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Puppy Supplies Welcome to Buck Family Farm, a place where our love for Golden Retrievers has evolved into a passion for providing families with affectionate, intelligent, and healthy Golden Retriever Puppies. Our goal is to make sure your next family pet is everything you expected and more. Our Dogs Our family specializes in raising Golden Retrievers of all coat shades who enjoy our spacious 20 acre farm. It is important to us that each dog gets special attention and care each day. Our family-style setup allows our dogs to have the luxury of running free and romping around to their hearts' content while playing together and with our family. Also, since this is our at-home classroom, someone is always available to play ball or give a much needed scratch on the belly and pat on the head. Genetic testing is also performed on each dog to help us make wise choices for the best pairings and to produce puppies with the best probability of excellent health. Of high importance however, is taking into consideration the temperament of each of our Golden Retrievers to produce a well balanced and friendly companion, who exhibits all of the classic traits of the breed. Puppies Buck Family Farm puppies are AKC registered, vet certified, have first shots, are wormed and will come to your home with a 1 year health guarantee and a first bag of puppy food. We also send a blanket with mommy's scent and all appropriate NYS paperwork as well as copies of parents' health clearances. Our desire is to make your experience with us and our puppies everything you expected and more. Puppy Applications If you are interested in purchasing a puppy from our farm please fill out an adoption application to help us get to know you a little better. When your application is accepted you will have the opportunity to place your name on our waiting list for an additional fee. This ensures a courtesy call when a particular color, gender or litter of choice has arrived. You will then have the opportunity to place a deposit on one of our puppies. You will receive a courtesy notification of the litters' arrival and have opportunity to place a deposit. However, deposits that are not submitted promptly will affect your pick-order. Deposits are usually non-refundable. Placing a Deposit Once a new litter is born and determined to be healthy and thriving, we open them for deposit. First, to those on our waiting list, and then to families who have pre-approved applications. We choose puppies at 5 weeks of age in the order that deposits were placed. Please contact us for Paypal, zelle and Venmo handles. Visiting We frequently update pictures of all puppies on a regular basis. You will not be allowed to visit the puppies or parents until mommy is settled in and feeling comfortable with visitors. At 5 weeks of age we have adopting families visit our farm and choose their puppy. Puppies are chosen in the order that deposits were placed. Homecoming At 8 weeks of age and after veterinary examination, puppies will be united with their forever families! Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New York Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New York? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New York? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Come visit us in person at our retail store: Directions to Canine Corral The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds of dogs. The Golden Retriever is family friendly, affectionate, and fun! As a puppy, they have lots of energy and love to play. As adults, they have a relaxed temperament but still enjoy play time. The Golden Retriever is excellent with kids and is very patient. They are eager to please and love to bond with their family members. Your Golden will look forward to taking walks with you, throwing a ball in the back yard, and cuddling up in front of the TV to watch a movie. They have a medium-level exercise requirement. They should have a set routine for exercise every day. They are considered a large breed, with females typically ranging between 55 to 75 pounds and males being usually 65 to 75 pounds. They can vary in color, being as light as cream and as dark as a red-golden color. They have fur and should be brushed throughout the week to reduce shedding. Golden Retrievers can be groomed but do not require grooming. They are intelligent and very trainable. Families love their Goldens and often keep this breed as a family favorite throughout their lives! Get your Golden Retriever puppy at Canine Corral. Average Life Span: 11 - 14 years. Activity level: High Litter Size: 3 - 6 puppies. Male Golden Retriever.

Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Bedlington Terrier is known for being affectionate, intelligent, and good-tempered. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Bedlington Terrier or the Poodle Standard? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Bedlington Terrier Poodle Standard Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Bedlington Terrier Poodle Standard Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Bedlington Terrier History This is an unusual-looking dog, but one who can win your heart in a nanosecond. Her smooth, hairy head, sweet eyes, light topknot and springy gait have endeared her to dog lovers all the way back to her early days in England. Living with a Bedlington is an constant joy that can last a delightful 11 to 16 years. The breed is also easy to house train. Her origin is pretty straightforward. The Bedlington Terrier originated in Bedlington in northeast England. Her working purpose was to hunt vermin in mining operations — what an ignoble beginning for such a regal-looking dog! Before long, though, she was introduced to dog racing and other dog sports, conformation events, and life as a family pet. Her official name, Bedlington Terrier, was not coined until , but the breed itself has been around since the late s. So, this is a German sucker. The other names it goes by are the Pudelhund or the Caniche. What this is referring to is the Standard Poodle. They were initially bred for collecting waterfowl for hunters. They are known for being extremely intelligent as well as very good swimmers. Their funky haircuts came about to make them more buoyant in the water. While there are three sizes of Poodle they are not individual breeds just small Poodles bred to get small Papillon Poodles. They are hypo-allergenic so are good for families with allergies and are highly intelligent and eager to please which means they are good at training and learning. They are loyal and good natured dogs but highly energetic so need a lot of stimulation and exercise. Regular brushing, trimming, and clipping of the curly coat A Bedlington Terrier may not be right for you. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Bedlingtons have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up. The dynamic terrier temperament. Most terrier breeds are remarkably similar. The same words are used over and over — quick to bark, quick to chase, lively, bossy, feisty, scrappy, clever, independent, stubborn, persistent, impulsive, intense. But some terrier breeds are more so than others. Overall, as a breed, Bedlington Terriers tend to be in the lower-to-middle section of the terrier spectrum. But of course there are some individual Bedlingtons who will be in the higher end! Providing enough exercise. Bedlingtons don't need miles of running but they are lithe little athletes who love to run at full speed. They need a large enough fenced yard to break into a gallop. Frequent trips to the dog park are recommended. Running away from you. Like all dogs, Bedlington Terriers must be taught to come when called. But I would only count on this breed obeying his training in an enclosed area. Bedlingtons should not be trusted off-leash. These dogs are runners, they are blazing fast, and the risk is too great that they will take off at full speed after anything that runs. Potential animal aggression. Bedlington Terriers are much less scrappy toward strange dogs than many other terrier breeds. But despite their soft lamb-ish look, they can be a determined force to reckon with if they decide to initiate or accept a challenge to fight. Because of their hunting heritage, some Bedlingtons have instincts to chase and seize small fleeing creatures. The family cat is usually fine, but not pet rodents. Potential barking. Terriers are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them. Independent temperament. Bedlington Terriers must be taught at an early age that they are not the rulers of the world. The toughness that makes them suited to killing vermin can frustrate you when you try to teach them anything. Many terriers are stubborn and dominant they want to be the boss and will make you prove that you can make them do things. To teach your terrier to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory. My Bedlington Terrier Training page discusses the program you need. Potential defensive reactions. If you need to physically chastise a terrier, and you go beyond what THEY believe is a fair correction, terriers as a group are more likely than other breeds to growl or snap. As an obedience instructor, I'm always extra careful when putting my hands on a terrier for a correction. I do not recommend terriers around small children. Many terriers will not tolerate any nonsense from little life forms whom they consider to be below themselves in importance. Many terriers are quick to react to teasing, and even to the normal clumsiness that comes with small children accidental squeezing of their ears or pulling of whiskers or stepping on their paw. Many terriers are possessive of their food and toys and will defend these from all comers, including children. Bedlington Terriers require a lot of coat care. Regular brushing, and also clipping and trimming every few months. Note that this breed is low-dander and light-shedding, but not NON-shedding. If you're allergic to dog dander or hair, you might be okay with a Bedlington. Or not. A Poodle is the safest breed for allergic people. Finding one. Very few Bedlington Terrier puppies are born each year, and very few adult Bedlingtons are available from rescue groups. You will need to get on a waiting list for either a puppy or an adult. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. Bedlington Terrier puppies are dark in color, but as they age their fur lightens. Bedlington Terrier The Bedlington Terrier has been described as resembling a lamb. Bedlingtons carry what is known as the greying gene , a dominant trait carried on the G locus. Although most modern breed standards call for the dog's topknot to be lighter than its body, when the breed was first being formed there was at least one prominent breeder, Mr. Pickett, who believed that the topknot should be darker, not lighter. Bedlington Terriers —like Poodles— have been referred to as a nonshedding , hypoallergenic breed. Bedlingtons like the groomer and are cooperative under clip. Bedlingtons are sharp and plucky. Their bark has been called hound -like [9] and has been compared to the firing of a machine gun. Many a dog was killed or had to be destroyed after hunting badgers. A good hunting dog knew to keep its distance from the badger until the huntsmen arrived. Younger or inexperienced terriers would attack the badger, usually with horrific consequences. Limb amputations or lower jaws ripped off by the more powerful badger were common. It is unknown if the judges of the time were aware of this practice, or if they cared. Inbreeding is a concern, since some dogs "[having] been bred in and into a damaging extent. Excepting these problems, Bedlingtons are generally a very healthy breed. Copper toxicosis , also known as copper storage disease and copper overload syndrome, is an autosomal recessive disease that is characterized by an accumulation of copper in the liver. 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 Bedlington Terrier Overview The Bedlington Terrier captures your attention with his unique lamblike appearance and keeps it with his entertaining, opinionated personality. The Bedlington is all terrier : inquisitive, intelligent, alert, and aggressive toward small animals outdoors. Bedlingtons throw themselves with enthusiasm into the activities of their family. They love to be the center of attention and will play the clown to get it. Bedlington people say their dogs have astute judgment and make excellent watchdogs. Exercise is important to keep a Bedlington happy and healthy, but he has moderate energy levels and activity needs. He can jog with you or go on a hike. Make sure extremely young children are supervised by an adult when interacting with any dog to prevent injury to both. Bedlingtons can be fierce fighters if aroused, so be cautious when introducing them to new canine companions, especially other adults of the same sex. Male Bedlingtons especially will persist in a fight until major damage is done. The Bedlington is intelligent, and that intelligence makes him only moderately easy to train. He does best when you can persuade him that doing what you want is really his idea or benefits him in some way. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards. Harsh words and physical force will not work with this breed, as they will only bring out his stubborn streak and begin a battle of wills that you will probably lose. Nonetheless, Bedlingtons have competed successfully in the obedience ring. They view the agility ring as an excellent opportunity show off their speed, grace, and enthusiasm. And naturally your Bedlington will love Earth Dog competitions in which he can display his terrier tenacity and willingness to find prey underground. With proper training and socialization , the Bedlington is an excellent companion and enthusiastic partner in all family activities. You will appreciate his sense of humor and eagerness to get the most out of life. Bedlington Terrier Highlights Early socialization with other pets is a must to prevent problems. Bedlington Terriers need exercise and mental stimulation or they will get bored, which leads to trouble. Males can be fierce fighters if challenged by another dog. Bedlingtons are highly intelligent and moderately easy to train. Bedlingtons require grooming once or twice weekly to maintain the coat and prevent matting. Bedlingtons can be one-person dogs. Bedlingtons are terriers and like to dig. Bedlingtons require a fenced yard. They will chase other animals and they are very fast. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. One theory has it that he traveled with Rom, or gypsies, who used him to poach game on the estates they passed by. His talents in ridding the land of rats, badgers, and other vermin drew the attention of the local squires, who acquired some of the dogs for themselves. One of their noble fans was Lord Rothbury, whose estate was located in Bedlington in the county of Northumberland. For a time, they were known as Rothbury terriers, but eventually the name Bedlington stuck. Piper went up against his first badger when he was only 8 months old, and he was still showing other dogs how it was done when he was old, toothless, and nearly blind. The popularity of Bedlingtons crossed all social boundaries. They were favorites of factory and mine workers, who used them to rid the premises of rats and then raced them in their off hours, against each other and against Whippets. Bedlingtons joined other dogs in the show ring in the mids, and the National Bedlington Terrier Club was formed in England in .Today the Bedlington ranks th among the breeds and varieties recognized by the AKC. Bedlington Terrier Size Males stand 16 inches at the shoulder; females, 15 inches. Weight ranges from 17 to 23 pounds and should be proportionate to height. Bedlington Terrier Personality Alert, energetic, and intelligent, the Bedlington is an excellent companion and watchdog. He enjoys being the center of attention and likes to entertain his people. He can be aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex and will chase small furry animals. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings or other relatives of the parents is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when he grows up. Socialization helps ensure that your Bedlington puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling him in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking him to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help him polish his social skills. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Copper Toxicosis: This hereditary disease is caused by failure of the liver to expel dietary copper, leading to a buildup in the body resulting in illness and death. It is an autosomal recessive trait; affected dogs must inherit a gene from both parents to be symptomatic. If they inherit a gene from only one parent, they will be a carrier. The recent development of a DNA test makes it possible to screen for affected dogs and carriers and remove them from the gene pool. Patellar Luxation: This is a dislocation of the kneecap patella and is sometimes referred to as slipped stifles. It can be from injury or congenital present at birth. Patellar Luxation can be mild with little or no symptoms or severe with intense pain and limping. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. This irritates the eye, and you may notice your Aussie squinting or rubbing his eye s. Distichiasis is treated surgically by freezing the excess eyelashes with liquid nitrogen and then removing them. This type of surgery is called cryoepilation and is done under general anesthesia. Renal Cortical Hypoplasia: This condition occurs when the cortex of one or both of the kidneys develops abnormally. The dog will develop kidney failure. First signs of kidney failure are increased thirst that causes an increase in urination. There is no cure; the treatment consists of managing the signs and trying to prevent additional damage to the kidneys. Retinal Dysplasia: This is a developmental malformation of the retina that the dog is born with. Most cases are mild and there is no detectable loss in vision. Veterinary ophthalmologists can do tests to determine if puppies are affected when they are 7 to 12 weeks old. Bedlington Terrier Care Bedlington Terriers are a hardy breed with moderate activity levels. They are capable of running at high speeds, so a safely fenced area is important. They are not suited to living outdoors. They are small enough to be appropriate for an apartment as long as they have a safe place to exercise. Exercise for the Bedlington can mean a nice walk or a vigorous game of fetch. You can also train him for agility, obedience, or tracking. Like all dogs, Bedlington puppies can be destructive. Bedlington Terrier Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Bedlington in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Bedlington, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. It feels crisp but not wiry and has a tendency to curl, especially on the head and face. The coat of a Bedlington trimmed for the show ring is no longer than one inch on the body, with the hair on the legs slightly longer. We tend to think of him as white, but the Bedlington comes in several colors and combinations: blue, sandy, liver, blue and tan, sandy and tan, and liver and tan. In bi-colors, the tan markings are found on the legs, chest, under the tail, inside the hindquarters and over each eye. The topknot a tuft of longer hair on top of the head of all adults should be lighter than the body color. The face must be hand-scissored to achieve the unique appearance. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Trim nails once or twice a month or as needed. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition and protect your shins from getting scratched when your Bedlington enthusiastically jumps up to greet you. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. Always teach children 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. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Bedlingtons can be fierce fighters if aroused, so be cautious when introducing them to new canine companions , especially other adults of the same sex. Bedlington Terrier Rescue Groups Bedlington Terriers are sometimes bought without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. These dogs may end up in need of adoption and or fostering. More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. First and foremost, my dogs are my pets. I do enjoy showing them in conformation. I'm proud of what I have accomplished, and it's my hobby, like other people play golf. But I'm not "all about the titles".The conformation titles my dogs earn reflect the consideration, work and love I put into my breeding program. For the limited amount of showing I do, I'm quite successful! I also enjoy performance events like coursing ability tests, barn hunt and earthdog. And I love snuggling with my dogs on a rainy day, and having them near to hand at night in my bed. I remember purchasing my first purebred dog. I told the Borzoi breeder, I want the prettiest pet Borzoi I can get. I understand that my pet puppy buyers feel the same way, and I strive to produce healthy, beautiful puppies with temperaments as nice as their conformation. After all, when everything is said and done, you live with your dog for many years. They must be a good pet! I hope you enjoy the pictures in the galleries below. It features some of the Ashcroft pets from across the country and around the globe. Some are retired champions that you'll see in show poses on other pages, others have never seen a show ring, just because it wasn't what their owners were interested in, and I don't believe in making someone show a dog if it's not what they care about. My reputation doesn't hinge on the number of dogs I show, rather the quality. And, on the quality of the pets I produce to brighten the lives of pet owners across the county. At the end of the day, or a show career, all are beloved pets, and for a dog, that's what it's all about! Do you want to know everything about this breed? If yes, then you just landed in the right place. To facilitate you, we have come up with a comprehensive guide that explains the characteristics, history, average size, personality, and general health of Bedlington Terrier dog. They stand out by their distinctive lamb-like coat. This irresistible cuddly companion has the heart of a lion. They are tenacious when chasing down prey and are an excellent watchdog. All Bedlington Terrier dogs are different just as all humans are different. Adaptability Bedlington Terriers are easy-going and adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner. They have an average of 4 out of 5 stars adaptability level. This good adaptability rating is brought about by the fact that: Bedlington Terriers are suitable for apartment living because of its small size. They remain calm and easy-going when indoors. As they are well suited to apartment living, they score 4 out of 5 stars. When it comes to first-time parents, a Bedlington Terrier scores 4 out of 5 stars. This shows they are suitable for novice owners. It has an average emotional level and is okay to changed routines. This breed has a moderate sensitivity level of 3 out of 5 stars. Bedlington Terriers share a bond with their owners but have a moderate tolerance for being alone. They score 3 out of 5 stars for being suited to be alone. Bedlington Terrier prefers average to cold weather conditions. This breed has a 4 out of 5 stars tolerance to cold weather and adapt well to cold weather conditions. Bedlington Terriers moderately tolerate hot weather and are not that vulnerable to overheating. This breed has a 3 out of 5 stars tolerance to hot weather and is a moderate lover of warm weather. All-Around Friendliness Bedlington Terrier is a playful and friendly dog breed. It has the ability to form solid-bonds and prove to be excellent companions. They have 5 out of 5 stars all around friendliness, and so you can count on its love and loyalty. The reasons for their excellent all-around friendliness are: Bedlington Terriers shower the whole family with affection and hence hold 5 stars out of 5. Bedlington Terriers are gentle with children and possess 4 out of 5 stars for being kid-friendly. This breed is a good choice if you have children at home. Bedlington Terriers are dog-friendly dogs holding 4 out of 5 stars rating. If you like to join dog meetups, the Bedlington Terrier can be a great choice. Bedlington Terriers are stranger-friendly dogs and possess 5 out of 5 stars for being less aggressive to strangers. You don't need to be worried about it troubling your guests. Health And Grooming Needs Bedlington Terrier is a healthy breed but sometimes, it comes across certain health issues. It has a lot of grooming requirements to stay in good condition and require grooming on a daily basis. They are rated at 3 stars out 5 for being healthy dogs and ones with moderately high grooming needs. Below are the reasons for this: If you are a neatnik and cannot tolerate dog hair on your couch, then this breed is for you. Bedlington Terrier sheds a negligible amount and holds 5 out of 5 stars for the amount of shedding. Bedlington Terriers are not droop-prone dogs and holds a rating of 1 out of 5 stars. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, then this breed is great for you. Bedlington Terriers are tough to groom holding 5 out of 5 stars. They require regular grooming to stay healthy and clean. Bedlington Terrier is a healthy breed and possesses 4 out of 5 stars when it comes to its health. It has a moderate potential to gain weight with 3 out of 5 stars. Bedlington Terrier is a medium-sized dog and holds 3 out of 5 stars. Trainability Bedlington Terriers are quite easy to train. They find out the association between commands and follow instructions without putting in much effort. They have good training experience of 4 out of 5 stars. Let's have a look at the factors for good trainability score: For ease of training, Bedlington Terriers hold 3 out of 5 stars. They do learn quickly but sometimes it is necessary for the trainer to be a bit stern. Bedlington Terriers are smart dogs and have high intelligence and concentration level. They score 5 out of 5 stars in intelligence level. Bedlington Terriers have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, or play-bite people. They have a 4 out of 5 stars potential for mouthiness. Bedlington Terriers have a high impulse to chase and catch something and have a 5-star inborn desire to hunt prey. You need to teach them how to associate well with pets in your house. Bedlington Terriers are moderate when it comes to barking and have 3 out of 5 stars barking potential. They have a strong desire for escaping the house and exploring the world. They have 4 out of 5 stars for wanderlust potential. Physical Needs The Bedlington Terrier is a high energy dog and has high physical needs of 4 out of 5 stars. Below are the reasons: Bedlington Terriers have a high energy level rated at 4 out of 5 stars. They become bored and mischievous without physical activities. They are not vigorous dogs and possess 2 out of 5 stars intensity levels. Bedlington Terriers require some time for exercise and rated at 4 out of 5 stars exercise needs. Bedlington Terriers are highly playful and have a playfulness potential of 5 out of 5 stars. After having a look at the breed characteristics, Bedlington Terriers sounds like a great choice to buy or adopt.

