pug puppies san antonio

pug puppies san antonio

The following program contains material that is just too cute. Viewer discretion is advised. Welcome to a world where cuddly knows no bounds, a place where precious is redefined. Witness the miracle of cute. From their first triumphant calls to the wild to their adventures with new friends, it's three different [baby animal] coming of age stories.Because these animals are just too lovable, too curious, note "determined" in the Puppies episodes Too Cute. An Animal Planet series focused on baby animals in all their cuteness. Most episodes feature three litters of either Cute Kittens or Precious Puppies for the first ten to twelve weeks of their lives, showcasing various milestones while being as adorable as possible. After three years of cuteness, the show received a Spin-Off called Too Cute! Pint-Sized in .The first season of the show was originally on Netflix , but was eventually taken down. Season 4 can now be found on Hulu if you subbed to Hulu Plus. Action Girl : Scout the Cairn Terrier. Snowball the Ragdoll kitten has been adventurous since she was four days old, trying to wander around out of her box before she can see, hear, or even walk. After that, she was the first to explore around the house with waddling steps and the first to befriend Big Friendly Dog Mari. All of the Other Reindeer : Woodrow the Dalmatian is generally left out by his sisters, Francie and Madison, who are inseparable. He ends up forming a stronger bond with his mother Roxy, and in the end, is adopted by a local fireman. Maxwell the Retriever mix is a total misfit in terms of appearance and is often left behind by his littermates when it comes to socialising until close to the end of the episode. Not that he seems to mind too much. Roo the Beagle is far smaller than his sisters and generally finds himself alone when it comes to their outings. The three Pomeranian puppies are named after birds: Sparrow, Wren, and Finch. It makes more sense since they're raised on a farm full of various birds. At the end of a "Growing Up" episode, we see that one of Truly Elegant's kittens Gizmo is now the proud mother of kittens herself. Badly Battered Babysitter : Briard mom Fresco. Beware the Nice Ones : Reginald the Persian kitten can only take so much grooming. Big Eater : Eleanor the Bengal kitten. To be fair, she is the biggest in Madeline's litter. Oreo wants to know what's going on at the time. Big Fancy House : Many of the animals featured in the series live in very nice places, with some of the houses featured being so big that they're basically like mansions. Big Friendly Dog : Quite a few of them show up as either parents of puppies or as new friends to both puppies and kittens. Mari the German Shepherd in particular is so adorably eager to meet the Ragdoll kittens that she ends up accidentally scaring them by being too eager but doesn't harm any of them. She does calm down soon and eventually bonds with all the kittens, especially Snowball to the point where she stays with Mari in the end. Sinta the German Shepherd is a big but very kind Parental Substitute for Oreo the tuxedo kitten as well as welcoming toward other animals such as Nellie the skunk. And there's also Timber, another German Shepherd who not only is a good babysitter to the Cornish Rex kittens but he provides some male bonding with Tofu since he's the sole male around four sisters. Big Brother Instinct : Finn the Mini-Aussie Shepherd pup comes to Jojo's rescue after hearing her whimpering when she wanders too far away from the other pups while trying to follow Rosie. Usually when he sniffs out a treat, Xena shoves him away and snatches it from him. Until near the end of the episode, where Roo successfully fights to keep it. While it's nice to see them get new, loving homes, it's also a bit sad to see the group of animals you spent an hour watching having to go their separate ways. Book Ends : Oreo arrives at his refuge home as a defenseless little baby. By the end of his episode, the now Older and Wiser Oreo is seen befriending another baby kitten before he's properly adopted. Bratty Half-Pint : Oskar the pug puppy. Brooding Boy, Gentle Girl : A non-romantic type. Doberman Pinscher pups Bosco and Dot. Justified since he's basically a teenager , having been around 10 months old when the kitties were born. In time, he does form a bond with his son Dante where they become Birds of a Feather. Can't Catch Up : Rat Terrier pup Liam seemed to be this, except for being the only one who could catch up with Minnie the pony. Chew Toy : Peaches the Shar-Pei is this to her brother Raisin, but she takes it in stride by using brains instead of brawn to deal with him. Chocolate Baby : Siberians Solomeya and Maksim are both white-furred, but their litter is filled with black kittens.Cloudcuckoolander : Winston. Content Warnings : Parodied: "The following program contains material that is just too cute. Cosmo the Russian Blue kitten starts out like this, but as time goes by, he becomes more adventurous. In more or less the same vein as Cosmo, Atlas the Norwegian Forest kitten was this, too. Sputnik leads his Russian Blue siblings on a grand adventure. And, Ocicat Freckles tries to keep control of her five mini jungle cats. Rocky, the Labradoodle , and his brother Stanley grow up poolside. And Rollo and Pickle are wiener dogs who aspire to be athletes like their mom, a champion hotdog. Then, everyone wants to be top dog in the Alaskan Malamute home. Finally, three Dalmatians grow into their spots as they show off their skills at the local fire station. From roly-poly Ragdoll kittens and their German Shepherd playmate, to mini-Australian Shepherds and their quacking duckling pals, it's an extravaganza of cute. British Shorthair kittens audition for the role of "greeter" at a vet's office. And fluffy Ragamuffin Otto keep household chores at bay. Scout, a brave young Cairn Terrier , attempts an adventure