweet comedian, like the Pug, or a little imperious, like the Chihuahua. Your Chug will most likely be feisty yet loyal. As with Chihuahuas, the Chug can sometimes become fiercely attached to one particular member of the household and even become territorial over that person. Fortunately, the right training techniques will curb this unwanted behavior. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Chugs thrive with couples and active families with older children. If you have tiny tots running around your house, you may want to consider getting a different breed. The Chihuahua side can sometimes get snippy around young kids. Take him to the dog park or walks throughout your neighborhood to get him acclimated to other dogs and people. When properly socialized, Chugs can make fantastic housemates to the other four-legged members of your family. So, try not to overdo it on the treats, even when he is tempting you with his adorable, wrinkled face. Also, keep his daily caloric consumption to under every day. This roughly equates to one cup of dry, high-quality kibble per day. Excess weight can exacerbate some health issues, including joint problems and breathing difficulties. Luckily, they can burn it off very quickly and tire themselves out within 45 minutes. Ideally, your Chug should be enjoying a minute walk followed by 15 minutes of playtime every day. Due to their short snout, you should never overexert your Chug because he may have trouble breathing. But, thanks to their Chihuahua parent breed, they can also be extremely stubborn. You will need to be patient and consistent when training your Chug, and always use positive reinforcement as your training method. Punishment methods have been known to promote anxiety and problematic behaviors in Chugs. Yapping is a common issue in Chugs. Instead of using punishment, give them a tasty treat when they stop barking or when they do not yap in a situation in which they normally would. However, brush him once a week to remove dander and dead fur. Be sure to also gently clean their adorable face wrinkles daily with a baby wipe or damp cloth. Minor Conditions Like cherry eye or cataracts Obesity. Sadly, the Chug has a few medical issues to keep in mind, so the cost of vet visits and dental care might be higher than average. How much is a Chug puppy? There is a lot of demand for Chihuahua mixes which drives up the price of Chug puppies. However, many families get Chugs and quickly realize they are not good for small children, so keep your eyes open for Chugs to adopt. Pretty cheap! Medical Expenses for a Chug can average per year. Insurance: We recommend every dog have health insurance. If you find you can not afford pet health insurance, please try to get your Chug puppy insured for the first year or two. We recommend TruPanion, because they are easy to communicate with. However the only thing a short haired chug will need is a few baths and having their nails clipped. Check out our pug grooming guide for DIY at home tips! There are usually only puppies in a Chug litter, and the puppies are known for playfulness, jealousy, and being extremely attached to a single owner. Pug Chihuahua Mix puppies will grow extremely loyal and bond with their owner very quickly. They are fairly smart but have a stubborn streak and will figure out a way to get what they want. Please visit the breeder and poke around first! Find a responsible breeder. A good Chug breeder will have a spacious clean home. They should be transparent and open. Good Pug Mix breeders will want to meet you in person. They will also specialize in only one or two mix breeds. FaceTime is usually a good way to check the Chug puppies living conditions if they are far away. Tracheal Collapse - please make sure they are wearing a harness and not a dog collar! Brachycephalic syndrome - trouble breathing. They are known for having a big personality in a small package. These little dogs can also be surprisingly energetic and have been known to compete in agility competitions. The Chihuahua is a people dog and bonds closely to its owner. They are also known for being a little nervous and snippy with strangers. 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 Chug Highlights Chugs can be prone to excessive weight gain if overfed. Make sure to stick to an appropriate diet and feeding schedule. With early training, you can curb unwanted barking, however. Most owners say their Chugs have goofball personalities and like to act silly. A Chug will be great at making you smile. As a mostly brachycephalic short-snouted dog, Chugs can be prone to heat stroke. Take extra care of them in hot weather. Chugs also have shorter fur, so they may need the added protection of a jacket in cold weather. The main colors of Chugs are brown, black, fawn, cream, and white. Their coats can be solid colors or a mix of colors. Chug History The Chug dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Chihuahuas and Pugs in the early s , likely in the United States. Although there is no specific breeder created with the creation of the Chug, like other mixed breeds, it can be assumed that the Chihuahua and Pug were crossbred in hopes of attaining the positive attributes of each breed. Even though the Chug breed got its start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Chug rescues, or check with breed-specific Pug or Chihuahua rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Chug Size As the Chug is a relatively new breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Chihuahua and Pug parents, you can expect Chugs to be on the small side. Most Chugs weigh in around ten to 20 pounds, and they can be between ten to 14 inches tall. Chug Personality The Chihuahua is known for its feisty but loyal attitude. The Pug is known for being a goofy and playful pup. Some people report that their Chugs are extra cuddly and playful, while others say their Chug has a comedic Napoleon Complex and can sometimes get territorial. With proper training, your Chug can learn how to curb their yappy tendencies. Like their Chihuahua parent, the Chug can sometimes get attached to one particular human member of the family. They may become territorial and guard this person if they feel threatened. Fortunately, there are ways to curb resource guarding and this type of behavior in general. Chugs can also be incredibly silly dogs. Many Chug owners refer to their pups as goofballs who love to play, run around, and get lots of cuddles. Chug Health The Chug breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Chihuahua and Pug also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Chugs are prone to weight gain , and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as small breeds—especially the Pug and the Chihuahua—are prone to dental issues. Chug Feeding An ideal Chug diet should be formulated for a small breed with high energy. Like their parents, a Chug can be prone to excessive weight gain if overfed. Stick to a regular feeding schedule and do not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. Their coats can be short and coarse, like short-haired Chihuahua and Pugs, or it can be softer, like long-haired Chihuahuas. Chugs are not recommended for those who suffer from dog allergies. Regular weekly brushing and grooming can help keep shedding to a minimum. No matter the type of coat, Chugs are not made for extreme weather. If you live in a colder area, they will need coats or sweaters when going outside. Likewise, they should not be kept outside in extreme heat, especially if they have a short snout. Chugs prefer to be mostly around adults or older kids who know how to play gently. That said, for children who learn early how to properly approach and play with a small dog, the Chug can make a great, active companion. When it comes to other pets, Chugs can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. That said, Chugs, like their Chihuahua parent, might not be naturally fond of other animals and may prefer to be the sole animal of the house. Chug Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Chugs because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Chihuahua or Pug breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Patellar luxation Portosystemic shunt PSS The Pug is also brachycephalic, a condition that gives it a flat face and makes it vulnerable to breathing issues, the problem with regulating body temperature through panting, and reverse sneezing. The Chihuahua side of your hybrid puppy is also rife with medical problems, like hydrocephalus. Pugs have a tendency to overeat and giving them chow that is rich in fiber may be the best solution to make them eat less and let them think they are eating more! Unlike best dry dog food , these worst dry dog food brands are not likely to give you pooch anything except a few extra pounds! Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different dietary needs. Explore the importance of age-appropriate nutrition by browsing these handy best puppy food brands and best senior dry dog food guides to make sure the pup is getting all the nutrients they need. The Chihuahua Pug mix should be given a diet created specifically for small breeds such as best dry dog food for small dogs. The size of your furball does matter when it comes to food and, by opting for best large breed dry dog food for a tiny pooch, you risk giving them an inadequate amount of nutrients. High-energy meals with meat as the main ingredient are best. A cup of the premiere, dry dog food is ideal. Imbalance of protein and fat, as well as vitamins and minerals, can in the long run trigger all sorts of health conditions. Here are some of the best brands out in the market today: Wellness Core Dog Food : This premier dog food has a remarkably high protein content that comes from deboned chicken. This dry dog food has been designed by holistic veterinarians and nutritionists who wanted to create the best mean for small breeds. Dog For Dog Food : This dog food for small dogs is also great for puppies. The kibble is a mix of soft and crunchy pieces that even the pickiest eater will enjoy. Daily exercise lasting for 30 to 45 minutes is enough to keep your dog healthy. So is a weekly walk of five to six miles since this little dog gets tired easily. The brachycephalic genes it inherited from the Pug also makes it vulnerable to breathing issues due to strenuous activities. You should also play with your dog for at least half an hour, one to three times a day. Here are some of the best toys for this breed out in the market today: Air Kong Squeaky X-Small Tennis Balls: These bright balls are durable and perfectly fits even the small mouth of a Pug Chihuahua cross. Made from corduroy fabric with a little squeaker inside, its size is ideal for Chug puppies. Mini Sqwuggie Dog Toy: The best tug toy for toy breeds, the Sqwuggie is colorful, durable, and can even float in water, allowing your pet to play with it anywhere. Chihuahua Pug Training A lot of small dog owners tend to forego training and socializing their pet. Owners tend to dismiss them as a threat due to their size and lets them exhibit dominant behavior. With a Chihuahua Pug already prone to aggressive tendencies, thanks to its Chihuahua side, owners should take steps to ensure their hybrid pet does not become some diva. In short, behavior that is not acceptable from adult large dogs should not be tolerated in small dogs either. It will do well with someone who can provide a Your Pug Chihuahua mix should undergo obedience training and socialization while its still a puppy. Owners should also continue with the training and socialization programs even when their dog becomes an adult to prevent the development of the syndrome. Thanks to their propensity to please their owners, Chugs are easy to train. Here are some interesting tips to consider when training a small dog like the Chug: Think and stay positive. Always remember that small breeds tend to get scared or startled easily. Give your dog small treats and give belly rubs and praise freely. Keep it short and sweet. Stay low. Looming over your small dog while you shout commands will just frighten it. It will make you less intimidating and make your dog feel more comfortable and secure. Once your dog has learned some commands and tricks, you can stand and begin training from a higher level. Stand your ground. Small dogs get away with a lot of things because of their size. Stand your ground and stay true to the training. Housetraining small dogs is different. Crate training is one of the best ways to housetrain your puppy. It loves its human and will try its best to please its owner. However, you should be ready to provide your pet with lots of love and attention. Children should also be taught how to handle this dog properly. This means families with very young children might not be a good match for this dog. A Chihuahua Pug cross is an ideal pet for apartment dwellers, although it will thrive in all types of homes. It has to live indoors as its small stature means it can easily wiggle out of a fence. This dog also prefers warm weather, which is why it loves to snuggle so much.
By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Healthy Fats Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation. Beneficial Supplements In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion. Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food — which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. By choosing a dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health. Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities , making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed. If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy , you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life. Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies , it is recommended to provide them with 1. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily. Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues. Our Top Picks: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive. Pet owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup. By choosing the best overall dog food for your Frenchie, you can support their overall health and well-being. This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners. Food and food are both great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppies. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development. Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy. It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies. It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and wellbeing. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing. While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs. Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being. Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best! Gradually introducing the new food over a period of days can help avoid these problems. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins. Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables carrots, green beans, broccoli , and fruits apples, bananas, blueberries. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being. Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats. If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie. Summary In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Frequently Asked Questions What are Frenchies allergic to? French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen. What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need. When he's not spending time with his furry best friend "Freddy II", you can find him reading up on the latest Frenchie trends or exploring new parks and hiking trails with his dapper little Frenchie by his side. Whether you're a seasoned Frenchie owner or just starting your journey, Freddy is excited to share his experiences and insights with you through his articles on this website. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! There are hundreds of different options on the market all claiming to be the best, no wonder our Frenchie parents constantly turn to us asking what they should feed their puppies. The usual nutritional needs of French Bulldog A well-balanced Frenchie diet should contain the correct amounts of macronutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. However, this is only a general guideline, and a more accurate calculation can be made based on specific factors. For instance, the age and activity level of your dog are essential factors to consider. Hormonal changes can cause neutered dogs to become less active than their fertile counterparts. Store-bought vs. Most commercial dog foods and canned goods contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring, and other additives. Instead of real meat, they often contain animal by-products or meat meal, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email When you cook food for your dogs, you can be sure of what goes into their bowl. Finally, homemade meals can prolong the average French Bulldog lifespan , so we definitely recommend homemade food! Why is it so hard to find the right dog food? Feeding is an evergreen topic among Frenchie parents in our Facebook group. They know they should feed their puppy with high-quality premium dog food to keep their baby healthy and fit, but they are left puzzled when they see the plethora of different choices. The answer is actually quite simple: every Frenchie is different and what works for one puppy may unfortunately cause problems for the other. The best French Bulldog breeders will always give you advice on how to continue feeding your puppy once you welcome them home. So what are the most important things to consider while trying to find the perfect food for your Frenchie? Read on to find out! The quality of dog food is always determined by the percentage of its protein content, in other words, the amount of meat or fish it contains. So what should you pay attention to when looking at the ingredients list? This could be beef, lamb, salmon, or any other type of meat. The list usually ends with some sort of animal fat, vegetables, and fruits. Jasper, available French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Any other ingredient not mentioned above is only included to increase the volume of the dog food and to ensure the most economical production possible. So, if you see that a food contains an unrealistic amount of filler ingredients like wheat, corn, or chemical preservatives, it is definitely not a suitable and healthy choice for your Frenchie. Dog foods without chicken and grains A question that always comes up when choosing the right food for a Frenchie is whether it has to be chicken or grain-free. For that reason, we usually recommend giving chicken and grain-free food right from the start to avoid any possible problems. Makayla, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies That means that if you look at the list of ingredients, you can find companies whose food meets all the criteria we mentioned above and is much more affordable. Like with so many things, the name is not everything! On the other hand, if the kibble is too large they will have difficulties consuming the food. The flavor of the dog food When looking at dog foods, you can choose from lots of different flavors like a lamb, fish, beef, duck, etc. If one of the foods from a particular brand works fine for your Frenchie, the flavors can and should be changed as long as they have the same nutritional values. A varied diet is important not only for humans but dogs as well, not to mention that your fur baby will be very happy to taste some new flavors. The stool of your Frenchie A very important criterion and perhaps the best indicator of the given food is suitable for your Frenchie is their stool. A healthy stool should always be completely solid, which means you can easily collect it with a bag. You should always ensure a smooth transition by gradually mixing in more and more of the new food with the old to avoid any dietary issues. Signs of a food allergy in your Frenchie We have already mentioned that Frenchies tend to be allergic to chicken, but what are the actual signs of a food allergy? The most common symptoms include scratching, hair loss, dull lifeless fur, inflamed eyes and ears often with some discharge, paw licking, swelling, but also vomiting, and loose stools. You may not notice all of these and the degree to which they occur may also vary. Any of these symptoms indicate that an immediate change of diet is necessary, about which you should always consult your vet first. Eating a bit more slowly and with less appetite are usually signs telling you to cut out the middle meal. As for the amount, nice-looking French Bulldogs are a bit stockier, so you should always increase and lower the amount of their food with that in mind. Read our article to learn more about maintaining a healthy body weight for your Frenchie. Odie, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Special recommendations by TomKings Puppies The best food for French Bulldog with a sensitive stomach For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we always recommend home-cooked food , so you can be sure of what your dog is eating. However, it is important to ensure that the transition from store-bought to home-cooked dog food is gradual. Consultation with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best wet food for a French Bulldog. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for products that are labeled as complete and balanced, which means they contain all the essential nutrients your French Bulldog needs in the right proportions. The best dry food for French Bulldogs Although cheaper dry food may appear to be similar to premium brands based on the label, there are significant differences in the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Additionally, we advise you to switch to adult food at the age of months. We always inform new parents of Tomkings puppies of the brands we used to feed the pups and we recommend to continue using the same brand for some time. The best raw food for Frenchies There are several types of raw food diets for dogs, including the Prey Model Diet, the B. To ensure that TomKings puppies receive only the highest quality food, we continuously evaluate available options and test the latest trends. We consult with a panel of experts and experienced puppy parents within the TomKings Frenchie Family, and we are proud to recommend the B. Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods diet. Consulting with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. In general, weight management dog foods can be a good option for overweight French Bulldogs. These foods are formulated to be lower in calories and fat while still providing high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding table scraps or high-calorie treats, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. In some cases, a prescription diet recommended by a veterinarian may be necessary to help your French Bulldog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Best food for French Bulldogs with skin allergies If your French Bulldog has skin allergies, it is important to choose a diet that is specially formulated to help support skin health and minimize potential allergens. Consultation with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. Some high-quality dog food brands offer special formulas that are designed for dogs with skin allergies. These foods typically contain limited ingredients and exclude common allergens such as wheat, soy, chicken, and dairy products. Instead, they may use alternative protein sources such as fish or venison and may contain added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support skin health. Some veterinarians may also recommend prescription diets that are formulated specifically to manage skin allergies in dogs. These diets may contain hydrolyzed proteins, which have been broken down into smaller components to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Even though processed dog foods might not look healthy to us, they actually contain all the nutrients that Frenchies need to stay healthy. Home-made and raw diets like B. Should I opt for dry kibble or canned wet food? Wet foods are of course more appealing to dogs, which means they get used to them easily and will not want to eat dry food again. If your Frenchie is a picky eater you can mix the dry and wet food but never give them the latter only. We recommend wet food for dogs who are ill and have no appetite. How much time does my puppy need to adjust to a new food? At what age should I switch to adult food for my French Bulldog? We usually recommend switching to adult food at the age of months old. If you notice that your puppy looks a bit chubbier or bigger compared to other Frenchies you can make this change even sooner. What is the best food for a Frenchie puppy? The best choice for your Frenchie puppy is to continue providing the same brand the breeder used to provide. This should be a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. What is the best food for an adult French Bulldog? You have several options. You can buy high-quality wet and dry god food at your local pet store or if you want more control over what goes into the bowl, you can feed your adult Frenchie with home-cooked food. Raw diets like B. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings!
The Frenchie dog breed is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. However, French Bulldogs can suffer from skin allergies because they are prone to many skin problems and allergies. Their skin folds can trap debris and moisture, and their hair can break due to rubbing. In this article, we will discuss why your French bulldog may be suffering from pimples and what are the skin issues that affect the Frenchie dog and how you can possibly minimize or eliminate them. Roger Wickenden Causes of pimples in French bulldogs There are many reasons why Frenchies can get acne and pimples. An environmental factor can be the cause of pimples; there are other factors such as poor hygiene, food deficiencies, cosmetic products, and bacterial infections. A hormonal imbalance can also be the cause of pimples. When French bulldogs are in a growing phase, like humans, they also suffer from pimples. It's easy to spot a pimples on the Frenchie dog's skin because it appears as whiteheads, red bumps, and blackheads. If you don't treat pimples in time, they can be very painful when touched. Prevention and Treatment of pimples in French Bulldogs If you see that your Frenchie has oily skin, he or she will likely suffer from dandruff and seborrhea. This problem occurs due to cosmetic products. Change your dog's cosmetic products and choose an appropriate shampoo because Frenchie dogs have sensitive skin and don't react well to any artificial ingredients in the shampoo. Select a shampoo that is rich in medicinal herbs because they are effective in treating blackheads in Frenchie. These medicated shampoos can prevent antibacterial infections and skin problems. To avoid pimples on French bulldogs, you should improve their hygiene. If your dog's skin is producing excess sebum, consult your vet about special treatment. At some point, the vet may recommend a special shampoo bath to relieve pimples. Your vet may also do an allergy blood panel test or recommend changing your dog's protein source to duck or even suggest feeding your Frenchie raw foods. There are many skin problems that a French bulldog can suffer from. Some of them are discussed below. Dermatitis in French Bulldogs It is defined as inflammation of the skin or dermis. Dermatitis is a common problem in French Bulldogs. There are many causes of dermatitis that include food allergies or environmental allergies. At the beginning of dermatitis, you will see irritated red skin that will later progress to scaling, scabbing, and even pustules. Dermatitis is commonly seen in French bulldogs on the tail folds and nasal folds. These are prime locations because they can easily trap debris and moisture and can get inflamed quickly. Occasionally, unpleasant odor and purulent discharge are also observed in these areas. Dermatitis can be avoided in these areas by keeping these folds dry and clean. Clean the folds of Frenchie's skin with wipes or damp cloths. The treatment of dermatitis can also be carried out with oral antibiotics prescribed by your vet and with antifungal and antibacterial shampoos. Some topical solutions are also used to prevent this problem. Skin problems in Frenchies due to fleas Fleas are very small and fast creatures, and you can see them jumping on your pet body. Fleas are generally black or dark brown in color and have a flat body and are less than an inch in size. When your Frenchie suffer from fleas, they will show certain symptoms like scratching; licking, chewing, and often seem restless. If you suspect fleas are on your pet's skin, you can check their fur for flea dirt. Flea dirt looks like any other dirt on the skin and is small black flakes made up of flea droppings containing their blood and feces. There are many flea treatments available on the market, and a vet can recommend the best treatment for your dog. Some available flea treatments are flea repellent sprays, flea collars, and oral medications. Courtney Campbell DVM cuts through the confusion about flea and tick medications. Hot spot in French bulldog Hot spots are commonly known as moist dermatitis, summer sores, or pyrotraumatic dermatitis. Hot spots in dogs are primarily caused by the licking and chewing behavior of your Frenchie. If French bulldog licks his or her skin aggressively, it will cause self-inflicted wound. When the skin is damaged, it will be a perfect environment for bacterial infection. Furthermore, if their skin gets a little wet when swimming, a recent bath, playtime in the water, or a walk in the rain can provide a perfect environment for bacterial infection. Hot spots may look scary and worse than they really are. The hot spot can be treated by trimming the hair at the infection site so that place gets enough air and any wounds dry quickly. You can also use antibacterial solutions to clean the area. If the infected area doesn't heal quickly, you can also use antibiotics for treatment. If your Frenchie is continually chewing on the infected area, you can use "cone" or "e-collar" to avoid excessive licking or chewing on the area. If you want to prevent hot spots on a more regular basis e-collar may not be sustainable as you can't leave your Frenchie with an e-collar all the time. In those cases we recommend organic hypoallergenic Frenchie pajamas for itchy pets or those with allergies. Wearing the doggie pajamas will limit access to their skin. When you wash your dog's pajamas, you also wash away the dander and allergens rather than allowing them to settle in the air or spread it around on floors and furniture. We recommend having a couple in case one is in the wash. Karen Becker discusses the causes of dog hot spots and how to treat and prevent it naturally. Skin problems in Frenchies caused by autoimmune diseases In autoimmune diseases, a Frenchie body will attack itself for many reasons. Autoimmune problems can start due to medications, genetic issues, and at some point, the cause is unknown. In this disease, numerous cutaneous lesions develop on the dog's skin. At some point, the dog's immune system will attack its own RBCs and lead to a life-threatening condition. This condition is often diagnosed by skin biopsy, and there is no adequate treatment for autoimmune diseases, only immunosuppressive drugs are used. At first, a rash will develop as a result of a fungal infection, and then it will cause hair loss in a circular pattern on your dog's body. The common signs that appear in the French bulldog that suffers from ringworm are scaling or scabbing lesions. It can also be contagious, so be careful when treating ringworm. It can be treated with anti-fungal medications if the lesions are present at one point. Your vet may also recommend medicated shampoos and oral medications. The Frenchie dog is a sensitive dog breed and can suffer from pimples and other skin conditions. If your Frenchie has any skin problems, you can try a more natural and holistic approach to treat your French Bulldog's skin, however, it is always important to consult with your vet. Shop Frenchiestore - a brand that is ethical, environmental friendly and committed to a movement in the pet industry towards social justice, health conscience and greater ecological integrity. This will help determine what your French Bulldog might be allergic to that you can eliminate. Chicken allergies is very common in Frenchies and it might be better to feed your Frenchie duck as the main protein. Also please ask your vet to do a skin scrape test so your vet can give you the right antibiotics. Hope this helps and this issue is resolved soon. Como puedo iniciar sesion? We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Frenchies can get acne and pimples for many reasons. The triggers can be found in the environment, food, lack of hygiene, bacteria, infection, allergies, and using inappropriate cosmetics such as dying your dog for the holidays. Hormonal changes can also be one of the potential factors for skin bumps and in pimples on your dog. Just like in humans, French Bulldogs can have pimples due to a hormonal imbalance. In adolescence, your Frenchie will have a higher tendency to develop pimples and acne. If your dog starts licking or scratching at a new lesion, make sure you closely check what is causing this. If you have a short-coated dog, a good look all over remember ears, lips, gums, arm pits, groin and toes is going to be pretty easy and should be part of your normal routine. But if you have a shaggy dog with long or thick hair, a thorough dermatological exam is going to be much harder. In those cases, examining the skin as the hair parts while you are brushing it will help you to see down to the skin itself. You can also feel for bumps. Going slowly and meticulously over your dog with a light touch of your fingertips can reveal surprisingly small growths. They are one of the most popular breeds in the United States and are well renowned for their iconic bat ears and easy-going nature. French Bulldogs can develop many skin conditions and allergies in their lifetime. To minimize the risk, try to feed your Frenchie high-quality food right from the beginning and keep their skin clean and dry. Watch out for skin bumps and examine immediately to see if something is wrong with your French bulldog! To avoid unpleasant vet bills if something does arise, it is always a great idea to proactively take out pet insurance for your furry buddy. Family Dog Expert Author Hi there! My passion for dogs drives me to share my knowledge and expertise, helping families build strong, loving bonds with their four-legged friends. Welcome to Sirdoggie A blog crafted with love for all dog lovers and their families! How to Treat Bull Dog Acne at Home Any owner of a bullie knows that the dreaded bull dog acne comes hand in hand with the breed. This can present itself as tiny pimples on the chin, a widespread rash down their necks, and even large blisters all over their mouths. There are ways to treat bull dog acne right from your home. But with this breed, you get those wrinkly jowls that fill with bacteria and saliva; a breeding ground for bull dog acne. So, at the end of the day, when your pup has eaten its last meal, get a warm soapy wash cloth and clean their face, lips, and jowls. Clean Their Dishes We wash our plates and bowls after every meal. So why would we do the same for our dogs? As for water dishes, these really should be properly washed every other day as this is where most of their drool and food bits end up. The saliva and food remnants stick to the bowl create bacteria that you then put new food and water into. This not only creates acne on the chin, but also intestinal issues. Check Their Food Sometimes, you can be as clean and cautious as you possibly can and your bull dog will still get painful pimples. This might be due to its food. Clean Sheets Their bed or the area where they sleep should be kept clean and fresh at all times. This creates a poor environment that supports germs and other nasty things. Then they go and sleep in it! In conclusion, bull dogs are awesome. We just love their cute wrinkles and floppy faces. But they are sensitive and require frequent maintenance in regards to their cleanliness. At Fetch! We offer services like pet sitting, puppy training, and even administering medications to make your busy days less stressful for you and your pet. Why Does French bulldog Suffer from Pimples? Among skin infections, one is pimples in French bulldogs. The truth is that they are prone to this skin condition because of the way they look. Their short noses and big eyes leave them with almost no room to breathe. Their nostrils are small, which makes it difficult for them to breathe. This is why they suffer from dermatitis. There are several reasons why French bulldogs suffer from pimples. In this article, we will look into the reasons, which occur very frequently in this type of dog. Causes of Pimples in French bulldogs Below are some of the most common reasons your French bulldog may get acne and pimples. Hormonal imbalance Pimples are common in human teenagers because of the hormone changes in their bodies, making pimples a cause for concern in French bulldogs. When it comes to hormonal changes, a French bulldog goes through puberty at about two years old. You might notice an increase in shedding and greasiness. The white, red, or black pimples are the most noticeable change in their skin. If those are present, then it is an excellent time to bring in a professional who specializes in pet skin problems. An examination is required to obtain more information about what will help your dog have clearer skin. If you notice your pup coming down with pimples, try an oatmeal or coconut face mask. Canine acne is a deep skin infection caused by an allergy to a food. Allergies can occur from food like protein like beef or chicken. Other allergies occur from plants that dogs are allergic to. However, there are rare instances where genetics or bacteria cause acne. The French bulldog would have to have a primary care doctor visit to get rid of the infection. Environmental Allergies Dog owners often want to know what to do for their pets when they have an acne outbreak. It usually occurs around the face, neck, and back of the forelegs, but can happen anywhere on the body. Contact allergies to food, cleaning products, bedding, flea collars, and other pet products can all cause acne, but the most common cause of acne in dogs is flea bites. Poor hygiene Poor hygiene is one of the main causes of acne in French bulldogs. As Frenchies have a lot of skin folds dirt and debris can get accumulated in them and results in ace and infection. French bulldogs need extra care to prevent infections. Make sure you give them regular baths and always keep their nose and ears clean. Keep their food, water, and toys clean and sanitized. Also, use some antibacterial to wipe regularly during your bathing sessions. There are times when you need a medicated shampoo that can prevent