Do Golden Retrievers Shed? According to the American Kennel Club , these gorgeous, golden-locked good boys and girls are friendly, loyal, intelligent, kid-friendly, and intelligent. Golden Retrievers typically shed the most during the fall and the spring, as their coats thin and thicken for summer and winter, respectively. How Badly, You Ask? Short answer: yes. Long answer: Good heavens, yes. Yes, Golden Retrievers shed with the absolute best of them. Double coats consist of a top coat and an undercoat and are commonly found among waterfowl dogs. In addition, their outer coat keeps snow and ice off of their skin, helping to prevent frostbite and other cold-related health issues. While managing the Golden Retriever's shedding may seem daunting, understanding the root cause can help a lot. Here's something that often pops up when the topic is how bad do Golden Retrievers shed. Meanwhile, in the spring and summer months, the double coat does an excellent job of keeping your pet cool and safe from the heat. How is that possible if their double coat keeps them cool while also keeping them warm in the winter? That's the beauty of the double coat! The undercoat traps cool air and keeps it close to the body while the outer coat wards off the potentially dangerous effects of UV overexposure. However, all that hair has to go somewhere once it eventually stops growing, and all of that protective hair is exactly what makes your furry best friend such an iconic shedder. Carving out this time to care for your pup is vital to minimizing excess shedding and avoiding a house completely covered in dog hair. Brushing your dogs helps prevent painful mats by removing dead hair and skin cell build up. It also helps to distribute natural oils across their fur for a healthy, shiny coat! Plus, once your dog grows to enjoy their daily brush, it becomes a beautiful bonding moment that you can look forward to each and every day! A bath is not only a basic and important part of maintaining proper hygiene. Baths help to wash away fur that would otherwise end up shed across your furniture, your bed, and your clothes. The massaging action of working your pet-friendly shampoo into their coat helps to dislodge any fur that is already loose or close to falling out, which lets you keep one step ahead of their shedding! Bathing a pup too frequently removes the natural, healthy oils from their fur and skin, oils that are required for a healthy coat and a happy pup! An ounce of prevention is always worth a pound of cure! Stress Management: An Unexpected Solution to Golden Retriever Shedding Our pets get stressed, just like we do, and dogs especially are quite sensitive to our moods. The more stressed your Golden Retriever is, the more they are likely to shed. Our dogs rely on us to provide, so managing their stress is just another vital part of pet ownership. So, when do Golden Retrievers shed? The shedding is typically cyclical, with peak shedding seasons in the spring and fall. However, they can also shed sporadically throughout the year. This understanding can help you prepare for the shedding onslaught, equipping you with the right tools and patience when the time comes. Make sure to keep lint rollers on hand and spaced around your home for a quick spruce up of your clothing or furniture. For the eco-conscious among us, consider picking up reusable lint and pet hair removers, like the ChomChom or the Uproot Cleaner Pro! You do now! Your pup requires a diet rich in proteins and omega-3 fatty acids to maintain optimal health, and when they are getting the nutrients they need, it shows in their coat. A strong, shiny coat that sheds less even marginally less, in the case of our friend the Golden is a sure sign that their diet is healthy and free of allergens. Loose pet hair is part of owning this glorious breed and with the tips listed above, you can be sure to get ahead of their shedding before their golden locks overwhelm your home. Another important aspect of managing your Golden Retriever's shedding is grooming. Regular grooming sessions, involving both brushing and professional grooming, can significantly help to manage the shedding. A groomer can effectively remove loose fur from the undercoat, which is where most of the shedding comes from. Remember, grooming isn't just for aesthetics; it's crucial for your Golden Retriever's overall health and comfort. We would love to hear them! Send an email to marketing cuddleclones. Your tip may even make it into a future blog post right here on CuddleClones. Top Selling Products. However, Goldens do shed a lot. If you have a Golden at home, chances are you find yourself vacuuming often and peeling blonde hairs off your black clothing. Of course, the companionship your Golden brings you is worth all the shedding in the world — but you might still be wondering why these dogs shed so much. Golden Retrievers are unique because they have double coats. Most dogs breeds have double coats that shed. These double coats consist of a waterproof topcoat and a warm, soft undercoat. Each coat has a purpose: Image Source Topcoat: The waterproof outer coat is made of medium to long hairs that protect the dog from the elements. These shorter hairs help regulate body temperature by keeping the body warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather. Not only do these two coats work together to keep Goldens protected and comfortable, but they also go through shedding cycles — and this is why Golden Retrievers shed quite a bit. When Do Golden Retrievers Shed? Like all dogs with double coats, Goldens are moderate shedders for most of the year. They shed more during these two transitional seasons because their bodies are adapting to the changing climate. In fall, their coats thicken up as they get rid of the lighter summer coat. Here are some things you can try to reduce shedding. Option 1: Brush Frequently with a Comb or Blade The key to controlling excessive shedding is frequent brushing. With regular brushing, you can get to the fur before it spreads around your home. For your Golden, you should use a combination of these brushes at least three to five times a week: A metal comb for the feathers A slicker brush for the topcoat An undercoat rake for the undercoat Not only does regular brushing remove loose fur and prevent excess shedding, but it also helps distribute natural oils. It stimulates the surface of the skin and removes dead cells and dry skin as well — which can lead to a healthier and shinier coat. Plus, brushing sessions can help you form a closer bond, and your pup will look forward to your one-on-one time together! Option 2: Visit a Professional Groomer When it comes to long-haired dogs like Golden Retrievers, visits to a professional groomer help keep your pet healthy and properly groomed. Professional groomers have experience with double coats, and they know precisely how to ensure that your dog always looks and feels its best. Your groomer is able to provide a good time frame for recurring appointments to prevent excessive shedding in between. Since Golden Retrievers are a medium-large breed, the price might be higher than average. That way, you can buy high-quality food with the proper nutrients. Biotin: This vitamin is excellent for maintaining healthy skin, fur, and nails. It also helps with growth, digestion, and muscle formation. Vitamin E: It protects skin cells and prevents inflammation. Flaxseed oil: This oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease arthritis, lower blood pressure, improve kidney function, and maintain healthy skin and coat. You can also add nourishing foods. Just be sure to feed your Golden Retriever the right balance of protein , fat, and carbs. You can also feed your puppy small amounts of honey to help strengthen his immune system against common outdoor allergies like pollen. Salmon: This fatty fish is rich in good fats, amino acids, vitamins, and protein. Chicken: An excellent source of lean protein, omega 6, omega 3, and vitamin B. Pumpkin: Provides loads of beta-carotene, minerals, and fiber. Apples: Excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. Blueberries: These berries are rich in antioxidants. Cantaloupe: This tasty melon is packed with nutrients but low in calories, making it a healthy treat. Carrots: Carrots are high in fiber and beta-carotene. Celery: This veggie is a crunchy snack that provides vitamins A, B, and C. Green beans: These veggies are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and fiber. Peaches: This stone fruit is an excellent source of vitamin A and fiber, and it can help fight infections. Pears: These tasty fruits are rich in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. Watermelon: Another good melon for dogs, watermelon is packed with vitamins A, B-6, and C, as well as potassium. If your dog has a skin allergy, this can become even more problematic. The best defense against these small pests is to keep your dog on a year-round flea and tick preventive medication. In most cases, veterinarians will recommend a monthly medication to help prevent dogs from developing a flea or tick problem. However, every month might not be necessary, depending on where you live. Snowy Pines is located in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, where flea and tick season lasts between February and December. However, other states like Connecticut only experience flea and tick season from April to December. Jerry Klein. Learn more about how much water your Golden Retriever should be drinking every day. You should never shave your Golden Retriever because doing so can damage his coat. Remember that Golden Retrievers have a double coat to protect them during harsh conditions. How to Recognize Unusual Golden Retriever Shedding While shedding in Goldens is entirely normal, there are signs of unusual shedding you should look out for. They could be symptoms of a more serious underlying issue. If you notice that your Golden is dealing with any of the following, your pup may be shedding more than normal: Dry or brittle hair Irritated skin or bald patches Disliking being touched or pet It can be difficult to determine the underlying cause of abnormal shedding, but here are three of the most common: Problem 1: Unbalanced Diet Like people, Goldens need high-quality food, plenty of water, and proper nutrition to stay healthy. Ensuring your pup has a balanced diet with healthy proteins, fats, and carbs is the best way to improve their coat. Do Golden Retrievers Shed? Updated: June 26th, This article contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here. How Much do Golden Retrievers Shed? In a word: lots. These beautiful dogs shed hair moderately throughout the year. For many golden retrievers, this shedding ramps up twice a year during the spring and fall seasons. If you want to research a broader range of pet vacuums check out the best vacuum cleaners as tested by ModernCastle. You should expect a lot of hair to escape from your golden at this time as they blow their coats, ready to grow in entirely new ones for summer and winter, respectively. Why do Golden Retrievers Shed? Golden retrievers are one of a few dog breeds that are equipped with a double coat, composed of a thick, downy undercoat and an oily, waterproof outer coat. This amazing duality is what makes the golden retriever so resilient to different weather types and able to spend lots of time outdoors and in the water. The undercoat adapts to the weather and the temperature needs of your dog — during the cold winter months, they will grow an extra thick undercoat, before shedding much of it during the spring. This is why shedding is so heavy during spring and fall: in spring, your golden is getting rid of their thick winter coat, and in fall getting rid of their lighter summer coat to make way for the cold winter coat growth. As a general rule, the hotter the place you live, the more your golden retriever will shed as they need less hair to stay warm. Most shedding in golden retrievers is entirely normal and natural, although there are a few health reasons that can contribute to heavier shedding than normal. Another issue that can cause increased shedding is parasites — particularly fleas and ticks. Make sure that your golden retriever is up to date with their flea and tick prevention treatment and consider investing in some anti-parasite cleaning sprays and shampoos. Stress can also cause increased shedding in golden retrievers — for instance, moving home or a change in the family dynamics. Although golden retrievers will always shed some hair thanks to their double coat, there are some tips and tricks you can use to ensure that the shedding is minimal and manageable. Firstly, you should commit to a daily brushing schedule. This will allow for you to remove the dead hair straight from your dog before it falls off and becomes entangled in your carpets and furniture. It will also reduce any matting and tangles. That means feeding your dog a healthy, balanced diet and avoiding anything that they could be allergic to, or low-quality dog food that is stuffed with filler instead of nutrients. As well as reducing shedding, it will also reduce the opportunity for matts and painful tangles. Absolutely not! This will leave your dog at risk of sunburn and heatstroke and will affect the way that their hair grows back. Do Golden Retrievers Shed? How Much? A Little? A Lot? Sep 24, May 5, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers are such great family dogs. And their beautiful coats are legendary. So, when asked do golden retrievers shed? A lot. Of course all dogs shed. But goldens shed more than many other dogs. You may find their hair everywhere. Golden hair tumbleweeds are not unheard of. There are measures you can take to help manage the problem. Although goldens shed year-round, there are periods when they shed more than others. Golden retrievers have a double coat. Their long, smooth outer coat is oily and waterproof and protects them from the elements, dirt, and other debris. Their undercoat is thick, soft, and fluffy and helps regulate their temperature and protect them from the heat and cold. There are measures you can take to help manage the amount of excess hair clinging to and floating in your world. And you should take into consideration whether there are medical reasons or other causes why your golden may be shedding excessively. If there are, a vet visit and treating any medical conditions may help get the excessive shedding under control. It stimulates his skin. It also removes excess hair. Experts recommend brushing him at least three times per week. Or daily if you can—especially during shedding season. You want to make sure to use the proper grooming tools. Many recommend an undercoat rake to remove excess undercoat. And a slicker brush to help remove excess hair. Some people recommend using the Furminator to help remove excessive undercoat. Massaging your golden after brushing can help remove loose hair that was removed by brushing. Run your fingers down their coats in the same direction as their fur grows to help remove excess hair. His coat is meant to regulate his body temperature and protect him from the elements. Some golden experts say to bathe him every one to two months. They tend to get hot spots, and wet areas under his coat could make him more susceptible. Make sure to use a high-quality shampoo. Lint Rollers You can also purchase lint-type rollers to remove hair from your clothing and your furniture. Spaying or Neutering Goldens may shed more often when their hormonal balance changes after spaying or neutering. And a diet with fillers and low-quality ingredients can adversely affect his health, potentially leading to dry, unhealthy skin and a poor coat. Some goldens benefit from the addition of Omega 3 fatty acids to their diet. Allergies can cause skin irritations, rashes, and excessive shedding. Parasites Fleas and ticks can cause skin problems and excessive shedding. And follow a prevention plan that your vet recommends. Just like us, stress affects the body and can even lead to excessive hair loss. So do all you can to help him not be too stressed. Maintain a regular schedule for him as much as possible. Feed him at regular times each day. Make sure he has a sufficient amount of regular exercise for his age and health. And meet his need for play and attention. Goldens are attention magnets and wither if not given enough contact with their beloved family. He cherishes your bond as much—if not more than—you do! So keeping our stress levels low can benefit you and your dog. And make sure that he has enough rest and sleep each day. There are some vacuums that claim they are exceptional at picking up pet hair. If yours loves to swim, it can help remove excess hair. Beds and Throws Provide a comfy dog bed for your golden. It will help keep your furniture hair-free. They even make orthopedic ones that your dog will love. Get one with a removable, washable cover to keep him and your house clean. If you let your canine family member on your furniture, you can have it covered by washable throws made for that purpose. My dogs are allowed on the family-room furniture. I just have washable throw covers that are made to cover the sofa and the recliner on them. It also helps him regulate his temperature in both hot and cold weather. And it helps protect him from getting sunburned. At worst, they may have chemicals that can be harmful to your beloved golden. And two times a year they have an excessive amount of shedding when they blow their coats in spring and fall. Fortunately, there are many ways we can manage and deal with their shedding. Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Related Article:. Do Golden Retrievers Shed? How Much? Posted on April 5, by Galen Kauffman Share: If you have Golden Retrievers or any other dog for that matter sharing your home, you will be aware of the excess fur on the floor, on your furniture and on your clothes. This shedding of hair occurs when your furry friend loses dead fur to make room for new fur to grow. They do research on the different pet vacuums available and that work with ease on hardwood floors, carpets and tiles. Of course, not all dog breeds are the same — some have short hair, others medium length fur and others have long hair The way your dog sheds will depend on its breed and other factors. A dog that spends much of their time outdoors will have thicker fur compared to indoor dogs. There are also genetic and seasonal variations. The hair helps the Golden to maintain temperature all year around in hot and cold weather. As the Golden Retriever matures it will have longer feathered hair around the neck, belly area, legs and tail. These areas are all prone to matting and will need to be brushed. Read about the best brushes for your golden retriever here. When Do Golden Retrievers Shed? The Golden Retriever is such an awesome family dog and his gorgeous golden coat is his trademark. If you have owned a Golden Retriever you will know that these beautiful, social, energetic, intelligent dogs shed the entire year round and that their shedding can be described as moderate to fairly heavy. Grooming your Golden Retriever is key to keeping him healthy. You do, however, need the right grooming tools for shedding. This can be done with different kinds of brushes and also an undercoat rake. You can keep on top of Golden Retriever shedding by brushing with special grooming equipment on a regular basis. They start shedding at 6 months of age An undercoat also emerges which thickens as the dog matures. Your Golden Retriever puppy will shed his coat when he is about 6 months old. Once he starts shedding his puppy coat it will take a year or so to grow in. Some Goldens are already 18 months old before the entire double coat growing process is completed. Shedding for the Golden Retriever is at its heaviest during the late Spring when the weather starts to warm. Your Golden gets rid of his winter undercoat to make way for the lighter undercoat. The Golden Retriever develops a double coat. Goldens also get feathers over the stomach and around the legs. Shedding Triggers For Golden Retrievers Diet Take a good look at his diet to ensure he is getting the best nutrition possible for a healthy, silky coat. Shedding, grooming and nutrition go hand in hand. A healthy coat is always soft, smooth and shiny and not greasy with odor. A dog with an unhealthy coat usually has dry, brittle hair with plenty of loose hair. Signs of an unhealthy coat include bare spots. Shedding is perfectly natural, but dog owners can still do one or two things to help their dogs shed just a little less. Shedding can be a sign of a nutritional deficiency. Of course, grooming is essential but there are dog foods specifically formulated to reduce dog shedding because of the right mix of nutrients a canine needs. Omega 3 fatty acids With a Golden Retriever puppy, a food allergy can cause unnatural hair loss. Controlling allergies will stop your pet from ongoing scratching at their skin. Lots of scratching can increase the amount of hair your pet sheds, so make sure your Golden is being treated for fleas. Some foods such as tuna have essential nutrients such as Omega 3 fatty acid. Coconut oil added into food can keep the skin hydrated. It is also great for reducing dandruff and preventing fleas. Flaxseed oil can help improve the skin and fur of your Golden. Ensure your Golden has constant access to fresh, cool water. Make sure the water bowl is always clean. Some people buy a dog water fountain as the fun aspect of splashing his snout around in the water encourages more water intake. Bathing While bathing your dog is a way to get rid of excessive loose fur on your Golden, you have to be careful about bathing your dog too often as the situation with troublesome, itchy skin can backfire. The natural oils of your Golden Retriever help to keep his coat dirt resistant and water-repellant. Nevertheless, your Golden will require bathing, but very occasionally, say every 6 weeks or so. You have to look at the lifestyle of your dog. If you live on a large farm-type property and your Golden is constantly plunging into the farm dam, this frequent swimming can lead to a dirty coat and an unpleasant smell. Stress This makes perfect sense as just like humans lose their hair under stressful conditions, so do dogs. Your Golden is such a happy, amicable dog with a non-stop wagging tail. Keep him that way by keeping stress at bay. This is done by means of — Regular exercise Providing a constant supply of fresh cool water Feeding him a regular, nutritious diet Providing him with loving attention Providing him with a warm, dry, peaceful sleeping area Getting him to the vet when he shows signs of illness Shedding increases with spaying and neutering When humans are under par, their immune system suffers and their hair is lank and unhealthy. Spaying and neutering your Golden Retriever is similar. It can be a setback for their system. Hormonal changes can alter his shedding. You may see more shedding than normal. Give your beloved pet time to recover after the op, spoil him or her with nutritional treats and soon they will recover as they enter a new season of their lives. Golden Retrievers are just sheer joy but there is that one downside — their shedding. So apart from the tips mentioned above, what else can you do to make the best of their shedding? Make sure that you buy your Golden Retriever puppy from a responsible breeder. With a poor breeder you always get unpredictability and poor qualities in your dog. Responsible breeders always take the trouble to find good homes for every dog they breed. They also take great care to produce healthy puppies with the right temperament — and the normal amount of shedding. Not all dog breeders are ethical and you may spend a fortune in specialized dog products and vet fees to try and treat the problems you see in an il-bred puppy. As a Golden Retriever owner, educate yourself on shedding, learn how to buy a puppy that gives you less problems and how to take the right steps to keep this natural process under control. These slicker brushes have fine wire bristles that remove tangles and smooth the fur for a shiny coat. They are great for heavy shedders. They are great for shampooing your dog and for massaging while simultaneously removing loose hair. At the same time they stimulate blood flow to encourage a healthy shine. After you have brushed your pet, take him outside and comb his hair with your hands in the same direction that his fur lies. Undercoat rakes These shedding tools are a must-have for a Golden as they get to the thick bottom layer to remove excess loose fur. They make you work hard, so choose one with a well designed, ergonomic handle to prevent you from having an aching wrist. Some of the best undercoat rakes have a double row of stainless steel pins that loosen dead hair but which are soothing for your dog. There are also medicated shampoos for treating the likes of fleas. There he will get a good bath, a good brush and rub down and the groomer will check his nails, and inside his ears. Hair Dryer Air drying can take quite a time and by then the damp hair has attracted new dust and dirt. A doggy doggy blow dryer gets the job done chop-chop and at the same time it blows out all loose hair. Rather invest in a doggy hair dryer that has been designed specifically for dogs. They can be ordered easily online at Amazon. Of course there are going to be factors to consider when it comes to choosing a canine family member for your home. You have to first of all take into account the size of your property and what size dog would suit your surroundings. These are large, active gun dogs that require plenty of activity and exercise. As a dog owner, you have a responsibility towards your dog. He depends on you for his daily food, your love, shelter and care. A dog like the Golden Retriever with his longer silky coat will shed more than a dog with a short, sleek coat. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. 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So, you are already quite familiar with all the great characteristics of the German Shepherd and you are certain that you want to become an owner of this breed. We agree, and encourage you to make this decision! Also, you are now more informed about some of the best German Shepherd breeders in Alabama. What you must want to know next, is what price you can expect to pay for a German Shepherd. The price of this dog depends on many factors, but in general, it can be said that the German Shepherd is not a cheap dog, neither to buy nor to maintain. This is probably a scam! Responsible breeders invest a lot of effort, time, and money into raising top dogs. So, if the price of a dog seems high to you, you should understand that quality simply must come with a price. Also, a reliable breeder will immediately show you all the information about the health examinations and vaccinations of a dog. A breeder who offers you a German Shepherd for a low price will most likely not do the same and, if he suggests that you buy his puppy at a low price as soon as possible, you can be sure that you are dealing with an irresponsible breeder whose goal is to make money as easily as possible. Champion bloodlines: If you choose a reputable breeder, you will be sure to get a GSD with a purebred bloodline. For this reason, younger German Shepherds are significantly more expensive than adult dogs. Final Thoughts Finding a dedicated breeder is actually your first step to a happy coexistence with your future puppy. You will have already decided that the widely popular dog, the German Shepherd, is the type of dog you want for yourself and your family, and now, you will just have to set out in search of the perfect breeder. All you might know is that you want a purebred and healthy dog. This is of course a good start, but we want to warn you to concentrate as much as possible on choosing the right breeder. So, how do you do this? Contact the kennel first and make an appointment. This way, you will get to know both the breeder and the dog and be able to draw conclusions about the treatment of the dogs in this kennel. He will also offer you the option of contacting some of his previous clients and his vet, to confirm the veracity of his words. We hope that with these tips, along with our list of the 7 trusted German Shepherd breeders in Alabama, you will soon be able to welcome the perfect GSD dog into your home! Related Content. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders nationwide listings page. There are several factors that affect the price of a pup including age, breed popularity, bloodlines, champion titles, and show potential. Your German shepherd puppy will give you unconditional love and may also provide protection, companionship, and a lifelong friendship. The price can vary due to several factors including: Heritage — Pure breed dogs have been known to cost more than mixed breed dogs. Bloodline — Dogs with significant titles can be much pricier than newcomers in the show ring. Breed Popularity — The German shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the U. Location — Most breeders in rural areas will charge less for a puppy than breeders in an area with a large number of people and dogs. Breeders throughout the state can be found online by searching for websites that sell dogs directly from their kennels. It is also possible to find breeders at local dog shows or through newspapers, magazines, and other forms of advertising. The following are some of the most important factors to consider when finding a breeder. Breeders should have at least one member in good standing within the appropriate breed club. Reputable breeders will also have a website and as much information as possible about their dogs, including bloodlines and even x-rays for those dogs with problems such as hip dysplasia. A breeder who specializes in producing show dogs should have some degree of specialization. Papers — Anyone can buy a dog, so reputable breeders will require proof that you are who you say you are before allowing you to purchase their pups. Payment — Reputable breeders generally have a set price for their pups, so you should not have to haggle them down. They may charge more if the puppy is being shipped by air because of the additional costs. Warranty — Reputable breeders will offer a warranty that guarantees the pup against certain health problems for at least two years. This does not cover illnesses or accidents, but major diseases of concern to German Shepherd owners such as hip dysplasia and other major hereditary defects. Visit Your German Shepherd Breeder in Alabama in Person Once you have located a breeder, it is not a bad idea for you to visit their home in person. To be sure that the pups are kept in a clean environment with plenty of fresh air and exercise areas where they can run around and play. You should also be able to reach into their cages and pick them up without being bitten. Another good reason to visit your breeder is to check out their kennels. A good breeder will also provide you with a tour of the facility which should be clean, but not spotless. The dogs should appear to be well-fed and healthy. You should ask about the type of food that has been fed to your pup during his first few months. When making a final decision about buying a German shepherd puppy, look for signs of shyness or aggressiveness toward people. Aggressive dogs are more likely to be prone to biting, whereas shy dogs can grow up to be timid and afraid of strangers. Any signs of aggression should automatically eliminate the pup from your consideration because aggressive pups often become aggressive adult dogs. At this point, it is usually too late for them to change their behavior patterns. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Alabama Reputable breeders will have references available to you, so it is a good idea to ask for them. This provides added protection should there be any problems with your new pup in the future. References should include the names of buyers who have bought German shepherds from this breeder in the past. Their information should include their name, address, telephone number, and the years they were the customer of that breeder. If possible, call or visit these references to personally inquire about their satisfaction with the German shepherd puppies they received from your prospective breeder. While you are there, look at how well-behaved and friendly these grown dogs appear to be. Greet them yourself and ask for a short interview regarding their experiences with this breeder. You should also get to know these customers and their dogs, if possible. If you have children, take them along with you to meet these dog owners so they can see how friendly these adult dogs are around people, especially children. If any of the adults seem shy or hesitant in your presence, ask them why. This is perhaps the most important question for any buyer to ask a breeder. Reputable breeders usually have good relationships with at least one veterinarian in the area where they live. A reputable breeder will know which vets are knowledgeable about their particular type of dog and which ones offer low-cost spaying services, vaccinations, and neutering services. Look Out for The Signs of An Unethical German Shepherd Dog Breeder in Alabama Some unethical breeders will lie to their customers and potential buyers, so you always need to be extra careful when dealing with such a breeder. The following list of warning signs can help you avoid an unethical German shepherd dog breeder: The seller does not offer the AKC registration papers for the pup. The seller cannot provide vet references for the pup. The seller claims to be a champion breeder but cannot provide you with any proof of this claim. If your Alabama German Shepherd Breeder is Unable to Answer Your Questions, Be Skeptical A reputable breeder should be happy and willing to answer all of your questions about the pups and the breed in general. If you feel like your questions are not being answered to your satisfaction, then move on to another breeder. A good breeder will also want you to be aware of any health issues and what steps they take to ensure that this issue does not become a problem for their puppies in the future. A good breeder will tell you anything you need to know about the health issues or injuries of either parent dog. Some of these steps include: The most important decisions that you will make for your dog revolve around the type of crate you choose and where in your house it will be kept. While most puppies can be trained not to eliminate indoors if they are properly potty-trained, you still need to buy a crate for your new dog. Puppies can be very destructive if they are not given something to keep them occupied when unsupervised. While most pups can hold their bladders for up to four hours at a time by the time they are four months old, this is still a good idea if you want to leave your puppy. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy The most important thing to remember about potty training your puppy is that this process will not happen overnight. It takes a lot of patience and dedication, but if you can stick to it, then your pup will be potty-trained in no time. The best way to potty-train your new puppy is to take him outside every two hours. If you choose to crate your pup when you work all day or even when out of the house for a few hours , make sure that you take him out of his crate at the same time every day, and immediately take him outside to go to the bathroom. You can also leave a kitchen timer next to his crate so that he can learn when it is time for you to be let out. This is especially important when your dog is a puppy. We hope it helps you find the perfect puppy. There are many people who have asked us to write more articles on several different topics. If there is anything that you would like us to cover, then let us know in the comments section of this article or email us at. We will do our best. 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. A Welcome to our website. The intelligent German Shepherd breed won our hearts with their warm, caring, and loyal temperament! Our Shepherd puppies are very friendly, good with children, incredibly social, eager to learn, and easily trained. They love to sit at your feet, go on a hike, and join in family adventures. They are loyal companion-oriented dogs tending to focus more on people than surroundings. When you buy one of our Triple S Shepherds to integrate into your family, proper care and exercise will produce a companion dog able to follow your mood and join in as part of the family. For our friends in Law enforcement and those needing protection or a GSD to participate in Schutzhund our German Shepherd dogs from our imported lines of West, East and Czech bloodlines are the answer. Our imported line shepherds will make the ideal police K9 unit for your police department. Our goal is to raise superior puppies for you. We choose our breeding stock by the individual dog's health, temperament, and also characteristics proven in work and play. We delight in raising healthy Shepherd puppies with sweet and loyal temperaments suited for the whole family. Please feel free to check out our purchase info and phone us with any questions you might have. We appreciate your interest. Thank you for the visit. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Alabama? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Alabama cost? German Shepherd puppies for sale Alabama are priced differently according to a number of factors. Keep in mind that not all German Shepherds in Alabama are the same! Gender will affect price, as well as breeder or business expertise and location! Am I limited to local litters and breeders? Uptown Puppies offers you the opportunity to connect with breeders, businesses and companies that are out-of-state that have many German Shepherd pups on offer that they can get to you! How do you screen breeders? We have really strict requirements covering health, animal care, and legalities that they all have to pass. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? Uptown Puppies is really a cut above the rest! Innocent and loving families like yours often look for Alabama German Shepherd puppies for sale, and are tricked by Alabama German Shepherd breeders and businesses who advertise fake puppies online. We only deal with the best out there! What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are dark and dingy places that sell German Shepherd puppies for sale in Alabama that are not looked after in any way. Their health and nutrition needs fly out the window just so that their owners can make a quick buck off their lives. Their German Shepherd Alabama mothers simply rot away in small cages, forced to breed litter after litter, after litter.Uptown Puppies offers you a variety of German Shepherds Alabama, you just need to start your search, find the Alabama German Shepherds for sale that catches your eye, and connect with its breeder or business. The specific German Shepherd you desire will be yours! How does Uptown Puppies work? Uptown Puppies is really user friendly. Just search, click on your favorite German Shepherd for sale in Alabama and begin! How do I know I can trust you? Uptown Puppies is about connecting loving families with breeders and businesses of German Shepherds for sale in Alabama so that wonderful relationships are created for a lifetime. What is the history of German Shepherds? German Shepherds for sale Alabama originated in Germany as far back as .They were used to herd and guard sheep. The very first German Shepherd recorded in history was called Horand von Grafrath. Max von Stephanitz was the proud owner of Horand, and started breeding German Shepherds. Apparently these puppies were crossed with 4 different wolves. What kind of training is best for German Shepherds? The Alabama German Shepherd for sale is a very intelligent dog and loves all sorts of physical and mental challenges. Next comes leash training, house training, and training to obey special commands!