all on his own. And Peanut, the smallest of a litter of Boxers , is steered to glory by his grandfather. Exotic Shorthair kittens are born into the lap of luxury, but soon reveal their mischievous side. And a pair of Tabby kittens explore the great outdoors. Tofu, a Cornish Rex kitten, and his siblings befriend Donna the Iguana. Cutie, a tortoiseshell cat is raising a twin brother and sister pair who are nothing alike. Singapura mom Jasmine has a hard time keeping up with her tiny, energetic brood. Short-legged and long legged munchkin siblings navigate the world. A little Great Dane named Marvin is adjusting to his fast-growing body. Cocker Spaniel pups look the same but certainly don't act the same. Runt beagle pup Roo hopes his nose will help him hunt with his sisters. Show dog Bichon Frise Angel breeds her champion brood. Persian kittens prepare to be like their show cat mom, Truly Elegant. Siberian twins Mittens and Socks are rescued from the closet by Maksim, the cat of the house. Depending on where you live sorry California, it is expensive where you are! This could indicate the dog is coming from a puppy mill. You can read why you should avoid buying dogs from puppy mills here. But the popularity of the dog means there can be a lot of competition for the Frenchies that do need a home. There are a lot of factors that can influence price, and if you are looking for a show dog or a dog for breeding, you should expect to pay a lot more. Certain colors, which are desirable but genetically quite rare, can also push up the price. A brindle or black puppy will usually be at the lower end of the scale, but a breeder might ask a lot more for a platinum or blue fawn puppy. This is Micro, a perfect body specimen for a Frenchie. He also has a blue coat and orange eyes, which are quite rare in dogs. What About Mini Frenchies? Mini Frenchies, also known as Teacup Frenchies, are the same fantastic dog, but they are quite a bit smaller than usual. You can expect them to weigh just 5 to 14 pounds on average. Due to their smaller size, though, their bodies can be fragile, so it is important not to engage in rough play with them. These dogs are even harder to breed see below than standard French bulldogs, so they are also quite a bit more expensive. Why are they so expensive, then? One factor is high demand since they are a very desirable dog breed. But that is not the whole story, since Labs are also one of the most popular dog breeds. Health Problems One of the biggest factors is these dogs have a lot of health problems. Most of their health issues are related to their flat, brachycephalic faces similar to Pugs and American bulldogs , which makes them particularly prone to breathing issues and allergies. This unique facial structure can also affect the formation of their jaw, and the health of their eyes, and can even affect their healing from certain illnesses and injuries. On top of this, they can also be prone to hip dysplasia, kneecap shifts, and heat stress. Fortunately, breeders try to control these breed-specific issues. It is essential that responsible breeders do their best to control these conditions, which means DNA scanning, genetic testing, multiple trips to the vet, and paying extra close attention to the developing puppies. Of course, all of this comes with a cost. Breeding Problems The other big problem is that Frenchies are extremely hard to breed. As well as the operation itself is expensive, the mother and pups need extra care afterward. Plus, breeders need to give their mother dogs significantly longer to recuperate before they can think about breeding them again. On top of that, French bulldogs have small litters—usually just three puppies. It is very unusual for a Frenchie to have five or more puppies in a single litter. So, if you are looking for a French bulldog puppy, you can expect to be on a waiting list for several months before a puppy is available. As well as being expensive to buy, French bulldogs can be pretty costly to care for, again mostly because of their health problems. They will probably need regular trips to the vet, and insuring them can be expensive because they are known to have health issues. But what are some of the main costs that you can expect to incur when bringing home a new puppy? Supplies It can surprise pet parents just how many things you need to care for a new dog. For starters, your new pup will need a bed, toys, bowls, a collar, and a leash. A crate can also be a big expense if you choose to crate train. However, because crate training is not so common among French bulldogs, first-time owners might also want to consider some professional training classes. Food Food is one of the biggest neverending expenses for any dog. Puppy food is also a bit more expensive than adult food because of its high protein content. Ideally, your dog should be eating puppy food until they are about 9 months old. French bulldogs should be eating around 25 to 30 calories per pound of their body weight each day. You can read more about pet insurance for puppies here. They will usually only bark when there is something wrong, so it is worth paying attention when they do vocalize. This is one of the reasons why they make excellent apartment dogs. While French bulldogs are adorable, they are specifically bred for their appearance, and this has led to a lot of genetic issues that affect their health and can leave them in a lot of pain in their later years. Many people object to putting the health of an animal second to appearance and therefore object to buying French bulldogs and supporting the purebred breeding industry. In theory, if there was no demand for these dogs, this kind of exploitative breeding would stop. In practice, this is difficult to imagine, considering how popular the breed is. Can French bulldogs stay home alone? French bulldogs actually tolerate being left alone relatively well. However, all dogs need a lot of love and