acne. Food deficiencies If you are worried about your dog suffering from acne, you should consider making a change to his or her diet. Dogs suffer from acne for the same reasons humans deal with it: acne is caused by a plethora of factors, including diet. If your dog is eating a diet that is deficient in vitamin B and D, you can expect a case of acne to develop. Give your dog a more natural diet, such as fresh food that you prepare yourself, and you can expect his or her case to clear up. Dog foods that have a full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients added to them help your dog lead a more fit and healthy lifestyle. Bacterial infection French bulldogs are susceptible to a bacterial infection that causes acne, which can be easily spread to other dogs and owners. Thus, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms and how to correctly treat it. The symptoms of this bacterial infection include bumps on the skin, common on the face and head. The bacterial infection can be spread from one dog to another if they are not properly treated and taken care of. Your dog will give the following treatments Your veterinarian will likely diagnose your pup with a skin condition rather easily. They will simply look at the appearance of their skin and figure out what they are dealing with. Many dogs who have skin problems will require UV treatment and cleansers to help cleanse their skin. Despite the discomfort, your dog will be much happier and healthier when their skin is clean! Bathing your dog regularly is a practical way to keep them clean and smelling good. Regular bathing helps with the health of many issues like parasites and allergies. Bathing also helps with seasonal shedding. Dogs with oily skin or allergies may benefit from using shampoos as opposed to regular soap, especially if they struggle with skin irritations. Another important factor to keep in mind is to not pop out these pimples because it will only make the condition worse. If your Frenchie is allergic to plastic then you should use stainless steel food bowl. Conclusion Acne is an uncomfortable and embarrassing condition that can affect both humans and dogs. French bulldogs are prone to getting it because of their facial structure, in this blog post; we had to look closely at the causes and treatments for this condition. Sarah Haws Why do French Bulldog have skin bumps? Is your French Bulldog suffering from a bump under its skin? Skin bumps are more prevalent in elderly dogs, but they can also occur in younger Frenchies. French Bulldogs are prone to a wide range of skin disorders and allergies. Several of these skin diseases can cause pimples to appear on the individual's skin. Some pimples may be treated at home with natural treatments, while others will necessitate the care of a veterinarian. Skin bumps in French bulldogs can be from little to large in size, and they typically develop on the abdomen, between folds, armpits, and chest. In this essay, we will explain why your French Bulldog develops skin bumps, what skin disorders might impact the French Bulldog, and how you can perhaps reduce any difficulties that may arise in the future. What are the causes of French Bulldog's skin bumps? The majority of skin bumps are non-cancerous or innocuous. However, it is conceivable that your pup will acquire persistent, abnormal growths of skin cells or tumors as a result of this condition. Here are some of the most recurrent skin bumps caused in French Bulldogs that you should be aware of: 1. Abscess An abscess is known as a collection of pus under the skin that develops over time. It may be brought by an illness or by a bite from an insect or other organism, among other things. If your veterinarian has successfully drained your Frenchie's abscess, he or she should be considerably more comfortable once the uncomfortable pressure from pus has been relieved. Fleas If your French Bulldog has fleas or has been bitten by fleas, you may see skin bumps on his body. The itching, licking, and chewing are signs of flea infestation in dogs. The itching will begin on the skin at the base of your French Bulldog's tail and around the base of his neck. Oral and topical medications, as well as anti-flea collars, can be used to treat fleas. The saying goes that "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," therefore, it is always preferable to treat your dog frequently to avoid fleas rather than trying to treat fleas after they have been discovered. Warts Warts are caused by multiple viruses and can be detected on the lips and within the mouths of newborn French Bulldog puppies. Usually, they will simply disappear on their own. Older Frenchies, on the other hand, may require surgery to have them removed, especially if they are giving your dog discomfort or feeding difficulties. It is a clogged oil gland that seems to be a big pimple and is loaded with pus when you look at it. It is ordinary for a sebaceous cyst to rupture, resulting in a white cheese-like discharge. If the "cyst capsule" is not entirely removed or drained, it has the potential to re-fill after it has burst. Hives Hives on your Frenchie's skin may show as itchy red bumps on the surface of his skin. It is believed that hives are caused by an allergic reaction to an allergen, such as a bee sting or contact with a plant. If the incidence of hives is minor, it is common for skin bumps to disappear on their own. If the symptoms persist, you should take your dog to the veterinarian to rule out the possibility that he is experiencing a more serious allergic response that necessitates the use of a prescription. Fatty Tumors Typically, fatty tumors appear around the rib cage in elderly and overweight Frenchies, although they can appear elsewhere on the body. As a part of the aging process in French Bulldogs, they are not regarded as hazardous or damaging to their health save in the sense that they may impede movement is placed on or near joints , and they should not be removed. They might range in size from tiny to large, but they generally appear as raised, hairless bumps. Mast Cell Tumors in French Bulldogs can be very aggressive and spread fast if not treated quickly. Skin Tags Skin tags are benign growths that are prevalent in senior French Bulldogs. They are not harmful to the dog. Skin tags are something that dogs commonly get as they grow older, and they appear pretty similar to bumps. They will show as separate bumps on your dog's body, with the majority of them appearing as stalk-like growths. When Frenchies are young, they may just have one skin tag. Other possible reasons include: Bumps can arise spontaneously due to exposure to a specific allergy trigger, poor hygiene, bacterial infection, hormonal imbalance, and an improper diet, for example. Bumps appear in three phases, just as they do in people. The initial stage is characterized by blackheads, followed by redness, and finally by whiteheads. Typically, they appear throughout puberty and can be resolved by utilizing specific cosmetic items and converting a dog to a raw diet, among other things. Eating food that is high in by-products, carbs, and artificial tastes may contribute to the development of this unpleasant disease. Dogs with bumps should often be given fresh vegetables and meat, according to veterinarian recommendations. Adding probiotic supplements, vitamin C, and other dog-safe supplements to your Frenchie's diet are also some of the components that can help to enhance the condition of her skin. If your Frenchie has an abnormal sebaceous gland function or a hormonal imbalance, the pimples will be more challenging to get rid of. In severe cases, the dog may require antibiotic therapy oral medicines, lotions, and creams , as well as bathing in shampoos that have been tailored for his specific needs and circumstances. The best ways to treat skin bumps on French bulldogs? The presence of oily skin on your Frenchie should be investigated for hormonal imbalance, as recommended by the American Kennel Club. Bumps in dogs are frequently followed by seborrhea and dandruff, which means your dog may require a specific medical shampoo for treating Malassezia fungus in order to be comfortable. It is one of the most ordinary causes of the development of seborrhea and seborrheic dermatitis, which leads to bumps. Selecting the Proper Shampoo Your veterinarian should prescribe shampoo containing botanicals that relieve itching, redness, and irritation. Choose a shampoo that contains Aloe Vera, Tea tree oil, and Coconut oil since these components are beneficial in treating acne and pimples. Cleaning the Frenchie folds regularly The folds of a French bulldog, especially around his mouth, can carry dirt and food remnants that give an unpleasant odor if not cleaned on time. It would be beneficial to clean between your pet's coat folds using moist baby wipes or a moist cloth to avoid bumps between the folds. If there is any leftover moisture on the surface once the operation is completed, you should sprinkle cornstarch on it. To treat irritated whiteheads, apply dog-safe acne treatments If the pimples on your French Bulldog's skin are red and filled with whiteheads, you can treat them using acne treatments that are safe for dogs. Their drying impact on pimples, as well as their ability to accelerate the healing process, will be helpful to everyone. Zinc-containing lotions should not be purchased since it is a hazardous component for dogs. The use of zinc creams is beneficial for humans, but it might cause harm to our Frenchie's red blood cells, causing them to burst. An illness caused by bacteria need quick intervention You should never treat French bulldog skin rashes at home using human cosmetics, as this might cause infection. Dogs' skin is susceptible to the many chemicals in human cosmetics, which is especially true for puppies. Some of them may even be toxic, so you should avoid attempting to resolve this problem independently. If your French Bull dog's pimples are filled with pus, take them to the veterinary doctor as soon as possible. Is it usual for French Bulldogs to have pimples on their faces? Pimples are common among Frenchies , and they are pretty natural. Acne and pimples can occur in Frenchies for a variety of causes. The environment, diet, lack of cleanliness, germs, illness, allergies, and the use of improper cosmetics are all potential causes for this condition such as dying your dog for the holidays. In addition to hormonal fluctuations, skin bumps and pimples on your dog can be caused by various other reasons. In the same way that people may have pimples, French Bulldogs can get pimples because of a hormonal imbalance. It is more likely that your Frenchie may develop pimples and acne throughout his or her adolescent years. Conclusion Frenchies are one of the most lovable canines to have ever walked the face of the world. Their easygoing attitude and trademark bat ears have made them one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Throughout their lives, French Bulldogs can acquire a variety of skin problems and allergies. To reduce the probability of this happening, try to give your Frenchie high-quality food from the start and keep their skin clean and dry at all times. Keep an eye out for skin bumps and inspect them as soon as possible to determine whether or not your French Bulldog is suffering from a medical condition. It is critical to understand what skin bumps may indicate and when a veterinarian should attend to your Frenchie's skin bumps for treatment. Skin folds can: Harbor moisture Build up heat Cause chafing These factors are a perfect recipe for a type of inflammation called skin fold dermatitis. Symptoms of skin fold dermatitis typically include redness, moisture, and pain in and around the skin folds. The key to treating skin fold dermatitis includes: Reducing inflammation Clearing any current infection Keeping the skin clean and dry Your vet will prescribe medications to resolve any infection already present. If necessary, topical or oral steroids can help with itching and irritation. Long-term, one of the best ways you can manage and prevent future outbreaks of skin fold dermatitis is to keep your Frenchie at a healthy weight. Obesity can create even more excess tissue that worsens skin fold-related problems. Symptoms of pyoderma include red, raised pustules that resemble pimples in humans. You may also notice itching, flaky or crusty skin, and hair loss. Moisture on the skin and a musty odor around affected skin folds is also a common symptom. Treatment for Pyoderma Your vet will need to prescribe a course of antibiotics to clear up the infection. They may also recommend antihistamines, or steroids if a skin allergy is suspected. Dirty, damp bedding can harbor bacteria and cause skin irritation. Hot spots can develop quickly and without warning, especially in hot weather. Some signs you may be dealing with hot spots include: Irritation that starts as a small, red skin bump similar to an insect bite Rapid spreading that turns into red, painful, oozing sores Swelling and hair loss in the affected area Veterinary Treatment for Hot Spots A vet visit is a good idea for hot spots since the problem can get worse without proper care. If the skin has become infected, your pup needs prescription meds to clear it up. Your vet will examine your dog to look for signs of the underlying cause. A skin scrape may be needed to check for parasites. Your vet may prescribe treatments such as:4 Antibiotics to treat infection Steroids to ease itching and inflammation Allergy medication if an allergen is the root cause A pet-safe antiseptic to clean the irritated skin A cone to prevent scratching while the area heals, depending on the location of the hot spot Home Care for Hot Spots Hot spots begin when your dog scratches, licks, or chews excessively on an itchy patch of skin. The trauma caused by this opens the sensitive skin to inflammation and bacterial infection. The infection results in more itching, which leads to a cycle of irritation, itching, and scratching. If possible, you should try to discover and eliminate the original cause of the itching. Common culprits include: Food allergies Fleas and other insect bites Moisture trapped on the skin often in skin folds Stress and boredom.
Therefore, many find themselves asking whether the Golden they have is genuinely a purebred. There are many sings that indicate you own a purebred. First of all, proper documentation will prove that the purebred Golden puppy is the end product of selective breeding. Another main characteristic of a purebred puppy is that it will cultivate the main behaviors and traits typical of the same breed. Purebreds are bred for hundreds of years with the main purpose of complying with conformations and standards. Growth and appearance of a pure Golden puppy The growth and appearance of a pure Golden puppy are clearly showing that you will expect the puppy to turn out looking the same right from its temperament, color, size and the texture of its fur. Interestingly, not every purebred dog has exactly the same temperament because of minor variances from one individual and another. Another common feature of purebred Golden Retriever lies in its price. To purchase a pure puppy, you are likely to pay a hefty price. The reason why they may be quite expensive is that breeders must cover lots of expenses. These major expenses include medical expenses, stud charges, vaccinations and food and they must be somewhat recovered. Proper documentation for your dog As mentioned on the onset, selective breeding of purebred dogs should be supported with proper documentation. A dog with papers means the puppy has been registered with a specific registry. It is advisable to make a follow-up and register the puppy yourself by paying a fee and mailing out a registration application. Online registration can be done if you are planning to register with the American Kennel Club. When a Golden puppy is older and has been registered already, the breeder must ensure you are given the registration certificate. At this point, it means the dog ownership is transferred to you officially. Good breeders should know all of that by heart. Another important factor to consider is that dogs with papers do not necessarily mean that a puppy is healthy or with a stable temperament. A Golden puppy with papers could mean that is a product of selective breeding from valid bloodlines. To find a reputable breeder, effectively conduct adequate research and homework. How long do golden retriever puppies sleep at night Sleep is often overlooked when it comes to raising a healthy dog. Many owners go through tough times when it comes to sleeping habits of their Golden Retriever. A few helpful sleeping tips that handle such problems are highlighted below: Importance of Sleep Dogs tend to sleep a lot when they are idle. Human beings mostly sleep up to 8 hours, but Golden Retrievers can sleep longer than that. It is not surprising that they can even sleep in the middle of the morning just right after breakfast. In addition, they can be somehow active for some time until lunch then sleep for some hours in the afternoon. They can also have dinner or be playful, then call it a night and sleep for 8 more hours and wake up in time for breakfast the next morning. How much sleep do dogs need? Golden Retrievers sleep for about 10 to 12 hours daily and spend the rest of the time just laying around. Each dog has its own routine that personally affects how long they sleep. For instance, some are quieter and calm, and some are more restless, while others are more calm and sleepy saving energy to spend it all at once whenever possible. Sleeping tips for Golden Retrievers Choose a sleeping area for your Golden Retriever: First, establish a sleeping place for your dog on the first night whether it is a grown dog or a new puppy. It can be a crate or a kennel, as long as it is an elevated area with a nice blanket on it. As much as it calls for a nice and comfortable sleeping area, also train your dog to go to its sleeping place willingly. Your dog will eventually be more inclined to sleep on the prepared place and not on the floor. Don't do this to your dog. Never pick up your dog to get it to its sleeping space, because it will bring out a false association that the sleeping space is a bad experience to have. It is important to allow the dog to get used to his sleeping place before it can join you in bed. If you can keep off from sharing your bed with your dog, the better it is since he will be more reliable on its own and you will not have to regularly clean your bed. Place toys or treats on his sleeping area when needed and make sure it has enough good exercise, water and food for it to easily adjust to his new sleeping place. For the most part, this method will work on a very active golden Retriever. Ensure you are not over-exercising your dog if you notice that he has had enough exercise, stop and call it a night. Based in the Los Angeles, California metro area, Sheri has over 20 years of dog training experience and also runs a general dog training practice specializing in rehabilitating dogs through positive reinforcement training techniques. There are 15 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed , times. One of the most popular dog breeds, Golden Retrievers are known for their positive temperament and athleticism. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source and are commonly used for jobs such as guide dogs. This wikiHow will help you recognize key traits to determine whether or not a dog is a Golden Retriever. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Golden Retrievers are medium-sized dogs. Males are 23—24 inches 58—61 cm tall, weighing 65—75 pounds 29—34 kg , while females are .Golden Retrievers have rather short ears. The front edges are attached behind and just above the eyes. Go to source The tips fall close to the dog's cheeks and, if pulled over, should cover the eyes. A Golden Retriever's eyes are medium-large, and they can be either medium or dark brown with dark eye rims. Go to source They give the dog an intelligent, friendly expression. The tail of a Golden Retriever is thick and muscular at the base. It is carried level or moderately curved upward, though never curled or between the legs. Golden Retrievers have a muscular build with a strong back and straight legs. Go to source Their bodies are described as being symmetrical and well balanced, and they have a smooth, free gait. Golden Retrievers have firm and resilient outer coats and good undercoats. Go to source Their glossy coats can be either straight or wavy. Golden Retrievers are named for their golden coats. Their coats are a "rich, lustrous golden of various shades", [11] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club Expert knowledge, resources and advice for all things dog-related. Go to source which can range from a light cream color to a deep reddish gold. Like some other breeds, Golden Retrievers are seen with feathering. Feathering is defined as a "longer fringe of hair on ears, legs, tail, or body". Go to source This feathering, which appears on a Golden Retriever's legs, tail, neck, and underbody, may be lighter than the rest of the coat. Golden Retrievers have high energy levels and are active and athletic. These retrievers need regular exercise to stay satisfied. Golden Retrievers can develop deep bonds with their owners. Did you know? Golden Retrievers are a common breed employed to be therapy dogs. Their kind-hearted, loving, empathetic personalities are known for being able to calm people of all ages. If they're not occupied, Golden Retrievers can easily become bored. It is important that they have things to do to prevent this. Golden Retrievers are reliable dogs. With proper socialization, this trait allows them to make great family pets, and they can be trusted around children with supervision. Some breeds don't do well with other pets, but Golden Retrievers are typically adaptable. Many Golden Retrievers can live peacefully with other animals, such as cats. Go to source It can be difficult to tell Goldens apart from these other retrievers, but if you familiarize yourself with the differences between them, it can be easier to tell whether or not a dog is a Golden Retriever. Go to source One noticeable difference between the breeds is that Chessies have wavy fur that is dense, thick, and short. Go to source A Chessie's coat is brown, resembling nature to blend in, though one may have minimal white markings on the feet or stomach. Go to source They are brave, love water, and are willing to work. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also called a Toller, is a retriever of unknown breeding origin, but it was bred to hunt ducks. Go to source Tollers are smaller than Goldens, being the smallest of the retriever breeds. Go to source They have mostly straight, red coats that range from golden red to a deep coppery red, with white markings on the tail tip, feet, chest, or blaze. Go to source Tollers are quick, alert, and determined, and they may even have a slightly worried or sad expression when they aren't working. Flat-Coated Retrievers are also called Flat-Coats and were bred in the mids. Go to source They are fairly similar in size to Goldens but have long, flat muzzles. Go to source Flat-Coats have straight, flat-lying coats that can be either solid black or solid liver. Go to source They are sensible, alert, and cheerful. Curly-Coated Retrievers, or Curlies, are among the oldest of the retrievers. Go to source Curlies are larger than Goldens, weighing as much as 60—95 pounds 27—43 kg. Go to source They have unique wedge-shaped heads, and, as their name suggests, coats consisting of short, tight curls, which come in solid black and solid liver. Go to source Curlies are gentle, affectionate, and more independent than Goldens. The Labrador Retriever, or Lab, is another popular retrieving breed. Labs are roughly the same size as Goldens, though they have a larger scale height- and weight-wise. Go to source Labs can be seen in colors other than gold - their coats can be solid yellow, brown, or black. Go to source Golden Retrievers are typically calmer than Labs. Conclusion It is hard not to love a purebred golden retriever. They're affectionate, loyal, adaptable, love to play, easy to train , and are great family dogs. People of all ages adore them. Before going to a pet shop or breeder, you should be able to identify a pure breed golden retriever. Some of the reliable means of identification include: Proper Documentation and pedigree This is the most reliable method of identification. It shows that the pup has already been registered with a specific registry. Documentation indicates that the pup qualified for Documentation because its parents have been registered with the registries. AKC certified pedigree contains: The Dog's name and registration number. Colors and markings. Any health-related information available. As the owner, you should take the precaution of making a follow-up and registering your pup yourself. All you need to do is pay the fee and mail out a registration application. You can only claim full ownership of the pup after the breeder has handed over the papers to you. The pedigree is like the pup's family tree and usually dates back to at least four generations and contains the registered names of its ancestors. Although pedigrees are reliable, there are other ways to identify a pure breed golden retriever and adopt one of those lovelies for yourself, even if there are no papers. After all, the absence of paperwork doesn't make a pure breed golden retriever less so. Appearance While many retrievers can look alike, pure breed golden retrievers have features unique only to them and can't be found in other retrievers. They're usually muscular and considered symmetrical with a strong back and straight legs, with smooth, free gait. Take their ears, for example; golden retrievers have short ears that can also fold over. Their ears are always located behind their eyes and just above the eyes. The tips fall over to the cheeks and can be pulled to cover their eyes. Purebreed golden retrievers also have medium to large-sized eyes colored within the range of slightly brown to dark brown and dark rims. This feature makes golden retrievers look intelligent. And don't forget the tail. Pure breed golden retrievers have thick tails that are muscular at the base, with the end of the tail slightly curved upwards. You won't find a golden retriever's tail completely curled it tucked between its legs. The length usually varies from 4 to 12inches. Examine the coat Another way to identify a golden retriever is through its coat. First, the coat must be dense and waterproof. Golden retrievers have a substantial amount of dense water repellent outer coat with a thick warm coat underneath. Their coats can either be wavy or straight. You should also note the color of their coat. Golden retrievers are a rich lustrous gold in different shades ranging from dark golden, light golden, cream golden, red golden, and white gold. Golden retrievers also have feathering on their legs, tail, neck, and underbody and are lighter than the rest of the coat. Temperament Although in varying degrees, pure breed golden retrievers exhibit the same unique behavioral traits and characters. To confirm if the puppy is a golden retriever, you can check how active the pup is. Golden retrievers are very athletic and active; they need long hours of regular exercise before they can be satisfied, so rarely will you see a gentle golden retriever. Although, if they don't have things to be occupied with, they're often bored. Also, golden retrievers are fiercely loyal to their owners and the people they spend the most time with. They're also adaptable as they can live in peace with other animals and are trustworthy, so they make great family pets. Try to look out for these qualities in the pup, as it'll help you identify if it's a pure breed golden retriever or not. Price Purebred golden retrievers are usually pricey than other dogs. This reason for their expensive amounts is because of the extremely high demand for these dogs. If you're looking to adopt a purebred, you should be willing to spend a lot provably to get one. The Different Purebred Golden Retriever Breeds When buying a purebred golden retriever, you should be aware that there are three different types of the purebred golden retriever, namely the Canadian Golden Retriever, the American Golden Retriever, and the British Golden Retriever. However, the three breeds have similar temperaments, personalities, health, and quality of life. Each has distinct features that differentiate the three breeds, although the differences are negligible. Canadian Golden Retrievers Of the three breeds of the purebred golden retriever, this breed is most unique. The Canadian Golden retriever is usually taller than other breeds, it has an average of 2inches on them, and its hair is also shorter and slightly thinner. It is the most handsome of the three breeds. American Golden Retrievers This breed is slightly leaner than its counterparts. It is also not as strong as the other two breeds. Their fur coats are also darker, although they're the same height as the British breed. You can also identify the American breed with its eyes, the pupils if this breed is not fully rounded but rather slanty, forming a sort of triangular-shaped pupils. They've also colored a lighter shade of brown. Although they're pretty shorter than the Canadian breed, they're equally as strong. British golden retrievers have more powerful front legs and broader skulls than their counterparts, and their eyes are colored a darker shade of brown. How To Care For A Purebred Golden Retriever There's still work to do after buying a purebred golden retriever; you should get acquainted with the fact that golden retrievers have living needs that must be satisfied to have a happy, healthy pet. Golden retrievers do not like to be alone; these beautiful creatures cherish companionship more than anything. They love to be seen as a member of the family and treated as such. So its vital you learn how to socialize your puppy with other dogs and humans as well. They're especially great in homes with kids as they are entirely comfortable with the noise, commotion, and non-stop activities children like to involve in. Besides, they are tolerant of other pets, so if you're a cat lover as well, you shouldn't worry about your two pets not getting along. Rabbits, other dogs, or pets are also safe with them. Also, they love playing a lot outdoors. Feeding is essential to retrievers, although their owners should help manage their food intake as they tend to be overweight. Food should be measured and served twice daily, and you should give dog treats moderately. Exercising is also vital, and retrievers are supposed to exercise at least once daily. They have to let off a lot of steam through several activities, or else they direct their energies to unappealing behaviors like digging and chewing. And if you are getting golden, be warned that they shed terribly, and you shouldn't be surprised to find fur even in the worst places. You can help reduce shedding by brushing them regularly. This way, you can detangle their fur and get rid of dead hair before it gets attached to available surfaces. Monthly baths are also recommended. Although, ensure your goldie is completely dry before brushing it. You should have their nails trimmed regularly, about twice a month if you don't want them tearing into stuff. Their teeth should also be brushed periodically, about two to three times a week. Their ears fold over, creating an environment for organisms to grow, so ear care is vital. Watch out for signs of infections and clean their ears with cotton balls soaked in pH-balanced ear cleaner to reduce the risk of diseases. Purebred golden retrievers are generally healthy and live for about years. But when compared to other dogs, they risk having hip dysplasia and cancer. They are also at risk of other conditions like cataracts, hypothyroidism, allergies, and other diseases. Regular checks up should be done to keep them in perfect health. Conclusion Purebred golden retrievers are fine animals suitable as pets by people of all ages, and now that you know what to look out for when choosing one, you should adopt one of these puppies and get you a pet to love that loves you back. More Dogs. Every question you have about selecting the perfect Golden Retriever Puppy will be answered right here and right now! What if a Golden Retriever Puppy has no Pedigree? Some breeders or pet shops may tell you a puppy is a pure-bred but has no papers. They would not be telling a lie, as the definition of purebred is simply that both parents are the same dog breed. Additionally, you have no health record for your pup from before his birth. The health issues are certainly passed down through canine DNA! Aside from not knowing if any health problems are inherent for your puppy, a pedigree is only essential if you plan to make your dog a show-dog, or if you plan on one day breeding your dog to sell purebred puppies. However, one quality that they will share is that they are single-colored. This color distinction is often attributed to separating the American Golden Retriever and the English Golden Retriever. A cream-colored Golden Retriever is often slimmer in physique, with a greater variance between the male and female of the breed. The color is not rare, and the range is wide for variation of the cream color, but again, the dog will be all one color. Additionally, his body will be more compact and streamlined. Rather, it is an extremely pale variation of the cream-color. A Golden Retriever puppy who appears to be pure white will exhibit tinges of cream or gold as the puppy matures. By the time you purchase or rescue your puppy, he will have already had a set of vaccinations and his first de-worming treatment or more. When is the puppy due for his next medical exam? What food is the puppy currently eating? To avoid possible stomach upset in your new puppy I would recommend you begin feeding him the food he has been eating since being weaned at about eight weeks of age. There was a Rottweiler on my mind when I wrote it, but the information certainly applies to any dog breed! Having a small piece of his bedding or something else that may have the scent of his usual surroundings can provide the puppy with much comfort as he makes the adjustment into his new home. Each year in the United States alone, more than , dogs are euthanized annually for the simple reason of not being wanted! For this reason, please consider a shelter puppy or a rescue puppy. There are two ways to observe your potential puppy. Is he the bully or is he being bullied? Is he playing socializing with the other dogs, or keeping to himself, away from the fray? Is he skittish or friendly? Full of lively energy or mellow? It does seem like the puppy is selecting his human in much the same way we select a puppy! Even a pup with a mellow temperament will exhibit the traits of puppy-playfulness and abandon. A lethargic puppy is a clear indicator that this is NOT the puppy for you. Something is wrong, physically or emotionally. Even a sleeping puppy should quickly respond with playfulness upon awakening. Next, pick up the puppy and inspect it. Cloudy and non-responsive eyes are indicators of a bigger problem. Keep shopping. Continue searching if you see these problems. A puppy with discharges is NOT the puppy to buy. His belly should be chubby, but not distended or sensitive to your touch. Any foul smells, old feces, bugs or otherwise unsanitary conditions should propel you right back out the front door! Any aversion the seller has to providing you with all the information you request should also propel you right back through the door! The seller has every bit of this information. If they are reluctant to share it, they are likely hiding something important. A breeder should happily facilitate a tour of the facilities for you to see how the puppy has been living. This should include letting you see the puppy interacting with its mother. If you are kept away from the kennel area of a breeder, this is a red flag! Do Some Research: In these days of instant information, there is no excuse to skip doing the research on any pet shop or breeder you are contemplating! Read the reviews from people who bought their puppies there. Read the complaints, and take note of how the pet shop or breeder handled the concerns or complaints. How Interesting! Before Bringing Your Golden Retriever Puppy Home I struggled with whether to put this section toward the top or bottom of this article and here it is, at the bottom! The time to prepare your home and heart for a puppy is before you rescue or purchase one. Please make sure to consider everything listed below before you bring a puppy home. Here is a handy check-list of questions to answer that will make your transition and adventure of puppy-ownership as smooth as possible: Do you have time for a dog? We live in days where schedules seem to be full from waking until the moment we drift off to sleep at night. For a dog to be healthy and well-behaved in his adulthood, he will need to have one-on-one attention for bonding, training, exercising, grooming, and proper socialization. You can count on this taking from one to two hours daily, although not necessarily all at once. Does your lifestyle allow the addition of a dog? Picture any given month in your life. He will need plenty of exercise time, and will likely delight in any outings for which he is included. Golden retrievers are known for being social and friendly unless they feel threatened. Are breed or weight restrictions going to be a problem where you live? At maturity, a Golden Retriever will stand from inches tall cm and weigh from pounds kg. Please note, the females of the species tend toward the lower ends of the ranges given. Have you counted the cost? Ongoing medical care will be necessary, too, for the life of your dog. Add to that food, safety equipment like leashes, collars, harnesses, or muzzles training, and some toys for entertaining your best four-legged buddy, and you now have a new entry in your monthly budget. Please count the cost! Is your home pet-friendly? You should also be aware that certain houseplants are toxic to pets! The ASPCA has compiled a complete list of plants that are poisonous to dogs, and you can view it right here. I found a great brand on Amazon and had it delivered to my doorstep! You can grab some right here. Food and Water Bowls: These can come from right out of your cabinet, or you can purchase a set. Safety Equipment: Every dog needs a safety leash and a collar or harness. You should also keep a muzzle on hand, not because your dog is mean, but because he is a dog. Toys for Entertainment and for saving your slippers! Help him to satisfy that need without misbehaving by having toys that are just for him! This assortment is a great way to start. Caring for a puppy is NOT for the faint-hearted! It takes time, dedication, and more patience than you may have imagined. The Golden Retriever breed is loving and loyal, energetic and clever, and will love you more than he loves himself. I wish you all the best as you begin this wonderful journey and do stop back by the Big Dog Den soon! Recent Posts.