The GSD has a sturdy, muscular, slightly elongated body with a light, solid bone structure. The head should be in proportion to its body, and the forehead a little rounded. The nose is most often black however, blue or liver still do sometimes occur, but is considered a fault and can not be shown. The teeth meet in a strong scissors bite. The dark eyes are almond-shaped, and never protruding. The ears are wide at the base, pointed, upright, and turned forward. The ears of puppies under six months may droop slightly. The bushy tail reaches almost to its hocks and hangs down when the dog is at rest. The front legs and shoulders are muscular and the thighs are thick and sturdy. The round feet have very hard soles. Origin: Germany Life span: About 35 years Sub types: There are three varieties of the German Shepherd: rough-coated, long rough-coated, and the long-haired. The coat most often comes in black with tan, sable or all black, but also can come in blue, liver and white, but those colors are considered a fault according to most standards. White is not an acceptable color for the German Shepherd, however they are now being recognized as a separate breed, called the Amercian White Shephered. A piebald color has also occured in a single GSD bloodline which are now being called Panda Shephered. Often used as working dogs, German Shepherds are courageous, keen, alert and fearless. Cheerful, obedient and eager to learn. Tranquil, confident, serious and clever. GSDs are extremely faithful, and brave. As a pet: They will not think twice about giving their lives for their human pack. They have a high learning ability. German Shepherds love to be close to their families, but can be wary of strangers. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when they feel it is necessary. Often used as police dogs, the German Shepherd has a very strong protective instinct, and are extremely loyal to their handler. Aggression and attacks on people are due to poor handling and training. Problems arise when an owner allows the dog to believe he is pack leader over humans and or does not give the dog themental and physical daily exercise they need to be stable. This breed needs owners who are naturely authortative over the dog in a calm, but firm, confident and consistent way. A stable, well-adjusted, and trained dog is for the most part generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family. They must be firmly trained in obedience from an early age. German Shepherds who have passive owners and or who's instincts are not being met can become timid, skittish and may be prone to fear biting and develop aquarding issue. Training: They should be trained and socialized from an early age. .Owners need to have an air of natural authority to their demeanor. Do not treat this dog as if he were human. Learn canine instints and treat the dog accordingly. German Shepherds are one of the smartest and most trainable breeds. With this highly skilled working dog comes a drive to have a job and a task in life and aconsistentpack leader to show them guidance. They need somewhere to channel their mental and physical energy. This is not a breed who will be happy simply laying around your living room or locked out in the back yard. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service, and in the military. The German Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball, and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders, and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried 15 feet underground. The German Shepherd is also a popular show and family companion. Height: Dogs inches cm. Females inches cm. Weight: pounds kg. Housing: The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least a large yard. Intelligence and behaviour: German Shepherd Dogs love strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, for these dogs are very intelligent and crave a good challenge. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Most shepherds love to play ball or Frisbee. Ten to fifteen minutes of fetching along with daily pack walks will tire your dog out quite nicely as well as give him a sense of purpose. If under-exercised and or mentally challenged, this breed can become restless and destructive. Related Pets. Description Pakistani Shepherd Dogs are very strong and muscular dogs. They have a rounded forehead and dark, almond-shaped eyes. Their lips are black and their nose is mostly black. Their feet have very hard soles. Adult Pakistani Shepherd Dogs have erect ears. The coat of the Pakistani Shepherd Dog is usually black and tan, but can be gold, and some can come in white, which is rare but does occur. The colors vary from region to region. Temperament The Pakistani Shepherd Dog is a herding breed. They are very keen and love to herd animals, sometimes even little kids and their owners. They are dedicated to their work, courageous, fearless and alert. Very protective of their property, owners and sheep, they can be trained easily because they love to learn new things. Pakistani Shepherd Dogs are very loyal toward their work and handler, loving their family. The Pakistani Shepherd Dog has a loving nature and is very playful with children, enjoying playing games. This breed is bred to work, and can't sit idle all the time. Being able to work is their passion. They should be socialized from an early age and training should start as a puppy. Bhayri Kuttas should not be left alone with other small non-canine pets. This is a very obedient and loyal breed that is not aggressive, but will protect its owner to the death should the need arise. This breed needs owners who are naturally authoritative over the dog in a calm, but firm, confident and consistent way. Height, Weight Height: Males 24 - 25 inches 61 - 64 cm Females 20 - 24 inches 50 - 61cm Weight: 77 - 99 pounds 35 - 45 kg Health Problems Prone to flea allergies. Exercise The Pakistani Shepherd Dog loves strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, for these dogs are very intelligent and crave a good challenge. When not being worked they need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk , jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Most shepherds love to play ball or Frisbee. This breed does best with a job to do. Without enough exercise, mental and physical, it will become bored and destructive, which will affect its good temperament. Life Expectancy About years. Grooming This breed sheds bits of hair constantly and is a seasonally heavy shedder. If it is in inside dog, it should be brushed daily or you will have hair all over your home. Bathe only when necessary; over bathing can cause skin irritation from oil depletion. Check ears and trim claws regularly. Origin The Pakistani Shepherd Dog is a breed from Pakistan that has been used for herding and protection for centuries. There are different theories on the origin of the Bhagayari Kutta. If you have ever seen an Asian Pakistani Wolf, you will see that the Pakistani Shepherd Dog really resembles that type of wolf. August 16, By Zaheer Zulfiqar German Shepherds are one of the most popular and sought after breed of pet dogs around the world today. Also known as Alsatians in some parts, these canines possess excellent guard dog potential and make for great family pets too. If you are looking for a new pet pal in Pakistan then acquiring a German Shepherd needs to be your top consideration but how much does it cost to purchase one there? In this blog post we will discuss all the factors that determine German Shepherd price in Pakistan so that you can find out what is right for both you and your budget. German Shepherd Dogs Price in Pakistan German Shepherds are beloved canine companions around the world, with their intelligence and loyal temperaments making them popular pets. In Pakistan, these loyal dogs come with a price tag that can range from around Rs. Fortunately for those looking for a furry companion, there are also many rescue shelters and loving homes in Pakistan who may have such a pooch up for adoption at a greatly reduced cost, making the dream of owning a German Shepherd puppy more accessible than ever before! His exquisite coat, friendly temperament, and agility make him an ideal companion for the active family. For Rs. Enquire now and you could soon be the proud owner of this handsome German Shepherd! German Shepherd Long Coat Pedigree If you are looking for the perfect addition to your family, look no further than these German shepherd Pedigree long coat pups! These dogs have been carefully bred and raised in a loving environment, ensuring that they will make wonderful lifelong companions. Their intelligence and loyalty make them an ideal pet for active families. Plus, their gorgeous coats only add to their beauty! And with a price of only Rs. German shepherd The German Shepherd is a popular breed of dog known for its loyalty, intelligence and strength. This powerful breed originated from Germany and has been used in many different roles including police work, search and rescue, herding livestock, or as a loving family pet. As a large breed dog with an average lifespan of years, the German Shepherd comes with a hefty price tag of approximately Rs. However, their intelligence and loyalty ensure that they are well worth the investment! With proper training and socialization from an early age, German Shepherds can make wonderful companions for years to come. German shepherd The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds due to their friendly and loyal nature. They are highly intelligent, making them excellent working dogs for a variety of jobs like search and rescue, police work, and more. A German Shepherd can be an excellent companion and family pet as long as they receive plenty of exercise and training. Despite these impressive qualities, it is important to note that the German Shepherd can be an expensive breed. The average price of a German Shepherd puppy can range from Rs. In addition, it is important to ensure that the pup comes from a reputable breeder. A healthy German Shepherd puppy will be well worth its cost in terms of years of loyal companionship and protection. German Shepherd The German Shepherd is a beloved breed of dog, renowned for its loyalty and intelligence. This amazing animal makes an excellent guard dog and family companion. Not only will it protect your home and family, but it will also bring joy to your life with its playful nature and zest for life. Owning a German Shepherd comes with a hefty price tag of Rs. However, this cost is well worth it you can be sure that your furry friend will remain by your side for years to come. Furthermore, they are relatively low maintenance and require minimal grooming due to their short coats. With its strong sense of loyalty and protectiveness, you can be sure that your family will always be safe and secure. Overall, the German Shepherd is an amazing breed that pays for itself a million times over in loyalty and love. In conclusion, the German Shepherds are a great pet choice for those in Pakistan. The price range may vary depending on the general health and age of your chosen dog, but they typically cost around thousand Pakistani Rupees. However, bear in mind that these prices will increase if you decide to purchase a show quality German Shepherd or one with papers. Not only is it important to find out the various prices available for German Shepherds but also the possible characteristics the puppies may possess in order for you to pick the right pet for your household. All things considered, owning and investing in a puppy should never be taken lightly and so this article was intended to provide insight into the current costs associated with buying a Germen Shepherd pup in Pakistan. Recommended For You.

The massive head and shoulders cause problems with breeding and whelping puppies, according to veterinarian Jim Young, Marbach Road Animal Hospital, San Antonio, Texas. Testing Health testing of the parents before breeding increases the chance for healthy puppies. According to the Bulldog Club of America BCA , testing includes eye conditions, deafness, elbow disorders and hip dysplasia. Common bulldog problems include problems with eyelashes, bones, heart valves and palates. Preparation Most bulldog breeding requires artificial insemination, according to Young. After selecting an appropriate stud, unless the stud lives nearby, arrange for delivery of chilled or frozen semen. Your veterinarian may use vaginal smears or progesterone testing to determine ovulation and breeding schedule. Breeding Generally, the veterinarian performs insemination at ovulation, about 8 to 13 days after the heat cycle begins, and again two days later, according to Young. Your veterinarian verifies pregnancy between 28 to 45 days using ultrasound, palpation or X-ray. Pregnancy During pregnancy, observe your bitch for signs of vaginal discharge, infection, fever or other problems. Puppy food provides adequate nutrition for most pregnant bitches. Whelping Bulldogs usually require cesareans c-section to deliver puppies, according to Vetinfo. Schedule a c-section 60 days after the first insemination. The veterinarian will check puppies for problems such as cleft lip and palate. Natural birth results in dead puppies due to crushing or stuck puppies and dead bitches. Fortunately, the mother dog will likely take great care of the puppies and you won't have to intervene too much, although there are a few things you can do to assist her and to make sure the puppies are given the utmost care. Provide a suitable environment for the mother English Bulldog and her puppies. Most likely, the mother will spend most of her time in one area, typically the spot in which she gave birth. It is your responsibility to keep the towels, sheets and other bedding clean, as the puppies will constantly eliminate on them. In addition, provide fresh food and water to the mother. Keep the puppies warm. While most puppies will snuggle against their mothers to keep their body at the right temperature, you can help the process by keeping the whelping area nice and toasty. The PetPlace website suggests using electric bulbs to keep the area .Then around five to 10 days, slowly reduce the temperature to .By the fourth week, the puppies should be comfortable in 75 degree weather. Watch the mother Bulldog closely for signs of overheating. English Bulldogs are prone to becoming too hot and may vomit, become lethargic or faint as a result. If the mother starts to display any of these signs or acts differently, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your English Bulldog just brought a litter of puppies into the world and you may be wondering how you are going to care for these tiny tykes. Closely monitor your English Bulldog puppies' breathing. Because of their short noses, English Bulldogs are susceptible to breathing issues. Any puppy that seems to be breathing abnormally or is having difficulty should see a veterinarian immediately. Feed the puppies mush when they are about 3 weeks old. The Doctors Foster and Smith website recommends placing 2 cups of high-quality puppy food in a blender with ml of puppy replacement milk. Fill the rest of the blender container with hot water. Process the mixture until it reaches the consistency of human infant cereal. Place the mush in a large pizza pie pan or other low-sided container and allow the Bulldog puppies to eat. Do this about three or four times daily. Bulldog puppies have noses that can easily become blocked with food, therefore, check the noses and clear them of any mush after every meal. Take the English bulldog puppies to the veterinarian when they reach 6 to 8 weeks of age. The doctor will administer vaccinations, as well as worming medications. The vet will also begin examining for defects that are common in English bulldogs, such as skin problems and hip dysplasia. TIP Keep the electric bulbs suspended in the air and far enough away so that the puppies and mother cannot come into contact with them. Each puppy will come out in a placental membrane that the mother should tear open before she severs the umbilical cord. After this, she should begin licking the puppy to stimulate its breathing. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Puppies should nurse from the mother very shortly after birth. Suckling at this point provides the puppies colostrum, which is like milk, but it also contains antibodies from the mother to help the puppies prevent any infections as their own immune systems develop. Newborn pups cannot yet control their body temperatures, so you must provide a warm environment. Canine mastitis is always a possibility for nursing mothers in the first several weeks after whelping. The breasts should be warm and enlarged, but with canine mastitis, you may notice that they are red, dark, hot, or produce a painful reaction in the mother. Go to source Consult a vet immediately if this is the case. She may not eat much for several days after whelping. This will prevent the possibility of eclampsia. Symptoms of eclampsia include nervousness, an unsteady gait, muscle spasms, and whimpering. A vet can easily intervene with the condition as long as you properly notice it and seek care for the mother. If the mother rejects any of the puppies, then you will have to hand feed them. Consult your vet for a commercial puppy formula and follow the instructions closely for the recommended feeding amounts and times for the pup. Go to source Advertisement. The early care and environment of the English Bulldog newborn puppy are very important. Reasons a English Bulldog puppy might die early on are usually due to difficult whelping, congenital or genetic defects, environmental factors i. Things to have handy in case of an emergency: a box of Amoxi-Drops anti-diarrhea medication like Biosol, Kaolin-Pectin, or Neo-Pectilin thermometer Karo syrup or honey tube feeding kit 10 feeding tube and 10cc feeding syringe several cans of puppy formula like Esbilac; however, it is very important that a English Bulldog puppy get its mother's milk if at all possible during the first 5 days to protect it from infection and give it antibodies from the mother's milk You can purchase pre-made formula from your vet and outside of the mother's milk, it is best. However, the following formula is cheaper and provides all the nutrition. It's been used by many people and gives good results: l can Carnation evaporated milk some prefer canned goat's milk. Many use it instead of evaporated milk - both can be found in the bakery section of your grocery store. If this seems to be, change to bottled water to make the formula. Keeping the litter box tempature between degrees with no drafts for the first few days is usually adequate. Other sources of warmth can be heating pads or heat lamps. If using a heating pad, monitor the intensity of heat, as pups have been known to cook on pads set on high settings! There are many excellent heat lamps on the market, but remember that caution is needed. Heat lamps have been known to start fires! The temperature on the English Bulldog puppies 1 inch above the bottom of the box should be about degrees with a corner that is slightly cooler and allow them to scoot to wherever they like best. There should also be plenty of clean blankets, as this will allow for regulation of temperature. If a English Bulldog puppy has its mouth open, it's too hot. If a English Bulldog puppy is too cool, it often won't show anything - but it can be deadly. Hydration is one of the most important things to monitor in new bulldog pups, as it can be one of the first signs of problems. Check hydration by by pinching the skin on the back of the neck or on the top of the back. If the pinched skin stays creased, the English Bulldog puppy is dehydrated and needs fluid replacement. Also, a dehydrated bulldog pup's coat will sometimes have a ruffled or scruffy appearance. Dehydration can either be a result of inadequate nourishment, too much heat, or sickness. It is strongly suggested that you use regular newborn or infant bottles and nipples. The ones available for purchase for cats, dogs, ferrets, etc. Bottle feeding is far more preferable. The sucking on a nipple, the handling and holding of the English Bulldog puppy is so very important to their overall development. The English Bulldog puppy should be held with his head upwards and his body and tail down in a 45 to 90 degreee angle when bottle feeding. If English Bulldog puppies and their blankets are not kept clean, it is very easy to come down with a staph infection and diarrhea - which is serious, as bulldog puppies can go downhill quickly. As mentioned before, it is equally serious if the English Bulldog puppies get chilled so avoid drafts. Even if you have them in a basket with a heating pad, you need to cover the basket with a towel to keep out drafts. A chilled English Bulldog puppy must be warmed up. Put it in a pocket so that it's warm and jiggled as you walk around, or if you are a woman put it in your bra for your body heat. There are lots of little ways to accomplish it. Don't worry about feeding formula to a chilled English Bulldog puppy because it will have the opposite effect: their body cannot handle the food and makes it all the worse for the English Bulldog puppy. Priority should be to get the bulldog puppy warmed up slowly. Newborn English Bulldog puppies cannot regulate their body temperature or body functions like urinating and stools. It is important that they are pottied at each feeding. They might not have a stool each time, but they will urinate. This is what the mother does when she licks them. But some mothers don't want to be bothered, especially the first few days. After that, she will become a good mommy. Some might start off being good, then after a few days, or even a couple of weeks, not want to be bothered and might even be nasty to the puppies such as snapping and biting them. Always be careful and watch. Don't leave her alone until the bulldog pups are big enough not to be laid on, or big enough that you know that the bitch is a good mother. If the mother will not clean the babies, you must be sure to do it. Using a kleenex, gently rub the area to stimulate their potty. Then be sure to clean them well. Make sure to check them even if the mother cleans them. Often the stool will get stuck to the tail and be dry. If that happens, or if the English Bulldog puppy seems to be straining and constipated, try the following: Run warm water in the sink slowly. Put a drop of soap on their behinds, and wash and massage their behinds; it will get the tail and poop unstuck, clean them up, and cause them to potty very well. Make sure they are well rinsed, and dried thoroughly so they don't get chilled. If the little bottoms are red and sore, use some Desitin ointment. You may see green puppy stools and stools that have an appearance of bunches of tiny seeds. If all else seems normal, this seems to be harmless and short-lived. However, watery diarrhea can be very serious if left unchecked. There can be many causes, like the mother's diet, or infection. Diarrhea together with vomiting usually means infection. For the first 3- 5 days an average English Bulldog puppy ouncer will take about 10 cc's every hours. It should be broken into feedings every 2 hours 5cc per feeding. If it is a good sized bulldog puppy 1 lb. Towards the end of a week, you should increase the food needed to about cc or more. For the first week they should eat every two hours. If they are good size bulldog babies, you can sometimes go longer. By the second week, as long as you don't have any problems and they are of good size, you can usually go hours between feedings. An average weight for newborn English Bulldog puppies is around ounces. Good size puppies are oz.

Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. You might want to limit them to one or two rooms in the house at first so they can get used to everything slowly in their own time. Calming products: Plug-in diffusers that release calming pheromones can be good for the first few weeks. They can help your puppy feel more relaxed around the home — especially during those first nights! Set boundaries: Make sure your boundaries are clear from the beginning and stick to them. You can begin by socialising your puppy at home and by carrying them out and about with you. If they need to sleep and rest, give them the space to do so and encourage them to play on their own sometimes to help prevent separation problems later in life. Consider training classes: It can be a good idea to go along to training classes with your puppy, so you can let them have positive experiences with vaccinated dogs and people in a safe environment. Make sure you choose classes run by trainers who are certified or accredited and use reward based methods. For more tips, read our guide on the first day with your puppy. It's also a good idea to get your new puppy insured as soon as possible. This will help make sure they have all the cover they need in future if they fall ill or become injured. Feeding your puppy With so much choice available, it can be tricky to know what to feed your new puppy. Puppies need a particular level of nutrients compared to adults to help them grow, so finding an appropriate puppy food is essential. Speak to your vet for advice on the best puppy food for your dog to make sure you pick one that will suit their needs as they grow. You can still keep your puppy happy and entertained in lots of other ways, for example playing games or trying a puzzle feeder. Before you start exercising your puppy in the big wide world, you must make sure that their vaccinations are fully up to date, in order to keep them safe and healthy. Training your puppy Your new puppy will likely need to learn all of their skills from scratch, which means lots of basic training! Start the basics at home, such as teaching your dog recall and sit. It can help the two of you bond, and your pup will see training as a fun thing to do. One thing that most people think about when bringing their puppy home, is toilet training! Always use positive, reward-based training and never punish your puppy for toileting in the wrong place. Toilet training might take time — some pups can learn toilet training in a few months, while others might take a lot longer. Lab Puppy proof the house. Things like dangerous chemicals, solvents, cleaning solutions, paint and other dangerous substances need to be secured. As well you will need to look at cords hanging and things falling on the puppy if they accidentally pull something down. Stairs need to be gated off until your puppy is older and learns how to walk down them without trying to jump off. Purchase a quality dog food. It never ceases to amaze me how some people end up feeding a low quality food to their dog, or something experimental like a vegan food, or even feed them a so called raw diet and not balance their nutrition requirements. The single biggest thing you can do for your dog is feed them a proven diet with nutrients delivered in the proper ratios. A second thing to consider is where your food is made and how you can be notified if there is a recall. At the time of writing this there is a popular food under recall for toxic levels of vitamin D. There have been numerous cases of deaths related to this and yet the company claims they independently test their ingredients. The food we recommend is such because we have years and years of experience over 13 years with it using it ourselves and recommending it to those who adopt our puppies. We have actually had so few health issues with our puppies and aging adults eating this food that we have increased our warranty to 4 years and include all major organs. Bottom line, feed a high quality proven food from the day you bring your puppy home, not necessarily one with the most protein. We will provide you with feeding suggestions once you place your reservation for a puppy and a proven puppy food to feed them. Visit the pet store for the required equipment. You are going to need a large dog crate with a divider so in the beginning your puppy will have just enough room to sleep. Crate training is the best way to protect your puppy while making them safe when unsupervised. As your dog grows you can remove the divider so it has room to lay down and not touch the walls. We stock the most popular toys and cover all the different types you will need so that you can get them when you pick up your puppy. They come with explanations of how the different types are used to both stimulate, calm and play with your puppy, how to cycle them, teething, and more. A stainless steel water and food bowl is also another good choice. I would wait on getting a collar so that you can fit them properly. We have inexpensive training leashes that adjust to any size for you to purchase when you are here. Have a family meeting to establish expectations. Every human in the home will need to follow the same rules consistently so that your puppy understands what is expected of them. Schedule an appointment with a good Veterinarian. Not all Veterinarians are of equal experience. We have heard some pretty crazy stories, so we suggest you get some referrals of some long term relationships of people you trust for a Vet. You should take your puppy to the vet a couple of days after you get home so it has time to get use to its new surroundings before being taken somewhere. Prepare fore the Drive Home 1. Your puppy can last about 2 or 3 hours without a potty break. We normally feed your puppy early in the morning on the day of pick up so that it has time to go potty before the drive home. Our recommendation is to give your puppy some water every 3 hours and then let them have a pee. This could also go along with letting them play or explore outside a bit. When you stop, find an unused grassy space to potty on. Arriving at home with your puppy 1. First quickly bring them to the spot you want them to potty. This is the beginning of your dog being house trained. They will likely have to go right after you get out of the car. So when you stop, give them a drink in the area you want them to relieve themselves in. Wait until they go and then you can take them into the home. Treat your puppy like a puppy. It is breakable and will be a puppy for about a year. Things like playing with larger dogs and such should be carefully supervised. Constant supervision. Your new puppy needs to be constantly supervised until they can be trusted and you know that they understand the rules. Constant supervision means either you or someone watching them, they are in their crate the crate is the supervisor , or that they are in a section of the home baby-gated off or also an outside run with a kennel and a cement floor so they cannot dig under the fence yes they will dig. After a potty bring your puppy to the room with their crate. Introducing them to their crate perhaps with a few pieces of kibble in it will show them where their safe space is. This is also where they need to be comfortable enough to self-calm and fall asleep. If you have another dog, first introduce them outside on neutral territory. Bringing a new puppy and simply coming straight into the home could have one of three effects. The first being that both dogs might be ok with it. Second is that the older dog has an issue with a new strange animal in its territory. This would result in your older dog being defensive, maybe even protective or possibly anxious and scared and once this has happened it is out there. Undoing this type of trauma could take days or weeks. Relax and let them get to know each other and all will be good. After some get familiar time begin training your puppy without distractions using Positive Reinforcement training methods. We suggest that everyone participates in some training classes either in a group format or private. The important thing to understand is that you are training you to train your puppy. Your puppy will also lose any training it has done if it is not reinforced by everyone in the home. Other resources are 80 Puppy Training tips that you can learn as well as an excellent site with video called Puppy Trained Right. We have a discount code available for those who are taking home one of our puppies. This will allow them time to eliminate most of their food and urine and will give a better chance of sleeping the night without having to go potty. Prepare their crate in a quiet, dark spot. Make it a sleepy place, place a blanket over the top and down 3 sides to block draft and to make it den-like. Some mild exercise or training just before bed. Just like a human, you want them to be tired before bed. So for example if you let them sleep from 9 to 11 pm they may not need to go down at 11 to sleep. The last while before bed try to stimulate them mentally and physically so that they are ready to turn in. This can be training sessions, a walk, a play session or even fetch in the house. One final potty around 11 pm. After you prepare them for sleep take them out one more time and give them ample time to relieve themselves. Bring them back in, let them settle in the crate, put an item of clothing in there that smells like you for them to snuggle on. The quicker they learn the new pack and learn to settle in the crate the better and that happens by not reminding them of their old litter. If they smell their old litter they will whine for them to find them. Settling in their crate. Once your puppy goes down you will want to be teaching your puppy that the time in their crate is for sleep, they are safe in there, and that if they bark or whine they cannot summon you to save them. So, what if they really have to go? This is something you will have to figure out. It may be possible that they must go outside to relieve themselves, but, they may also just want you to hold or feed them. If they go, just put them back in their crate to settle and go back to sleep. You will know within reason that next time they are just lonely. This normally stops after about 2 or 3 days. Whoosh them out to their pee spot. Pick them up and carry them quickly to their pee spot. When they go reward them with praise and say the potty word that you use. Feed, and then woosh them out again to their pee spot. Puppies often need to poop right after they eat, or sometimes while they are eating. Some exercise, training and mental stimulation. After waking up and eating they will be ready for a walk and some training. Setting them up for their first full day in the home. Plan their day out so that there is a balance of play, training, napping, eating, and potty. In the beginning your puppy will need about 20 hours or so of sleep a day so be sure it is getting enough. If your puppy gets nippy they may be trying to tell you they are tired and want to be left alone in their crate. Every opportunity that your puppy presents in the form of nipping is a training opportunity to teach bite inhibition. Coming home to your puppy after work. Learning how to greet them. If you work full time it is important to understand that a young puppy cannot hold their bladders for more than 3 or 4 hours. If you work full time you will need someone to watch them or at least visit them once or twice during the shift to let them out, drink and play. When you arrive home this is the time to teach them manners. Most dogs will be excited and will jump on you to greet you. Be sure you teach them how you want them to greet people. We will teach a dog to sit in front of us before it gets any attention. No attention means no talking, no eye contact and no touching. Will they need to relieve themselves? If they have been in a crate you will likely need to let them go potty, a walk or some fetching would also be good at this time because they likely have some energy to expend. Training pre or post feeding? There are also some Labs who are not food motivated. So if your Lab is not responding well to training after they are fed, you may want to train them before eating so the hunger is on your side. Socialization with people other than your family, and animals other than those in the home. While socializing you want to expose them to many people while not overwhelming them. To start we recommend 1 new person each morning and one new place each night. After you can see that your puppy is not overwhelmed you may decide to increase the frequency of exposure to new places, animals and things. Prepare for night time routine. Get your new furball ready for bed time as outlined above. Setting your puppy up for success. Avoiding dog parks and strange dogs. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated around 14 weeks old they are vulnerable to other diseases by unknown dogs. By all means, if you know someone who has a dog and you can verify that their dog is up to date on all shots such as Parvo, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough, Distemper, Hepatitis, Corona and Para Influenza, 2. Get into a reputable training class or private training with a reputable trainer. Training classes are mainly to train you. Ask around in your area for a recommendation of a good trainer at a reasonable price. Gentle, regular exposure to everyone and everything. For example, while you are exposing them to people you will need to expose them to female babies, toddlers, pre teens, teenagers, young adult women, middle aged women and older women. You will need to include women with glasses, hats, soft voices, loud voices, etc…. Adjust their food as they grow and as their activity level increases or decreases. If for example your dog is much more active or much less active then the recommended feeding amount will not be correct. Instead use your eyes. You might have to adjust the food amounts up or down as your Labrador gets more or less activity. Positive Reinforcement training by everyone in the pack. When you get into your car and you to go somewhere, you tell your gps where you want to go. Dogs are the same way. Instead teach your dog what you want it to do. Instead of scolding, simply withdraw your attention. This is enough punishment. Then, get back to showing your dog what you want it to do. If your puppy is not eating or has a loose bowel movement. Not eating much is pretty common when a puppy goes to its new home, however if it stops drinking then that would be cause for an immediate vet visit. In a new home your puppy might not be comfortable for a couple of days and eating might be just grazing. This is ok as long as it is drinking and seems to be playful. Loose bowel movements in the beginning could be due to nerves or your puppy could also have a parasite. At this young age puppies put everything, and I mean everything into their mouths. It is quite common for puppies to get loose stool from a parasite. This can be addressed easily if you take a stool sample into your Vet for analysis. What is a puppy emergency that requires a visit to the vet? Our rules for an emergency trip to the vet are: Uncontrollable bleeding, puppy not breathing properly, broken bone, puppy is not drinking and appears lethargic. If any of these present themselves you may want to consider getting help right away. Other things can normally wait until the next morning to be addressed because they are not critical. Depending on where you live however you may have a vet that is open 24 hours and even on the weekends. So this is a start for you to think about when you take a Labrador Puppy home. Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. Frankly and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact pressreleases franklymedia. Be among the first to get breaking news, weather, and general news updates from News 9 delivered right to your inbox! Morning Headlines. Rachael Ray Nutrish is another brand I love for Labrador Retriever puppies as it is packed with DHA for healthy brain and eye development and specially formulated for young, growing dogs. You can also select different sizes and recipes. My favorite is chicken and brown rice. Bedding And Toys Lab puppies need quality bedding and toys for teething. Labrador puppies grow quickly and have sharp claws and teeth. Puppies also go through a teething phase and will need special teething toys to help soothe their sore mouths and help keep your furniture safe. As far as bedding, the best bedding for a Labrador puppy is going to be made of high quality material that is soft and plush while also being sturdy enough to keep them off the floor and support their growing bodies. KONG toys are wonderful tools to use during crate training , but they also help with separation anxiety , boredom, and the teething stage that all puppies go through. Enter the Nylabone Puppy Starter Pack. These flavored chew toys come both textured and regular to help get your pup and your furniture through the teething stage safely. Cuddly toys like the Smart PetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy above can help your new Labrador puppy adjust to sleeping on his own, assist in crate training, and may even help alleviate anxieties including noise phobias and separation anxiety. Puppy blankets are a must and can be used for multiple purposes in your home for your pup. My favorite puppy blankets are blankets that are specially made for dogs, like the Luciphia fleece blankets above. While you can use any blankets on hand, blankets that are specially made for dogs are usually a bit more durable, easier to wash, and have been made with quality and safe material for your pooch. Puppy blankets just make it easy to always a comfy place for your puppy to rest his head no matter where you are. Ultra Squeaker Ball is an absolute favorite in my house and with my clients. I especially love using this toy for puppies who are just getting the hang of playing fetch. For puppies, picking up on how to play fetch can be tough. Balls that squeak or make noise when thrown help to make the game more exciting and help encourage young pups to chase whatever is making that high pitched sound! Leashes, Harnesses, and Collars Collars, leashes, and harnesses are important tools to help socialize your puppy. Getting your puppy used to wearing a leash, harness, and collar is an important step towards socializing them. So even though your Labrador puppy will outgrow his harness and collar quickly, I still suggest investing in these items. Here are five of my favorite leash, harness, and collar products for Labrador Retriever puppies. As I mentioned above, puppies are especially fragile so steer clear of attaching a leash to their collar and try to help them adjust to wearing a harness that is comfortable. What I like about this harness is that it is adjustable so you can use it a bit longer as your puppy grows. Best of all it is the perfect length five feet for puppy training and is a leash your Lab puppy can take with him into adulthood. It is built like a standard leash, but it offers you control over how far away your puppy can get. This is excellent for puppy parents who live in busy neighborhoods or who are working with a puppy who likes to wander. Large breed puppies like Labrador Retrievers require crates that grow with them. This is why I love crates that come with dividers so that they can grow with your Lab puppy. I also recommend playpens, as Labrador puppies are notorious for being very active and energetic. Lab puppies are also incredibly curious and tend to chew a lot in their first few months, which is why indoor dog gates will also be an important part of puppy proofing your home. Take a look at some of my favorite puppy-proofing products below. Nobody likes cleaning up potty accidents. Of course, no one wants a big, bulky pen that takes up half of their home either! I also love that the pen is big enough for puppies to grow into and allows them to learn how to explore a space larger than their crate while keeping them and your home safe from their curiosity. And since crate training is such an important part of puppyhood and actually helps your puppy adjust to being alone and feeling secure, we recommend investing in a good, high quality crate you can use for years. It has two separate doors for entrance and exit and it comes with a divider so it can be adjusted to the size of your dog as he grows. Just remember to leave your pup inside his crate with a KONG and some bedding so he is comfortable, and remember that puppies who are younger than six months old should not stay in their crates for longer than four hours. For those of you who plan to leave your puppy out and about while you are gone and after he is trained, of course , then a crate that folds may be your best bet. The MidWest Foldable Dog Crate posted above is one such crate that is not only made well, but also stores well. Like most crates ideal for Labrador puppies, this crate also comes with a divider so it can grow with your dog. Along with crates and puppy playpens, you also might consider getting a gate to keep your puppy from entering places in your home that may pose a risk to him. Many of my clients keep gates up in their kitchen entryway, or gate their living rooms where puppies are tempted to chew on wood furniture. Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate Sale Buy on Amazon For those of you worried about installing something or accidentally damaging walls or paint, there are always free-standing gate options, like the Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate. I do like the way these gates look and the simplicity of them, however, they are not always the most secure and may not stand up to a strong and curious puppy. These gates are also not ideal for leaving puppies unsupervised as they can sometimes find ways to knock them down. Grooming your Labrador puppy early on not only helps to socialize him and prepare him for a life of vet visits, groomer visits, and physical contact with people, but it also helps to keep him clean and healthy. Like babies, puppies are more sensitive to certain products and require products that are specifically designed to be gentle on their sensitive skin and fur. Be selective of the shampoos, dog brushes , and other grooming products you pick for your Labrador puppy and make sure you always use high-quality products. Some of the products I recommend most for grooming a Labrador puppy are listed below. Pet Care Sciences Puppy Shampoo. Non-slip bottom dog dishes Puppies naturally move their dish around as they are eating, especially if the dish has a flat bottom that easily pushes around the floor. We have found that dishes with a non-slip bottom can help so that your puppy is not chasing around his food dish. Make sure that it is large enough. And since dogs grow fast, that means they will likely grow to that size within a year to a year and a half. Almost all dogs we train eat between 4 -6 cups of dog food a day. So, make sure that your dish is large enough to accommodate this many cups. Water dish It is vitally important that your puppy have access to clean water for drinking. With the puppies we raise, we have found that it can be challenging to keep a small water dish full, so we prefer to use these 2-gallon water dishes. They are easy to fill and allow us to only have to fill them a couple times a week instead of several times a day. We suggest that you introduce a lead to your puppy as they start to grow in confidence and walk further from you when outside. There are two great reasons to do this early on. First it teaches your puppy how to handle the pressure of not being able to go wherever they want whenever they want. And it keeps your puppy from developing a habit of running away from you. A Flexi-lead works especially well if you want to give your puppy a little more freedom to go do his potty business but still keep control. Toys Puppies need toys. If you do not give them toys that they CAN chew and play with, they will chew on your sofa leg, or a book or a blanket or anything else they can find. So, purchase some good durable puppy chew toys. But watch your pup carefully. As they get older and stronger, they will be able to rip apart cloth toys and ingest them. Or they will chew rubber toys into small pieces and eat them. When your pup gets strong enough to destroy toys, it is time to take away the puppy toys and give them only dog toys designed for older , larger dogs or quality rawhides that they can chew that will not cause digestive problems. Stay away from rope toys. Many puppies have managed to ingest strings and ropes requiring surgery to remove them. Puppy-sized bumper If your plan is for your Labrador puppy to become a hunting or competition dog, you should have a puppy sized bumper. Learn more about teaching your puppy to fetch in this post. Barriers I recommend that you section off a small portion of your home and not let your puppy have full run of the entire house. Learn more about housebreaking your Lab puppy in this post. To section off a part, it can be helpful to have some child-gates available or an area of your home that you can close doors. This means that you need to show your puppy where the boundaries are and what is and is not allowed. To do this, you will need a few more tools. This is often when we see dogs that are running away from their owners, playing keep-a-way when retrieving and just basically being naughty. A lot of this could be avoided with the use of a check cord. Yes, a check cord can be cumbersome and often a pain to use, but it only takes one or two times of your puppy running away from you to make it worth it. Put a check cord on your puppy and allow them to drag it around with them. This alone is a great lesson for a dog. Dragging the weight is a type of pressure that they will need to learn to deal with. Occasionally, step on the rope and allow your dog to feel the pressure of being stopped and controlled. These sound like such minor things, but you would be surprised how much more well-adjusted your puppy will be just from learning these minor lessons. Chain or prong collar As your puppy gets stronger, it will get more and more difficult to control your puppy with a lead just hooked up to a nylon collar. As you notice that your puppy is getting harder to control, is pulling you around or dragging you down the street, you need to move to a chain or prong collar. Actually, it would be best if you changed to a chain or prong collar long before this becomes an issue. Remember, it is always easier to fix problems when they are small rather than waiting for them to become huge problems. Larger bumpers for retrieving dogs As your dog gets larger, you will want to move away from the puppy bumper and start using regular sized retrieving bumpers. We prefer to use plastic or rubber bumpers since they do not get as dirty or smelly as the canvas ones. They also last a lot longer and can be used for both water and land retrieves. Learn all about the different bumpers used for training hunting dogs here. Orange is a color that is difficult for retrievers to see, so that color should not be used for young dogs that are just learning about retrieving and hunting. Save the orange ones for advanced dogs working on blind retrieves. Final thoughts on What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? There are many things that you will need for your new puppy both now and in the future. Take some time to prepare before you bring your puppy home so that you will avoid buying things on impulse that you may or may not need. If you are planning on using your puppy as a hunting or competition dog, check out 6 vital tools every gun dog trainer needs. You can email me at ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? The crate which we suggest is foldable which makes it extra convenient. Dogs are naturally den animals and a crate provides them with a place where they can relax and feel safe. Crate training and choosing the right size Crate training makes toilet training a million times easier, and keeps your puppy safe at night whilst the family is asleep. The best puppy crate is one which is big enough for them to stand up, stretch out, turn around and lie down in. But no bigger. Or by buying an adult sized crate which comes with a divider, to allow you to provide the correct amount of space for your growing puppy. Bedding You will of course also need bedding to line the crate. This fake fleecy fur bedding comes in a roll and you can either buy a piece to fit your crate or cut to it to size yourself. For puppies, you should avoid any dog bed with a fancy liner and a stuffed or padded interior. Your pup will probably rip it open and eat the contents in no time. Check out our indestructible dog bed article for some great inspiration. Food is obviously the most important item on your new puppy supplies list. Puppy Food To start with, your new pup will need to eat three to four times a day. Having a supply of the new brand ready will allow you to make this changeover from the old food to the new, before the old runs out. The best puppy food is one which is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. Puppy Bowls Next up on the new puppy supplies list are their food and water bowls. Most of them are dishwasher safe, and cheap to buy. You can have a couple in the cupboard, making it easy to keep the food bowl shiny and clean between meals. The downside of the usual stainless steel food bowls is that they can tip over, not to mention the horrendous noise as the puppy chases them around the kitchen! To avoid these disadvantages, find a non-slip version with a steadier bottom. Those designed for use by dogs and puppies. Ceramic water bowls help to keep the water cool as well. The best part of getting a new pup is the fun you have playing with them — and for this puppy toys are real Labrador essentials! Between 12 to 24 weeks your pup will be losing their baby teeth and their new teeth will be emerging. This is a very uncomfortable time for you pup — the reason why they chew everything in their path. You can protect your shoes, furniture , and even cables, by making sure that they have plenty of toys to chew instead. Puppy toys are fun to buy, and there are a lot of choices out there. We have a couple of real firm favorites when it comes to puppy toys. Puppy kongs are brilliant. Kongs bounce around and can be played with if your pup feels like it, or picked up and carried around. Just make sure that the rope is thick and not easily shredded. Be sure to avoid small toys, or those with small parts that can be chewed off, that your pup can swallow. They can cause choking or blockages in their bellies. Besides being too small, the toys in your puppy supplies should also not be too big. They should be able to get their mouths around their toys easily. Having to stretch to chew on or pick up toys or bones that are too big can injure their growing jaws. Collar and leash You should introduce your pup to their dog collar and leash as soon as possible. They can get used to wearing their collar in the house from a young age, before going outside for walks. It has a convenient quick release buckle as well as an ID tag. Dog harnesses, instead of collars, are becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers. Always use a harness for a dog that has problems breathing. It also has a thick padded handle to protect your hands. A pup might still squirm and try to get away. Then you can start brushing again. Letting your pup inspect and sniff the brush also helps them to get over any fear. This specialised pet brush has fine bent wires that gets rid of mats without hurting. Amongst the most useful Lab puppy essentials on our new puppy checklist are puppy barriers. There are a few options for creating barriers, to keep your pup safe and give them some space when they need a break. The most popular puppy barriers are actually baby gates. They make fantastic human toddler and puppy barriers — you might even use them to separate the two. They come in a few different sizes, and fit into most doorways or hallway spaces. The human members of the family can easily come and go, whilst keeping the puppy securely contained. You can start using it with your pup from a very young age. Combined with treats, they let the pup know exactly when you approve of their behavior. Their use is rapidly increasing in popularity. Using positive reinforcement training and working with a clicker will help you to both train your puppy, and to form a stronger bond and better relationship together as he grows. Almost last but not least on our new puppy checklist is puppy insurance. There have been astonishing advances in the veterinary treatments that are available for our pets today. Most things you can be treated for, your dog can be treated for too. Open heart surgery, complex hip operations, and advanced cancer treatments are all available to dogs. Read The Small Print And do read the small print before you buy, some of the cheaper policies will dump you at the end of the year if your dog gets a long term condition. I did not read the small print and this happened to me. So take care to choose a policy that keeps on renewing as long as you keep on paying. Many dog owners would recommend the final Labrador puppy accessory on our new puppy checklist as the most essential. Covering everything from the first days at home, through crate training, potty training, dealing with teething and much more. Do you have any tips for our readers? Are there other items that you wish you had bought before your Labrador puppy arrived and would add to our puppy supplies list? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Rescue Puppy Checklist Please take a moment to read through and print this page before starting your search for a puppy. Looking For A Lab Puppy? Because we in rescue often receive or must reject the results of irresponsible breeders or irresponsible puppy sales, we have compiled this brochure to help you make the right choice in a puppy. Before you fall in love with the first adorable Labrador face you see, take the time in an initial phone call to ask the following questions. At the end of the list you will find questions to ask yourself. You should be able to answer all of them affirmatively before you begin your search. Remember you are adding a new member to your family for the next years. However, the high number of serious problems seen in the breed today make this event unlikely to reoccur. Chief among these are temperament problems ranging from aggression to shyness to hyperactivity. Hip dysplasia, eye problems causing blindness, heart defects that can severely shorten life span and auto immune disorders and cancer are also becoming prevalent. Responsible breeders will do all they can to avoid these problems by researching pedigrees and screening parents for certain inherited problems before breeding. Puppy Checklist Where did you find out about this breeder? Responsible breeders usually have a waiting list of puppy buyers. Ask to see the certificates. Prelims can be done before two years, but some dogs can fail to get final OFA clearance at two years, even if they passed before. This must be re-done every year. These are some of the other problems Labradors can have and some breeders are checking for. Breeder Awareness These are some questions to ask the breeder: Are both parents at least 2 years old? Final hip clearances cannot be obtained before that age. How often is the dam bred? Do all four grandparents, siblings of the parents and any other puppies that they may have produced have these clearances? A responsible breeder will keep track of these statistics and honestly discuss any problems that have occurred in the lines and what has been done to prevent them from reoccurring. Is the breeder willing to provide you with references and telephone numbers of other people who have purchased puppies from them? A breeder who cares enough about the breed to insist on these is likely to be a responsible breeder. On what basis was the sire chosen? Is there a written guarantee against congenital health or temperament problems that does not require you to return your puppy or euthanize it? Will the breeder be available to answer any question you might have for the life of the dog? Is this someone you would feel comfortable asking any type of question? Is the breeder knowledgeable about the breed? Is he or she involved in competition with their dogs field, obedience, or conformation? The term champion lines means nothing if those titles are back three or more generations or there is only one or two in the whole pedigree. If the sire is unavailable can you call his owners or people who have his puppies to ask about temperament or health problems? You should also be provided with pictures or videos. Have the puppies been raised in the home — not in a kennel, barn or the back yard? Is the breeder knowledgeable about raising puppies, critical neonatal periods, proper socialization techniques? Puppies that are raised without high exposure to gentle handling, human contact and a wide variety of noises and experiences OR are removed from their dam or litter mates before at least 7 weeks, may exhibit a wide variety of behavioral problems! Does the breeder provide you with a generation pedigree, a contract to sign, copies of all clearances and guarantee, health records and material to help you with feeding, training and housebreaking? Have the puppies temperaments been evaluated and can the breeder guide you to the puppy that will best suit your lifestyle? A caring breeder will know the puppies and be able to show you how to test them so that good matches can be made. Do the puppies seem healthy, with no discharge from eyes or nose, no loose stools, no foul smelling ears? Are their coats soft, full and clean? Do they have plenty of energy when awake yet calm down easily when gently stroked? Does the breeder have only 1, or at most 2, breeds of dogs and only 1 or 2 litters at a time? If there are many breeds of dogs there, the chances are the breeder cannot devote the time it takes to become really knowledgeable about the breed and if there is more than one litter at a time it is very difficult to give the puppies the attention they need and may indicate that the primary purpose for breeding is profit, rather than a sincere desire to improve the breed. Do you feel comfortable with this person? After all, ou are entering into a decade long relationship. This is the hallmark of responsible breeding and the quickest way to make rescue obsolete. Are you feeling intimidated or pressured? If so, keep looking! Questions To Ask Yourself Can you — Take full responsibility for this dog and all its needs for the next years? This is NOT a task that can be left to children! Invest the considerable time, money and patience it takes to train the dog to be a good companion? This does not happen by itself. Always keep the dog safe; no running loose, riding in the back of an open pick up truck or being chained outside? Make sure the dog gets enough attention and exercise? Labrador puppies need several hours of both, every day! Live with shedding, retrieving, drooling and high activity for the next years? Spend the money it takes to provide proper veterinary care including, but certainly not limited to, vaccines, heartworm testing and preventative, spaying or neutering and annual check ups? Become educated about the proper care of the breed, correct training methods and how to groom? There are many good books available — invest the time to read a few. Take your questions to the breeder or other appropriate professional before they become problems that are out of hand? Have the patience to accept and enjoy the trials of Labrador puppyhood — which can last for three years — and each stage afterward? Continue to accept responsibility for the dog despite inevitable life changes such as new babies, kids going off to school, moving or returning to work? Resist impulse buying and instead have the patience to make a responsible choice?