companionship, and no dog responds well to being left on their own for 10 hours a day five days a week. Dogs become members of the family, and if they are going to thrive, they need to be treated with that kind of attention. Are Frenchies hard to potty train? However, they are little dogs with small bladders. They also tend to gobble down their food, which means they can be prone to smelly gas expulsions. How much exercise does my Frenchie need? French bulldogs do well on just a 15 to minute vigorous walk each day. They are also quite playful, so they burn off energy just playing around as well. Are French bulldogs aggressive? Despite the reputation of bulldogs, Frenchies are not aggressive. They are friendly and get on well with people and other animals. However, all animals are a combination of nature and nurture, so they can learn aggressive habits if they are not properly cared for. Are Frenchies high maintenance? They can also be left alone without expecting too much trouble. On the other hand, their tendency towards breed-specific health issues does mean they need regular visits to the vet. They may need special medications for things like breathing issues, and in later life, they may need things like a special bed. The Verdict French bulldogs are excellent dogs. They are great little companions who will find it easy to live in your apartment with you, but they are also fun-loving and curious. While they are great dogs, they are also quite expensive. This is due to high demand and some pretty serious difficulties when it comes to breeding them. They have small litters, almost always delivered by c-section, and health screenings and vet visits are a big burden for breeders. If you want something special, such as a rare color, you should expect to pay a lot more. You can also expect them to be relatively expensive dogs to own because they do need regular and close contact with a good vet to maintain their health. At a glance, the French bulldog is: Highly intelligent and trainable Small, meaning it does well in fairly small apartments Expensive due to demand and how difficult they are to breed Prone to breed-specific health issues So, are they worth all this expense and trouble? We think they are. French bulldogs can be the ideal pet for first-time owners with limited space and time but a lot of love to give. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Below is baby english bulldog puppies week by week. Variables such as temperature, air movement, and nutrient intake must be tightly controlled. Puppies are kept separate from their mother to ensure they are not laid on nor neglected. Your English Bulldog Baby at this age, most often do not have their eyes open yet. Instead they rely on their sense of hearing to know where their mom is and the other littermates. Week 3 The third week of life is a big week as major, physical development and progress are made during this week. The baby bulldogs should begin cracking their eyes open and begin developing their new found eyesight. Increased visibility adds a small level of independence that is certainly appreciate. The young puppies are now able to locate their mother and nurse more consistently on their own. During this week, we most often make the decision to leave the litter with their mother permanently. Mom will take on the responsibility of not only nursing the puppies but also cleaning up after them. This also means we are able to get a full night of sleep! What do we look for in a good Bulldog mother? Bulldog mom has to have a genetically clean pedigree history. We make sure each bulldog line that we produce has the best chance to stay healthy and happy. Bulldog mom has to have a great personality. We demand that all the bulldogs we own are extremely confident and great with both children and other pets. Breeding bulldogs with great personalities is very important as many social traits are passed from the parents to the baby. Bulldog mom has to have a great maternal instinct. Because the babies are so vulnerable we try to select and keep female English Bulldogs that show endearing and caring traits towards their babies. Week 4 Week four is our walking week! While bulldog puppies do begin to walk earlier at times, typically during week four we begin to see some major walking. The new found mobility is a joy to watch but does present some different types of responsibility as our bulldog puppies certainly can get themselves into trouble! During this week, we will start to perform some basic socialization steps to ensure that they are prepared for their new homes. Week 5 The puppies are now able to run, chew, and yes, sometimes bite! With the physical progress there are certainly ample teaching opportunities to develop these little guys into well behaving bulldogs. During this time we continue to analyze each puppy socially and develop unique, social profiles of each bully. The puppies start to focus less on physical survival and devote much of their time to playing with their littermates. This is a great learning environment for the puppies! This mushy treat quickly becomes a favorite for the pups. A robust bulldog puppy can now weigh around 5 pounds. The puppies will also undergo their first round of vet checks to ensure they are developing physically sound bodies. Socially, we continue work with the puppies to ensure they are exposed to the many different environments of the new homes they will be going to all while balancing a high level of biosecurity to ensure they are not exposed to harmful diseases to ensure for a healthy English Bulldog! The puppies are now old enough and confident enough in themselves to begin developing expectations. Being held and being fed are no longer special occasions rather they are rights to life that are demanded. We continue to provide the high level of care that we hold ourselves to while developing flexibility within each bulldog pup. Week 8 The theme for week 8 is adoption preparation. We will make a decision with our vet the age in which the bulldogs are able to be taken home. The primary variable within this decision is physical development. Most of our bulldogs will go home right around the end of week 9 all the way to week .It simply depends on the bulldog. At this point we encourage our adopters to finish prepping for their puppy. Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. A full-grown male English Bulldog weighs about 50 to 55 pounds and stands 14 to 16 inches tall. A full-grown female English Bulldog weighs about ten pounds less at 40 to 44 pounds and stands at 12 to 14 inches tall. According to Care. This will be around inches tall for a male English Bulldog and approximately inches tall for a female English Bulldog. As for weight, a 6-month-old male English Bulldog will weigh about 33 to 37 pounds, while a 6-month-old female English Bulldog will weigh around 26 to 33 pounds. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide that details 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, dog safety, and more! How much bigger will my English Bulldog get? If your English Bulldog is over two years old, they are probably fully grown. Any additional weight they put on may be excess and should be discussed with your veterinarian. Do their paws look big next to the rest of their body? They may still have room to grow as this is a classic puppy feature! A dog rarely grows to be larger than their parents, so this will provide you with a general idea of their final adult size. What is the size of a full-grown English Bulldog? According to the Bulldog Club of America Bulldog Standards , an English Bulldog should appear stocky but symmetrical with no excessively prominent features. English Bulldogs are especially prone to gaining extra weight and may exceed these weight estimates. Your veterinarian will be happy to discuss food type, quantity, frequency of feedings, and treats to get your English Bulldog back to their ideal weight. English Bulldogs may require extra attention due to some genetic health problems that are common for the breed. For example, English Bulldogs will require regular at-home baths, this cleaning is specifically to prevent infections under their skin folds. English Bulldogs are also highly prone to putting on excess weight, which is detrimental to their health. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that .The English Bulldog is one of the most severely affected dog breeds and brachycephalic syndrome can lead to difficulty breathing, respiratory distress, heatstroke, and difficulty exercising due to their breathing restrictions. All of this can make weight loss even more difficult for the English Bulldog breed. Because your English Bulldog may have a harder time breathing than other dogs, your vet can recommend safe ways to allow them to exercise and enjoy life without getting overheated. If your pup has a particularly bad case and has difficulty breathing even when not exercising, you can talk to your veterinarian about surgery for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome which is a common procedure done to help English Bulldogs and other brachycephalic dog breeds, like pugs, breath more easily. Taking your English Bulldog to regular veterinary appointments to keep them healthy and happy is one of the best things you can do for them! Not only can your veterinarian provide personalized advice to keep your pup healthy, but they can screen for common English Bulldog health problems, like skin infections, hip and knee problems. Unfortunately, veterinary care can be pricey. Veterinarian treatments for health issues, like hip and knee problems, can easily cost thousands of dollars. Treating medical issues, like accidents or sudden illnesses, can be expensive, but this should never be the deciding factor in treating your English Bulldog. Final Considerations As pet parents, we do our part by providing quality food, exercise, and care at home, but we also need to take our dogs in for regular veterinary appointments. A professional can provide you with personalized recommendations for your dog, as well as testing to detect any health issues early on. Prevention and early detection are vital in keeping our dogs healthy and happy! English Bulldog puppies grow into silly, lovable, and wrinkly dogs with a lot of personality. Compare and enroll in a top English Bulldog insurance plan here and gain the peace of mind that you'll always be able to do the right ting for your pet. At Pawlicy Advisor, we always want the health care decisions you make for your pet to be based on what you and your veterinarian think is best for them rather than being limited by financial restrictions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Home » Puppy Training for the first 8 weeks home Puppy Training for the first 8 weeks home Training for puppy for your first 8 weeks home Olde English bulldogs are affectionate, friendly, courageous and intelligent. However, there is one trait that bulldogs also tend to exhibit — bullheadedness. They can be incredibly stubborn, which makes training them somewhat difficult. Purchase a crate. Some people think a crate represents incarceration, but a responsible dog owner knows that a comfy crate is a haven for his or her bulldog. If there is a lot of activity in your home, your bulldog will appreciate having a place to get away from it all. Because dogs of all breeds dislike soiling the areas they sleep in, a crate can be an invaluable tool when it comes to house-training. Buy a crate the just fits the puppy as he grows. If the crate is too big the puppy will soil an area at the opposite end of the crate from his sleeping spot. Crate Olde English bulldog puppies when you must leave them on their own. No dog should be left in a crate indefinitely. Remember this is a tool, not a prison. Bulldogs are smart and, again, stubborn. Schedule meal times to prevent