Grooming will have to be a priority for this dog. Stay on top of all that hair by brushing your dog weekly. A mid to large sized dog, the Aussiedor is best suited for a house with enough yard space to get plenty of exercise. As mentioned above the Australian Shepherd Lab Mix can weigh anywhere from 40 to 80 lbs 22 to 36 kg and reach 22 to 25 inches 56 to 64 cm in height. The Australian Shepherd is also recognized as a loving family dog, particularly around children. Herding genes mean protectiveness, so this is something to watch for with an Australian Shepherd Labrador mix. Separation anxiety can be a factor. Nonetheless, these genes make a great therapy dog and both parent breeds are known to excel in these working roles. The ease of trainability is high, as this mix has an impressive IQ and loves a good mental or physical challenge to get those juices flowing. Positive reinforcement will keep her motivated to please and socialization will help soften herding instincts when it comes to the presence of strangers and other pets. Check out this video that showcases some vital techniques used to train an Australian Shepherd Labrador mix. You will need to challenge her because if not, she will challenge your belongings to a game of bite and chew. Spend an hour each day playing fetch, frisbee or going for a long walk. Labradors are known to be phenomenal swimmers, which could mean the same for your Australian Shepherd Labrador mix. If you have a pool, make a splash to burn off extra energy. For rainy days, keep interactive toys handy, such as doggie puzzles, that work the brain. Aussidors Have a Big Appetite This breed is not one to miss a meal. They have a big appetite, but also have a tendency to pack on the pounds, so keep meals on a schedule. Opt for calorie-dense dry dog food that is high in protein. Feed your adult Aussiedor 3 to 4 cups of food per day, divided into 2 meals. This is the belief that hybrids tend to be harder than the purebred parents due to a broader gene pool. Of course, as with any species of animal, there are a handful of health issues to stay informed about. You should always be prepared to ask breeders questions about health issues and they should be able to provide clearances from the vet. These are the most common Australian Shepherd Labrador mix health issues to be aware of. Elbow dysplasia: Growth abnormalities in the elbow causing painful mobility. Hip dysplasia : Abnormalities in the hips that are painful and hinder mobility. Muscular dystrophy: A disease that causes progressive weakness and loss of muscle. Collie eye anomaly: An inherited disease that aggravates the bilateral eye and can cause blindness. Progressive retinal atrophy: Degeneration of the retina that can cause vision loss. Cataracts: An opacity in the eye lens that impairs vision. Bloat: When gas causes the stomach to be distended, putting pressure on the diaphragm. Not to mention how adorable they look! Please oh please beware of puppy mills, though! With puppy mill dogs, puppy health is known to be poor. Do you have a pencil ready? Write down the following tips and keep them close to your heart when seeking out Aussiedor puppies for sale. Remember: good breeders should be dog lovers Breeding dogs is something that takes passion and love. Unfortunately, there are those few slime balls looking to bag a quick buck by exploiting the innocent. Here are 4 signs to look out for: A breeder should be an open book. Never make an online transaction. Ask to visit the location where the puppies were born and live. If a breeder declines, take it as a red flag and shop elsewhere. What do they have to hide? Puppy mill breeders will want to hustle fast, offering transactions that can be made online and charging cheaper prices than the average. Do your research on what the average cost is. Beware of breeders that make guarantees. For instance, if a breeder claims that their Aussiedor puppies will grow to a certain height or act a specific way, move on to the next one. Remember, no one can make predictions on how a hybrid will turn out. Here are some helpful sources to locate Australian Shepherd Lab Mix for adoption. Temperament: Exuberant, outgoing and friendly. Australian Shepherd Lab Mix Appearance As a cross their appearance can vary greatly between a nice mix of the two, or can lean more towards one parent or the other. The same thing can be said about their size with some being a heavier set like the Labrador or others being leaner like Aussies. Aussiedors are generally broad-shouldered and solid in structure with the broad face and large head of a Labrador. Their ears hang low and their tail is relatively long compared to the body. Size Once fully grown you can expect them to stand 25 inches tall, although they can be as short as 18 inches. As for weight it should range between pounds. Colors Despite the fairly basic colors of its parents, the Aussiedor is quite the rainbow dog. They come in nearly every color imaginable! The most common colors for this mix include bicolor black and white , tricolor black, tan and white , blue or red merle, tan, black and tan, spotted, speckled or brindle. Coat Their coat can be a mixture of types thanks to the difference of coat between Australian Shepherds and Labradors. It can either be straight or somewhat wavy and length can vary too. No matter how it may look all coats are typically dense and repel water like Labradors. Both the Labrador and the Australian Shepherd are heavy shedders, and the Aussiedor is no different — in fact, they usually shed even more than their parents. If you do not like finding fur everywhere, the Aussiedor may not be the dog for you. Their devotion to their family means they are also prone to separation anxiety. It is likely they will have the herding instincts of their Australian Shepherd parent. The wide range of colors means they can have numerous different markings. Aussiedors make excellent family dogs and adore children. Due to their easy going nature, they do not make the best guard dog. They are loyal to their people, kind and gentle with children and friendly to people that it knows. Some Australian Shepherd Lab mixes might lean more towards their Aussie side and be cautious around strangers, whereas others will lean more towards their Lab side. As a general rule though they tend to lean towards the easy-going attitude of the Labrador Retriever. Both Australian Shepherds and Labradors are high energy breeds, meaning that this cross is no different. They need lots of physical stimulation every day to keep them occupied and plenty of toys to play with. These dogs can easily play and run around for hours on end without breaking a sweat so make sure you have plenty of room and time to exercise them. They also excel at dog sports, including flyball, agility, and other active sports. They are not big barkers although they will bark to alert the family to anyone coming up to the house, or sometimes when they play. One important thing to know is they can sometimes have the herding instincts of the Australian Shepherd and attempt to herd small children or small animals. Fortunately, they are incredibly smart and are easily trained out of these undesirable behaviors. These dogs make excellent companions for families. Labradors are generally amazing with kids and also great with strangers and Australian Shepherds are similar although they can be more aloof. This creates a nice mix that adores children and playing, but can also be a bit protective of their family. Caring for an Australian Shepherd Lab Mix The Aussiedor is an amazing companion but their exercise and grooming requirements are not for busy adults. These dogs need a lot of time to be able to run around and be brushed. Even more, brushing will be needed if they have a coat that is similar to the Australian Shepherd. However, their easy-going nature makes them a perfect companion for novice dog owners or someone looking for their next competition dog. They are also amazing dogs with children which means there is almost no family that this dog does not fit with. Remember these dogs do not do well living in an apartment and some even have issues living in suburbs. Exercise Requirements As both their parent breeds are high energy your Australian Shepherd Lab mix will also be high energy. They can handle living in the suburbs with a fenced-in yard to play in along with daily walks, although they thrive on farms or larger properties with a job. At least two walks a day are needed for the Aussiedor. Just a walk around the block will not be enough for this dog, they need to be off-leash with space to run around. They will also need time to play when you get back home. Agility is a great game to teach and a great way to burn their energy out. Number of Walks Per Day: .Grooming and Shedding The biggest downfall to this incredible breed is the grooming and shedding responsibilities. Both Australian Shepherds and Labradors shed a lot, so the Aussiedor is no exception. Although their coat will blow out in the spring and fall, you should still be prepared for a lot of shedding throughout the rest of the year. At the very least the Shepherd Lab mix needs to be brushed weekly, although this should increase to every couple days during shedding season. Brushing your dog regularly and blowing out their coat if they have the longer fur of an Aussie can help control the extreme shedding. Shorter coat variations also do well with a damp washcloth being run over their coat to remove any excess fur. Feeding and Diet Just like their Labrador parent, the Aussiedor is prone to eating everything in sight and putting on weight. So with this pooch, you need to keep a close eye on their weight. A high-quality, calorie-rich, dry dog food is best for this breed. You might also need to use a slow eater bowl since they are prone to bloat. Australian Shepherds tend to live for about nine years, while Labradors typically live for closer to twelve. Thanks to the hybrid vigor, you can expect Aussiedors to live closer to about twelve years. Regardless both breeds are very smart and pick up on things quickly. They respond best to positive reinforcement especially if they lean more towards the Aussie. Aggressive methods such as pinch collars should be avoided as it will cause your Aussiedor to shut down and become disinterested in learning. Make sure to stick with only light corrections. As with any dog, socialization is an important part of doggy training when the Australian Shepherd Lab is young, but not as important as some other breeds. By nature, this is an easy-going dog that gets along well with everyone including kids, cats, and sometimes even strangers. They need their fair share of mental stimulation so you can set up a few jumps — training their agility is a great way to meet both their physical and mental stimulation needs. These dogs are physical athletes and they love being able to perform. 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. They are not purebreds like their Australian Shepherd or Labrador Retriever parents. The main colors of Australian Shepherd Lab Mixes are brown, cream, black, tan, and brindle. They are often a blend and mix of any of these colors. These dogs are generally not recommended for people with allergies. They tend to shed quite a bit. Australian Shepherd Lab Mixes can be very tolerant of children, but like all dogs, should be supervised when around youngsters. They may try to herd small children thinking they are part of their flock. Australian Shepherd Labs do get along with other dogs but it is important to socialize puppies. This gets them used to other dogs and also to people, although they are also affectionate to strangers. These pups like to stay active through the day. If they get bored, they could become destructive. They enjoy activities like frisbee, swimming, hiking, and walking. If you need a running partner, the Aussie Shepherd Lab could be your new coach. Australian Shepherd Lab Mix History The Australian Shepherd Lab mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Australian Shepherd and Labrador Retrievers in the late s, likely in North America. Today they make great companions and guide dogs, and often work as drug detection dogs. They need to have jobs and are happiest when they are active. They were originally bread to herd cattle and need to stay active. The Aussie Shepherd Lab mix was bread to be a super working dog. Mixing two breeds also minimizes health issues that tend to affect pure breeds, as they are often inbred. Breeders continued to create Australian Shepherd Lab Mixes as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Australian Shepherd Lab Mix got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the pup for you. Check your local shelters, look up Australian Shepherd Lab Mix rescues, or check with breed specific Australian Shepherd and Labrador Retriever rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breed dogs. That said, as a mix between Australian Shepherd and Labrador Retriever parents, you can expect Australian Shepherd Lab Mixes to be in the medium size range. Most weigh in at 40 to 80 pounds and range in height from 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder. However, many can be smaller or larger than average. Many Australian Shepherd Lab Mix lovers describe their dogs as protective, loyal, athletic companions. They are medium in size and full of energy and with lots of love to give. One thing Australian Shepherd Labs are not good at is being alone for long periods of time. Without the companionship they need—as well as exercise and the chance to put their intelligence to work—they become bored and frustrated. Like every dog, the Australian Shepherd Lab needs early socialization. Lots of walks and outings to local parks can help with this. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Australian Shepherd Labs are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Opt for cotton balls over q-tips. Due to their floppy ears they are prone to infection. They should be checked weekly for redness or a strong odor. This may indicate signs of an infection. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One main concern when it comes to your Australian Shepherd Labs care will be maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as this breed is prone to tartar buildup. Dental chews can also help combat the plaque buildup. How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Australian Shepherd Lab diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs—including weight, energy, and health—to make a specific recommendation. They tend to shed quite a bit, if you are not familiar with robotic vacuums, consider looking into a RoboVac. These pups will require a few good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. Australian Shepherd Lab mixes have a water resistant top coat and a warm undercoat. They are resilient in rain and snow. They can be very tolerant of children, but like all dogs, should be supervised when around youngsters. Always teach kids how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. Socialization teaches puppies how to behave and greet other dogs. Find out if this is the right dog for you by learning about their Australian Shepherd and Labrador Retriever parents. However, you may want to try Australian Shepherd or Labrador Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. The Australian Shepherd Lab Mix, affectionately known as an Aussiedor, is a strong and playful, medium-sized dog breed with a solid build. The Aussiedor is a mixed breed dog from cross-breeding a purebred Australian Shepherd with a purebred Labrador Retriever. Designer dogs come in a variety of coat colors and types, depending on the genes and appearance of the parent breeds. This hybrid dog breed has a striking appearance with expressive almond-shaped eyes and is highly intelligent, active, and hardworking. An Aussiedor puppy makes an adorable family pet and companion for any dog owner that wants a high energy pooch. Fact: The Australian Shepherd dog did not originate in Australia as the name suggests. It actually originated as a herding dog in the 19th Century to work on ranches in the West of the United States of America. This loveable dog is known from its roles in Cowboy and Western-type movies as the herding dog on the ranch. Over time, the Aussie has developed a reputation as a strong and intelligent working dog that is easily trainable. It has, therefore, has been used successfully, for many decades, as a herding dog and shepherd dog, a service dog, a protection dog, and in a variety of search and rescue jobs. The Aussie has a high energy level with a herding instinct and is happiest when it is being kept very active and where it knows what it has to do. This is not your average couch potato pooch but it can be a happy family dog as long as it is kept busy. The Labrador Retriever dog is from Newfoundland, Canada. Possibly as early as the s, they were used by fishermen to retrieve fish from nets and catch those that escaped back into the sea. They are all good swimmers and have a gentle mouth grip that will not damage the prey they are ordered to retrieve. This dog breed came to Great Britain around .The 5th Duke of Buccleuch, a British Aristocrat, heard about their retrieving skills and is believed to have been one of the first people to import the Labrador Retriever dog from Newfoundland, Canada. He did this because he wanted a smart working dog on his estate on the Scotland Borders. He wanted to use them as gun dogs for retrieving the wild ducks he shot on his estate. Another British Aristocrat, the 2nd Earl of Malmesbury, was also a fan of Newfoundland retrieving dogs for hunting and quickly noticed their skill for retrieving waterfowl on land and in water. In , the new 6th Duke of Buccleuch met the new 3rd Earl of Malmesbury on a shoot and realized their mutual respect for these skilled hunting and retrieving dogs. The Earl then gifted two of his male Labrador retriever dogs to the Duke, who then used two of his female labs to begin breeding more and this is believed to have continued the pure Newfoundland lab bloodline we still see today in our Labrador Retrievers. The lab is simply an adorable and gentle dog that makes the ideal family pet. Its fun-loving and loyal nature, and easy-going temperament, makes it suitable for any age of dog owner or living environment. Meet the offspring: The hybrid offspring of these two purebred dogs is the Australian Shepherd Lab mix puppy — the Aussiedor puppy. Fact: Designer dogs are increasing in popularity and so is the trend to give them a cute combo name that reflects a bit of both parent names. The Aussiedor puppy will inherit characteristics from both parents. What are the main characteristics of an Australian Shepherd Lab Mix? Like any other crossbreed, the Australian Shepherd Lab Mix can inherit the characteristics of either parent or both. Crossbred dogs are no more likely to inherit health issues than purebred dogs; in fact, it is believed they may actually be stronger. Any puppy mix dog can inherit all, some or none of the health issues its parent breeds have. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent more than the other. The characteristics of an Aussiedor are a combination of nature and nurture: genetics of the parents, the environment and the quality, type and amount of training and socialization. The Aussiedor — possible coat colors Both parents have a double coat: a water-resistant topcoat and a warm undercoat. Therefore the Aussiedor will inherit the same double coat. Fact: The merle gene is associated with health problems and if both parents have this dangerous gene it can cause various eye diseases and deafness in their offspring. Fortunately for this Australian Shepherd mix , its Labrador Retriever parent does not carry this gene. Loyalty and companionship The Aussie Lab is a relatively new breed. Given its parent mix, it will be extremely loyal with a loving temperament when trained and socialized properly. It will make a very caring and protective companion, and crave company and inclusion. It needs to have company and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. Reputation: This breed is kind and gentle. Both parents have herding instincts so the Aussiedor is likely to inherit these instincts too. This means it will want to work and herd, so it needs to be trained and socialized early to prevent young children and other family pets from becoming part of its herd! They have a reputation as a high energy breed that can be gentle but can inherit the cautious nature of the Aussie and be a little aloof with strangers. It is not known as an aggressive dog but needs to be kept occupied or it can be mischievous. Trainability: The Aussiedor puppy needs to be trained and socialized as early as is will inherit a herding instinct and be highly active. This mixed breed is protective and could be occasionally aggressive with strangers. They may attempt to take over and herd small children and smaller pets so they need to be controlled. The trainability of this very intelligent breed should be quite easy as it is a working type dog. Positive reinforcement and small treats will work well but not harsh discipline, or any form of negative punishment or physical restraint as it may rebel. Power and intelligence: This mixed breed dog is very intelligent, strong, and active with a herding and working drive. It will enjoy and need working challenges incorporating mental and physical stimulation, but it will be curious and want to investigate the other side of the fence. Socialization: Early socialization and discipline are strongly recommended for any crossbred dog that has a herding and working dog heritage. Any type of hybrid dog with two intelligent parents will be strong-willed and need to be active and occupied. They will not want a sedentary lifestyle and will enjoy as much exercise and action as the owner can provide. When trained and socialized this mixed breed dog will be approachable and friendly around children and other animals. Purpose: Any herding or working dog will want to be useful and please its owner. Behavior: The Australian Sheprador is agile, active, and can be strong-willed so it needs to be trained early as it can easily and will become destructive or mischievous. When trained it will be a playful and friendly companion and family pet. Physical Characteristics of the Australian Shepherd Lab Mix This dog has an unusual appearance, with striking eyes, sometimes even different colors, and a beautiful coat. Both male and female tend to follow the same growth patterns in terms of size and weight. Unlike some breeds where males can grow to a larger size. Size: The Aussiedor is a medium sized dog. Eye problems like cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and retinal dysplasia Hip and elbow dysplasia Osteochondritis Hypothyroidism To make sure that your pup is healthy, take it to the vet the moment it arrives home. It should be tested against the genes that cause hereditary cataracts. He must receive nutrition that is ideal for its build and weight. As much as possible, your dog should maintain a perfect and healthy weight. Giving your dog treats is the number one cause of obesity and being overweight. If you want to train your dog and reward it for good behavior, use positive reinforcement instead. The following dog food is the best for Australian Shepherd Lab mix breeds: 1. It is also made from brown rice, sweet potatoes, apples, spinach, carrots and more. It also comes with vitamins, minerals, and supplements that can help your dog burn fat more efficiently. It does not contain coarse grains but is made from wholesome ingredients and has a high-protein formula. It is the best food for highly-energetic dogs that are prone to digestive problems. Canidae Grain-Free Pure Sky Dog Food This mixed breed may come with digestive issues and allergies; therefore, this dog food may help your dog reduce these medical conditions. This will help maintain muscle mass and healthy digestion. Not all human food is good for dogs. Avoid the following food as much as possible: Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Chocolate, coffee, and tea Onions, chives, and garlic Salty foods and junk food You want your dog to have a healthy life, full of joy and happiness. The owners should try to provide them for their pups, but at the same time stay away from worst dry dog food. Puppies need energy for their active social life so take a look at our list of best puppy food brands. Dog-grandpas who prefer to stay home and watch TV might enjoy best senior dry dog food. Your pup inherits lots of genes from their lovely parents so you can try out best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food and see if any of them sticks. This dog needs you for mental and physical stimulation. It requires a lot of time for exercise and play. If this is not met, your dog could become bored and could become destructive. Activities, like running, jogging, Frisbee and fetch, are good activities to do every day. Take your dog to a playground or dog park where you can play with your dog in a safe environment. This mixed breed loves to swim owing to its Labrador Retriever roots. You can take this to a lake or dog pool where it can master its diving, fetching and retriever talents. Invest in the following durable toys for your dog. This rope toy is durable and will never break or tear. Your dog will love to play with this toy again and again. You can play all kinds of games indoors or outdoors with this durable toy. Ultra Rubber Ball Dog Toy Durable and will last forever, this ball dog toy is made from rubber and is safe for your dogs. You can play catch, fetch or any game or play outdoors with this soft toy. It is straightforward to train this dog, and with the following techniques, you can prepare this breed quickly, efficiently and safely. Give Your Dog Positive Reinforcement Food treats can cause obesity and other medical conditions which can cause the life and health of your dog. Instead of treats, offer encouraging words, pats, and hugs and play with your dog. You may also provide his favorite toy instead of treats. As soon as it arrives home, teach it house proofing rules. Show where he will eat, sleep and where it will find its food and water. Your little one may not get it right away, but with constant training, he will do just well. Therefore it would be best to train your dog new tricks by doing this indoors or in a familiar and safe environment. You may train it in your backyard or indoors and then gradually move outdoors once he is more comfortable and less distracted. A Lab Australian Shepherd dog may get professional training to become service dogs, herding dogs or guard dogs. An expert may train your dog for obedience training, protection training, attack training and other special tricks he can perform daily. But aside from its endearing and loving nature, it can also be used as a guard dog. This dog is brave and will guard its flock no matter what happens. This dog loves to play with kids and will herd them if they are not herding sheep or livestock. This dog will be patient and will like to be with other dogs and pets at home. The Lab Australian Shepherd should socialize with other dogs and people early. This should be done the soonest to prevent developing anti-social behaviors and aggression against people or other pets or dogs. Your Australian Shepherd Lab pup will become a disciplined, happy and healthy dog when caring for it and train it early. It should be exposed to other pets soon and receive ample hours of exercise and training daily. Australian Shepherd Lab mix puppies This mix is a smart, high-energy, high-shedding ball of fun. They require socialization due to guarding tendencies, and have some potential for inherited health issues, but they also have all the earmarks of a great pet. Today we will take a look at the pros and cons of the Australian Shepherd Lab mix. We do know more about the origins of the parent breeds. If you have a first generation Aussiedor, then her origins really start with Labs and Aussies. Even if your mixed pup is second generation or beyond, the history of the parent breeds can heavily inform the makeup of the individual dog. These retrievers were later mixed with Newfoundlands to produce the classic Lab that we recognize now. They are prized as hunting partners, service dogs and of course family pets. Aussies descend from sheep-herding dogs that are believed to have originated in the Pyrenees Mountains in Spain and France. However, the Australian Shepherd that we know today was refined in the United States. Today, Australian Shepherds are still used for herding in some areas, but many of them are beloved farm dogs. They accompany their owners on trail rides or farmers who are working crops. They are also popular family pets. Especially for people with small children and good-sized yards that allow games of fetch and chase! What To Expect From An Australian Shepherd Lab Mix Learning about the parent breeds can help us to understand the possible temperament, behaviors, and appearance of a mixed breed like the Aussiedor. Labs are a little taller, ranging up to .Aussies can range between 40 and 65 pounds, and Labs are usually slightly bigger, ranging from 55 to 85 pounds. A Labrador Australian Shepherd mix will likely be a medium-sized dog, falling somewhere in the range of the parent breeds. They have sturdy, athletic frames and happy wagging tails. What are some other options? A black Lab Australian Shepherd mix, for example, could have the dark fur of the Lab parent, the generally lighter solid coat of the Australian Shepherd, or a multicolored coat like many Aussies. Chocolate Labs are perhaps the most popular color variation in the very popular Labrador Retriever breed. But just as with the black Lab Australian Shepherd mix, no one can promise that your Aussiedor will have a chocolate coat. On top of that, chocolate Labs have a recessive gene, making them a more rare coloration. Yellow Labrador Retrievers are more common than chocolate Labs, but not as commonly seen as black Labs. So you may still find it tricky to track down an Australian Shepherd yellow Lab mix. Ultimately, whether you find a black Lab Australian Shepherd mix, an Australian Shepherd chocolate Lab mix, or an Australian Shepherd yellow Lab mix, the exact coloration is impossible to guarantee. Australian Shepherds also have something of a reputation, so your Labrador Australian Shepherd mix will shed prolifically. However, an Aussie double-coat will require a good bit more maintenance. You might consider using a slicker brush to prevent the coat from tangling, to get rid of dead hair, and to remove whatever debris that your pup picks up during the work or play day. This dog will need weekly brushing at minimum; an Aussiedor with an Aussie-type coat might benefit from regular trips to the groomer to keep his fur from matting. Australian Shepherd Lab Mix Temperament When it comes to temperament, the Australian Shepherd and Lab mix is most likely going to be a handful for novice dog owners. Both Labradors and Australian Shepherds are high-energy dogs that were bred to work. Australian Shepherd Lab Mix Personality Due to their strong herding and thus guarding instincts, some Australian Shepherds can be protective of their families. This may make them shy or a little bit aggressive around strangers. Socializing an Aussie from a young age may reduce the chances of their guarding instinct from showing up later. Conversely, Labrador Retrievers are usually NOT shy or reserved with strangers or other dogs although