She makes very little noise at all. Inside, there might be the occasional audible sigh when she is trying to communicate something. She is so well-behaved at home. She does not go to the bathroom in the house and thinks that pee pee pads are for resting on. She loves going for rides in the car and also enjoys meal time- she is food motivated! She prefers being with the company of her humans. A good licky mat and calming treats keep her occupied when left alone at home and when she is bored with that, she will just wait by the door until your return. She responds pretty well to a firm tone, She sometimes gets extra excited when she sees other dogs so be mindful when walking her on leash because she will occasionally grumble. I take her on short walks in the morning, evening and sometimes late afternoon and then one longer walk when I can. As far as people go, she is not shy — Champagne is very comfortable going right up to anyone and smelling them. She is excited to go out and she gets playful when you are trying to put her harness on. But she definitely does not play rough. She will make someone a very sweet, gentle companion!! History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content. They are loyal, intelligent and beautiful animals and it breaks our hearts to think of them suffering or dying in shelters. Our team is made up of dog lovers who give up their time to find loving forever homes for our dogs. Most of our dogs come from shelters where they have been abandoned. Some come from owners who, no longer able to care for them, give their dog to us to find a loving forever home. The good news is that we encounter few dogs that have been abused or seriously mistreated. What do we do? Each dog that comes into our program is carefully evaluated and then placed into a foster home. No boarding kennels for our dogs! We passionately believe that by living with our dogs we can learn more about them. Once we have spent some time getting to know each dog, we make the dog available for adoption. When you apply to adopt one of our dogs you will go through an adoption process where we learn more about you, your experience and your lifestyle. Our goal is to offer you a service wherein you find your perfect dog! You can help! Many of our adopters decide to volunteer and help more of the dogs. Some prefer to donate. So thank you! This helps us get a picture of you and the type of dog that you are looking for. We'll contact you! Just click "Adoption Application" 2 We contact you One of our adoption counselors will call you within 3 days and have a chat about your application. They will ask you to text some pictures of your fencing, gates and where your dog hangs out. If the right match is made, you will be able to adopt your dog, there and then, and take your dog home! That really is it! If you can help, click here Application to send us your application. Then, email us here foster gsrnc. Not all of our rescue Shepherds are lucky enough to go directly into a foster home; some have to start in a kennel. Every rescue dog must be in a foster home before it can be adopted. In a foster home it will experience the love, care, and attention it needs and deserves while it is waiting to be adopted and we will observe the personality of the dog to help place it in the best possible forever home. Our network of rescue volunteers is there to help you with advice, and Rescue pays for the care of the dog including food and authorized veterinary expenses. Won't you consider fostering a German Shepherd who wants a second chance at a happy life? Fostering is a very rewarding experience, not only for you, but for the dogs too! Join us on October 7th for Wags to Riches! Register now before we sell out! Help us save dogs while putting yourself in the running for some great prizes! Click on the "Lucky Dog" for full details and to order tickets! Shop online at Pet Food Express by clicking on the puppy. Visit Our Dogs on YouTube.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You have a new Labrador retriever puppy. There are various theories regarding when—and if—he should be neutered. Most have been fixed, but many have not. Labs are such friendly, intelligent, energetic dogs. The technical term is gonadectomy, which is the surgical removal of the testes in males or ovaries in females. Neutering is considered to be a simpler, less-invasive surgery than spaying. But both are safe if performed by an experienced, licensed veterinarian. Traditionally, people have had their puppies fixed for various reasons, some of which are behavioral or medical. Some physical problems have been found in larger numbers in neutered and spayed Labrador retrievers than in intact Labs. And numerous behavioral problems have been found to increase in the neutered and spayed population as compared to their intact counterparts. Researchers have discovered that even amongst similar breeds and sizes of dogs, there are very different medical outcomes for some breeds when they are spayed or neutered. Researchers Benjamin and Lynette Hart of the University of California, Davis, examined 35 dog breeds and found that vulnerability to certain diseases varies greatly depending upon breed. Their study was set forth in the Journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science. They learned that there is no one-size-fits-all decision regarding the medical effects of spaying and neutering on various breeds. And their data showed very specific findings with regard to the 35 breeds studied, including Labrador retrievers. In their study of Labrador retrievers, there were intact males, neutered males, intact females, and spayed females. This equals 1, Labs in total. Joint Disorders in Labrador Retrievers A significant increase was found regarding joint disorders in fixed dogs than occurred in intact ones. One or more joint disorders were reported in six percent of intact male and female Labrador retrievers. However, the risk of joint disorders increased by about percent in desexed Labs. In male Labs neutered before six months old, 13 percent were found to suffer from joint disorders. In female Labradors spayed before six months old and between six and 12 months old, the risk of joint disorders was found to be between 11 and 12 percent. Cancers in Labrador Retrievers As far as cancers were concerned, there was a six percent risk for intact males and an eight percent risk for intact females. Neutering was not associated with any evident increased risk of cancer at any age studied. However, Mast Cell tumors were found in one percent of intact females and two percent of females who were spayed between two and eight years of age. Other Physical Concerns in Labrador Retrievers Two percent of intact female Labs were found to have pyometra as compared to none in their spayed counterparts. Urinary incontinence was reported in two to three percent of females who were spayed through one year old. Conclusions Regarding Age To Spay or Neuter for Medical Reasons The Harts concluded that the guidelines suggested that males should be neutered if at all after they are six months old because of the much higher rate of problems suffered by male Labrador retrievers fixed before that age. They found that the guidelines suggest spaying female Labs if at all after one year old because of the increase of joint disorders when spayed prior to 11 months old. Current Behavioral Theories on Neutering and Spaying Dogs There have been long-held beliefs that spaying and neutering help prevent or end certain undesirable behaviors such as those in the bulleted list above. But many of those anecdotal thoughts have been disproven by current scientific studies. This standardized behavioral evaluation test was developed and validated by Yuying and James Serpell in at the University of Pennsylvania. Since , the public has been able to access the study and fill in numerical scores for 14 different categories of dog behavior. The current database contains detailed behavioral evaluations for about 50, pet dogs consisting of more than different breeds and cross breeds. With regard to many of the behavioral studies, generally the earlier that a dog was fixed, the more negative effects were seen regarding behavior. In the studies, female dogs who were spayed later in life were less likely to show an increase in aggression than females spayed at a young age. And neutered male dogs were found to be more likely to be aggressive toward intact males than other intact males were. So how are all behaviors affected by neutering or spaying? Preventing a Male Dog from Roaming and Seeking out a Female Dog in Heat Current studies confirm that neutered males are less likely than their intact counterparts to roam and seek female dogs in heat. Having a calmer puppy Modern studies show that fixed dogs are about eight percent more excitable than intact ones. A significant increase in fear and anxiety was seen in neutered dogs regardless of the age of neutering. Stopping or Preventing Urine Marking The studies showed that neutered dogs are less likely to leave urine marks indoors. Stopping or Preventing Excessive Barking More anxious and fearful behaviors as well as more excitability were seen in desexed male and female dogs. And excessive barking when alarmed or excited was seen more often in neutered dogs. However, neutered dogs were found to be less likely to howl when left alone. Stopping or Preventing Aggression This was one of the most surprising results in the studies. Contrary to popular belief, more aggressive behaviors were seen in fixed dogs than in intact ones. Specifically, neutered dogs were more likely show an increase in certain aggressive behaviors when: Delivery workers approached the home Strangers walked past their home Joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers passed by They were approached directly by an unfamiliar female dog An unfamiliar person approached the owner or another family member or even just visited the home Small animals such as cats or squirrels entered the yard The significantly higher aggression score seen in neutered males as compared to intact dogs was seen regardless of the age that the dogs were neutered. In spayed females, there was a significant increase in aggression scores when they were spayed at 12 months old or earlier as compared with their intact counterparts. Fear-Related Behaviors Neutered dogs demonstrated more fear-related behaviors than their intact counterparts. The younger the dog was neutered, the more severe the fear-related effects were. In fact, a 31 percent increase in fearfulness was seen in spayed females and neutered males. These included : Responses to loud noises When they are first exposed to unfamiliar situations When approached directly by an unfamiliar child When barked at or growled at by an unfamiliar dog When approached by an unfamiliar dog who is of similar size or larger When encountering strange or unfamiliar objects on or near the sidewalk When encountering windblown objects When being examined by a veterinarian When having nails clipped 7. The Trainability of the Puppy Whereas it has been believed that a desexed puppy is more trainable, current research has demonstrated that this is not the case. In fact, the evidence showed that spayed and neutered dogs are less trainable and less responsive to cues overall. The only positive behavior noted with regard to obedience was that desexed dogs were more likely to return to their owners when off-leash and more likely to reliably retrieve tossed items. Separation and Attention-Seeking Behavior Neutered and spayed dogs were found to have more separation-related behaviors. And they also had more attachment and attention-seeking behavior than their intact counterparts. Touch Sensitivity A 33 percent increase in touch sensitivity was seen in spayed and neutered dogs. This can potentially affect how receptive a dog is to grooming. Other Behavioral Problems Seen in Neutered Dogs Additional unwanted behaviors were also seen more often in neutered dogs than in intact ones. Or to deal with a female dog in heat. Or to find homes for a litter of puppies. In the s, the animal overpopulation problem led to the regular spaying and neutering of puppies, often around six months of age. Over time, many shelters and rescue groups performed surgeries to fix dogs at an even earlier age, such as eight weeks old. Female dogs go into heat approximately every six months for about 18 days each time. Personally, all of my dogs have been spayed or neutered. The rescues came to me fixed, and I chose to desex the others. One of my dogs was a Belgian tervuren named Jenny who I purchased from a breeder. It was many years ago, and I wanted to show a dog in conformation competition. The theory is that the best representatives of each breed should continue to reproduce to protect its heritage. Even though my male dogs were fixed, they all were attracted to her when she was in heat. So I had to carefully monitor all of them and manage the situation so that there were no disputes. And she wore a doggy panty with a disposable pad when she was in heat. After she obtained her Championship, I had her spayed. I chose not to breed her because there were too many dogs in the world without homes. Life was much calmer and easier after Jenny was spayed. Of course, this can also help reduce the risk of having unwanted puppies. And it helps keep your male Lab puppy safe because a dog who escapes can become lost or injured. This led to the organization supporting early-age sterilization in order to prevent the accidental breeding of young cats and dogs. There are too many puppies and dogs who need homes. And not enough loving homes. However, this long-held belief has been disproven. Spaying and Neutering for Reduced Overall Costs Although neutering or spaying your beloved Labrador retriever has initial costs, the amount is miniscule in comparison to properly raising a litter of puppies. Vet care for a litter of puppies and for the pregnant mother is very expensive. And feeding and caring for them is costly too! Many shelters and rescue groups have low-cost or free spay and neuter clinics. First of all, the breeding parents should have many different health clearances. Breeding without the required tests is irresponsible. And potentially dangerous to both the breeding female and to the offspring. Keep in mind too that the tests, vet care, food, puppy raising, and other necessities cost money and take a lot of time. Spaying and Neutering To Be Socially Conscious In addition to helping prevent the overpopulation problem, spaying or neutering your Labrador retriever puppy will often be better for your community. Dogs from unwanted litters are often abandoned, thereafter suffering from illness and untimely death. They can also pose a danger to other dogs by spreading diseases. And, because they may not be properly trained and socialized, they may become aggressive to people and dogs. Abandoned dogs may also pose risks of accidents and destruction to property. Instead, you can teach your child through books or videos about childbirth. FAQs Are spayed or neutered dogs more likely to become overweight than unfixed dogs? Dogs who are overfed and under-exercised gain weight. Does spaying or neutering prevent or stop a dog from becoming aggressive? Scientific data actually shows that spaying or neutering may increase aggression towards people and other dogs. Should I spay or neuter my Labrador retriever puppy? There are certain benefits to fixing your dog such as not dealing with a female dog in heat or a male dog who tends to roam seeking female dogs in heat. Summary of Information Behavioral data shows an increase in many unwanted behaviors in neutered and spayed dogs, including aggression, fearfulness, less trainability, excitability, excessive barking, separation-related issues, and touch sensitivity. And male Labs neutered prior to six months old and female Labs spayed before a year old tended to have more joint disorders. Of course, these are just two factors of many to consider when deciding whether—and, if so, when—to fix your Labrador retriever. Neutering does help prevent male dogs from roaming and from urine marking. Final Thoughts So, should you spay or neuter your Labrador retriever puppy and, if so, when? Health, behavior, and other considerations need to be analyzed. Have you spayed or neutered your Labrador retriever puppy? At what age? What determined your decision? Please tell us about it in the comments. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Keep in touch. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Neutering your Labrador can help behavioral issues but is not a replacement for training. Neutered dogs can live a healthy life up to 1. Consult your veterinarian before going through with this major procedure. Neutering offers benefits like avoiding certain cancers and improving behavioral issues. Neutering is a common procedure for male dogs that involves removing the testicles. It is a safe procedure for the health of your dog when done by a professional. It is typically performed by a veterinarian using general anesthesia. There may be up to several days of recovery required afterward. What is the Difference Between Neuter and Spay? When you see the word neuter used when talking about pets like Labradors, it refers to male dogs. The word for female dogs is spay. Neutering a Labrador puppy can be beneficial for curbing some behaviors related to sexual maturity, such as aggression and territorial marking. But it is important to note that neutering alone can not eliminate all undesirable behaviors. Other forms of training and discipline are vital components in helping your Labrador grow into the best version of themselves. Never forget that each dog is as unique as each human and may respond differently to being neutered. Before moving forward, discuss any concerns about your Labrador's unwanted behavior with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer before you make your decision about neutering. They can help assess your individual dog and their temperament and needs to provide guidance on the most suitable course of action. Neutering is not a magic pill, even though it is often the right thing to do for your dog. Do Neutered Labradors Live Longer? There is some evidence to suggest that spaying or neutering your Labrador may have a positive impact on their lifespan. On average, neutered males and spayed female dogs can live up to a year and a half longer than intact dogs. Neutering may be a beneficial choice for your dog, as studies have found it can help reduce the risk of aggressive behavior and certain types of cancers associated with the reproductive system. By choosing to neuter or spay your dog, you are taking steps towards helping them live their best life with you and your family. We recommend managing your expectations as pet owners. Neutering a dog can influence their lifespan, but the impact depends on several other factors, too, like genetics, diet, lifestyle, and overall health problems. Spaying is a safe, effective way to ensure your female Labrador lives a good life according to your plans. Also called an ovariohysterectomy, this procedure is performed by a qualified vet while under general anesthesia, just like the male dog version of neutering. Spay can be thought of as the female dog version of neuter. Being responsible dog owners can have great rewards for you and your female Labrador. Spaying offers numerous health benefits. Health-wise, it offers protection against scary, life-threatening illnesses, including uterine infections and breast tumors. For you guys, the pet owners, spaying can help you evade the high cost and responsibility of caring for an unexpected litter of unwanted puppies, as well as the potential legal and financial issues that frequently come with unplanned dog breeding. When choosing to spay or neuter your young Labrador Retriever, their intended role is an important factor. As always, have an open and honest conversation with a trusted, licensed veterinarian before making any decisions. Veterinarians and the best available data recommend spaying or neutering your Labradors between 9 and 15 months of age. Since Labrador Retrievers are a larger breed than others, they take a bit longer to reach sexual maturity. In rare cases, earlier neutering may be recommended, only by a vet, if the dog is already presenting unwanted behaviors like marking territory or humping. The short answer is no. Neutering is a great choice for many dogs, regardless of age. The health risks and benefits change and should be taken into account when considering neutering older dogs. With proper care from you and your vet, your Labrador can enjoy the rewards at any stage of life. Neutering may even be considered a treatment for conditions like testicular cancer. Essentially, if your older dog is healthy enough to undergo surgery of any kind, they are still able to be spayed or neutered. On average, it costs less to neuter a male dog than it costs to spay a female dog. Spaying is a more complicated and invasive procedure. Some vets will take the opportunity to perform other procedures like teeth extraction while your dog is under general anesthesia. Post-surgical care can increase the cost as well. By Tom Massey Dec 09, When you become the owner of a puppy, there are several things you should do to encourage its overall wellness, like making sure it gets plenty of exercise, feeding it high-quality food, attending frequent vet checkups, and scheduling a spay or neuter appointment at the appropriate age. Spaying or neutering your lab—or having a gonadectomy performed—is one of the best ways that you can ensure a happy and healthy life with your puppy. This procedure has proven to help reduce major health risks like cancer, eliminate unwanted pregnancy, and even assist with undesired behaviors in males. Spaying, or ovariohysterectomy, is a procedure specific to females that refers to removing her reproductive organs, including her ovaries and uterus. Neutering, or orchiectomy, is the procedure specific to males that refers to removing both testicles so that he is unable to reproduce anymore. Neutering helps control reproductive urges and suppress unwanted behaviors like aggression. Some veterinarians believe that six months old is a good time to spay or neuter, but one study found that doing so this early could increase the likeliness of joint disorders and certain cancers in adulthood. This is typically when he or she is more than 45 pounds and between 9 to 15 months old. Before you set the appointment, be sure to speak with your vet about the right time for your puppy based on its health, gender, and size. Benefits to Spaying or Neutering There are several health benefits to spaying or neutering your Labrador puppy. But even if you plan on keeping a litter or two, females can have up to 12 puppies per litter—so it can get hectic and expensive keeping up with all of their behaviors, attention needs, and health requirements. This is to help prevent overpopulation, unsafe breeding practices, and unwanted puppies in the future. Benefit 2: Reduces Health Risks Did you know that getting your Labrador spayed or neutered