accidents. English bulldogs love food and will eat until they get sick if not carefully watched. Fill a bowl with high-quality puppy food using the feeding chart on the puppy food bag to measure the correct amount by weight I recommend Canida and allow the puppies to eat for 10 minutes twice daily. If there is any food left in the bowl, save it for the next feeding. Take your English bulldog puppies outside for plenty of potty breaks. English bulldogs have small bladders and should go out every hour initially, working up to every few hours. Generally speaking, a pup should be able to hold it for one hour longer than its age in months. Take your English bulldog baby outside after naps and meals, as well, to prevent accidents in the house. Praise each puppy heartily after it has gone potty and offer a small treat as a reward. Bathe puppies at least biweekly using a mild antibacterial antifungal shampoo to cut down on dirt and grime in their skin folds, and dry thoroughly, including spaces in between wrinkles. Wrinkle cleaning is recommended twice a week for Olde English Bulldog puppies. Teach your puppies to walk calmly on a leash. English bulldog puppies can be stubborn, but a leash will help guide the puppies and keep them under control. Let the puppies drag the leashes around to get used to the feeling of something behind them. Once they stop paying attention to the leash, pick it up and follow the puppy. Walk backwards a few steps, tempting the puppy with the treat. Train each puppy in basic obedience commands once it is acclimated to the leash. When you interact with your puppy, you want to: Use a firm — but not angry — tone of voice. Reward with praise, toys or treats. Be consistent. Inconsistent training is poor training. Expect accidents and mistakes at first. Your puppy is like a toddler just learning how to walk. Most vet clinics and pet supply stores offer puppy training classes for the whole family. I strongly encourage all new puppy owners to attend. Its great socialization and gets the whole family on board with the training. About Us As the premier breeder of Olde English Bulldogges in the Southeast, we love providing families and individuals of all ages with healthy, happy puppies from this amazing breed. The body wrinkles may be visible on their legs, and the skin may seem a bit baggy on their body, but it is still challenging to determine the actual build of the puppy. Their builds become a bit more apparent as they begin to stand and walk, giving you a glimpse of their stance. The nervous system is rapidly developing at this time, and vision is also beginning to grow. Interaction matters, even at this young age. This sets the stage for how well they will bond. Their builds become more apparent, and the skin and wrinkles really begin to develop. Baby teeth are usually all in around weeks. This is when many pups will go through the finger-chewing puppy stage. They eat more every day as they go through various stages of digestion in preparation for the first solid food introduction around this time. They begin to fill out as they transition from milk to dry food and complete the weaning process. At about 8 weeks, your puppy has just started getting used to sleeping through the night. You may notice that their legs look a bit long and thin. This is because their legs are generally the first area of growth in preparation for the weight they will maintain throughout their lives. Your puppy is ready for adventure and has a great passion for exploring and playing with toys and their littermates. You can begin training your puppy at the latter part of this age. With this, their heads may appear too small for their bodies, which is perfectly normal and usually only lasts a few months. As a 16 week old English Bulldog, your pup is entering adolescence. Hold on for this. You might see chewing, not listening, and barking. You will see a resurgence of teething as the puppy teeth fall out and the adult set comes in. Much like humans, this can cause pain and irritation as the teeth push through the gums. Here again, you may see that their legs appear long and skinny for a month or two, and the entire process starts again. Adolescence is at its peak, around seven months. You may see an increase in rebelliousness, stubbornness, and not listening. For the most part, puppyhood has completed its course. The stages of growth for your English bulldog above are all estimates. There are certain ailments that are common in the English Bulldog. In fact, because of drastic changes in appearance over the years, they are susceptible to a large number of diseases and more than many other dog breeds. Feeding them nutritious food will help keep them within the target weight appropriate for their age. This plays a part when it comes to maintaining that healthy weight range. Getting your dog out for a walk also gets you out and active as well! Spaying And Neutering Weight gain and lethargy are common worries following either surgery, but a causal link has not been found between the two. Many times the surgery takes place when the puppy is in the midst of rapid development and growth, so the weight gain could simply be caused by normal development. However, consider consulting your veterinarian about any worries or questions you might have. A male English Bulldog typically weighs more than a female English Bulldog so expect this discrepancy. Having your Bulldog get overweight can lead to hip dysplasia, cancer, osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, liver disease, diabetes, or even heatstroke. By the time they turn one, most English bulldogs will stop growing. However, most of their growth and development has taken place during their first year of life. Are English Bulldogs good pets? English Bulldogs are wonderful pets to have as they are loyal and a great conversation starter. At what age do English Bulldogs start walking? Around week 4, English Bulldogs start to walk.