a few individuals may be so. They are generally very smiley and happy dogs that love anyone who will give them attention. Knowing whether an Aussiedor will act more like a Labrador possibly a bit jumpy and prone to following her nose or an Australian Shepherd very jumpy and possibly prone to nipping at heels is a coin toss. Socialization Socialization is important for all breeds, really. Training your dog to react well in new and different circumstances is part of raising a happy, well-behaved pet. Introduce your pup to different environments, people of all ages, and other animals. Training And Exercise Australian Shepherd Lab mix training is best carried out with positive methods. From day one, reward behaviors you want to see, like calmness, ignoring the wildlife and not jumping up. Keep that buy brain occupied. This mix is not a lap dog or a couch potato. They need lots of interaction and play time in order to be happy and both physically and mentally healthy. Exercise Requirements This mix will do well with a fenced-in yard for play time, but they will truly thrive on a farm or larger property that will give them a job to do. They are people-pleasers who will love being your best mate or farm hand! Australian Shepherd Lab Mix Health And Care Just like purebred dogs, hybrid dogs may also develop certain conditions based on their genetics. Labrador Health Labs are generally quite healthy for medium to large dogs, but they do have some potential for health problems, both inherited and acquired. Inherited issues include hip and elbow dysplasia and PRA. Labs are also prone to other problems that may crop up along the way, such as obesity, ear issues, and skin allergies. Australian Shepherd Health Australian Shepherds can be prone to hypothyroidism, or autoimmune thyroiditis. Lymphoma is also unfortunately common in Australian Shepherd dogs. According to a study published by the Journal of Veterinary Medicine, idiopathic primary epilepsy is commonly inherited in the Australian Shepherd breed. Dogs with the MDR1 mutation should not be given certain antibiotics, anti-cancer drugs, anti-diarrheal drugs, dewormers, pain medications, or tranquilizers. Mix Health Your Aussiedor could potentially inherit any of the health problems to which the parent breeds are prone. Both Australian Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are prone to hip or elbow dysplasia and cataracts. Make sure they both have good hip and elbow scores and a recent vet check. The Lab parent should also be PRA clear. Some sources suggest that the average Aussie lives between 12 and 15 years; however, one study found that the median age was closer to 9 years. In general, mixed breeds live a little longer than purebreds. So you could reasonably hope for your Aussiedor to have a life expectancy near the latter end of this spectrum. Shelter Dogs Fully grown rescue dogs have more reliable temperaments. When introducing a new adult dog into your home and neighborhood, be cautious around children and other animals until you can be secure in their behavior. Especially when you wish to purchase a puppy from a responsible breeder who uses genetic testing. The exact amount that you pay may also vary based on the parent stock, how much they are worth to the breeder, and the number of puppies available. Aussie Lab Sheprador. The resulting puppies can be a perfect mix of both parent breeds. Or they can take more after the Lab, or be a perfect replica of an Australian shepherd parent. The chance of predicting the exact appearance of a mixed breed dog is like winning the lottery! However, taking a closer look at both parents can give you some idea of what traits you can expect to see in your puppy. Size As a cross between a Labrador and an Aussie shepherd, you can expect your Aussiedor to be a medium-sized dog. Most are between 18 and 25 inches high at withers and weigh between 40 and 80 pounds when fully grown. Color Purebred Labrador retrievers have solid coats that can come in various shades of yellow, chocolate, and black. On the other hand, Australian shepherds are never solid and their coats come in a variety of different colors, including merle, black, red merle, red tricolor, blue merle, red, and black tricolor. Aussiedors often have brown, cream, black, tan, or brindle coats, but they can come in many other color combinations. When it comes to length, this mix can have a short or medium-long coat depending on which parent it takes after more. Being a double-coated breed, your mix will shed quite a bit all year long and blow their coat twice a year. The Aussiedor will keep you and your vacuum cleaner busy every single day of the year! Like any other designer hybrid, this mix inherits traits from two very different dog breeds. To get a better idea of what personality traits you can expect to see in your pooch, take a closer look at both its parents — the Lab and the Aussie. Furthermore, being a mix of two working breeds, your sheprador will have an impeccable work ethic with a strong desire to work. Eager to please, protective, and friendly, the Aussie sheprador has an endless supply of energy and is always in the mood to play. Being a highly athletic breed, this mix is best suited for active families with older children who will know how to play and interact with a dog. Keep in mind that your sheprador might inherit a strong herding instinct from its Australian shepherd parent. The Australian shepherd and Lab mix is a people-oriented and outgoing dog that likes to be involved in all family activities. And although Aussie shepherds are often kept in barns to be close to cattle, the Aussiedor prefers human company and should live indoors, close to their family. Activity Level Since both Labs and Aussie shepherds are highly energetic working breeds, it should come as no surprise that the Australian shepherd Lab mix is a bouncing ball of energy. This mix needs around two hours of strenuous activity every day; otherwise, they will quickly become bored and destructive. Running, swimming, cycling, hiking, and agility sports are all great ways to keep your pooch physically challenged and exercised. Also, if you have a chance to put your dog to work, go for it! Being a true working breed at heart, your pooch will enjoy having a job to do and will happily complete whatever task you give them. Caring For An Aussie Lab Mix Like any other dog, the sheprador requires proper care and attention to stay happy and healthy. Here are a few things you should pay attention to: Exercise As mentioned previously, shepradors have high exercise requirements and need around two hours of vigorous activity every day. Ideally, you should walk your pooch two to three times a day and also let them blow off some steam with activities such as running, swimming, or agility. Additionally, games such as fetch, flyball, and Frisbee are ideal for this mix since they keep your pup physically and mentally challenged at the same time. Intellectual Stimulation True to its parent breeds, the Aussie sheprador is one smart canine! Without proper mental stimulation, these intelligent dogs can easily become bored and frustrated. When bored, the good-natured Aussiedor turns into a menace that will chew, dig, and destroy your home and furniture. Companionship Aussie Labs are people-oriented and amiable dogs that crave human company. Without the companionship they need, Aussiedors can easily become depressed or develop separation anxiety. Due to their high social needs, this mix is best suited for large families and homes that are never completely empty. If you live alone and have long working hours, you should rethink getting this mix and consider a more independent dog breed. Grooming Australian shepradors usually have short or medium-long double coats that shed quite a bit. In terms of grooming, this mix is a high-maintenance breed. You should brush your Aussiedor five times a week to control the shedding and keep their coat clean and tangle-free. Bathe your dog once every two months or as needed using a mild, hypoallergenic dog shampoo. Aussiedors have floppy ears that easily trap dirt and are prone to frequent and painful ear infections. A sure sign your pooch needs to have its nails trimmed is if you hear them clicking on the floor. Diet Ideally, your Australian sheprador should eat food formulated for medium-sized breeds with high energy. How much food your dog needs will depend on its size, age, activity levels, and metabolism. Known Health Problems Although generally healthy Aussie Labs are predisposed to some of the same health problems that Labradors and Australian shepherds face. These include: Hip and elbow dysplasia: These are very painful conditions caused by malformation of the hip and elbow joints. Affected dogs usually experience mobility problems, lameness, and arthritis and must take pain meds during their lives. Cataracts: In Australian shepherds, hereditary cataracts start forming after two years of age and are caused by a gene mutation. This type of hereditary cataract leads to progressive vision loss. Life Expectancy Aussie shepradors have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. With proper care and regular veterinary checkups, many Aussiedors stay completely healthy well into their senior years. How To Train Your Australian Shepherd And Lab Mix As an offspring of two highly intelligent and trainable dog breeds, the Aussiedor is a very smart breed with a huge training potential. Like all other dogs, this mix reacts well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. In fact, it can only make matters worse and cause your pooch to shut down and be afraid of you. The people-loving and smart Aussiedor is eager to please and will learn obedience in no time with reward-based training. Start training your pooch as soon as you bring them home to help them grow into a well-behaved and obedient dog. Besides training, you should also start socializing your mix from a young age. If your mix takes more after its Australian shepherd parent, they might be wary of strangers. Exposing your pup to different people, sights, sounds, and smells from a young age will help them become friendlier and more accepting of other people and dogs. The Lab Aussie shepherd mix makes a wonderful pet to active people and outdoorsy families with older kids. Being a working dog breed, this mix is also suited for life on a ranch or a bustling farm. These highly energetic and athletic dogs need a job to do and prefer to be involved in all family activities. If you are an active person who can keep up with such an energetic dog and give it a job to do, the Aussiedor might just be the pup you are looking for. Before buying a pup, schedule an appointment to meet the mother and inspect the conditions the puppies are kept in. They will also be able to show health certificates for both parents and puppies. The exact price depends on a lot of factors including the breeder, your location, lineage, and coat color. Used by fishermen to catch fish and ducks, the Lab evolved into a universally loved family dog. Highly trainable and friendly, Labs make great service dogs for people with disabilities, and are also used as search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Australian Shepherd Despite what their name might suggest, the Australian shepherd was developed in the United States. Originally bred to herd livestock, Aussies make great family pets although they remain working dogs at heart. Loyal, protective, and smart, the Australian shepherd is one of the most energetic breeds you can find and is bound to keep you on your toes. The Lab Aussie shepherd mix makes a great pet to active people and families with older children. Highly energetic and agile, they should live in a large home with a fenced backyard, ranch, or farm. Not the one to sit idly, this mix needs an active owner that will know how to challenge them both physically and mentally. He was my first puppy as a an adult and as you might have guessed he was an Aussie Lab mix! Linus showed some of the above traits, but not all. His coat was more reminiscent of an Australian Shepherd which was longer, more fine, and very soft. Linus was an amazing dog. He could run with the best of them, but could also be very calm and focused. He had the herding instinct as we caught him rounding up the kids from time to time. All in all Linus had many of the traits mentioned above. I would not have considered him a high energy dog that required hours of exercise. He was fine and willing to run for hours, but also just as content curling up by your side while reading a book. Conclusion The Australian shepherd Lab mix can be a great pet and companion to active families with older kids and outdoorsy people. Highly energetic and smart, this mix will need a lot of physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and thrive. If so, what is your pooch like? Tell us more about your experiences owning this mix in the comment 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.
Also known as the Bull Pug, this medium-sized dog has a stocky and muscular build that is brought about by crossbreeding. Oftentimes, it is referred to as a miniature Bulldog because it is the spitting image of its parent. Note that this is just a nickname. This Pug Bulldog mix is the offspring of two popular dog breeds. You may be familiar with the English Bulldog and Pug because they are unique in terms of their physical appearance. English Bulldog History You probably know the English Bulldog as it is quite remarkable because of its wrinkled face. This medium-sized Mastiff-type dog traces its roots back to England, as its name suggests. Originally bred for bull-baiting in the s, the naturally nice English Bulldog was forced to be aggressive to fit this extreme sport. In bull-baiting, a dog is pitted against a bull inside a ring. After the ban of this sport in , breeders changed their attitude towards this breed and started to care for English Bulldogs so they may be good canine companions. Fast forward to the present, the English Bulldog is now known as a sweet and dependable dog great for families and children. Gone is its former aggressive reputation. Pug History The Pug is just as remarkable as the English Bulldog because of its similarly wrinkled face and sociable and charming temperament. Known as the pampered pets of Chinese rulers, the Pug breed was brought to Europe in the sixteenth century. This breed was equally treasured by nobles throughout the Western continent. It was popularly bred with one goal: to be a companion dog. To date, it is still a popular companion dog as it was centuries before. One thing is for sure, though. Putting together its two parent breeds was intentional, thus making it a designer breed. The English Bulldog and Pug were so popular that breeders wanted to have the characteristics of both breeds in one canine. The result of this crossbreeding is a playful companion dog with a wrinkled face which is known as the Pug English Bulldog mix. Some breeders and dog owners also wanted to have an English Bulldog that is smaller in size. One way for breeders to develop smaller versions of purebred dogs is to mix them with a smaller breed. Other examples of this crossbreeding practice are the miniature Rottweiler and the miniature Collie. Many names have been given to this hybrid like the mini Bulldog and Bull Pug and they are recognized by canine organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and Designer Breed Registry. As I mentioned earlier, the English Bulldog Pug mix is sometimes called a mini Bulldog and one look at this pup will tell you why. Most Bull Pugs come with a round head, broad shoulders, and a muscular and stocky body like that of their parents. In terms of its face, it has the signature wrinkles of both parents, a medium muzzle, and eyes that are black and shaped like almonds. It falls under the brachycephalic breed group which means that because of its skull, it will have a flat face and squished nose. This mix may even come with an underbite! The English Bulldog is medium-sized, typically 14 to 15 inches in height, while the Pug is around 10 to 13 inches. Putting these two together will give an offspring smaller than a regular Bulldog but bigger than a Pug. Your English Bulldog Pug mix may grow as tall as 10 to 14 inches and as heavy as 20 to 45 pounds. It does not need much space to move around. For as long as you take it on walks, it is good to go. These are coat color traits they inherit from their parents. A litter of five to seven can have a mix of these coat types. Fawn is light tannish yellow that may manifest in a wide range of shades. Dogs with this coat color may have a light shade like pale tan, dark shade like deep deer-red, or other shades in between. There are crossbreeds with fawn coats that have black areas around their muzzles like that of Pugs. There are also Pug English Bulldog mixes that have black coats. Mixed dogs with black coats typically have a solid black color throughout the body. The usual patches of piebald Bull Pugs are white with a red or fawn backdrop. There are dog owners who use the term piebald to refer to two-toned or bi-colored coats. The crossbreed that inherits this coat from the English Bulldog parent has a colored base with a striped pattern that resembles tiger stripes. Usually, brindle coats come in color groups like black and fawn, white and red, and other combinations. Both parent breeds of the English Bulldog Pug mix are great for families, making their crossbreed offspring a perfect family dog. Playful, affectionate, and sweet best describe the English Bulldog Pug mix as it enjoys being in the company of its loved ones. If you are a dog owner of this crossbreed, expect to have a loyal companion who loves having you around. In fact, it can go on without getting any attention from you for a certain period of time. If you have a laidback and sedentary lifestyle, this pup is for you because it does not move around so much. While it can get playful and energetic especially during playtime, this dog also enjoys chilling on the couch with its fur parents. Take a look at this video of a Bull Pug playing calmly with a bug: English Bull Dog Pug mix playing with Bug When it comes to children, this mix is also a good choice. Its English Bulldog parent has a reputation for being aggressive. However, this is just a misconception due to its bull-baiting history. The truth is that the English Bulldog is sweet-natured and gets along with kids. The Pug breed is also sociable which makes their mixed pup good with the little ones. Aside from kids, the English Bulldog Pug mix also enjoys mingling with other dogs. To ensure that your dog will be as friendly, start introducing other people and dogs even at a young age. Early socialization can help them turn into nice-mannered dogs. This pup may need a little bit of time for adjustment, though, when meeting strangers. Its parent breeds handle stranger dogs and humans differently. The English Bulldog may be wary of strangers and exercises caution when being approached. Quite the contrary, the Pug is friendly, sometimes to an extreme level. How your pup will react will depend on its training and the inherited temperament. Your crossbreed pup may get more temperament traits from either of its parents, but rest assured, you will get a pleasant-tempered pup that is a perfect addition to your family. To give you a peek of what an English Bulldog Pug mix is like, here is a video compilation done by a fur parent. English Bulldog Pug Mix Lifespan and Health Issues As fur parents, we all want our beloved pooches to live healthy lives and spend more years with us so we should be well-aware of the health risks that come with their breed. Several health issues concern the English Bulldog and Pug which their crossbred offspring might inherit. Most conditions are related to the respiratory system, bones and joints, and skin. The result is a pain in the limbs which may cause your dog to start limping. Patellar Luxation: Another orthopedic issue, patellar luxation concerns the patella or kneecap. Dogs with patellar luxation experience discomfort in their knees and in some cases, loss of function. This is because during knee-flexing, the patella rides outside the femoral groove. Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome: The Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome is a common health problem in brachycephalic or short-nosed dogs. Both parents of this mix have this flattened skull so they are prone to this. Symptoms include difficulty in breathing, vomiting, and loud snoring. Pug Dog Encephalitis: The neurological disease called Pug Dog Encephalitis happens when brain tissues are inflamed causing pups to experience seizures, behavioral changes, disorientation, and more. This usually hits Pugs that are two to three years of age but may also occur as early as six months or as late as seven years old. No known cause has been found for this kind of encephalitis. Cherry Eye: Dogs have a third eyelid called the nictitating membrane. Diabetes: Diabetes is a common problem in dogs, but there are more incidents in Pugs. Because diabetic dogs are unable to regulate sugars in their bodies, they need insulin shots to help them do so. Canine Atopy: Getting allergies is common to Pugs and in some cases, they have a hypersensitivity reaction when exposed to allergens called canine atopy. Affected areas are usually the paws, abdomen, face, ears, chest, armpits, and flanks. Basic needs for canines are food, shelter, grooming, and training. However, these needs vary from one breed to another. What the Chihuahua needs may not exactly be the same as what your English Bulldog Pug mix needs. Knowing what your pup needs allows you to give it the best care possible. Feeding and Diet To ensure that you have a healthy pup, only give good quality dry dog food to your Pug Bulldog mix. On a daily basis, this crossbreed needs about calories to be served in two split meals. You may also consider giving homemade food. Cooked vegetables like spinach, carrots, asparagus, and sweet potatoes are good for your crossbreed dog. You may also give fruits like bananas, apples, and mangoes. Always remember to remove pits and seeds before serving. Besides giving your English Bulldog Pug mix the right kind of food, you should also monitor its food intake. Both parents are prone to obesity. While a chubby pup looks very cute, it is not healthy and may lead to many problems and complications. If you are starting to notice that your pup is getting underweight or overweight, consult your vet to get a diet recommendation. Cleaning and Grooming Short coats can be seen in both the English Bulldog and Pug and the same for their crossbreed pup. Use a soft brush to keep the coat beautiful and healthy and to avoid hurting your dog. Aside from its coat, you should also pay attention to the wrinkles on its face and body. Bacteria may start to build up when left unclean so be sure to wipe and bathe when necessary. This is also to avoid infections and allergies which they may be prone to. On top of that, regularly trim the nails and clean the eyes and ears. Brushing is also important and should be added to your grooming routine. Doing all these will help prevent infections and keep your dog healthy and happy. Training and Exercise English Bulldog Pug mixes are laidback and chill. If you do not enjoy too much physical activity, this crossbreed is for you because its exercise needs are not too high. A minute walk is already enough for this mixed breed plus enough playtime and bonding. Early morning and evening are said to be the best time for walks and exercise. Remember that both parent breeds are brachycephalic which means their offspring will be too. They cannot handle heat well and are prone to overheating. When walking, ensure that you have drinking water ready. In terms of trainability, this mix can learn tricks and commands. However, you need to have patience during training as it can get a little too stubborn. This is probably a trait inherited from its parents. Be firm when you train your pup but also not too strict. Have fun and consider training as bonding time. Do you know that the secret to successful training is positive reinforcement? Dogs listen and obey more when they are rewarded for good behavior. Prepare those treats for your training time! There may also be more expensive ones especially when you buy from a reputable breeder. Factors that may affect cost include size, health, breeder reputation, and lineage. There are also mixes from champion bloodlines but prepare to shell more. When choosing a breeder to buy a mixed pup from, consider a lot of things such as the affiliation of your breeder. Puppy mills are everywhere and they have poor practices and little care for their dogs, thus, low prices. Avoid them as much as possible. Caring for a pup entails other expenses aside from the cost of the dog itself. Prepare for one-time costs such as a leash, harness or collar, bed, toys, and the like. You also have regular expenses such as food, treats, and grooming items. For new pups, you have to spend for neutering or spaying, vaccinations, and deworming. However, they are also not highly common so you have to check the availability of this crossbreed: Greenfield Puppies — Fur parents have been trusting Greenfield Puppies since .They connect reputable breeders with interested soon-to-be owners and carry both purebred and mixed puppies. Adoption is also another option for those looking for an English Bulldog Pug mix. There are mixed breeds, puppies and full-grown dogs alike, that need a home. They have been saving Pugs and Pug mixes and helping them find a family that will give them the love they deserve. This group also provides education and guidance to adoptive families. Adoptable breeds include Pugs, English Bulldogs, Frenchies, and their mixes. Petfinder — With their vast database of dogs and cats, Petfinder can link you with animal shelters and adoption organizations so you can find your furry companion. Before buying or adopting a Bull Pug, you must know what you are getting into. Caring for a dog is hard work but more than that, it requires love and attention. Check out these dogs that you may want to consider. Frug: The name may sound funny but the Frug is an actual crossbreed. Both crossbreeds share some physical characteristics and low exercise requirements. Puggle: A mix of the Pug and Beagle, the Puggle is a smart crossbreed that likes playing. It is also good for families because it gets along well with kids. Unlike the Bull Pug, the Puggle does not enjoy staying put and is highly active and energetic. Poxer: The Poxer is the offspring of a Pug and a Boxer. This medium-sized designed breed is charming and lively. Fit for those with active lifestyles, this crossbreed loves physical activities. Both parent breeds of this mix are brachycephalic which also makes this dog one. Since a mix can take on any combination of traits from their parents, you want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. Should an English Bulldog Mix take after their Bulldog parent, they will be sweet-natured, affectionate, and playful dogs that love being with their families. English Bulldogs are companion breeds that are known for being sweethearts. As long as they are socialized properly, they tend to be excellent with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although watchful, they are even agreeable to strangers once they have been introduced. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent as they are likely to introduce their own quirks. Meeting the mother in person can give you an idea of her temperament and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started some training and socialization, it is your responsibility to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home to ensure they grow into a well-rounded, well-behaved dog. Although English Bulldogs adapt to most living situations, they are sensitive to hot and cold, and are particularly sensitive to heat. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed could introduce some traits that affect adaptability so you do want to ask the breeder about them. A mix could inherit conditions common to neither of their parent breeds, one of them, or even both of them. From the English Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Bulldog Mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Entropion, and Cherry Eye. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to prevent passing issues to puppies, so make sure you are asking about the health history of both of the parents. Although English Bulldogs can be stubborn, they are generally eager to please and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels and respond well to consistent training that is focused on positive reward and praise. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. The other parent breed could also introduce the potential for an English Bulldog Mix that is more difficult to train. Mixed-breed dogs can inherit a coat that is a carbon copy of one of their parents or they can end up with a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should an English Bulldog Mix end up with a Bulldog coat, they will shed moderately year-round, require brushing a couple of times a week, and the occasional bath. If they have face wrinkles, you will need to make sure they are clean and dry regularly to prevent skin irritation. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful ear cleanings as needed helps prevent ear infections. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste is ideal dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. English Bulldogs tend to be lower-energy breeds that only require daily walks and some playtime to be happy. But, they will be energetic when they play and might be up for more activity if you are. The other parent breed can affect this. If they are a low-energy breed, then you can expect an English Bulldog Mix to be the same. If the other parent breed requires more daily activity, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in an English Bulldog Mix puppy. Because they may still be a brachycephalic dog breed, they can overheat, so you want to be careful of overexertion. There are many safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to help your English Bulldog Mix get the exercise they need. Fully-grown English Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. An English Bulldog generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an English Bulldog Mix. Featured English Bulldog Mix Article. The Bull-Pug is dependable, sensitive and great with children. This dog strongly attaches to people, is very well-mannered, and has a sensitive nature. It is a breed that does not do well when left alone for long periods of time. The Bull-Pug relishes attention from its owner but also has a willful side. Bulldogs are known for being strong-willed, so you need to begin training as a puppy — and the best type of training for this breed is using positive reinforcement. As long as you maintain a firm and gentle hand in training, your Bull-Pug should learn quickly. Discover more about our Bull-Pug puppies for sale below! Temperament Bull-Pugs have a lot of energy as puppies but calm down a lot as they get older. They can be messy eaters: they tend to slobber and even snore, but these are traits that bulldog owners usually find endearing. The Bull-Pug will make a great family pet as they are wonderful with children and do well in apartments since they only have a moderate need for exercise. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Hybrid Club.