increases its longevity? Pyometra is one of the most prevalent, potentially life-threatening uterine infections that are specific to labs. The good news is that spaying or neutering ultimately reduces the risk of contracting this infection! Males will also have a decreased risk for testicular cancer, and females are less likely to get mammary, uterine, ovarian, or cervical tumors. Benefit 3: Assists with Behavior Issues When a male lab enters adulthood, he might begin exhibiting some unwanted behaviors that come with puberty, such as: Mounting Urine marking Aggression towards other dogs and human family members Neutering is the most effective way to reduce these habits. Additionally, females will stop going into heat throughout the year, which will eliminate howling and bleeding during her reproductive seasons. Conclusion Spaying or neutering is one of the most common pet surgeries in the world. Not only does it help reduce unwanted pregnancies, but it also has been proven to aid with behavioral issues and lesson significant health risks well into adulthood. The best time to spay or neuter your lab would be once it hits puberty, which is usually between 9 and 15 months old. At Snowy Pines, all puppies are treated like family—so that they are ready to join yours the day you take them home. Contact Snowy Pines today! Share on. When should I neuter my dog? This traditionally involved an operation to remove the testicles in a male dog or the uterus and ovaries in a female dog. Spaying in the traditional manner is a major surgical procedure. Nowadays there are more options available to us than in years gone by. Female dogs can be spayed using a laproscopic procedure which enables the uterus to be left intact and which is a less invasive method than the traditional. Attitudes towards neutering are changing in the light of recent research and opinions vary widely from one country to another. Neutering in different countries In some countries most dogs are neutered at a very early age and you are considered totally irresponsible if you fail to neuter your dog. Neutering is routinely practised in some parts of the world, Australia for example, and the USA where a widespread spay and neuter campaign has been in operation for some decades In some regions, neutering your pets is obligatory. In Los Angeles County for example, most dogs and cats are required to be sterilised before they are four months old! At the other end of the scale in some countries, neutering is considered offensive. In Norway for example, it is considered unacceptable to neuter a dog without valid medical reasons, and birth control is not one of them. Over in the UK neutering is not universally practised. And though many Labradors are neutered, many are also left entire. In our modern digital world where it is easy to talk to people from all over the world, these differences can cause confusion and even argument. Neutering vs leaving entire There are now groups on Facebook set up to oppose the routine neutering of dogs, and strong feelings about neutering from both sides of the argument. In fact there is no need for argument. This should really be a fact based issue. And facts are what you will find on this page and in the resources I link to. Why Neuter Your Dog? There are lots of reasons why people neuter their dogs, and those reasons are based on beliefs that people hold about the outcome of neutering and how it will affect their dog. In general, apart from birth control, people tend to neuter male dogs for behavioral reasons, and to neuter female dogs for reasons of convenience Birth control Some people think that it is their duty to neuter their dog in order to prevent more puppies being brought into the world. In practical terms, there are other simple ways to ensure that dogs do not reproduce during their lifetimes for those that choose not to neuter. But there is no doubt that neutering is a complete and permanent way to avoid your dog producing any offspring. Does Neutering Change Behavior? Many people for example think that neutering will calm their male Labrador down. Some think it will stop him humping things. This is not necessarily the case. Others think that male dogs will become aggressive if not neutered. Many top pet websites still promote this idea. But along with some other assumptions about neutering, it is now known to be incorrect. In fact recent studies found more behavioral problems in neutered dogs than in entire ones. The truth is, that behavioural effects vary and are not what we once believed. But in short, the evidence now point to behavioral problems being more common in neutered dogs, not the other way around. For these reasons, many people will choose to neuter a female dog so that she never comes into season again Neutering for health Neutering female dogs confers a couple of important health benefits. Including protection from mammary cancer if carried out early, and protection from pyometra. Unfortunately, we now know that neutering also comes packaged with some serious health risks. In male dogs, these health risks to neutering almost certainly outweigh any health benefits. In females, balancing these up is not easy. Getting at the facts — an objective view The truth is, that there are both benefits and disadvantages to neutering, and we look at each of these in more detail in our articles on male and female dogs. Recent research has highlighted some serious long term health risks to neutering including increased risks of cancer, dementia, and some common joint problems. And you need to know about these. Some of the reasons people neuter their dogs, are based on beliefs that are not supported by evidence. And some of the reasons that people neuter their dogs, could be better achieved by other means. Most information about neutering seems to be presented from one angle or the other. What we have tried to do here, is to present the information about neutering in a factual and objective way, so that you can decide for yourself what is best for your family and your dog. Different methods of neutering In the past, neutering was always a surgical procedure. Nowadays there are a few more options available to us than there used to be Castrating male dogs Traditionally, male dogs were neutered by a small and simple surgical procedure during which the testicles are removed through a small incision in the scrotum. This is still a common procedure. Recovery time is quite rapid and the dog becomes infertile within a couple of months as no more sperm are produced. Apart from infertility, the effects of surgical castration can be variable depending on the dog, that too is covered in the link above Chemical castration Chemical castration is an option now available to pet owners in some regions. Chemical castration does not have exactly the same effects as surgical castration, there is some testosterone remaining for example, but it gives you some idea of how permanent castration might affect your dog. Some people might find it helpful to have a trial run of castrating their dog using the chemical option before going for a permanent solution Like surgical castration the affects can be variable. There are also some possible side effects to chemical castration which you will need to discuss with your vet. These may vary from dog to dog and are most likely to occur during the first few days after the injection. Spaying a female dog Traditional methods of spaying female dogs involve major abdominal surgery. Recovery time is at least two week. There is however, now an alternative Laparoscopic spay With a laparoscopic spay, two tiny incisions are made and only the ovaries are removed. The laparoscopic spay is a much simpler procedure. The effects of neutering in dogs Apart from rendering your dog infertile, neutering or de-sexing, has other effects. Differences in physical appearance between neutered and un-neutered dogs will depend on the age at which the dog was neutered Neutered dogs look different A neutered male will have no testicles, which can be very apparent in shortcoated dogs. These are known as neuticles! A male dog neutered before he reaches sexual maturity will look less masculine than an entire adult dog. Dogs of both sexes will usually grow a little taller than they would have done if they had not been neutered. And female dogs neutered later in life may develop a rather coarse, scruffy coat. However, most of the changes that result from neutering are less obvious. They involve the behavior and long term health of your dog. Behavioral changes after neutering Changes in behavior after neutering are not always predictable. What people think will happen to their dog, is not always what happens at all. Especially where dogs are neutered later in life. The behavioral changes of neutering neutering a male dog are limited. Although roaming behavior can be. The Risks Some people are surprised to discover that there are risks to neutering a dog. Risks that go beyond the basic risk of surgery and anesthesia. In several breeds of dog these risks have been shown to include an increased rate of certain cancers. And an increased susceptibility to some serious joint problems. Life is more complicated than that. This leaves owners in something of a dilemma. Especially if their veterinary professional is not up to date with the latest research or has formed different conclusions as to its implications. Therefore you will need to weigh up the pros and cons carefully and consider the evidence available. Deciding whether or not to neuter your dog For many people, there is no doubt that a neutered pet is simply more convenient. If you need to go out to work and your dog needs a place in doggy day care, he may need to be neutered. Many day care centres simply will not accept an entire dog. Caring for some females in season can be a somewhat messy business. And not being able to take your dog out for several weeks can be annoying. And these exist for both male and female dogs. There are also some health benefits to neutering a female dog. These are clearly explained in the articles linked to in this article. The important thing is to make an active choice based on information. My personal view is that neutering a dog for convenience is the right decision for some families. But I do think it is important that you are aware that this is what you are doing. I increasingly meet dog owners that have had their pets neutered purely for health reasons. Or to prevent their male dog becoming aggressive. Only to find out that this was not only unnecessary, but may actually have disadvantaged their dog. This is very upsetting to discover after irreversible surgery has taken place When to Neuter a Labrador If you decide to have your pet neutered, you will also need to decide what is the right age to have the procedure carried out. In the USA there is a tendency to carry out pediatric neutering neutering before sexual maturity. In the UK, vets normally recommend that female dogs are allowed to have one season before being spayed to allow her to mature physically. The advantages of pediatric neutering are from a birth control standpoint. There are no advantages to the individual dog to be neutered at less than six months old. And there is some evidence that the health risks of neutering will be exacerbated by neutering your Labrador at a very early age. Remember, unless you are required by law to neuter your pet by the time he is a few months old, it is your decision to make. If you decide to delay neutering, or even put it off altogether, you will need to take responsibility. Ensuring that no unwanted puppies are brought into the world. Do talk to your veterinarian about any concerns you may have. A good vet will not simply state that all dogs should be neutered but should be aware of the latest research. They will also prepared to discuss this with you and help you come to best decision for your family. Just drop your address into the box below. These varying opinions are a result of the many different reasons you should fix a male dog and a female dog. Some reasons can be to best care for the health of your dog while other reasons for fixing could be to eliminate risk of having an accidental mating resulting in unwanted puppies who may end up in shelters or homes where they are not cared for properly. There are different reasons to spay and neuter a Labrador if you are considering health first. However, fixing your dog at the wrong time could increase the risk of many health issues for your Labrador that could otherwise be avoided. First off you will want to keep your Lab away from other dogs who you do not know if they are fixed or not. Female dogs emit a strong scent that males can smell from miles away. So if your female is not yet fixed be sure to keep her inside or on a leash and supervised while outside. All it takes is thirty seconds of her not being watched and suddenly you could have an intact male jump your fence or dig under resulting in a lock between the two. So having your dog neutered early and spayed early is important to do your part to keep the unwanted pet population down. However, it is important that the females are spayed earlier than the males for health reasons. It is generally accepted practice to spay the female Lab early, and by early I mean before their first heat. It is also accepted that male Labs be neutered a little bit later once they are fully grown. The recommendation is to spay before their first heat which helps eliminates unwanted dogs in shelters AND eliminates some big cancer and other medical risks for her. However, spaying your female this early could contribute to joint issues such as hip dysplasia because their hormones are being altered before they are fully grown. One problem that arises if she is not spayed prior to her first heat is the risk of Pyometra. In intact females the effect of sex hormones can result in over stimulation of cells in the uterus which eventually may result in a severe E coli infection and a pus infection in the uterus. Signs of Pyometra can include lethargy, increased thirst, increased urination, not eating, a foul odor coming from their behind, draining of Pus from the vulva, excess licking of the vulva, collapse or fever related to signs of shock. If you observe any of these symptoms in your Lab after her heat cycle take her to the Vet right away as Pyometra could result in death for her if her uterus ruptures and causes a severe infection bacterial infection in the blood stream and abdomen. Other issues that present themselves if you leave your female Labrador to have a heat while in tact are cancer related. On average a female Lab will have her first heat around six months of age so spaying her in advance of this will help avoid most issues related to cancer such as mammary tumors. The statistic available at the time of writing this is that Labradors who are spayed prior to their first heat only have a 0. Risks for other cancers such as uterine also decrease when they are spayed prior to their first heat. It is important to point out that not all mammary tumors are cancerous and actually most of them are not cancerous, but there is no reason to encourage these tumors simply because they are not cancerous. The down side to spaying before your girl is fully grown is that her hormonal balance will be altered. In order for her to grow naturally she needs the hormones available to her naturally. Altering this natural balance could result in development problems with her joints and result in hip dysplasia or other joint issues or tendon ruptures. The same study goes on to identify that hemangiosarcoma cases in late-spayed females was 4 times more than females spayed early. One final point to mention is that spayed females may also develop a weakened bladder known as spay incontinence or urinary incontinence. So, to sum this all up for female Labradors, at present it appears that fixing them early can greatly reduce the risk of certain types of cancer while increasing the risk of joint-related problems. So how do you decide? We recommend becoming as informed as possible, consulting with your Veterinarian, and then prioritizing your reasons for spaying. On the male Labrador side, if you neuter your pet you can still have a happy pet and often more healthy! Generally you neuter a male after they are fully grown because they require their hormones to thicken up and develop as a male dog would normally. Fully grown is at different times for different breeds of dogs. Generally the larger your dog is the longer it takes them to mature. Large breeds could take up to two years to fully grow and medium breeds are closer to one year. Neutering your Lab will also pretty much eliminate the risk of prostate disease including cysts, abscesses and prostate enlargement. Perineal hernias can also be mostly avoided as they are primarily seen in intact males. A Perineal hernia is when organs from the belly slip through the weakened muscles of the pelvis resulting in a bulge on one or both sides of the anus. As well, neutering your Labrador removes the risk of testicular cancer which is mostly seen in intact male dogs. There are some behavioral issues related to neutering that are worth mentioning. There are however some behavioral issues that are related to male hormones. These can be things such as roaming, mounting other dogs, attraction to female dogs, urine marking and even aggression. Good Labrador Retriever breeders would do this in their breeding programs, however, I have never seen an aggressive Labrador who has been trained and cared for properly. Normally an aggressive dog will be neglected or abused which ends up training them to act that way. Neutering may help to dampen or eliminate any behaviors that are related to the hormones. So there are many points that require your consideration, advice from your breeder and advice from your Veterinarian. In the world we live in today we are all trying to do the absolute best we can for our pets. We cannot, however play God. So once you have enough information sit with your family and have a brief discussion. Weigh the pros and cons of spaying and neutering and then make your decision. Then, forget about it. Once your decision has been made return to enjoying your Lab puppy for the time you have with them. Mast cell tumour Shorter life expectancy Research now shows that desexing before 12 months old in larger breed dogs signficantly increases the risk of joint disorders, in particular cruciate ligament tears and dysplasia. Some research suggests this risk increases by as much as three times if the dog is spayed at a young age. Until a dog reaches sexual maturity, their bones and joints are still developing and ossifying forming and hardening. Joint plates do not close until sexual maturity. Visit our Exercise, Growth and Joints page. Removing the ovaries or testes disrupts the production of hormones that play an important role in body processes such as bone development and when to signal growth plate closure. Veterinarians are now applying the research which shows that early sterilisation increases the risk of dysplasia, impacts bone and joint development, and increases joint disease in their practice and recommend to delay sterilisation in larger breeds such as labradors, golden retrievers, and german shepherds until they reach sexual maturity, to decrease their risk of dysplasia and joint disease. Most breeders who understand the risks to growth and development have been making this recommendation for many years, and finally the scientific studies to evidence this are being published. A heat cycle lasts about 3 weeks and happens about every 6 months. During her heat, she will bleed on and off for this period of time. It is important that females be allowed to have one or two seasons before sterilisation, to ensure they have reached sexual maturity, since disruption of sex hormones affects growth and development especially of bones and joints. It is critical that she does not come into contact with any male dogs, as she is fertile during her heat. Females on heat should not be exercised in public and cannot enter dog training grounds. Ensure she is kept in your own fully secure yard, preventing her getting out and any males getting in. Males can detect a female on heat from a long distance and will climb, jump, dig, or whatever it takes to get to her. Male dogs will track and follow a female on heat for a long distance, several kilometres, so make sure she is safely secure. Managing a female dog on heat is otherwise not that difficult. She will usually become more cuddly and clingy to her humans. It is important to give her the extra affection she is seeking. Lots of hugs and reassurance. As for bleeding, they usually do not bleed too much and are pretty good at cleaning up after themselves by licking. Although being outdoors in the yard is going to be more convenient, cuddles and affection must not be neglected. When she comes inside the house, you can use doggie diapers to contain the bleeding. Just cut out a hole with some scissors for the tail! Only use a pad for a short time hours otherwise she can get an infection yes, they can get toxic shock syndrome. As for bedding, we dont worry if it gets a few spots, we just wash it with disinfectant. As your labrador will be desexed between months old, she will probably only have cycles before she is spayed and then you will not have to worry about this in the future. Remember, what it is a temporary inconvenience to us humans, has life-long benefits for her in terms of her health. Castrating Male Dogs Traditionally, male dogs are neutered by a small and simple surgical procedure during which the testicles are removed. Recovery time is quite rapid and the dog becomes infertile within a couple of months as no more sperm are produced. Remember that they can still have stored sperm up until months after being castrated. So, do not allow contact with any fertile females immediately after spaying, as he is not infertile until months later. In male dogs, the health risks of neutering too young almost certainly outweigh any health benefits. Similar to the opposite gender, is important that males be allowed to reach sexual maturity — said to be around 12 months old. At this age, they are nowhere near finished growing and maturing yet. Removal of sex hormones at a young age affects the growth and development especially of bones and joints. A male dog neutered before he reaches sexual maturity will look less masculine and have a more feminine head. Muscle tone and bone density can also be affected. Male labradors are not known for as many undesirable behaviours compared to other breeds. Boisterous adolescence is normal. Labradors tend to become calmer as they mature. Behaviours that might change or be reduced after castration include leg cocking and roaming. Roaming is a behaviour easily prevented by secure fencing and increased mental stimulation and exercise. Labradors are not naturally known for aggressive traits. In the unlikely event that your male labrador is showing dominant or aggressive behaviour, please chat to us. Studies have shown that aggression is unlikely to lessen by castration. Help from a dog behaviourist is more likely to benefit.