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Their devoted mother, Binky, and proud father, Colt, have gifted us with these wonderful little bundles of joy. These lovable puppies boast a range of captivating skin tones that are sure to turn heads. Additionally, we have two puppies displaying a delightful two-toned blend of brown and lighter lilac. With 7 girls and 1 male, we have a variety of personalities and temperaments to match your family dynamic. These little ones have been lovingly raised in a family environment and have been exposed to children from an early age. They have eagerly embraced their youthful adventures, making them perfectly suited for a loving family home. With their stocky builds, endearing wrinkled faces, and utterly adorable noses, these Old Tyme English Bulldogs are a sight to behold. Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, Old Tyme English Bulldogs make outstanding companions. Binky, their nurturing mother, has been a cherished family dog, thriving in the company of children. Each puppy has their own unique personality. The blue, orange, and lime green collars mark the most spirited and energetic members of the litter, while the white, black, and grey puppies tend to be calmer and cuddlier. The father, Colt, is a professional stud dog, this pedigree guarantees both health and functionality in their bloodline. Our family has lovingly cared for these precious puppies over the past 5 weeks, ensuring their well-being and happiness. Next week, they will receive their vaccinations and be microchipped, registered, wormed, and vaccinated, all set to embark on their new adventures. We look forward to welcoming these delightful puppies into their forever homes with loving families like yours. We have answers. What are some fun facts about French Bulldog puppies for sale near Birmingham? French Bulldogs are delightful and dapper dogs that have many quirky and interesting facts. As their name implies, French Bulldogs are a breed that originate from France in the s. They have smushed faces and bat-like ears, making them one of the most recognizable dog breeds. French Bulldogs have a sensitive digestive system, so a special diet has to be followed to avoid digestive issues. Will French Bulldog puppies for sale in Birmingham cause me to have allergies? It is possible that you may have an allergic reaction to a French Bulldog, however, it is not a guarantee. Allergens from dogs vary based on breed and all dogs produce dander, saliva and urine which contain allergens that can cause an allergic reaction. The good news is that French Bulldogs are often bred to be hypoallergenic and have a low amount of dander. Any potential allergic reaction is typically mild and can usually be managed with regular grooming and air filtering systems in your home. Taking these precautions may reduce your risk of having allergies caused by a French Bulldog. Do Birmingham French Bulldog puppies for sale have special dietary needs? French Bulldogs have specific dietary needs that are different from other breeds, so it is important to understand what your Frenchie needs in order to maintain optimal health. Generally speaking, Frenchies should eat a high-quality kibble that has been specially formulated to meet their individual needs. Keep in mind that Frenchies tend to eat more calories than other breeds, so be sure to monitor portion sizes to avoid your pup from becoming overweight. You may also want to incorporate some wet food into your dog's diet, as this will provide additional moisture and can help prevent certain health problems. How can I become the best puppy parent for French Bulldog puppies in Birmingham? To become the best possible puppy parent for your French Bulldog, it is important to keep their needs and behavior in mind. First, it's important to make sure you're providing them with ample mental stimulation such as puzzle toys and playtime. French Bulldogs are highly intelligent and thrive on stimulation. Additionally, it's important to provide them with adequate exercise to keep them fit and healthy. How big do French Bulldogs for sale in Birmingham get? French Bulldogs are considered to be a small breed of dog, and typically grow to a height of inches and a weight of up to 28 pounds. Without proper exercise and diet they can be prone to obesity, so it is important to pay attention to your pup's nutrition and activity levels if you own one. Despite their small size, Frenchies are known for their strength and powerful stature, as well as their mischievous personalities and goofy attitudes. They are affectionate dogs, and thrive on one-on-one interaction and time spent with their owners. Can I take my French Bulldog puppies near Birmingham running? Taking your French Bulldog running can be an enjoyable experience for you both. However, as with any high-energy exercise, there are a few considerations you need to keep in mind before hitting the pavement. French Bulldogs have generally been developed as companion dogs, not sporting animals, so you'll need to consider your pup's age, size, energy level, and whether or not it has any existing health conditions before running together. Additionally, you may want to ease into the exercise gradually to give your pup time to build up stamina. Are