Please be sure to provide many chew toys to help with this transitional period. Cow hooves can be found at many pet stores and are recommended. Stay away from pig ears and cheap rawhide, and "greenies," as these can cause severe diarrhea, bloat, and are a choking hazard. For instance, keep an eye out for diarrhea if you change your pup's food. If your bulldog develops diarrhea then stop all food for 12 hours. If it persists for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately to prevent dehydration. Puppies can dehydrate very rapidly so you need to take it seriously when diarrhea occurs. Dogs can pick up some unwanted guests: ticks, fleas, mites, lice, and intestinal worms. Your dog can be the perfect host for these pests if regular treatment for these nasty pests is not given. Your veterinarian is the best source of knowledge for the local bugs that bug the local dog population and how to prevent these pests. Heartworm is a widespread disease present spread by mosquitoes throughout most of the United States. There is a treatment for heartworm, but it is expensive and takes a toll physically on the dog and can take months to combat. This is especially important for dogs that spend a lot of time outside, that live on farms, or that hunt, as they are at increased risk of contracting this tick-borne disease. Puppies will generally have a first veterinary visit at the age of six weeks by the person who has the mother dog. The veterinarian will examine the puppies to make sure there are no hernias, heart, lung, or eye or ear problems in any of the pups. At 9 weeks, and then again at 12 weeks, the de-wormer and distemper vaccines will be repeated. Then these can be given once a year or on a schedule determined by you and your veterinarian. Lowell Ackerman. This vaccination is required by many communities. There can sometimes be severe penalties if your dog is not rabies vaccinated especially if the dog bites a person or another pet. As your dog ages, more frequent examinations will need to be given. Twice yearly examination will catch medical issues before they become big problems. Older dogs frequently suffer from arthritis and heart disease just like elderly humans. There are effective and safe treatments that can help your older dog live reasonably pain-free and pleasant golden years. It is important to spay females or neuter male your puppy. In addition to various health benefits for the dog decreased chances of certain tumors and infections , there is a big societal benefit in the decreased number of unwanted dogs. Microchipping is also encouraged in case your dog ever becomes lost. The inner ear part of the ear is normally white or darker colored, usually corresponding to the color of the dog's coat, so look for discoloring. The puppy's ears should also not smell nor have any discharge in the ear or on the flap. The ear should be free of debris, dirt, or parasites, like ticks or mites. Any of the following are abnormal: [9] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Scratching or pawing the ear. Shaking the head excessively. If in doubt, or if you suspect an ear infection, have your veterinarian look in the ear using an otoscope to examine the eardrum. Never stick a q-tip or similar type of product into the ear canal. You will not be able to see the entire ear canal and should not try to put anything down there. Never use human toothpaste on a dog; only use dental toothpaste made for dogs. The fluoride in human toothpaste is poisonous to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Place a little puppy toothpaste on your fingertip and let your puppy lick it off. The next day put it on your finger and rub it along the outer gums. Then try to put a little on a dog toothbrush, let the puppy lick it then run the toothbrush along the outer edges of the teeth and gums. Only the outer part against the cheeks needs to be brushed. Even with regular tooth brushing, dogs may need dental cleanings once in a while. Plaque and bacteria can build up under the gum line causing problems there or in the roots of the teeth. Just like with their human owners, regular mouth examinations by their doggy dentist should be done once a year. Country: Congratulations on your puppy! Vaccinations It is critical that the puppy is dewormed days prior to each vaccination. If the puppy has worms, the immunity is weakened and the vaccines may not be effective because the puppy's organism may be unable to develop enough anti-bodies against the vaccine to actually make the puppy immune against the diseases being vaccinated against. In rare cases, a puppy with worms can lead to death. If worms are found in puppy's stool after deworming, then it is recommended to deworm again prior to vaccinations. Vaccinations should be administered to a healthy puppy! Critical to do deworming on the puppy days prior to vaccinations. If this is done by the breeder, be sure you get a health record from the breeder with physical labels taken from the vaccine bottles and the deworming medication. At 3 months, Rabies vaccine and another booster of the same set of vaccinations should be administered parvo, adenovirus, lepto, coronavirus, distemper, parainfluenza. In the U. We disagree with this because at this age the puppy is going through the change of baby teeth to adult teeth and that may adversely affect the puppy's immunity. Then follow the regular vet-recommended vaccine schedule. For example, some vaccinations are annual, some last for a number of years. Food For proper development of the puppy, it is important that proper bowls are used. Do not place bowls on the ground. Purchase adjustable-height bowls for both water and food so that the puppy is always eating in the correct posture. Here's one we use, available on Amazon. After 16 years of breeding, my conclusion is to use dry food of the highest grade. Cheap dog food does not contain the necessary balanced ingredients for proper growth of the puppy. There are debates of using raw vs. If a person is not an expert in the field of raising and feeding dogs, there is no way they will be able to provide a balanced diet using exclusively raw food. If an owner desires, they can add some raw beef or turkey no bones to the regular dry food diet. Some dog food that we've used with our dogs that we can recommend. Following these recommendations will help you raise as many healthy pups as possible and make the experience as easy and enjoyable as possible for both your family and your Bullbitch. When you raise a litter, you will feel an enormous sense of having accomplished a difficult task. You will enjoy many pleasurable hours with your pups, if you also make a profit, that is fine. But go into this venture with the realization that you may do everything right and still not raise a single pup. You may be emotionally traumatized by having your favorite pup die in your hands. You may lose every dollar you spend. Do not breed your bitch unless you are sure that you or a responsible person will be available to care for the bitch when she is ready to whelp and have time to care for the pups for the first few weeks. This may even mean having someone to care for the pups for 24 hours a day. If you anticipate your bitch will be due for her boosters at about the time of her season or during her pregnancy, have her boosters given early before the time you expect her to be in season. Before she comes into season, have her checked for intestinal worms and deworm her if necessary. This is for the bitch's good. It will not keep the pups from being born with worms. They will still need to be checked and dewormed. Your bitch should be checked for heartworms within the last 12 months. She should be on heartworm prevention. There is a fairly common misconception that heartworm preventive medicine causes infertility. This is nonsense! Heartworm infestation and heartworm disease cause infertility. Heartworm prevention is an absolute necessity. We recommend either Heartgard or Interceptor monthly. Go to dog shows and compare your Bullbitch to the champions and winning dogs. Decide what your bitch's faults are. Long back, small head, narrow jaw and light bone are the most common faults. Now select a stud that does not have any of the same faults your bitch has. It is not wise to breed to a closely related dog father, brother, uncle except in very special circumstances. Breeding to a very good quality more distantly related relative grandfather, granduncle many times will produce better pups than breeding to an unrelated dog. Breed to a dog that has produced some good quality pups. A champion stud that meets the above criteria will be a better choice for stud than a non-champion. We can provide you the names of serious breeders in the San Antonio area who have proven champion Bulldog studs. See as many studs as possible and choose the one that fits your breeding purposes THE MATING On a normal heat cycle, a bitch is ready to be mated the first time about the eighth to the thirteenth day. There is a lot of variation among bitches. Breeding according to the day of heat alone is not an accurate way of catching her at the right time. Vaginal smears can determine when a bitch is ready to breed. The cells lining the vagina change types when a bitch ovulates and is ready to mate. Bring your bitch in for us to do a vaginal smear about the fourth day of heat for the first vaginal smear. Then we will tell you when she will need the vaginal smear checked again. Do not be concerned if your bitch has a bloody discharge throughout her season. This is not unusual in bullbitches. We breed on the first day the vaginal smear indicates ovulation, skip a day and breed again. If there is any doubt that these were the best days, we will skip a day and breed a third time. Particularly when breeding a bitch that has failed to conceive before, it may be best to breed more than twice. We use only artificial insemination to breed bulldogs. Artificial insemination is easier on the bitch, the dog and the person doing the breeding. When people talk about "natural breeding" of bulldogs, they are really referring to hand breeding. This involves strapping the bitch to a breeding board and physically helping the stud dog mate her. We breed only by artificial insemination, Breeding boards are not used in artificial insemination. Serious breeders who have experience artificially inseminating with their own stud are usually very capable and can do the AI at their house. After you take your bitch home after breeding, continue to keep her away from all males for at least a week. For any bitch that has failed to conceive on a previous breeding, we strongly recommend using Progesterone tests to determine the correct time to breed. This is more expensive than breeding by vaginal smears but is worth the cost. The liver during their season increases fertility, during pregnancy reduces the chance of pups with cleft palates and makes for healthier pups with bigger livers of their own. This increases their chance of surviving any neonatal problems. Either beef, pork or venison liver is fine. Cut the liver into 1 ounce pieces and freeze them five pieces to a bag. That way you can thaw out a new bag every five days and make a pound of liver last 16 days. Some bitches will not eat liver the first day. Try again tomorrow and she will eat it. Some bitches will get loose stools from liver. Stop the liver and give cottage cheese with her food until the stools firm up and then start the liver again. During pregnancy, feed your bitch a good quality food. We recommend Purina Pro-Plan. Feed adult dog food for the first four weeks of pregnancy, feed half adult and half puppy food Purina Pro-Plan Puppy the fifth week, then puppy food through the rest of pregnancy and throughout all the time the mama is nursing pups. Do not feed generic or store brand dog food. With a good quality dog food, we feed no supplements other than the liver. Do not give bone meal or any other calcium supplements. They are not needed and can be harmful. With a bitch that will relax and cooperate, we might be able to feel the fetuses in her abdomen at 3 to 4 weeks. From 4 to 7 weeks, there is a lot of fluid around the fetuses making it difficult to feel them. By 7 weeks, most pregnant bitches will be obviously showing it. Almost all bitches will have some mammary enlargement 3 to 4 weeks after their season whether they are pregnant or not. If her vulva does not decrease much in size after she is out of season, she is probably pregnant. We can x-ray the bitch anytime after 45 days after breeding to determine pregnancy. Withhold food by 8 PM the night before the x-ray and be sure she is given a chance to move her bowels before bringing for the x-ray. Let her have all the water she wants. A sonogram done at 28 days is a very accurate way to determine if she is pregnant. We can refer you to a veterinarian who can do a sonogram if you wish. Even if your bitch does not look pregnant, bring her in one week before her due date for us to examine. A large bitch with only one or two pups can hide them up under her ribs and not appear pregnant. If there is any doubt, have an x-ray taken. If her season and discharge last longer that 3 weeks, bring her back for a check-up. She might be a bitch that just has a longer than 3 week season. Or the extended discharge might indicate an infection. If any time after her season she has a vaginal discharge again, bring her back for an exam and a white blood cell count. She could be aborting pups. She could have a minor vaginal infection or a serious uterine infection. A uterine infection needs immediate attention. The Cesarean Section is scheduled 60 days after the last breeding. We will make the appointment for 8 AM. We will also schedule an appointment for a week before the Cesarean to examine her and answer any questions you have. We can also do the pre-surgery lab work at that time. While this 60 day schedule works almost every pregnancy, occasionally a bitch will start labor before the Cesarean Section appointment. If your bitch starts labor during our regular office hours, call us to let us know you are coming in and bring her to the hospital. We will do the Cesarean. If your bitch starts labor during the night, weekend or holiday when our office is closed, call one of the emergency animal hospitals and take her there for the Cesarean. When you call our regular office number, the answering machine will give you the numbers of three emergency hospitals. We do not do emergency Cesarean surgery during non-office hours. A Cesarean requires a full staff of personnel that we cannot provide during non-office hours. Labor is not nesting or passing a mucus plug. Labor is seeing her abdomen contract and seeing her push. She may pass some fluid or you may see part of a puppy. This is labor and indicates she needs her Cesarean. Bullbitches have a difficult time trying to whelp naturally for a number of reasons. The pups have large heads. The bitch has a small pelvis. A bullbitch that has any breathing difficulty can find that labor is too strenuous for her. A bitch with a large number of pups can get too tired and exhausted before she has the last one. When there are only one or two pups, they are usually larger and more difficult to deliver. Many bulldog pups die during attempts at natural whelping. They could have lived if delivered by Cesarean section. A bitch that becomes exhausted trying to whelp naturally is then not a good anesthetic risk for Cesarean section. It is better to plan for a Cesarean ahead of time rather than make it an emergency procedure. It can be scheduled at a more convenient time than 2 AM some morning. Of course, saving only one pup with the Cesarean that might have been lost free whelping pays for the Cesarean. Most bitches will start nesting a week or so before they are due to whelp. They will gather up towels or scratch in the carpet or dig a hole in the yard to make a nest. This does not mean labor is imminent. While your bitch is pregnant, she has had a mucus plug in her cervix to seal it. She will start passing this clear mucus the last week of her pregnancy. This is normal. At the appointment for the Cesareans section, bring a box full of towels to take the pups home in and a sheet to lay the bitch on in the car on the way home. The bitch will have a heavy discharge for 3 days - red, black, green, almost any color is normal. After 3 days, the discharge should be no more than a little spotting - several half-dollar size spots a day at the most. A heavy discharge after 3 days or a brownish-red tomato soup discharge with a bad odor anytime is an indication of trouble. Bring your bitch back to the hospital. If the bitch has any discharge from her surgery incision, wash it with hydrogen peroxide and dry it before nursing. If the incision is dry without a discharge, leave it alone. If the incision should gap open more than a quarter of an inch or if a lump develops under the incision, bring her back to the hospital. It is not unusual for bullbitches to lie on pups and smother them. Some bullbitches will accidentally step on a pup and kill it or badly injury it. A few bullbitches will intentionally harm pups. For these reasons, we keep our pups in a puppy box and put them with the mama only while nursing. An adult or older child must be there watching all the time the pups are with her to be sure she does not harm the pups. Of course, this is a lot of trouble and takes a lot of time. But bulldoggers have found that this is the best way to raise as many pups as possible. We use a wooden puppy box. If you anticipate raising only one litter, a cardboard box will do. Our puppy box is 32 inches long by 16 inches wide and 12 inches deep. It has a Plexiglas window in the lid. There are holes in the side that can be opened for ventilation. There is a 60 watt light in one end of the box for heat. The light has a rheostat so that the heat can be controlled and adjusted. If you use a cardboard box, you can adjust the heat by using different watt light bulbs and by moving the light closer or farther away from the box. The important thing is to have a rectangular box with the light in one end. Adjust the heat by watching where the pups stay in the box. If the pups stay right under the light, adjust the heat higher. If the pups stay in the other end of the box to get away from the heat, adjust it lower. The box temperature will need to be about 95 degrees the first week, 85 degrees the second week and 75 degrees thereafter. However, it is important to adjust the heat according to what the pups do, rather than according to the thermometer. If pups lie on a hard flat surface all the time, they will become what we call swimmers. Their chests flatten out and their legs spread out sideways. They cannot get their legs under them. When the chests flatten they start having breathing problems. To prevent swimmers, it is important for the bottom of the box to be soft and irregular. We line the bottom of our box with foam rubber egg crate mattress pad material and cover it with towels. Two alternatives to egg crate material are rubber hot water bottles half filled with air and covered with towels or to wad up newspaper into balls to fill the bottom of the box and cover with towels. The first few days the pups should nurse every 2 hours. Put an old quilt on the floor for mama to lie on. If there is any discharge from mama's Cesarean incision, wash it off with hydrogen peroxide and dry it before putting the pups down to nurse. The first few times, squeeze the nipple to get a drop of milk to come out on it and put the pup's mouth to it. Watch to be sure all the pups get attached. Be sure the big pups do not push the little pups away. Allow the bitch to lick the pups to stimulate urination and defecation and to clean them up. If the mother refuses to lick and clean pups, you must use a cotton ball dipped in warm water to stimulate elimination. Rub the pups' sides, genital area and anus with the cotton ball. Pups can not eliminate freely on their own for the first 2 to 3 weeks of their lives. Someone must stay with the bitch all the time the pups are nursing. After you can see that the pups are gaining weight and are sleeping longer than 2 hours before they awaken and cry, you can start slowly lengthening the time between feedings. If the pups are not definitely gaining weight nursing on mama, start tube feeding them. If one pup is not growing like the rest, tube feed him. Also if you tube feed, you can go a longer time between feedings than you can nursing. We will be happy to show you how and help you start tube feeding and get you the equipment you need. Tube feed Esbilac Puppy Formula. If necessary, use Similac baby formula until you can get Esbilac. If for any reason you are tube feeding the pups exclusively, do not neglect stimulating their bowel and urinary functions. Either let mama lick them or use the cotton balls. Put Esbilac in a shallow bowl or pie pan. Put a pup up to the edge and spoon a little formula up to his mouth. Some of the pups will start eating on their own right away. Others will take a few days to learn. Grind the Puppy Chow in a blender to a fine meal. At first, mix just a little ground puppy chow with the Esbilac to make a thin gruel. When all the pups are eating this, gradually make it thicker. To get as close as possible to providing complete protection for your pups from preventable diseases, follow this vaccination schedule until you place the pups in their new homes and recommend that the new owner continue this schedule: Start vaccinations canine distemper, hepatitis, coronavirus, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus at six weeks old. Repeat this combination vaccination every three weeks till the pups are sixteen weeks old. The last vaccination should also contain Leptospirosis. Rabies vaccination can be given anytime after twelve weeks. If you have pups that did not nurse on the bitch during the first 24 hours of life, start their five-in-one combination vaccine at 3 weeks of age. However the time from 6 weeks to 12 weeks is a very important age for the behavioral development of the pup. During this time the pup must have both interaction with other dogs mother and littermates and interaction with people. Therefore 8 to 10 weeks is the best time for the pups to go to their new homes. Pups that go too early to a new home that does not have another dog in it may later in life have a fear of other dogs or be aggressive to other dogs. Pups that stay with their litter too long before being placed in their new homes may have a hard time adjusting to their new home after 12 weeks of age. If any pups are not going to their new homes by 10 weeks of age, be sure to socialize them to people. Separate them from the litter and give them individual attention for at least 30 minutes every day. All pups should have some contact with children before they are 12 weeks old so they will not be afraid of children later. Of course it is important that they are not hurt by a child early in life. If I send prospective puppy buyers to you, that means that I have recommended you and your pups to the prospective buyer. It does not mean that I am recommending the prospective buyer to you. It is not my place to screen buyers for you. It is up to you to interview prospective buyers and determine which ones can be entrusted with your precious pups. Ask about other dogs in the household. Do they have a fenced in yard? Do they know bulldogs need to be inside air-conditioned dogs? Will they continue the vaccination series? Do they know bulldogs are generally more expensive to care for than other dogs? Is the prospective buyer buying a pup for himself or is he a broker that is going to resell the pup? When you know the new owner is not going to breed or show, encourage the new owner to spay or neuter their pets. Spaying females prevents mammary cancer, uterine infection and accidental pregnancies. Neutering males prevents perianal cancer, perineal hernias and prostate problems. Be sure you are satisfied that your pup is going to a loving home. Tell the new owner that if something happens that causes them to have to give up their bulldog that you will take him back or help them place him in a good home. Fill out the dam's part and send it to the American Kennel Club. They will send you individual forms for each pup to be registered. This takes two to six weeks.
mini french bulldog puppies florida - They have an agile build, a long muzzle, and a mono-color coat, typically black, brown, or yellow. The coat is can be short or medium-length. Both can grow up to inches in height cm and lbs kg weight. The difference between the two types is mainly that standard American bulldogs are leaner and more agile, with longer muzzles, while bully bulldogs have a shorter muzzle and a stockier build and, therefore, they weigh more. Both bulldog types have a short and dense coat that can come in many color combinations such as white, white and black, white and tan, white and brindle, white and brown, lilac, blue, chocolate, black, or merle. Why does all that matter? Because American bulladors can look like any of the above, depending on the parent. They can be heavy and stocky if they have a Johnson-type parent or they can be lean and agile. They can have various muzzle shapes, coat lengths, and colors too. Both parent breeds are quite intelligent and social, however, Labradors are much more gentle and obedient. Bulldogs, on the other hand, are very self-minded and exceptionally stubborn. So, an American Bullador can really go either way depending on how much the dog takes from each parent. The only way to figure out if your Bullador is going to be a people-pleaser or an individualist is to observe the pup in its litter. This is one of the many big reasons why you should get your pups from reputable breeders and not from pet stores or puppy mills. Instead, they raise them with their fellow pups and they train them well. Another good option is to adopt from a shelter. Both bulldogs and Labradors are pretty active dogs but in different ways. Bulldogs are highly energetic at sporadic bursts while Labradors have more endurance. In either case, this is a breed for an outdoorsy type of people who also have a well-fenced yard. An American bulldog mix with Labrador will need at least hours of active playtime outside every day plus an additional few hours in the yard. That, together with quite a but playtime with toys and people at home is a must for a healthy and happy Bullador. Health Characteristics Of A Bulldog Mix With Lab American Bulladors can either be exceptionally healthy or they can inherit some nasty genetic predispositions from their parent. This is very typical for crossbreeds and is a big reason why you should always get your dogs from reputable breeders. Such breeders will always offer you a health certificate for your dog. Their dogs are much healthier than those in pet stores because good breeders avoid inbreeding and only breed dogs from good and healthy stocks. Instead, buying from a pet store may result in a dog that has:. Lifespan Sociability Before we get into the American Bullador puppy years, it is important to note that designer breeds can be hard to predict as far as their temperament and personality. What we do know is that this hybrid came into existence sometime in the s to create healthier offspring of their purebred parents. Typically, when a breeder decides to create a new hybrid, it is generally to eliminate any health defects that pure breeds may suffer from. Although the jury may still be out on whether or not this works, it is true to say that your puppy can take after either parent in the personality department. As far as the puppy years, these adorable little tykes are energetic, playful, and frisky. They will get into plenty of mischiefs and should be trained as early as possible. On the other hand, they will quickly adapt to your family, and even as youngsters, they are even-tempered and make great companions. If you have a large fenced-in yard that is secure, this pup will be more than happy to spend the majority of their time outside. Providing them with a doghouse and other entertainment will only add to their outdoor glee. Just keep in mind, we do not recommend leaving these pups outdoors overnight. Appearance When mixing two purebreds to create another breed, it can be difficult to determine which parent the puppy will take after. What is cuter than that? This allows water to roll off their thick fur without it saturating them down to the skin. They are very intelligent with a calm demeanor. They make great companions and watchdogs, and they have a lot of energy to spend running around with you and your family. This breed comes from working-class purebred parents, so their daily life should be full of activity and tasks. You may have noticed that this dog has a couple of contradictions within their nature that make them interesting. The first anomaly is their love of the outdoors. As we mentioned, this breed enjoys outdoor time, yet on the other hand, they do not like extended periods alone. It is important to check on your dog often, and play with them if you are going to be leaving them in the backyard. Also, make sure that you never leave them by themselves overnight. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are good with children, however, they need to be socialized early in life. Due to their Bulldog ancestors, they can have a touch of aggression. It is equally important that you teach your kids how to interact with your dog safely. When a child plays rough or yells loudly, your protective pup can go on the alert thinking that something is wrong. In that case, they can tend to be aggressive, as mentioned. Typically, this does not happen often, but you should be aware if you have small children. Other than that, this is a dog that will enjoy spending time with the family. They like the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This pooch will do well with families that are very active and have time to spend with them outdoors. Even better, if you can provide your Bullador with tasks such as running after a ball or other fun activities, they will be even more content. They enjoy meeting new friends, running around with other dogs, and generally being social. When it comes to being in their yard, however, they are more opt to distrust strangers. Whether it be another furry face or a two-legged friend, your Bullador is going to be slightly distrustful and standoffish. This breed makes a great watchdog and is very alert, therefore, it is important to train them early so they do not overreact to visitors. Even with appropriate socialization skills, they are still likely to bark at a new face. As far as other pets in the home, this again has a lot to do with their early socialization and training. On the Labrador side, they are very calm and obedient. The Bulldog is a bit pricklier. There usually is not an issue, but you want to ensure that they are familiar with other animals before you bring a smaller pet, such as a cat, into your home. Now, however, you want to take a look at some of the other aspects of their care to ensure that this dog will be within your means to take care of properly. When taking on any pet, you become responsible for their overall well-being. This includes their diet, training, health, grooming, and happiness. Ensuring that you will be able to not only financially but physically take care of this animal is important. Take a look at the other care requirements for the American Bullador below. They will most likely be able to eat between three to four cups of food per day that you can spread out morning and night. For the most part, this dog has few food sensitivities or allergies that you need to watch out for. Of course, each dog is different, and it is important that you speak with your vet about the best diet for their health, age, and lifestyle. Most medium to large-sized dogs that are moderate to highly active require a diet that is high in protein. Nutritious meals that offer lean protein, healthy fats, and natural fibers are the best. It keeps their energy level high, their digestive system running smoothly, and their metabolism working properly. You also want to ensure that your dog is getting the other vitamins, minerals, and supplements that they need. These things can include antioxidants for their immune system, fur, and skin health, probiotics for their gut health, and various other vitamins to support their teeth, bones, cognitive function, and many other areas of their well-being. You also want to keep in mind other food that you give to your pet such as treats. These little snacks should be just as nutritious as their normal meals. Look for options that are organic with little added sugar. A post shared by Monty monty. They are very energetic and without an outlet for their excess energy, they can become bored and destructive. That being said, you want to take your pup on at least two minute walks per day. They will also enjoy going on bike rides, hikes, and jogs with you. As we have already mentioned, this pup enjoys a lot of outdoor time and should be given this opportunity daily. They will have fun with toys and other entertainment. It will allow them to get out of all the restlessness they may have. Make sure to go out and check on your pet several times while also stopping to throw a ball around for a few minutes to keep them engaged. For example, Labradors are very intelligent, even-tempered, and ready to please. Bulldogs are also very intelligent but tend to have a more stubborn streak. In fact, the Lab also has some stubbornness, and if you happen to get a pup that is closer to the Bulldog in nature, training can be difficult. In general, this breed does well with a lot of positive reinforcement. The earlier you start training, the better. Just keep in mind, a lot of patience will be needed. You want to keep their training sessions short and rewarding. If they become bored or feel that they are being punished, they will be less likely to follow your commands. Obedience, behavioral, potty training, and socialization are the four major training points that you want to cover when they are puppies. This type of dog also looks for a leader, so you must train them with a firm yet fair hand. Anger and aggression on your part will only have the opposite effect of what you are looking for, yet consistency with an added treat or two will give you great results. At the end of the day, this is a pup that is eager for your approval, so they will pick up quickly on what makes you happy. They tend to have dense, short fur with low shed. They should be brushed weekly with a bristle brush to get rid of as much of the excess fur as possible. During the shedding season, you may want to brush them daily as their thick fur can catch the loose hair making an even bigger mess. You will also want to clean your Bulladors ears weekly with a cotton swab and ear wash. You want to check them for excess wax and mites, as well. Teeth brushing should be done as often as possible. Doing it daily is recommended, but we understand it is not always possible. It is important to keep tartar and plaque build-up to a minimum, however. This breed does well with dental treats which can cut down on daily cleanings. You will also need to take care of their nails, which are thick and grow quickly. For the most part, you will have to trim them down every two to three weeks. However, if your pup gets a lot of outdoor exercise, they can be filed naturally. As far as baths, this can be done on an as-needed basis. Remember, your pup has a waterproof coat. This means that if you saturate the undercoat and skin beneath, it can take a long time to dry out. Try to keep shampoos to a minimum in the colder months, especially if they spend a lot of time outside. For the most part, hybrids tend to be healthier than their purebred parents, yet there is nothing to say that they will not develop some of the more common ailments of the parent breed. Take a look below at some of the more serious and minor conditions the America Bullador may face in their lifetime. It is a cross between the American Bulldog and the Labrador Retriever. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She weighs approximately 19 lbs. The mother was a pure lb. American Bulldog primarily white and the father was a pure black Lab approx. She already is showing signs of advanced intelligence and alertness to her surroundings. She eats a good deal, and sleeps a lot! His mother who was senselessly killed by some unknown person was an American Bulldog and his father was a black Labrador Retriever. Hugo has turned out to be a handful as he is energetic and loves to play. My wife and I fell in love with him the moment he crawled out of the litter pile to greet us. He was 2 weeks old at the time and we had to wait until he was 8 weeks before we could take him home. He's not as fast as other dogs, but Hugo easily makes up for this in his strength, as I'm reminded of this constantly when I take him for a walk , lol. He is incredibly smart and can sense pretty much anything we do. Hugo is probably the best dog my wife and I ever had and hopefully he is with us for a very long time. American Bulladors are a unique crossbreed with a charming personality and loving temperament Understanding their characteristics can help prospective owners make a well-informed decision Traits covered include appearance, exercise needs, and health issues. American Bulldog Lab Mix: A Brief Overview These medium to large-sized dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and charming personalities. When it comes to appearance, the American Bullador can vary significantly due to the mixed nature of their parent breeds. They can range in height from 20 to 27 inches cm and weigh anywhere from 60 to lbs kg. Common coat colors include black, brown, white, tan, and brindle, giving these dogs a diverse range of looks. The temperament of the American Bulldog Lab Mix is a blend of the best traits from both parent breeds. They are known to be affectionate, loyal, and protective, making them wonderful family pets. They require regular exercise to keep their minds and bodies healthy. A daily walk or play session at the dog park will help ensure your Bullador stays in top shape. In terms of health, the American Bulldog Lab Mix has a generally strong constitution, with a lifespan of 10 to 16 years. However, like any mixed breed, they can be prone to certain health issues inherited from their parent breeds. Regular veterinary checkups and a well-balanced diet will go a long way in maintaining their overall well-being. So there you have it, a brief overview of the fascinating American Bulldog Lab Mix. This one-of-a-kind dog is sure to turn heads and become a beloved companion for those lucky enough to welcome one into their home. Temperament and Personality Traits This unique hybrid can exhibit a diverse range of temperament and personality traits depending on the traits inherited from its parent breeds. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly, affectionate, and obedient nature. They are intelligent, easy to train, and make for excellent family pets. On the other hand, American Bulldogs can have a stubborn streak, but they are still known for being affectionate, protective, and loyal companions. Given the mix of these two breeds, a Bullador can potentially inherit any combination of these characteristics. They may also possess a sense of humor which makes them entertaining pets to have around. When it comes to energy levels, the American Bulldog Lab mix can be quite energetic as both parent breeds are known for their athleticism. However, this hybrid may also have a more relaxed side which makes them adaptable to various living situations and activities. To ensure a well-rounded and well-behaved Bullador, early socialization and consistent training are essential. In summary, the American Bulldog Lab mix can be a delightful addition to any household thanks to its unique blend of temperament and personality traits. While their exact characteristics may vary depending on the specific combination inherited from their parent breeds, their potential for affection, loyalty, and gentle protectiveness makes them a popular choice among dog enthusiasts. In this lovely breed, expect both loyalty and charisma combined with an agile, athletic, and sturdy build. Since this is a mixed breed, the Bullador may exhibit physical traits from both parent breeds. They typically stand between 17 to 25 inches in height, making them a medium to large-sized dog. In terms of color, the Bullador can be found with various shades, including black, brown, white, tan, or even a beautiful brindle pattern. When we delve into its body structure, we see that these dogs tend to have muscular frames, with a bit of a resemblance to their Labrador parent, yet a stockier build from their American Bulldog heritage. One thing is for sure: the American Bulldog Lab mix is truly one-of-a-kind. These robust and active dogs make wonderful companions for active families, gracefully bringing both protective and affectionate qualities to every relationship. As a result, they require a consistent exercise routine to maintain their overall health and happiness. A well-exercised Bullador will be less likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, and digging. On average, these dogs need about 1 to 2 hours of exercise and activity each day. This can include activities like long walks, jogging, swimming, and playing fetch. Because both the American Bulldog and Labrador are strong and sturdy breeds, the Bullador will benefit from regular strength-building exercises as well. Obedience training, agility courses, and puzzle toys are great ways to engage their keen intelligence and keep them mentally sharp. When it comes to exercise, variety is the spice of life for an American Bullador. Be sure to mix up the activities to prevent boredom and keep your dog engaged. Health Issues and Lifespan This mix generally has a lifespan of 10 to 16 years. However, just like any other breed, they may be predisposed to certain health issues. The parent breeds of the Bullador come with their unique health concerns. For the American Bulldog, this includes hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cherry eye. On the other hand, Labrador Retrievers are prone to health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and heart diseases. With that being said, the Bullador offspring may inherit some of these health conditions. An active lifestyle can help prevent obesity-related issues, which are common in both parent breeds. Regular vet check-ups are also vital for early detection and prevention of potential health problems. Some Bulladors might experience joint issues due to their size, which typically ranges from 50 to 90 pounds. To keep their joints in tip-top shape, consider providing them with joint supplements and a comfortable bed to rest on. In conclusion, while the American Bulldog Lab mix does come with some potential health concerns, this breed can still lead a relatively healthy and happy life. Proper nutrition, exercise, and routine check-ups can help ensure that your Bullador stays in the best possible shape. Remember, every dog is unique, and genetic factors will play a significant role in determining the health of your American Bulldog Lab mix. Be prepared for the unexpected, and enjoy the delightful companionship of this affectionate and protective breed. Due to the combined traits of its intelligent and active parent breeds, training and socialization for this energetic mix should begin early in its life. Early Stage Socialization: weeks During the early stages, focus on socializing your American Bullador puppy with different people, animals, and environments. Expose them to various experiences and situations to help them grow into a well-rounded and confident adult dog. Proper socialization at this stage is key to prevent potential aggression and anxiety issues later on. Potty Training: At this young age, begin the potty training process. Be patient and consistent, and offer positive reinforcement such as praise and treats for progress with potty training. Crate training can also be beneficial to help your pup understand the appropriate time and place for bathroom breaks. Chewing and Biting: American Bulldog Lab mixes are known to have a strong chew drive, so teaching them proper chew habits is crucial. Provide them with appropriate chew toys to redirect their chewing urges. Exercise and Cool Temperatures: Exercise is essential for this energetic breed mix, but remember to keep them active during cooler temperatures to avoid overheating. Their stocky build and short muzzle can make them more susceptible to heat-related issues. Remember that individual puppies may vary in temperament and learning abilities. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are your best tools for raising a well-rounded, happy, and obedient American Bulldog Lab mix. Grooming and Care Caring for your Bullador mainly involves regular grooming to maintain a clean and healthy coat. However, if your dog has a thicker Labrador-type coat, you may need to groom them more frequently. This helps remove any dirt and moistens the hair, making it easier to brush. After wiping their coat, go over it thoroughly with a grooming glove or comb, starting at the shoulders and working your way downward and backward. Be sure to follow the natural lay of the hair for the best results. Bathing is another important aspect of Bullador care. As a general guideline, bathing your Bullador once a month should suffice. When it comes to nails, be sure to trim them regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Remember that grooming and care go beyond just physical maintenance. Ensuring your Bullador receives proper exercise and mental stimulation is essential for their overall well-being. As a mix of two athletic breeds, the American Bulldog and Labrador Retriever, your Bullador will benefit from daily walks, playtime, and interactive toys to keep them happy and healthy. Feeding and Diet Feeding your American Bulldog Lab mix a well-rounded and nutritious diet is essential for ensuring their overall health and well-being. Typically, an adult Bullador may require around to calories per day, split into two or three meals. Be sure to monitor their weight and adjust their daily caloric intake as needed. Try to keep treats to a minimum and opt for healthier options, like dog-safe fruits or vegetables. In addition to protein, incorporate healthy fats into their diet to support skin and coat health. Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for this. Look for dog food formulas that include sources of omega-3 fats like fish oil or flaxseed oil. Finally, keep an eye on any potential food allergies or sensitivities your Bullador may have. The breed, also known as the American Bullador, is a unique cross between an athletic American Bulldog and a loyal Labrador Retriever. Adopting from a rescue organization is another excellent option. Many American Bulladors find themselves in need of a forever home. When finding a breeder, keep the following points in mind: Reputation: Look for breeders with positive reviews, recommendations from other dog owners, or a good standing with dog clubs and breed-related organizations. Health: Reputable breeders prioritize the health of their dogs, performing necessary genetic testing and providing appropriate healthcare. Living conditions: A responsible breeder raises their dogs in a clean, comfortable environment and provides adequate socialization and stimulation. In conclusion, adopting an American Bulldog Lab mix can be a rewarding experience. Whether you choose to adopt through a rescue organization or find a reputable breeder, always prioritize the health and well-being of the dog. Both parent breeds have a long history. The American Bulldog originated from the English Bulldog, which can be traced back to 5th century England. Labrador Retrievers were first bred in Newfoundland, Canada, and are known for their exceptional waterfowl retrieval skills. The appearance of an American Bulldog Lab mix can be quite diverse, thanks to the various coat colors and patterns inherited from their parent breeds. You can find Bulladors in black, brown, white, tan, and brindle colors. American Bulldog Lab mixes are known for their affectionate and protective nature. However, they can also be slightly stubborn, so be prepared for some patience when training your Bullador. Bulladors are usually medium to large-sized dogs. The weight of a male Lab ranges from 65 to 80 pounds, and females weigh between 55 to 70 pounds. The height of a male Labrador Retriever ranges from .The size of a Bullador can vary depending on their genes, but you can expect a sturdy and athletic companion! Now that you know a little more about this fascinating mixed breed, you can confidently share the wonders of the Bullador with fellow dog enthusiasts! Just remember to keep your sense of humor intact when explaining that their stubbornness is just part of their charm. American Bulladors, also known as Labrabulls, are a mixed breed combining an American Bulldog and a Labrador Retriever. They are typically medium to large-sized dogs, with males weighing anywhere from 70 to pounds and females ranging from 60 to pounds. Their height usually falls between 22 to 26 inches. How long do American Bulldog Lab mixes typically live? The life expectancy of an American Bulldog Lab mix is generally between 10 to 12 years. What is a typical coat color for a Bullador? The coat of a Bullador can vary due to the mixed breed nature, but common colors include black, white, brown, yellow, and brindle. Their coats are usually short and smooth, which makes grooming and maintenance relatively easy. Just remember that these dogs might shed a bit, so be prepared to do some regular brushing. What kind of temperament can you expect from the American Bulldog Lab mix? Confident and intelligent, the American Bulldog Lab mix is known for its friendly and loyal disposition. They are usually energetic dogs that love to play and require regular exercise. These dogs are also known for being protective of their families, making them great watchdogs. However, early socialization and consistent training are essential for well-adjusted and well-behaved Bulladors. Are American Bulldog Lab mixes good family pets? Yes, American Bulldog Lab mixes generally make excellent family pets. Their friendly, loyal, and protective nature means they are great with children and other family members. How much do American Bullador puppies typically cost? Share this:. Tweet on Twitter Designer mixed breed dogs are becoming increasingly popular, and Labrador retriever mixes, including the American bulldog Lab mix, are at the front of the pack when it comes to favorite cross breed dogs. Are you interested in an American bulldog Labrador mix? Mixed breed dogs known as Bulladors or Labrabulls are generally Labs who have mated with English bulldogs. Given the health issues of English bulldogs, is the American bulldog Lab mix a better option for potential owners concerned about getting a healthy dog? True purebred dogs typically have a known pedigree and are registered with an official breed organization such as the American Kennel Club AKC. Looking for a unique dog? Designer mixes are a crossbreeding of two purebred dogs of different breeds, while the hereditary background of a mutt is usually unknown. You can learn more about the purebred versus mutt debate here. Is one of these types of dog healthier than the others? According to the UKC, the American bulldog arrived in the southern United States with immigrants from Britain and retains the appearance of the original bulldog before the breed evolved into the English bulldog we know today. The American bulldog is a working and guardian dog. The breed was originally used on farms to work with livestock and guard property. There are two main types of American bulldog. The Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland Canada as a water dog, working alongside fishermen. For over a quarter century, the Labrador retriever has been the most popular dog breed in the US. Purebred Labs are the dog of choice for many families, although Lab mixes are also increasingly popular. The American bulldog and Labrador mix has been a popular crossbreed dog for many years. American Bulldog Lab Mix Appearance The most important thing to keep in mind when considering a mixed breed dog such as the Labrador American bulldog is that the cross can have any combination of the physical traits of each parent breed. The breed standard for the Labrador retriever states that males range from .Labs are sturdy, medium-sized dogs, athletic and well-proportioned. While physical appearance varies between the Scott and Johnson types of the American bulldog, the breed should look powerful, strong and athletic. Expect a male American bulldog of either type to range between 22 to 27 inches high at the shoulder and females between 20 and 25 inches. What about the American bulldog cross Labrador? Given the height and weight ranges of the parent breeds, the size of an American Bullador can vary. Generally, expect a weight range of between 55 and 85 pounds, with males on the heavier end of the scale and females on the lighter end. What about height? This can also vary quite a bit among individual dogs. The maximum height is around 25 inches, although many individuals can be shorter. American Bulldog Lab Mix Coat Many potential owners are interested in the coat color, length and grooming requirements of the American Bullador. Is it a low maintenance mixed breed? The American bulldog has a short, close coat, no longer than an inch in length. The undercoat provides protection in cold weather, but it does shed seasonally. Labs require regular weekly grooming with a slicker brush, and daily grooming may be necessary during times of heavy undercoat shedding. Labs have three recognized coat colors: solid black, yellow or chocolate. What about the mix? Generally, the American Bullador has a short, low maintenance coat that will need a weekly brushing. If your dog has a thicker Labrador-type coat, more grooming may be required. Many coat colors and markings are possible in the American bulldog Lab mix. The most common colors tend to be black, brown, yellow, red or tan, often combined with white. There are more coat color and pattern possibilities with the American bulldog, so whether the Lab parent is black, chocolate or yellow, the puppies can have quite a range of colors and markings. American Bulldog Lab Mix Temperament Like appearance, the personality of a mixed breed dog can never be guaranteed. Your American Bullador could be more Lab-like, more of a classic bulldog, or any combination of both. Labrador retrievers are known for their friendly, kind and eager-to-please nature. They are intelligent, gentle, and neither timid nor aggressive. While as gentle and loving with its family as any Lab, the American bulldog is a confident dog that may be aloof with strangers. The American bulldog should not be overly shy or overly aggressive. What about the American Bullador personality? The ideal American Bullador is loyal, brave and protective of family. Because that Lab friendliness can be tempered with some bulldog assertiveness, proper training and socialization is essential. Start training and socializing your dog from puppyhood. Since that bulldog blood may make your dog somewhat strong-willed, be patient and remember to use only positive reinforcement training methods. Always supervise your American Bullador around children and unfamiliar dogs. The protective nature of the bulldog side can lead to some aggression, which is why good training and socialization are so important. Because it is such a popular breed, the Lab has some well-documented health problems. But what about the American bulldog? Most purebred dogs have some genetic health conditions, including the Labrador. The most common issues seen in Labs are the joint diseases known as hip and elbow dysplasia, some heart, eye and neurological problems, and a genetic predisposition to obesity. Reputable breeders will also share all health testing information with clients. The American bulldog also has some genetic health conditions that can be passed on to crossbred American Bullador puppies. A skin condition called autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis ARCI is caused by a genetic mutation. American bulldogs can also be prone to an eye disease called pigmentary uveitis, which causes glaucoma. Dogs with this syndrome may have trouble breathing, be prone to gagging, experience exercise intolerance or collapse , and be sensitive to heat and humidity. Responsible American bulldog breeders will ensure that only healthy dogs are used in their breeding stock and will provide all health testing information to their clients. American bulldog Lab mix puppies can inherit genetic health problems from both the Labrador side and the American bulldog side, so it is important to get your dog from a reputable breeder. How do you find a healthy puppy? Because designer mixed breed dogs are so popular, be sure to choose your American Bullador breeder with care. A puppy bought over the internet or at a pet store could be from a large-scale breeding operation known as a puppy mill. You should be able to observe the conditions of the kennel, talk to the breeder, and see the parents and littermates of your puppy. X-rays for hip and elbow dysplasia can be officially certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Your puppy and its littermates should have clean eyes, noses and bottoms that are free from discharge. Choose a puppy that is lively and not overly shy. It is also possible to adopt a homeless American bulldog Labrador mix, especially if you want an adult dog. Check with local breed specific rescue groups for both the Labrador retriever and American bulldog and tell them that you are interested in a mix. Remember that a dog is a lifetime commitment, so be sure that you and everyone in your household are prepared to welcome a new canine companion into the family. Enjoy your new best friend. References and Further Reading: Beuchat, C. Black, brown, white, tan, brindle Suitable for: Temperament: Stubborn, affectionate, protective Since this dog is a mixed of two very different dogs, it can also be difficult to determine what a mixed breed will act or look like. However, the dog can only inherit traits from either the American Bulldog or the Labrador, so we can make broad predictions. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. This is mostly to cover their vaccinations and medical needs, which can be somewhat expensive for these puppies. Adult dogs will likely cost about the same and may be easier to find. Many will be more than happy to call you if a dog that matches your description comes through the door. Getting your pup through a breeder will be more expensive. However, the price will depend on the parentage of the puppies. Typically, they are friendly with people, even to the point of being a little too friendly. Early socialization is important to prevent your canine from becoming over-excited every time that someone new shows up. They are typically affectionate and loveable. However, they are not lap dogs by any means. These canines are quite active in their demeanor. They want to play frequently and tend to hold onto their puppyhood longer than most dogs. They can be a bit protective of their family, which can lead to aggression. Some of these dogs may make good watchdogs, but others will simply be too friendly. They are courageous and loyal. Whether that overcomes their friendly nature depends on the dog. These dogs may be incredibly stubborn, or they may not be stubborn at all. This is the area where you will see the most difference, even between puppies in the same litter. It simply depends on what parent they take after the most. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Whether this dog is a fit for your family depends largely on how active your family is and how much time you have available to commit to a dog. As larger dogs, American Bulldog Labs need quite a bit of training to ensure that they are well-behaved around people. Socialization is also important to ensure that they understand that strangers are not a threat to their humans and to lessen their protectiveness. These dogs are affectionate and playful. However, they do require quite a bit of exercise and time. Because of their large size, these dogs are good for little children as well. Just be sure to supervise, as these canines can get excited and accidentally knock kids over. However, the child is likely not going to hurt these dogs, which prevents the likelihood of pain- or fear-based biting, the most common type of biting in dogs. They can, but their tendency to be territorial can throw a wrench in their relationship with other dogs. Typically, proper socialization will leave you with a canine that at least tolerates the presence of other dogs. Early socialization is important and required. We absolutely recommend puppy classes for these dogs. While American Bulldog Labs are not hunting dogs, they do like to chase things. This can be a problem for pets like cats and even chickens. These dogs are not particularly good with livestock animals. Early socialization can help, but you should still be careful regarding cats and similar animals. They are quite large, which means they eat more compared to some other canines. You should preferably purchase a high-protein food with plenty of meat. Avoid fillers and unnecessary carbs, like high amounts of grains and veggies. You should be careful when feeding these dogs as puppies. We recommend a puppy food that is specifically designed for large breed puppies, as these will contain extra nutrients that these larger dogs need to grow. You should avoid overfeeding puppies, though, even if they seem to act hungry all the time. It is extremely important to stick to the correct feeding guidelines when your dog is little. Outside playtime is extremely important, though you should keep them in a fenced-in area. These dogs can learn a reliable recall sometimes, depending on the level of their stubbornness. These dogs are typically quite good at agility competitions and enjoy playing a variety of games. They are quite intelligent, which you can use to your advantage while exercising them. Teach them games like hide-and-seek to exercise their body and minds at the same time. They are fast at figuring out what you want them to do. Often, these dogs have some level of stubbornness. The rare American Bulldog Lab may have no stubbornness at all and readily do whatever you ask. But most will at least consider whether they want to follow a command or not. Some may be incredibly stubborn and only respond when something is in it for them like food. Due to their high energy levels, these canines are extremely play-driven. You can usually use toys to play with them instead of treats. The same basic training principles apply. Ask them to do a command, and when they do, throw the ball or play tug for a moment. The playtime acts as the reward. This is a great way to wear them out and do training at the same time. They do shed quite a bit, so occasional brushing may be needed to lessen the amount of fur that ends up all over your home. They may need an occasional bath if they get obviously dirty, but this will only be necessary if they roll around in mud or something similar. As for all dogs, regular teeth brushing is recommended. You should also check their ears for built-up debris regularly, though this is less of a problem for this breed. Their nails will need to be trimmed regularly. However, due to their high activity, they may need them cut less often than some other breeds do. They are less likely to inherit genetic conditions because they are drawing on a larger genetic pool. However, they are still prone to a few conditions, mainly due to their size. These dogs are prone to hip dysplasia, as there is a great deal of weight being put on their hip joints. This can be quite serious for some dogs, while others may have no symptoms at all. Proper feeding during the puppy years is extremely important to prevent this. They may also develop conditions like progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and skin allergies. However, these are rarer than they are in other breeds. Male vs Female While males may be a bit larger, these dogs vary so much that it is hard to notice differences between sexes. It is also hard to predict any differences in temperament and behavior. These dogs may be completely trainable or absolutely stubborn. Because of the temperaments of each parent, this mixed breed may either be easy to train or extremely stubborn. There will be large differences between puppies even in the same litter. Likely, none of the puppies will be quite as stubborn as the American Bulldog. However, none will be as trainable as a Labrador either. Most puppies will be somewhere in between, but extremes on either side of the spectrum are possible. Solid colors are rare in this mix. While the Labrador Retriever mostly has solid colors, this mixed breed often does not. This is largely due to the genes from the American Bulldog, which almost guarantees that the puppy will end up with markings of some sort. Of course, solid colors are possible but this is rare. Their exercise needs will vary. The American Bulldog is an active breed that is known for short bursts of energy. The Labrador Retriever is the exact opposite. They have a great deal of endurance that allows them to go for a long time. The mixed-breed puppies can end up anywhere in the middle. They do best in active families that have plenty of time to exercise and train them. They are typically friendly but do require socialization to get along with strangers and other dogs. They may be stubborn or extremely trainable, depending on what traits they inherit from their parents. Either way, they are extremely smart and enjoy playing games like hide-and-seek. Because they inherit a larger pool of genes, they are much healthier than either of their parents. Proper feeding in the early years can go a long way toward preventing hip dysplasia, which they are somewhat prone to due to their larger size. We recommend this breed for active families with plenty of extra time. These dogs get along equally well with younger and older children, so they are good dogs to grow up with. Featured Image Credit: JNix, Shutterstock Written by Kristin Hitchcock Author Kristin is passionate about helping pet parents create a fulfilling life with their pets by informing them on the latest scientific research and helping them choose the best products for their pets. She currently resides in Tennessee with four dogs, three cats, two fish, and a lizard, though she has dreams of owning chickens one day!
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mini french bulldog puppies florida - View All Articles in Training When to Start Training Your Pup While training may not be the first thing you think about when collecting your cute new bundle of floof from the breeder, it should certainly be up there on your priority list. Chances are, if you picked a good facility, your puppy will already have a leg up on the training ladder. Either way, the very best way to quickly make your new pet feel at home is to establish the boundaries of their behavior in a firm but fair manner. Take them outside to pee frequently and praise them when they do what you want them to do, but never punish any accidents. Every dog learns at their own speed, and training takes patience. Yet, the rules need to be in place from day one. If you let your pooch sleep on your bed one day but banish them from the bedroom the next, they are going to end up very confused. Routines that are established in these first few weeks will stick with your Berne. After all, these super-intelligent dogs learn fast. Compared with more excited, energetic Doodles, they can be a breeze to handle if you pick the right teaching method. Here are four of the best as recommended by canine experts: Positive Reinforcement Early ideas on dog training focused heavily on the owner asserting dominance over their pet through positive punishment shouting, hitting, and hurting. We have moved far away from these today. Such treatment often backfires, creating an anxious, aggressive dog that is liable to lash out when provoked. Now, most trainers make use of positive reinforcement methods. Instead of reacting to unwanted behaviors, they focus on rewarding the wanted ones. They do this through the use of attention, praise, toys, and treats. The idea is that if the dog associates a particular behavior with a reward, they are more likely to repeat that behavior. A potential issue with this technique is that sometimes bad behavior is its own reward. Say your dog likes to steal food from the counter or escape from the garden. In these instances, a negative punishment removing a favorite toy, treat, or simply your attention is recommended to let them know this is not acceptable. Clicker Training Based on the same principles as positive reinforcement, clicker training is the method most often utilized by doggy trainers. Secondly, it can be used at the exact moment your pup displays the wanted action. In this way, the positive behavior is very clearly marked. Of course, with this method, you first have to train your pal to associate the clicker with a future reward. Do this by encouraging them to obey a command they are already familiar with, using the clicker, and promptly feeding them a treat. With time a link will form between the two. Eventually, the clicker may even become the reward itself — the signal of a job well done for your dog. This desire to mimic as a way of pleasing the leader is a natural behavior among pack animals in the wild. They are given the freedom to engage in dog-like behaviors within reason. Training often occurs off the leash and focuses on promoting actions associated with hunting, defending, and retrieving. Socialization plays a crucial role in mirror training. Owners are encouraged to include their pooch in all aspects of their lives so as to build a strong bond with them. Getting out and about with other dogs is also vital. Pack-animal mentality means that positive behaviors are also acquired this way. Relationship-Based Training As the name suggests, relationship-based training is also highly focused on the bond between pet and owner. The idea is that any training built on a solid and trusting relationship is likely to be far more effective. You are looking to learn everything you can about your pup and their specific needs. The aim is to be in tune with their emotions, be able to accurately interpret their body language, and understand what motivates them. Positive reinforcement methods are then used to shape behavior. At the same time, the environment is closely controlled to set the dog up for success. So, for instance, you try not to leave temptation in their way if it can be avoided. This training takes a little longer than other kinds but can offer more success in the long run. Training Items You Absolutely Need for Your Doodle Depending on the method you opt for, you will need a few tools to guarantee success. For instance, with each one, you will require reward items such as treats and toys. Here are some toys that will work for Bernies. Aside from that, you will want a good quality collar or harness and leash for outside training. Opt for a harness if your puppy likes to pull. These are generally better for bigger, more powerful dogs such as Bernedoodles, anyway, as they give you a little more control. Many owners also choose to crate train their pup. This has a number of advantages, including giving your dog a place that is all theirs, a place where they can feel safe and secure. Check out our dedicated articles on leash training and crate training for more specific advice on each one. However, it also increases the likelihood of them snatching food from tables and counters if not closely supervised. When they obey, offer pets and praise, and they will soon get the hang of it. Avoid mixed messages by never feeding your pup from the table. Jumping While Bernedoodles tend to be cautious with strangers, the opposite is true with those they love. They may demonstrate their enthusiasm by jumping up to say hello — not ideal if your Bernie is on the larger side. It can be challenging for owners who appreciate all the loving to discourage such behavior, but not everyone enjoys being sent flying. While the natural response might be to push your pup down, they will likely view this as part of the game. Instead, the best thing to do is withdraw your attention. Turn away from your dog without a sound and cross your arms over your chest. If they keep jumping up, then simply turn around and leave the room. If you are having problems with a noisy hound, try to identify what might lie underneath the behavior rather than simply trying to control it. Barking can signal an array of issues — everything from boredom to anxiety. So, pay attention to when it occurs. Bernedoodles, being highly sociable dogs, are prone to separation anxiety, so if your pup is disturbing the neighbors when you are away from the house, this is likely the problem. Find out what you can do about separation anxiety here. Early and thorough socialization is the best preventative measure for this. Pulling on the Leash A common issue among most young pups, pulling on the leash can be a serious problem with Bernedoodles, though — especially when they are on the larger side. This behavior usually occurs simply because your pup is excited to be outside, and that enthusiasm translates to them wanting to get to the dog park as quickly as they can. Mastering walking on the leash mostly just takes practice. You need to be firm and not let them get away with doing it at any time. If your Berne starts to get ahead of you, simply stop, make them sit if you can, and begin to walk again only when they are a bit calmer. See here for more leash training tips and tricks. Digging Just like barking, digging tends to be a symptom of an underlying problem like boredom. The thing with Doodles is that incredible intelligence makes them less likely to be satisfied with merely hanging out in the yard all day. They need to be kept both physically and mentally stimulated. If they are not… bring on the destructive behaviors! Digging is a firm doggy favorite. The trick is to divert their attention to something else. If they are getting enough walks and plenty of affection, try throwing a few toys into the mix. Puzzle toys have been designed specifically to keep clever canines entertained for longer. Finally, try giving your dog a designated space in the garden to dig far away from the fence and your favorite plants and flowers. Biting and Mouthing While common in young pups, especially when teething, aggressive biting is not a Bernedoodle trait. Herding dogs such as Bernes might nip to get you to go where they want to go a behavior they can easily be trained out of. Still, if your pup is getting a little vicious for no reason, you could have a problem. If it is just puppy teething — not fun in any way when they are having at you with those needle-sharp teeth — consider investing in a high-quality teething toy such as one of these. They could be feeling particularly anxious about something — a new person or other kinds of changes in the household. Alternatively, they might be sick and in pain. If you are confident that they are getting enough nutrition for their weight and life stage, chances are your hound is just looking for something fun to chew on and taking it to the extreme. Again, chew toys are the best answer. They will keep your pet occupied and help them to fulfill their natural instinct for mouthing. This is what keeps their teeth clean and their jaws healthy, after all. The issue should resolve itself in no time at all. Especially because most breeders begin this process long before you pick your new puppy up. Just keep things consistent, and you will get there fairly quickly and painlessly. A few things you can do are: take your pup out to the place you want them to go on a regular basis. Designate a specific command and offer lots of love, hugs, and praise when they do what you ask of them. Never punish any accidents — this could actually set your dog back. Some owners recommend crate training for puppies who are having a slightly more difficult time getting the hang of it all. When To Get Professional Help If your pup starts or continues to display behavior issues such as aggression, food aggression, excessive barking, destructive chewing, mounting, or separation anxiety, it is likely that he will need special attention to address them. The best way to deal with Doodle behavior issues is to hire a trainer, or a behaviorist to come to your home for a one-on-one consult. Not only will you learn the skills you need to be successful, but your puppy will learn incredible manners and behaviors as well! See Also: Click the image Amy helps you set up your home, get your family all on the same page and teaches you exactly what to do the second your puppy arrives for optimal training success. You can also schedule LIVE! Office Hours for one-on-one help with Amy and participate in weekly online puppy classes right in your living room! Need help with training? We recommend this on top of group