French Bulldogs in Birmingham good family dogs? French Bulldogs are popular family dogs due to their kind and loyal personalities. Their natural love for people makes them great additions to families with children who can enjoy playing with the pup. Their small size makes it easier to house train them, and the French Bulldog usually gets along well with other pets. French Bulldogs are also low-maintenance, low-energy, and adapt to nearly any home. They do require routine vet visits, coat brushing, and other basic grooming needs, but overall, these fun-loving dogs make excellent family pets. How do I train my Birmingham French Bulldogs for sale? Training your French Bulldog requires patience, consistency and reward. Start with basic commands such as "sit" or "stay" and be sure to reward them with treats or attention whenever they do something correctly. Ensure that you are reinforcing behavior you like and not reinforcing unwanted behavior. Give verbal cues such as gentle praise or clicker training combined with positive reinforcement. Take your pup out for a walk each day, not only to train them how to walk on a leash, but also to give them the opportunity to discover their environment and socialize with other dogs.

Final Thoughts How to Prepare for Your German Shepherd Giving Birth German Shepherds are truly great pets, and preparation for your dog giving birth will be one of the most important things you do for her throughout the birth process. But first, take a look at this incredible 3-minute video of a German Shepherd giving birth. Nature is truly amazing: German Shepherd giving birth incredible video Even though dogs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to the actual birth, there are still plenty of things you will need to do to get her ready and get the area ready where she will be giving birth. Talk to Your Vet The best way to be proactive in the success of your German Shepherd giving birth will be to have frequent discussions with your vet and maintain an open line of communication with them. In any case, once you suspect your dog is pregnant, you will need to take her to your vet for regular check-ups. Ensuring her overall health is the crucial first step. Your vet will conduct a thorough exam and alert you to anything you need to be aware of. As with pregnant humans, health concerns are elevated during gestation, so be sure to take your mom-to-be to the vet straight away and continue to monitor her throughout the pregnancy. Be sure to ask your vet any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your German Shepherd during the coming months and the birth itself. They will give specifics for your dog and anything else you need to be aware of. The third trimester is when the pups develop rapidly, and your girl will need more calories for energy, depending on how many pups she is carrying. You should gradually transition this, and the feeding schedule should be little and often aid digestion. But if your vet specified anything additional due to an individual circumstance for your GSD, always adhere to their instructions. Having the checklist ready is an essential step to making sure you are ready. And remember, you will want this checklist to include everything you may need before, during, and after the birth. That will also include emergency items that you hopefully will not need but should have ready. Standard Supplies: Clean sheets, towels, and blankets You will want to have some of the blankets around the mom. They will help keep her warm and feeling safe and secure. If she has a favorite blanket or an old shirt of yours that she loves to snuggle up with, use those. But you will also need additional towels and blankets ready for the little pups after birth. Ensuring they are all warm and cozy after the birth will be, first and foremost. A pile of German Shepherd puppies bundled up with mom surrounded by comfort blankets is also just really adorable. Heating Pad or Heat Lamp Newborn puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature. The new mama understands this and will do her best to keep her pups warm using her body temperature and cuddling them close. But having a heating pad or lamp ready to go will help keep the space warm for the newborns. If you opt for a heating pad, you can place it underneath the towels and blankets where the puppies lie. It also has loads of temperature settings and timer settings, giving you plenty of options. If you opt for a lamp, be sure it is far enough away not to be too hot and burn the puppies. Place your hand underneath it to gauge where it gives a subtle warmth without causing your hand to feel hot. I prefer a heating pad as it just seems the safer option. Whelping Box and Mat To prepare for whelping, a whelping box will be required for the German Shepherd puppies to snuggle up in after the birth while the mom is recovering. You can purchase a large basket or make one yourself using a large cardboard box. German Shepherd puppies, on average, weigh around 0. As we know, German Shepherds seem to go from adorable 2-pound pups to majestic pound protectors in the blink of an eye. So, knowing how much they weighed after birth and monitoring their weight gain throughout their infancy is an essential step to proper health. There is no need