classes. By the way, the skills they teach works for any dog at any age. Bernedoodles, with their incredible intelligence and people-pleasing manner, are relatively easy to train compared to other dogs. Keep things light, fun, and interesting, and you should be able to teach your pal to do just about anything within reason. How do you train a Bernedoodle puppy? There are various training methods. The one you subscribe to will be the one that works best for you and your pup. How do you discipline a Bernedoodle? Discipline is a tricky business in the world of canines. Experts agree that shouting and hitting simply do not work in the long run. Bernedoodles are awesome dogs, and you will never regret adding one to your household. However, they do take a fair bit of looking after. We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime. Therefore, this article is dedicated to establishing some Bernedoodle training ground rules to make training as smooth for both you and your dog. Even though they are designer dogs, they are not meant to be trained for dog shows. If you like partying, you can have your Bernedoodle accompany you. If you like lying around, you can have your Bernedoodle accompany you. The breed is moderately active. Therefore, they can take on any activity you would want them to take on, as long as you give them enough rest. Since a Bernedoodle will always want to accompany you, it is best to train them according to your schedule and lifestyle. If you lead a super active lifestyle, we suggest you train your dog to be docile in the outdoor environment. However, if you like to stay at home, you can teach them basic household chores such as bringing a towel, etc. Try not to put too many irrelevant commands in their minds because their goofy minds might end up getting confused. Train Them Early Train them early to reap the fruits in the long run. Bernedoodles tend to get too comfortable in their surroundings and, as quick learners, adapt to habits in no time. Before getting a puppy, we suggest you plan a mini-vacation for the first week of your companionship. You can devote this first week to bond with your Bernedoodle puppy and training them diligently. Teach them a few obedience commands right when you get them. When a puppy is given too much time to themselves before training, they pick up naturally bad habits and are generally crate trained. Therefore, they get stuck learning only the basic commands for most of their life. However, if you train your puppy early, they will adopt a curious and adventurous mind. Therefore, they will learn how to do advanced tricks and abbey special commands in no time. After all, a Bernedoodle is a companion dog and will adapt to the way you live. Therefore, if you live a train dedicated to active training, they will live that way too. However, if you get lazy with training, they will slack off in picking up commands. Always Use Positive Reinforcements Dogs are sensitive to your behavior — so tread carefully. Something to be careful about — not only with Bernedoodles is how sensitive they can be towards your behavior. If you show them anger — they will either reciprocate it or feel stressed about your negative emotion. Dogs — like humans — cannot learn and perform while they are under stress. Therefore, it is best to make them feel welcome during their training session. Many dog trainers in the past used to punish dogs for not performing the desired command. However, doing that to a Bernedoodle can lead to anxiety and long-term bonding issues. The best way to train a Bernedoodle is to use positive reinforcements. Positive reinforcements are the act of awarding your dog for good behavior instead of punishing him for bad ones. Positive reinforcements allow the dog to create a stronger bond with you. Moreover, it allows the dog to be happy with his training sessions instead of dreading them. Laser-Sharp Focus Dogs get distracted easily, but they will not learn any complex commands unless they can focus. Much like humans, dogs need to be idle to focus on the task at hand. Whether you want to teach your dog new commands or want them to stay quiet for a while, they cannot do it until they are focused. The best way to teach your Bernedoodle to focus is to teach them the sit and stay command combination. Once your dog knows how to sit on command, move a little away from him and continue commanding him to sit. Add the stay command and slowly increase the duration of each stay session. When your dog knows how to stay until further notice, they will learn how to do nothing even when there might be some distractions around. Unless the dog learns not to do anything, he will never learn how to stay focused and learn new tricks. Take Them Outdoors — Learn from Experiences Outdoors is the perfect place for your dog to learn many visual cues and boost their sensory development. When you take your dog outdoors, two things happen — they interact with the world around them other than you, and they get physical exercise. When a dog gets to interact with a world other than you and your house, they learn several visual cues. Moreover, being outdoors with your dog is the perfect opportunity for you to gauge how he responds to other animals, strangers, and children. Most Bernedoodles are likely to be friendly and docile with other animals and strangers. Therefore, you will not have to make them undergo extensive training. However, some might get aggressive and will need specialized training to be friendly. Being outdoors also gives the dog the physical stimulation it needs to go about his day properly. If dogs have too much pent-up energy in them, they tend to develop destructive and aggressive behavior. Give Them Mental Games to Play Physical stimulation is important, but so is mental stimulation, which is why brain training for your dog is vital. How well your dog is mentally stimulated makes a huge difference in how well he can be trained. However, the same is true too. The more mentally stimulated the dog, the more intelligence he is likely to develop. The more intelligent the dog, the easier it will be to train him. Bernedoodles, in general, tend to be highly intelligent dogs — therefore, they like to be mentally stimulated and like to learn new things every other day. If a Bernedoodle is not adequately mentally stimulated, he will become sad and aggressive. The best way to mentally stimulate your Bernedoodle to keep his mind sharp enough for rigorous training is simple. You can get your dog to try a new command every three days. This will give them enough challenge to feel stimulated but not too much to overwhelm and distress them — which brings up the next ground rule. Training can be very difficult for your dog to wrap his head around. Therefore, while continuous training sessions are vital, it is necessary to keep each session short. Therefore, it is best to keep them happy about training for only minutes a stretch and let them imbibe the commands you teach them. An overworked dog will end up feeling too tired to obey the commands they have learned. Therefore, the best way to keep them from burning out is to teach consistently but gradually. If you are teaching the basic sit command to your dog, make sure you only make a few repetitions in one go. Too many repetitions will make your dog resist the training and resent the next session. Allow your dog at least two days to learn a command as simple as sit. Reinforce their training with the first few repetitions and slowly do away with the treats once they start to get the hang of the command — even if it takes a few days. Bernedoodles are companion dogs and love to spend all their time with their family. However, they are also very sensitive and need to learn how to be alone at an early age. If your dog is used to being with you at all times as a puppy, not having you around for even a short duration can be a cause of significant distress and sadness for them. When your puppy is only in his socializing stage, make sure you give him time to himself. Therefore, he will learn to feel comfortable in your absence. The best way to do so is to let the puppy move around in your house while you stay out of their sight for a while. Begin with 10 minutes of solitude, and you can gradually increase the time to hours at a stretch. This resonates with the ground rule of training your Bernedoodle in accordance with your lifestyle. If you need to go out to work for most of the day, train your puppy to learn your schedule. When you return home, make sure you spoil him with a lot of treats. This will let the dog understand that even if you leave them alone for a while, you will come back and shower him with love when you return. Use the Leash Wisely The leash is the first and last control you have over your dog. Therefore, it is important to use it accurately. Your dog will learn to associate the leash with training and walking, which should induce excitement in him. You must never use a leash to get strict or punish a dog. Otherwise, he will associate the leash with negativity. Dogs tend to associate places and objects with emotions. Therefore, once they have associated the leash with negativity, they will never be happy to be on a leash even while training and walking. Using a leash while training your dog is very important. This is especially true for Bernedoodles because even as intelligent dogs, they tend to be very distracted. If your dog is not on a leash while training, it will become difficult to keep him in one place. You can start walking your dog on a leash and teach him to stay at your heel. Once you are confident enough that your dog will not run off towards distractions and will listen to you if you call him, you can try walking him without the leash as well. However, the transformation from with to without a leash should be done very slowly and carefully. It is best to start the transformation within the confines of your home so that your dog will still be in reach if he runs off. However, their loyalty can cause problems when not trained properly. However, mixed with Poodle traits, the dog might not have any chill. If your dog is also aggressive in nature, he is likely to be too protective. This leads to them being suspicious of anyone who comes to your house. They might even have a tendency to bite. Therefore, you need to teach him the boundary between loyal and aggressively loyal. Loyalty is an inept trait in Bernedoodles. Therefore, you have to focus on training him not to be aggressive to anyone in your house. The answer is not to tie him up when someone visits — that will only make him more aggressive. You must make sure the dog is comfortable with people entering your house. To do so, you can walk your dog on a leash to the door when guests arrive. When your guest arrives, give the sit command and allow the guest to give him a treat — but only if the dog is sitting and not being aggressive. Once the guest is inside, you can allow your dog to roam freely and give him treats whenever he is not aggressive. This will teach him to trust having strangers in the house in your presence. Biting Training Dogs can nib — but teach them not to bite. As mentioned earlier, dogs are very receptive to your emotions. We will use that dog characteristic to our advantage. You can allow your dog to nib on your hand. This will let your dog know that they hurt you by putting pressure with their jaws on your hand. Eventually, with enough treats and repetitions, the dog will learn not to apply pressure to avoid causing pain. Make sure your dog is well-adept to not apply pressure while nibbling. Once that is done, you can ask your family or friends trusted by your dog to follow the same command sequence. This way, the dog will eventually learn not to bite either you or any other human around him. Every time your dog refrains from putting pressure while nibbling, award him with a treat. You will end up with a fierce dog who is not afraid to scare but will not cause harm unless he senses danger. Summing Up Bernedoodle is an interesting dog breed. With high intelligence, loyalty, and goofiness, they are extremely adorable. Their curiosity also makes them easy to train as long as you start training them as soon as you get them. With the right blend of positive reinforcements, accurate tool usage, scheduling, and patience, you can train your Bernedoodle to be the best companion dog there is. 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. February 7, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? When it comes to having the best of both worlds, Bernedoodles are it! These mixed breed designers pups were bred to be the perfect companion dog and quickly rose up in the ranks of popular puppy breeds over the last two decades! How do you know if a Bernedoodle is a right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Bernedoodles! Sherry Rupke of Swissridge Kennels claims to be the very first breeder that purposely cross-bred two purebreeds: Standard Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog. Since this breed is only approximately two decades old, the American Kennel Club still does not consider the Bernedoodle a purebred. Nevertheless, the rise in popularity has also led to many more breeders producing these pups. If you were interested in bringing a Bernedoodle home, while there are many reputable breeders that specialize in these pups, you can also find these pups in shelters or rescue groups that focus on Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs, to potentially find these mixed pups! What are Bernedoodle Breed Characteristics? When it comes to range, few breeds can beat the Bernedoodle! These pups come in a variety of sizes and coat colors. Bernedoodles come in a few different sizes: tiny, miniature, medium, and standard. They can range in weight from ten pounds in the tiny category all the way to ninety pounds in the standard category. Along with variety in sizes, their coats can be within a range from completely black, black and white, black and brown, or tri-colored with patches of either black, white, or brown. Probably the most common coat and markings people seek when looking for a Bernedoodle puppy is the tri-color variety that is in closer resemblance to the Bernese Mountain Dog. Depending on which side of their genetic makeup your pup takes after, some Bernedoodle pups coats can be curly, or wavy like the Standard Poodle and not shed as much making them a good candidate for parents who suffer from allergies. Other Bernedoodle pups can have straighter coats that have a tendency to shed more and are not hypoallergenic. What are Bernedoodles Personalities like? The Puppy Academy student, Hamilton! Goofy, smart, loyal to their families, and friendly, these pups have the best personality traits from both sides! Most Bernedoodles parents pick these pups because of their good demeanors and temperaments. Your puppy may lean toward the Standard Poodle side, depicting traits of high intelligence, hard-working, and loyal. Or your puppy can lean toward the Bernese Mountain Dog which is good-natured, confident, and affectionate. Some Bernese Mountain Dogs can be stubborn, in particular during their adolescent phase, and a bit aloof or standoffish toward strangers. With good basic obedience and early socialization, any Bernedoodle can make a great fit for a family and develop friendly demeanors toward new people. While these pups are considered to be working dogs and do require daily exercise, they are also content with hanging out with you at home. Moderate exercises such as one to two longer walks, with play sessions in between, a day is sufficient to burn off energy and keep your pup content! Tiny and Mini Bernedoodles are better equipment for urban environment living whereas Medium to Standard sized Bernedoodles would need more space to exercise and play. No matter the size of your Bernedoodle puppy, they are going to need adequate exercise, which is why they do really well with active families! Tiny and Mini Bernedoodles will require a bit less activity and can adapt to tighter living spaces that come with urban environments such as apartments or condos. As for Medium to Standard-sized Bernedoodles which are taller and wider and can grow upwards of ninety pounds, they may be bumping into more coffee tables and have trouble fitting in the same hallway as you in smaller dwellings! For all sizes, access to either a fenced-in yard or a nearby park you can take them to is ideal for this breed! How to Care for Your Bernedoodle Puppy! When it comes to caring for your new Bernedoodle puppy, start off by scheduling a first veterinarian visit within the first week of bringing your puppy home! Like many large breed working dogs, Bernedoodle may suffer from joint dysplasia. Bernese Mountain Dogs have been known to suffer blood disorders, some cancers, and progressive retinal atrophy. Generally, Bernedoodles are healthy and sturdy especially if they come from a reputable breeder. General care for your Bernedoodle puppy will include brushing their teeth to avoid tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Floppy ears means they may be susceptible to ear infections so regularly check and clean them to avoid these from happening. Because their coat types can vary, depending on your puppy, if they have a curly coat you may need to frequently brush them to avoid matting. We recommend that you take your puppy to a professional groomer every few months to get their fur trimmed. The Puppy Academy student, Cali! Create a Daily Puppy Training Schedule Bernedoodle puppies are smart and easily trained but they can have a stubborn streak as they get into their adolescence. Creating early structure at home can help mitigate this stubbornness by establishing daily routines your puppy can expect and also establish you as leader. Since Bernedoodles are made up of two intelligent hard-working breeds, basic obedience training with food positive reinforcement will benefit their behavioral growth! Socialize Your Bernedoodle Puppy with People, Children, and Other Pets Bernedoodles have friendly dispositions and make great family dogs, however, they can be standoffish to new people as they get older. Use Play to Help Train Them Tap into their playful nature and use your playtime sessions together to teach good manners! For example, use Fetch to teach your Bernedoodle how to come to you, Drop-it to give the toy back, then ask them to sit to teach polite manners as they learn to wait until you toss the toy again for them to get. Although Bernedoodles love to work, they sometimes need a bit more motivation! This can come with the aid of food rewards, and providing variation to their training routines to keep them engaged. Enrolling your puppy in training classes, or working with them by yourself at home using a program like our online puppy school will give you a plan to follow with basic training routines to teach your Bernedoodle good manners, as well as keep challenging them along the way so they never get bored, and advance their skillset! Did you recently bring home a Bernedoodle puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! If used properly, they can be a wonderful safe haven for your pet. At Premier Doodles, we start this process early on and all of our puppies from weeks will have multiple crates available in their kennel kept in our master bedroom. They learn what we call a Positive Conditioned Emotional Response PCER which means they come to learn that the crate is a great place to be and have to train this. The crate should be big enough for your pet to stand up, lay down and turn around. Don't worry about dividers as most all of our bernedoodles are great in the crate. Should accidents begin to appear on one side of the crate you'll have to creatively reduce the amount of space they have inside the crate. IMPORTANT NOTE: you will need to purchase two crates, one at the back door with a connected x-pen or other type of portable fencing that is clipped onto the crate to make a small play area, and the other next to your bed if you want maximum success. We have a YouTube channel called Premier Doodles where we have a short video showing what this setup looks like. The crate should be used to safely confine your pet when you are away from home, at night and for short periods of time when you are unable to watch them. We do not recommend keeping any type of collar on your pet while in the crate or in your home.It is important that from the very beginning, you never use your crate to punish your pet. You must make it a positive experience from the start. We want to create a PCER. You most definitely can confine your pet for short periods of time when they are misbehaving, but you never want to place your pet in there in a harsh or negative manner. If your pet develops a fear or dislike to their crate, it can be a very difficult situation to turn around. The crate should be a safe haven for your pet. It is an area that they should be able to go to and feel secure and comfortable. Use softer chew toys as they are more quiet at night time especially while you're sleeping. This includes bedding. We will attempt to put old towels or perhaps even an old sheet in my dogs crate but if they start to chew them, out they come. It is not worth the risk to have a pet ingest something that literally can kill them or cost a hefty price to have surgically removed. We usually keep our pets in their crate at night until they are able to hold their potty all night and they understand that we sleep at night, we don't "party". We want our dogs in the bedroom at night so we will then use a baby gate to keep them in there with us at night. They are typically crated during the day while we are gone until they are approximately 2 years of age. That is the average for dogs to mature especially bernedoodles. This may seem like a long time, but it is well worth the patience. Dogs that are well socialized are a pure pleasure to be around. They are far more "stable" than an un-socialized pet. They are much less likely to get themselves into trouble, which could ultimately get you into "big" trouble. This couldn't be further from the truth. They should always be socialized with safe, healthy dogs that are tolerant of obnoxiouspuppies. It is a common misconception that a lot of people believe that in order to have a "protective" dog, you must keep it away from people. You must praise or encourage inappropriate behavior, i. In reality, a dog that is well socialized is every bit as likely to alert you, or perhaps even defend you in the face of danger. The critical difference is: An un-socialized dog is going to assume that every single person, child etc. They have a much higher ability to "perceive" what is a true threat than the unfortunate un-social dog. The un-socialized pet is actually one that is running on fear of the "unknown". The reality is this: You should be getting a pet for a "pet". They should be a well-loved, properly cared for member of your family. To get a "pet" solely for "protection" is usually a recipe for disaster. We all can take comfort in the fact that all dogs usually alert us to something "different" in or around the house. That in itself is a huge deterrent to someone who is up to no good. To rely on a pet to keep us totally safe from harm, is not fair to the dog, nor should it be "their'' responsibility alone. A final note: To allow a dog to pick and choose what they perceive as a threat, to not socialize your dog, to not properly train and provide care for your dog, to not allow your dog to be a member of the family, is almost ALWAYS a disaster in the making. Insurance companies, Boarding Kennels, Hotels, Apartments, etc. There are certain Breeds of dogs that are not "welcome". There are no "bad" breeds in my opinion, but unfortunately, there are literally thousands of "bad" owners. Expose your pet to all different types of people, noises, environments etc. Do not force your pet to accept strangers, nor do you want to coddle fearful behavior. Do be mindful that your new puppy is not fully vaccinated until 16 weeks of age. Until then, you can still get them out and in car rides and with a rubbermaid tote can put into a cart at Lowe's and let them hear and see new people. Do yourself a favor and socialize your pet. You and they will be glad you did! They need to be corrected the instant the unwanted behavior occurs. They live in a world of cause and effect. Dogs live in the NOW. Corrections have to happen in the NOW. The quickest way to teach your dog that you are not trustworthy is to punish your dog with physical violence or to reprimand him for some action that he is not presently engaged in. Abuse is never acceptable, hitting a dog is never acceptable. You cannot use fear as a means of making an animal behave; it doesn't work. Showing an animal strong leadership and giving rules is not the same thing as instilling fear and administering inappropriate punishment. Never correct an animal out of anger of frustration. When you try and correct your dog out of anger, you are usually more out of control than your dog is. You are fulfilling your own needs, not the animals. Negative attention is better than no attention at all This is something that most parents can relate to as well. Whether this is laying down napping, playing with appropriate toys, sitting before being allowed outside, greeting people, etc. My number 1 rule for solving behavioral problems is to NOT reinforce them. Extinguish them or better yet work to not let them creep up into their pattern of life. Simply put, if your dog is acting out inappropriately and you react to it, you are very likely reinforcing that behavior. You may be reacting negatively, but you are reacting. However; if you re-direct your pet to something appropriate and then reward them for that, you will usually end up extinguishing the behavior that you do not want. For example: If your dog is jumping on you and you scream, yell, push or otherwise acknowledge the pet, you are reinforcing that behavior. Have you ever seen a "sane" dog repeatedly attack a telephone pole for no reason???? Having said that, you must also use common sense. If "Fido" is chewing on an electrical cord, you can not simply ignore it. What you should do is very quickly but calmly get up and with a sharp "NO" correct the pup and then immediately re-direct the pup to something appropriate. Reward for correct behavior. But it doesn't have to be! And with our Premier bernedoodles you'll find them to be one of the easiest puppies to housebreak because we have already started this process well before you bring your new puppy home. The following tips are helpful, if followed, in making a great and fun time less stressful for you and your pup! Once your puppy is a little bit older, they almost always can hold their potty overnight. The crate should be big enough for your puppy to standup, turnaround, and lay down. Our bernedoodle puppies do great in a Midwest XL wire crate. Puppies should be fed 3 times per day, at the very least they need to be fed 2 times per day. Please talk to your Veterinarian about your abilities to feed your pet and follow their advice. We personally do not recommend "paper'' training a puppy. No matter how you look at it, it is giving the puppy permission to use the bathroom in the house. It, of course, is a personal choice and some people's work schedule does not allow for anything different. Just keep in mind, it will be more difficult to change the "way of thinking" for the older puppy and you need to be patient Young puppies need to potty much more frequently than older puppies. Take that into consideration when housebreaking. We typically take our puppies out every minutes the first week after coming home, whether we think they need to go or not. This will be increased to hours after a few weeks. The first order of business should always be to potty when first going outside. Take your puppy to the area you want them to go and give them just a short amount of time to take care of business. When they are outside we start using potty commands Go Potty for 1 and Go Poo Poo for 2 at about 4 weeks of age and we even start using these phrases the first weeks. We repeat these phrases until they posture to do their business, at which time we shut up. As soon as they are done like the millisecond! We also do this in the wee hours of the morning but without this excitement and never with the lights on. Then take them back out to the potty area and try again. Once they have pottied, they have earned some time to play, explore, etc. Puppies are like small children, they need to be watched at all times, they need to learn right from wrong and they need a chance to be puppies! Get the puppy outside immediately while somebody else is cleaning up the mess. We use OdoBan to take all odors out so that it does not become a place that smells like an area to relieve themselves. You must use common sense when taking water away. If it is hot, the puppy has been playing hard, etc. You can also give ice cubes. Make sure you take your puppy outside right before you go to bed. If they immediately start crying you need to ignore them - they are seeking attention, and giving it to them even negative is teaching them that "this is the way to get attention". Place the puppy down and let them take care of business. Again we are saying quietly "Go Potty". Once they've gone potty, quietly praise them "Good potty" and take them right back to their crate. Do not play with your puppy, or otherwise encourage them to "wake" up, or that very well may be their incentive to "party" at 3 a. Once your puppy has developed a little more control, you will find that they start sleeping throughout the night in no time. In the beginning, they physically cannot hold their potty all night, once they can however; it is not in their best interest to get up in the middle of the night unless it has been made "rewarding"to them. We always get our puppies out immediately after eating and drinking. If after 15 minutes they don't go potty we will bring back inside and place in a crate. About 5 minutes later we will take back outside and repeat this process until they have relieved themselves. This is so common that most puppies will go through this at some point in their early part of their life. The best thing you can do is to try to avoid doing those things that seem to bring this behavior about. This is normal. If this behavior continues best to have a veterinarian check for a UTI. Here are some tips to help: Use a crate when you cannot supervise. Put his crate near a door allowing him to get outside quickly, potentially avoiding an accident. Keep quiet but relaxed. Ignore his behavior. Build up gradually to new things. Do basic obedience training. Make it fun and confidence building. Using lots of obedience commands and praises helps distract. Take him out regularly to do his business so his bladder will not build up pressure every 15 minutes. Do not go straight to his crate when entering a room. Allow him to calm down first, before letting him out. Just ignore the dog and walk past. When you go to the crate to let him out do so quietly. When out in the yard, do not call him up to you but walk slowly around with him. Give him a command to urinate and praise him calmly using voice only when he does. Do everything slowly and work at making your body language calm and unconcerned. Keep verbal volume low. Get down at ground level. Or sit on a low chair. Be non-threatening. Spend time sitting with him by your side on a leash. Take him for walks where he can gradually be exposed to the situations that trigger his urination. Ask friends to practice no touch, no talk, no eye contact around him. Avoid situations and people that you cannot control until your dog is learning to control himself and gain confidence. Submissive urination can be annoying, but exhibiting your frustration to your dog only makes it worse way worse as this is the very reason why they will sometimes do it. With a little planning and adjusting your attitude, you can minimize and overcome the problem which will disappear anyways but mine as well help along the line. However,there are rules that must be followed. If you ignore the rules, you should not play at all. If played properly, these games are some of the best anti-aggression exercises you can practice with your dog. Rule 1 While playing tug-of-war, most dogs will make a mistake and grab fingers or a hand instead of the toy. Because we are playing a game and feel that the mouth or bite was accidental, people tend to ignore it. This is a BIG mistake! If you allow rough housing or tug-of-war, you MUST never allow the dog to mouth or bite for any reason. The very instant the dog's tooth or teeth touch you or your clothing, you must immediately reprimand the dog and STOP playing. Dogs are very capable of controlling their teeth. Rule 2 The dog should never be allowed to initiate the play session or grab for the toy without invitation. Only when you give a command such as "take it". Especially with puppies, if you allow the dog to grab things without invitation, then you can find yourself playing while trying to get dressed, put on socks etc. You start the game, you end the game. Rule 3 It is always a good idea to stop the game every 30 seconds or so. When you stop the game, give your dog the command to "give or drop it". Make your dog sit or down. Praise and release. If you want to continue to play, give the dog the command to "take it" and continue. If the dog does not respond to the commands to give, you must immediately take the toy away and stop playing. This would clearly tell you that your dog either does not understand the command, or you are absolutely NOT in control. If you are not in control, you should never play this game with your dog. What may be a "soft" bite to you very well may not be to a child or an elderly person. When bites occur in play, in greeting or as an accident, we tend to ignore or excuse it dogs are very capable of controlling their teeth. What happens is the dog learns that they can act recklessly around us. We have taught them that there is no need to exercise caution around us or be respectful. They learn that biting is acceptable. Dogs do not do this to each other. They don't rationalize or make excuses. Biting and disrespect are swiftly and effectively reprimanded and it very rarely, if ever, happens again. Puppies are going to mouth you.We want them to learn an appropriate ABI or in other words how much force can they bite down that is deemed acceptable ie doesn't hurt. We need to first work with this component and then work on reducing the frequency. But bite force first. As you're playing with your puppy just keep screeching "OUCH" when it's too hard and at the moment they cease or bite softly praise them big time. This will go back and forth and forth and back like a ping pong match well at least played by two competent players! This will not be a one session deal. This will take weeks and weeks of being very consistent in your "OUCH" every time they either bite you or your clothes too hard. We do want to promote gentle bite behavior as this reinforces the bonding and teaches them an appropriate ABI which is imperative for producing a stable adult dog. DO NOT take the mouthing behavior away but lets just shape it so that the puppy knows when it's too hard. If your puppy is clearly highly energized and not responding then the play session is over and you walk away. That's it. Never ever hit or smack your dog to correct or thump them on the head as this will only produce head shy dogs. Remember…It is natural for dogs to bite, it must be understood that biting human flesh is the problem and will never be tolerated when it's too hard. The good news is that puppy mouthing behavior aka puppy biting almost always goes away between months even if you let it go. We just prefer the process of teaching boundaries early on while still allowing for some gentle mouthing behaviors. Just remember this will take a LONG time and will make up a big part of your early puppy training. Remember, dogs repeat behaviors that are in some way, shape or form rewarding to them. If you can remove the reward negative punishment , the behavior usually will decrease and then disappear. You need to figure out what the "reward" is and then remove it. Obviously, some behavior will not be able to be extinguished. For example, if the dog enjoys rolling in feces or mud, chewing, barking or anything that in and of itself is rewarding and you cannot "remove" it, it will continue. Yes there are some more invasive ways to extinguish these behaviors thru negative punishment e-collars, putting dog feces in holes being dug in the backyard and filling it, etc. Extinction can work great for nuisance behaviors such as barking, whining for attention, jumping, begging, controlling play, etc. If you attempt to use extinction, be prepared for the behavior to escalate before it starts to decrease. For example: If your dog is used to jumping on you and receiving attention and you decide to ignore it, the dog will become confused - "Hey.Very often, they will try harder to get the desired attention. If you stick to your guns and refuse to acknowledge the dog, the behavior will usually decrease and eventually stop. If you pay attention or reward it even one time or even slightly, it will be all the more difficult to extinguish in the future. The only thing you will accomplish is to have the dog work harder to get what they want. The type of reaction depends on the individual personality of the puppy, his overall resilience, and your reaction. We do fear recovery response training during the first 8 weeks to make sure they have a fast recovery to new novel noises and objects and situations. The how and when of fear periods also depends on the individual puppy, so you may or may not see it in your puppy as described. Generally speaking, puppies go through two potential fear periods during puppyhood. The first fear phase comes when the puppy is just months of age. This also coincides with a very critical socialization period. Your puppy is coming into a new home, leaving behind his mother, and litter mates, and is being introduced to a new family. What you have to do is just keep everything FUN! Puppies look to you as a security buffer and want to see how you react in a situation. Carry super yummy treats with you everywhere you go. Ask people to give your puppy a treat. Give treats with lots of praise in situations where you see your puppy is a little unsure. Carry a favorite toy with you and play squeaky toys or tug of war. This helps a puppy feel more comfortable. It is important to be upbeat and excited about new things and encourage your puppy to feel the same way. The second fear phase comes later in puppyhood. These puppies normally become worried about novel things, or you may see your puppy express fear over something that never bothered them before. The key to this phase is to not force your puppy into situations, and just like before, remember to keep it fun. Instead, give a few treats, talk to him, and then YOU walk up to statue and touch it. YouTube is littered with videos of dogs being forced to interact or even being chased! This type of interaction can be seriously distressing for your puppy. Remember to keep it fun and positive, and he will move through the phase without any problems. A More Thorough Response.There are windows of time when certain types of behaviors e. We have done our part, but this training must continue long after they go to their new homes. Fear-based periods can include fearful responses to noises, dogs barking, music, really anything that could be interpreted as a threat. Although dogs have been domesticated for a long time, they still carry DNA from their wolf lineage and that includes protective puppy behaviors such as quickly scampering to cover when a threat is perceived. Between months these types of responses can be manifested by cowering behavior but can also include barking, growling, ears back and tail down, and in some cases just a bit of unsureness about the stimulus causing this reaction. Keep in mind that these behaviors manifest from a genetic basis that likely came with wild populations of dog ancestors e. Well, there are several key socialization periods as well and the first one occurs during the first 8 weeks, and this is when puppies begin to bond and trust their human family. Without a thorough socialization program, you will be battling that on top of puppy-fear based responses at a whole new level. Trust me fear-based training does make a difference when started in the first 8 weeks and research corroborates this and that early puppy training the first 8 weeks helps to temper these responses, but every puppy is different, and every home and environmental conditions are different as well. Just keep all of this in mind during the training period that these genetically programmed responses helped the puppies survive before becoming household pets that we have today. Unfortunately, they carry the genetic baggage from their past ancestors, and we just need to work around this. Understanding this is the first step toward puppy training… Ok so what to do!? Is there hope? Absolutely and the above information just sets the stage for how to train the puppies and help them thru these two fear-based periods. This can be extremely overwhelming and can manifest itself in many ways wanting to be with you all the time, depressed immune responses, etc. The main thing is to use the first fear-based period between weeks to absolutely bond to your new puppy and make sure they feel secure, protected, and not frightened. Many families have young kids and although they were raised with kids of all ages this first 8—week fear-based period can kick in and when chased by a young child, grabbed, pulled, or petted and handled can induce a fear-based response that may be hard to detect at first but can slowly creep in. Make sure that whoever is interacting with the puppy is doing so in a very friendly and non-threatening way. But remember kids can induce a fear-based response as can other dogs during this initial fear-based period. Allow the puppy to initiate contact with new people. Early traumatic experiences to a hostile child or dog can have a lifelong impact on the puppy and in many cases, this can cause permanent behavioral changes and why we do not advocate for dog parks or other situations where lots of dogs are together without proper supervision. You can also use a Bluetooth speaker and occasionally play novel noises during the day search in YouTube for Puppy Culture noises. During these very positive training episodes you can again play novel noises but very brief and have lots of treats ready to redirect their behavior. Such as they are fearful of going into the back seat. Your job is to create a positive experience by getting into the back seat. Maybe get some raw meat and put into a Ziplock bag and let your dog smell it. Then if they put one foot up onto the back seat treat them. Then two feet only gets a treat etc. Keep it fun. But you must be abundantly patient during this time. Dogs that routinely go thru basic obedience training school during this time seem to fly thru it with flying colors, but patience and praise is the key. The bottom line is that training and socialization is going to happen the rest of their lives. Certainly, it gets easier! Your investment now will have a lifelong impact on the well-being of your fur baby. This will help temper the Berner side of aloofness. If he takes after the Poodle side, the dog needs outlets for his boundless intelligence and energy. Manners training, retrieving and enrichment activities like puzzle toys can help satisfy his needs and prevent boredom. Dog breeders typically try to cross dogs that have the most appealing characteristics of each breed. Each Bernedoodle is unique and may take on more of the appearance or temperament of one parent breed than the other. Most Bernedoodles have a wavy coat with minimal shedding. Some have a curly coat similar to their Poodle ancestors. They can be pure black, black and white, black and brown or tri-colored black, brown and white. There are three sizes of Bernedoodles The standard Bernedoodle is a cross between a standard Poodle and a Berner. He ranges between 50 to 90 pounds and 23 to 29 inches at the shoulder. The mini Bernedoodle is a cross between the mini Poodle and the Berner. He ranges between 25 to 49 pounds and 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder. The tiny Bernedoodle is a cross between a toy Poodle and a mini Bernedoodle and is between 10 to 24 pounds and 12 to 17 inches at the shoulder. The mini and tiny Bernedoodles may have slightly higher energy levels than the standards do. Bernedoodles can make great family members for people who want an intelligent, easygoing companion. But be aware that your puppy may take after his high-driven, friendly Poodle ancestors or his aloof, headstrong Berner side in appearance and temperament. Home Info Which Doodle is best for you? This allows you to enjoy the companionship of each other early on. Start your Bernedoodle puppy training from the moment you bring it home. Remember that each dog has its unique traits. No dog is the same. Same with us humans. Even identical twins have their unique characteristics which makes them different from each other. Bernedoodle are loyal companion dogs that require moderate activity. Train them to complement your way of life. Bernedoodles are the cross-breed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. Both parents are also excellent breeds - intelligent, friendly, and easy-to-train dogs. Just like other pets, no matter how smart they are, they would still require training and guidance. As a pet owner, we collated this guide that would significantly benefit you. Imagine how wonderful would it be to have such an obedient and well-mannered dog right? Learn on! This is an important stage in honing a happy and meaningful relationship with your pet. The best way to jumpstart your Bernedoodle puppy training program is to research your puppy. Training old dogs requires a different set of tricks and a level of patience. Learning would only be different. For example, you are trying to teach a puppy to fetch a ball for about an hour. It won't have the stamina to learn how to fetch a ball for 60 minutes. But, you can still teach them less rigorous tricks such as shaking hands or retrieving their toys. Having to train the puppies at such a young age helps them develop that muscle and mental memory to be able to do the trick. It provides them with the strong foundation that they would be needing growing up. The young age of these puppies is a critical learning period. Their minds are like a sponge, always eager to learn. For those owning Bernedoodle, take advantage of their intelligence and willingness to be trained. Some research suggests that the learning stage for puppies is between 0 to 16 weeks old. It is the most crucial stage in their development. This is also considered the period where they learn to socialize with other canines. The first two weeks are when they still rely largely on their moms. Basic Obedience Training for Bernedoodle Puppies One important thing to remember during Bernedoodle puppy training is to know when to praise them and give them treats and when not to. When it comes to basic obedience training, this is where these canines learn how to sit, stay, come, fetch, walk, and other simple instructions you tell them to. Believe us when we say that your life will be so much easier if your dogs learn how to follow basic obedience instructions. Although Bernedoodles are known to be smart dogs, do not start training them with complex instructions. Start with simple ones that they can easily follow. Remember that consistency plays an important part in their learning. To make the training more fun for them, use positive reinforcement. Give them treats for a job well done. You can also pet them or praise them whenever they can follow your instructions. Make sure to repeat the command using different techniques such as changing environments, adding noises, or other forms of distractions. This will train them to follow instructions despite being in a tough environment. Patience is the key. Do not shout or scold your dogs if they fail to deliver what is expected. Crate Training for Bernedoodle Puppies Crate training is important so that your pets feel that they have a safe space within your home. This could also be used when you are doing your Bernedoodle potty training. During the crate training, you can start by putting their favorite blankets or toys inside the crate. Watch carefully how they would react. Those items should encourage them to walk voluntarily inside the crates. Never force or push them to enter the crates. Once your pet has entered the crate, take short intervals leaving it close. You can slowly extend the duration over time. If you see your pet panicking right away, you can open the door. Repeat the process until your pet gets more comfortable leaving the door closed over a long period. This process should be done slowly and in progression to avoid anxiety and panic for your pets. Remember, the crate should be used to help them potty train and should serve as a secure place for them. Do not use it as a form of punishment. But this roommate of yours is four-legged and could cause trouble and headache if not trained well. If you want to be living peacefully together with your furry friend, make sure to house trained it. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key for a successful Bernedoodle potty training journey. Socialization Training for Bernedoodle Puppies Socialization is vital for dogs, especially for Bernedoodle who enjoy the company of other dogs. Through socialization class, these puppies learn to interact with otter dogs. This is integral in forming their behaviors. This is also helpful for getting them accustomed to dealing with different people, different environments. If you want a confident dog, you will have to let them interact with other animals. Even if it's not their first time interacting with people or other dogs, make sure to watch your pet carefully, they could experience anxiety or discomfort during socialization. This can include off-leash training, advanced commands, and even specialized training such as agility or therapy work. Make sure that you enroll in a reputable training school where you can learn advanced training. This is where more complex and challenging tricks will be taught and can be learned by your pet. This breed can be stubborn at times. Asking it to follow your instruction could be challenging. Breathe in, be patient, and be creative with your training session. Excessive barking. This breed can't bark excessively even if they are happy. Make sure to address this during your training. Understand what triggers them to consistently bark so you can address the issue. These are just some of the problems that you may have to deal with while training your pet. If you are having a hard time resolving them, do not hesitate to ask a professional trainer or breeder. They have years of experience in dealing with this breed. You may also seek the guidance of a vet. Tips for Successful Bernedoodle Puppy Training If you want to be successful in your puppy training journey, follow these tips below. Begin training at an early age: The sooner you start the training, the earlier they can learn and follow your instructions. The better for both of you. Stay consistent: For the puppy to learn faster, be consistent in giving instructions. Established rules which are to be followed at all times. Apply positive reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and play to motivate to reward your Bernedoodle and make training fun for both of you. Never shout or hurt your pet, especially during times of stubbornness. Be patient: it takes time to learn. Humans also learn over time so be patient. Ask for professional help. If things are getting out of hand and you're finding it too difficult to handle, seek guidance from a professional. They will provide you with the knowledge to help you out. Recommended Resources for Bernedoodle Puppy Training To better equip you with information on training your pets, here are some of the resources you can check. Sophia Yin 2. Local Dog Training Classes: Check with your local pet stores, community centers, or dog training facilities for puppy training classes in your area. You can start with one resource first and see if the information aligns with your goal and your way of life. You can slowly progress on the resources as your training progresses too. Down Stay These commands are essential because, in an emergency such as a car speeding down the road straight at your pooch, they could save their life. To start off on the right foot and paw! This will make him feel secure in his ability to meet the goals laid out for him going forward. Read This Before You Start Training Your Bernedoodle There are many different training styles, but we, like most professional trainers, strongly recommend positive reinforcement. This involves encouraging behavior you want to see instead of punishing the behavior you do not want to see. Unless you correct a dog within one to two seconds of a behavior you do not like, they will not know what they are being punished for or why you are yelling at them. This leads to confusion about what you want from them. Focusing on training them what you do want is more fun for you and your pooch. You Can Use Any Reinforcement Your Dog Likes We train our Bernedoodle using either her kibble or, for new tricks, high-value treats we know she loves, such as freeze-dried liver. You can reinforce them with lots of praise, pets, and cuddles. You can tell your Bernedoodle that they are a good dog in an excited voice. However, generally speaking, dogs are very food-motivated , which is the easiest way to get them excited about the training process. You Can Start Training Immediately If your Bernedoodle was old enough to come home, then they are old enough to train. Generally, you can start training them at about eight weeks old. At first, keep your training sessions short so that they do not get bored or distracted. We recommend five to ten minutes. End them on a positive note by going through something your dog already knows and giving them plenty of praise. How to Teach a Bernedoodle to Come When Called Begin this training in a quiet, indoor area where your Bernedoodle is not going to be distracted. Sit down with your puppy and say their name. Every time you say their name give them a treat and praise. They do not have to do anything at this stage — you are simply associating their name with getting rewarded. Next, put a treat near you on the floor. When your Bernedoodle finishes it, say their name again and when your pooch looks up at you, give them another treat. Do this a few times and then start moving the treat further away so that they have to turn around when you call their name. Now toss a treat on the floor and step away quickly while calling their name. Your Bernedoodle should run after you — and they should find it fun! Make sure that when they catch you, you are giving them praise, treats, and other positive reinforcements. The key to all Bernedoodle training is to make sure it is fun. If your pooch gets discouraged or anxious, stop for the day and start again tomorrow. You can continue building on the above steps until they come to you from a further and further distance, then start trying in other locations. Never call your dog in order to punish them, as this will teach them that you are unpredictable and make them unsure if they will be praised or punished when they come to you. Even if your dog is up to no good, they should be rewarded if they come to you when called. How to Teach a Bernedoodle Loose-Leash Walking Unless you are training your Bernedoodle for competition, the goal with loose-leash walking is to teach them to walk with you without pulling. You should be able to hold the leash loosely without worrying that they will tug on it. First, you need to decide what word you will use to indicate to your dog that they need to walk more politely. The key is that you are consistent every time. You should also be consistent about which side of you they walk on. Otherwise, you will be dealing with a zig-zagging dog. Before you take your Bernedoodle on a walk, make sure they are comfortable with a leash. Try just putting their leash on them and then giving them a treat. Once they are okay with the leash going on, stand next to them with the leash in a loose loop. Give your pooch a few treats for standing or sitting next to the leg you want them to learn to walk next to. Take a single step forward and give your Bernedoodle a treat when they catch up. If your dog runs ahead of you, turn in the opposite direction, call them, and then reward them when they get in place. As your dog begins to learn that they will get a treat for walking politely next to you, gradually lengthen the amount of time between treats. Eventually, your dog will look forward to walking next to you when on their leash. Just give them lots of time to sniff around and enjoy themselves, but when their time is up, give them the cue you decided on in a happy voice and reward them when they start walking with you. How to Teach a Bernedoodle to Sit We had great success teaching our Bernedoodle to sit by using the luring technique. We started by getting down in front of her with a treat. We put the treat right on her nose and slowly moved the treat directly upward. She naturally sat back as she lifted her head. The second her butt hit the ground, she got a treat. We repeated this until she did it five times in a row without jumping for the treat. We then repeated the process but without food in our hands. Once she sat, she got a reward, but she no longer needed the visual cue of the treat to know what to do. Because telling your dog what you want them to do before they know how to do it just confuses them. While other techniques can help teach your Bernedoodle to sit, it is best to avoid trying to physically put your pup into a sitting position. Beyond confusing, it can upset some dogs. Worse, it is not effective. When they are in a sit position, hold the treat in front of their nose and slowly bring it down to the floor. As you did with luring, after the dog gets the command with a treat, do it with an empty hand and then treat the dog when they lie down. This is called the release word. Throw a treat on the floor and say the release word every time the puppy steps toward the treat. Do this a few times, then say the release word first and toss the treat after your pooch has started to move. This will eventually train the dog that your release cue means they should move their feet. Once your dog knows their release cue and how to sit on command, put them in a sit. Face the dog and give it a treat. Wait a moment, give them another treat if they stay in a sit, and then use the release word. Keep doing this while gradually increasing the amount of time you wait before giving them a treat. Do not worry when your dog gets up before you have given the release cue. This only means that they are not ready to sit for long. Just go back one step and move up to more time as they improve. After your Bernedoodle knows how to stay in a sit, you will begin to add distance to the command. You will put them in a sit. If the dog stays, step back up to them, give them a treat, and then use your release word. Keep doing this and adding steps a little at a time. The goal in the beginning is to make sure it is easy enough that your dog can be successful. Practice in various ways, such as facing the dog, walking away, and others. This is the basic command that can take the longest for your dog to learn. Do not become discouraged. Do not expect too much too soon. Remember that if your dog does not follow your commands, it is not because they are trying to be stubborn — they likely do not know what is expected of them yet. Keep with it, stay patient, and they will eventually learn what to do. Training Your Bernedoodle for Sports or Competitions Because Bernedoodles are not pure-bred dogs, they cannot compete in many dog competitions such as conformation. However, their playful nature and incredible intelligence make them perfect choices for many sports and specialty competitions. You can try a few options to see which one works best for your dog. These do require extensive training that is well beyond the basic commands trained above. After looking over the basics of the options, we outline, if you find that you want more information, there are many resources that can help you train your Bernedoodle for sport or competition. Bernedoodle Agility Training Caning agility is a competitive dog sport that involves obstacle courses. You train your dog to jump, go through tunnels, and successfully navigate a course in a specific order. At each step of the course, the handler directs the dog on what to do. For a Bernedoodle to be successful in this sport, they must have excellent communication with their handler. This is a good choice for a high-energy Bernedoodle who needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. This involves a handler throwing a disc a specific distance and direction and the dog catching it. Accuracy is required by the handler in their throws, and speed and agility are required by the dog, which earns points based on which of several zones the disc is caught in. Lure Course Training for Bernedoodles Lure coursing is essentially a fast-paced game of chase. While dogs were once trained to chase live animals such as rabbits and foxes, they are now trained to chase an artificial lure. In some cases, obstacles are involved, but the winner is always the dog that completes the catch in the least amount of time. This is a good choice for a Bernedoodle with a high prey drive. Working Bernedoodles: How to Prepare a Bernedoodle to Be a Therapy Dog Because they are a relatively new breed, Bernedoodles are not tried and tested working dogs in many capacities. For example, there are few examples of Bernedoodles being used for search and rescue. They do not make good guard dogs due to their generally easy-going temperament. That said, there is one job that Bernedoodles can excel at: therapy dogs. A therapy dog can be of any breed, though some breeds are more likely to be good at the job. The following characteristics are necessary for a therapy dog: Openness to interaction with strangers at any time Lack of guarding behavior Never jumping or pawing at people No food or toy aggression Not sensitive to being roughly or clumsily petted Walks on leash without pulling Calm and docile disposition in all situations Ability to tolerate strange sights and smells Obedient Not startled by unsteady or sudden movements Bernedoodles often naturally exhibit many of the above characteristics and can generally be taught others. While they are not eligible to be tested as a therapy dog until they are one year old, you can get started training them much earlier. These are the skills you will need to train them for: Supervised separation for short periods with no anxiety. Walking through crowds without reacting negatively or becoming distracted. Sitting quietly and patiently around other canines. Following basic behavioral commands. Easily allowing others to check their ears and feet. Walking on a loose leash. Remaining calm when approached by a stranger. Sitting quietly and calmly while a stranger pets it. Focusing on a single task with distractions around. Responding immediately to vocal commands. Depending on the particular program in which you want to get your dog certified, there might be other requirements, but you should count on definitely needing to pass the above ten criteria. Post navigation. Start early and use plenty of positive reinforcements. They will be more happy and confident if they understand that you are in charge. Mini Bernedoodle pups are intelligent, and they will quickly learn what is expected of them. Here are a at home training tips for Mini Bernedoodles — there are also many good resources online. This will be home to your MiniBernedoodle pup when they sleep or when you are away. Make sure the crate is big enough that your pup can comfortably lie down, sit, and stand up. Place some comfortable rags or mattresses for them to sleep on and lure them inside with their favorite toys. Every time they pop into the crate willingly, give them a treat or play with them to show your appreciation. Many pups come to see their crate as a safe place to go when they want to rest or need a break. Potty Training One of the most challenging parts of the training is teaching your MiniBernedoodle pup to do their job at the right place. You will need to be patient and use many positive reinforcements while showing them the right place to do their business. Take the puppy out first thing in the morning and after every time that they eat, drink, or play. Make sure you reward them when they poo or pee at the proper place. Socializing You need to start socializing your mini doodle puppy as soon as possible. Although these puppies are quite even-tempered, they can also be anxious around strangers. To avoid unpleasantness later on, when guests come around, start training your pup to socialize when they are still babies. You have to train your pup to socialize with not just humans but with other dogs as well. Many people tend to think that dogs get along with dogs. Frequent walks and visits to doggy daycare and dog parks are great training tools. The more they see and interact with other pups and people the better their social skills will be. A well-behaved, friendly dog is a pleasure to be around since they are safe and loved by all. Barking Training Another problem you might face with your Bernedoodle pup is barking — this is their way of expressing themselved. The will most often do this for food, when they need to go outside, to alert you of strangers, or to get your attention. Try to understand the reason behind their barking so you can find a solution. For instance, if your pup mostly barks for food, have their feed ready at their place at fixed times every day. They will quickly learn that there is a time and will wait more patiently. Again, reward them the first few times they wait patiently for the food without barking. It will help them to understand what they are expected to do. Outdoor Walks - Leash Training Start out by introducing your puppy to their harness or leash. Let her wear in around the house for short periods of time while you are playing. Teach you puppy to come to you for treats around the house when you ask them to. Progress to holding the leash and asking them to follow you for the upcoming treats. Practice inside first, then outside as they become more comfortable. Here is a great leash training article from the American Kennel Club. Discourage Nipping Puppies playing with other pups will nip out of sheer playfulness. Your Mini Bernedoodle puppy might do the same when playing with you. But you have to train them that nipping is not allowed. The point to note here is that nipping is not the same as mouthing, a typical dog trait for showing affection. The difference lies in the force. So, you have to teach your Mini Bernedoodle pup the difference between mouthing and nipping. Eventually, your pup will understand the difference between nipping and mouthing. They will learn that nipping will not get them anywhere and learn to control the amount of force they use when play-biting. Verbal Cues Every dog understands a few human words. You, too, can train your Bernedoodle pup to follow verbal cues of things that you want them to do. For instance, when potty training your pup, you may use the word potty. Just make sure you use the same word every time. When your puppy poos after you say the word reward them, to show that this is what you are asking of them. You can use similar simple words for eating, going out, playtime, treats, and so on. If you are consistent they will learn to associate the word and will follow your verbal cues. Final Words Mini Bernedoodle puppies are a pleasure to be around. They are wonderfully friendly, active, and playful family-friendly dogs. Early and proper training will head off many difficulties. You will have a fantastic companion for life whose love is irreplaceable and completely unselfish. Pleasant Creek Mini Mini Bernedoodles puppies are socialized and positive behaviors are encouraged from the start! Laura: .This type of dog can come in various colors, patterns, and sizes, each more unique than litters before. Although they are intelligent dogs, the Bernedoodle is not without its challenges regarding training and obedience. As a result, some pet owners will find specific struggles with their new Bernedoodle puppy once they bring it home. For example, Poodles are a high-energy breed devoted to their owners, while Bernese Mountain dogs have a calming nature but prefer to keep busy by working on a task, like protecting their yard and home. Anytime two dog breeds cross, there can be challenges. Some challenges of training Bernedoodles can be: Stubbornness Exhibit sensitivity Stubbornness Poodles and Bernese Mountain dogs are highly intelligent animals, making the Bernedoodle a smart hybrid breed. However, even intelligent dogs can be stubborn when going through training. These dogs may push the boundaries to see what they can get away with before receiving a correction from their owners. Unfortunately, this stubborn streak can also appear often if you are inconsistent with their training or if multiple household members use different training techniques. Easily Distracted High-energy dogs can appear easily distracted, especially during training. Bernedoodle puppies have exceptionally short attention spans, making it more challenging to train for long periods. Exhibit Sensitivity Poodles and Bernese Mountain dogs are incredibly social animals and love to please their owners. Although this characteristic can be an advantage for training methods, if you are prone to scolding or using punishment, your pet may exhibit sensitivity and retreat from you, hindering your training efforts. Using proper methods and techniques when teaching your dog how to behave is critical, especially for sensitive Bernedoodles that may cower if you raise your voice or make threatening movements. How To Train a Bernedoodle the Right Way The most important thing to remember when training a Bernedoodle is that each dog is unique and can take anywhere from four to six months to adapt to your obedience commands. Of course, some ways will help make your methods easier for them to understand and follow. Some tips for Bernedoodle training include: Start training as soon as you bring home your new pet Be consistent with commands Enlist in short spurts of training, multiple times a day Ensure your pet receives enough physical and mental stimulation By recognizing some simple tricks, pet owners may have an easier time getting their dogs to follow commands and learn desirable behaviors. How To House Train a Bernedoodle Many dog owners will want to begin house training as soon as they bring home their new Bernedoodle puppy. No one wants to clean up messes that a dog leaves in the house, so having your new pet house trained is vital for sanitary living conditions. Puppies typically eliminate urine approximately every 15 to 20 minutes because of their small, immature bladders. On average, a Bernedoodle puppy will have a bowel movement 20 to 30 minutes after eating a meal and after exercising. One of the best ways to have a headstart on practical house training is to minimize the instances your pup will pee or poop inside. The best way to house train your Bernedoodle puppy is by following these steps: As soon as you wake up, take your dog outside for a chance to go to the bathroom. Provide your pet with water and food for the morning, then set a timer for 10 to 15 minutes for the next outside potty break. Follow a strict 15 to minute schedule for potty breaks throughout the day. In addition, watch for potential cues your pup needs to go, including excessive sniffing or circling in the house. This way, your Bernedoodle has a better chance of going outside than indoors. You should remove any water source from your new puppy in the early evening. This schedule will give them enough time to eliminate their bladders before bedtime and reduce nighttime accidents in the house. Each time your pet successfully goes to the bathroom outside, reward them with treats and praise to provide positive reinforcement for good behavior. If your new puppy has an accident indoors, refrain from punishing them. Tell your dog a stern, No, then pick them up and take them outside. Do not make a big production of any accidents indoors as this gives the dog attention, and they may interpret it as a way to get recognition from you. Avoid eye contact during this time, and clean up their mess quickly. How To Leash Train a Bernedoodle The next phase of training a Bernedoodle will be ensuring that you can take them out for a walk on a leash. Because Bernedoodles are moderately active breeds, they require one to three daily walks ranging from 30 to 60 minutes or more. Nothing is more frustrating than a dog that pulls constantly or gets tangled up in their lead with you or other dogs. Showing your new Bernedoodle puppy how to walk on a leash will give them the structure they need each time they leave the house for daily walks. In addition, proper leash training will come in handy when meeting new people and unfamiliar dogs. Leash training should regularly occur in your home with your new Bernedoodle as they mature and settle into their new family. The best way to leash train your pet will incorporate these steps: Always make leash training a positive activity, so your pet associates its walks with a pleasant experience rather than punishment. Remember to bring high-value treats to reward your dog as you go through the training process with them. Some dog owners find it easier to leash train their Bernedoodle using a harness rather than a collar. You can try both methods to see which works best for you and your pet. However, using a harness can minimize pulling or accidental harm from sharp jerks on a collar if your pet suddenly tries to run or pulls too hard. Keep the leash in both hands with one hand at your hip, providing only enough leash to reach your dog comfortably. Do not allow excessive leash distance where they can roam far from you or tangle up during the walk. Ensure your dog always stays by your side while consistently providing positive feedback and treats to them as they walk beside you. Give your dog lots of eye contact and verbal praise during good leash walking behavior. If your Bernedoodle puppy tries to pull aggressively or tries to wander away, immediately stop walking. By restricting the ability to stray from your side, your pup will soon learn that the walking stops if they are not beside you and paying attention to your cues. Some dog owners find that the short attention span of Bernedoodle puppies can work in their favor during leash training. For example, if your new pet suddenly wants to run off during a walk because it spotted a cat, you can use redirection instead. Rather than stopping and waiting for your dog to look for obedience cues, try switching directions and removing your pet from the area of distraction. This change of scenery may be all your dog needs to reengage into their positive walking behavior. How To Eliminate Nipping or Biting One common occurrence with Bernedoodle puppies is their constant need to mouth, nip, or bite people, other animals, and objects in their surroundings. Puppies are baby dogs that use their nose and mouth to explore the world around them, making nipping or biting an instinctual behavior. Suppose your Bernedoodle puppy does not receive the proper training that discourages nipping or biting early. In that case, it may grow to continue this negative action into adulthood and unknowingly cause harm to people or other animals. Training a Bernedoodle to stop nipping or biting is simple once you recognize some tips to use, including: As soon as your pet mouths your hand, fingers, leg, etc. If you catch your puppy chewing on off-limits items, like shoes or furniture, immediately intervene with a swift no command, remove them from the area and provide an appropriate chew toy to resume their chewing behavior. Offer your Bernedoodle toys that allow treats inside to promote chewing and grab their interest more than your hands or personal items. This way, your dog will want to chew on toys that provide them with treats and reinforce good behaviors. Suppose redirection does not work with your puppy. In that case, some dog owners find that avoiding eye contact and immediately leaving their pet is an effective way to get the message across after biting. If you leave the room every time your dog nips at your fingers, they will soon realize that this behavior sends you away, which does not give them the attention they seek. Remember to never bite or strike your Bernedoodle puppy as punishment for nipping or biting you. Your pet might be trying to get your attention, may smell food on your fingers, or is not aware that this is negative behavior. By following these tips, remembering to use positive reinforcement, and being consistent, your new dog will quickly learn their boundaries and what behaviors are acceptable in your home. You will also like:.