to take them directly from mom and plop them onto a scale straight away. Give them time. But have it ready to take their weights within the first day or so. According to VCA Hospitals, the area where the puppies are kept should be between degrees for the first four days. Then gradually decrease the temperature to 80 degrees by the 7th — 10th day, and finally, 72 degrees by the end of the fourth week. Emergency Supplies: Baby Nose Suction Bulb Sometimes newborn puppies have built-up mucus around their nose, and the mucus causes breathing troubles. The mom will do her best to lick it away, but if you see one of the German Shepherd puppies still struggling with taking breaths, you need to have a baby nose suction bulb , such as this one from Amazon, ready to go. Gently swaddle the puppy and use the bulb carefully to suction the mucus out and hold him for a while after, massaging his chest very gently. Gloves, Sterilized Scissors, Thread, and Antiseptic Solution Typically, the mom will cut the umbilical cord herself by biting through it. Once tied off, ensure the end of the cord is cleaned with antiseptic. Cleanliness during this is critical, so a pair of medical gloves and a clean workspace are essential. Soft Travel Crate Hopefully, the birth goes smoothly, and there is no need to take your German Shepherd to the vet during it. But if there is an emergency or you have any concerns, always call your vet or nearest animal hospital immediately. Have the crate by the door with plenty of cozy blankets and familiar smells ready to go if you need to transport your GSD. This is never an ideal situation, so it should be avoided whenever possible, but under emergency circumstances, you may need an impromptu trip to the vet. Pro Tip! Use the buddy system. If you need to take your German Shepherd to the vet during birth, it will help to have someone with you. Consider asking a few close friends or relatives. They can drive while you sit in the back with your girl to comfort her. This is going to be a scary moment for your German Shepherd, and she will appreciate being able to have you by her side. Ensure the Environment is Clean and Comforting You will take much of this care during the prep stage. You will be placing clean towels down, ensuring everything is sterilized and ready for the momentous occasion. But during the birth itself, you will want to help maintain that environment. Here are a few things to consider that will help you make this a comfortable environment for your German Shepherd: Have familiar sights and smells around, such as toys, soft clothing, and blankets that she likes. If there are open windows and loud noises, shut the windows and do everything you can to limit the amount of noise and distractions around her. Give words of encouragement occasionally in a soft and soothing voice, letting her know she is doing great. In between puppies, she will need a breather. Make sure she is supported and comfort her during these breaks. Your German Shepherd will begin nesting behavior during the onset of labor, and her temperature will drop. She will become restless and may refuse food, pant, pace, shake, or vomit. But how do you know when the birth is imminent? You will see clear fluid from her vulva before the first birth. The first puppy should be delivered within minutes of hard straining. Giving Your German Shepherd Space During the Birth Oddly enough, one of the best ways to care for your German Shepherd during her birth journey will be to leave her alone. All dogs are instinctual in ways that amaze us mere humans. GSDs are also incredibly smart. So, between their instincts and intelligence, they have a knack for understanding what to do during and after giving birth. They will know what is best for their health, as well as the health of their newborns. Interfering too much during birth can cause frustration and even anger in your German Shepherd. While she will most likely understand you are trying to help — she knows best, and she will need her space. Once you have completed all preparations and have done all that you can from your end, the best thing you can do is sit back and enjoy the incredible experience of watching your German Shepherd Dog give birth. Be Ready When She Needs You Part of sitting back and watching as your German Shepherd gives birth is also knowing that she may need you, and, if so — be ready. If you have done the proper preparations, everything will be ready in case of an emergency or even a small hiccup. Here are some warning signs to be aware of as you watch the process and when you need to intervene: Your GSD has shown signs of going into labor, including a temperature below degrees, and does not end up going into labor within 24 hours. A puppy has only come halfway out, and mom seems to be struggling. She appears to be in pain, and is yelping or crying. One of her breaks in between puppies lasts more than 4 hours, and you know there are more pups to come. Typically, a long break will happen halfway through, which can be up to 4 hours. But past that, there could be something wrong. She is having contractions for more than 45 minutes without another puppy coming. If there is something more complicated, you will need to take your girl to the vet. This is another reason the buddy system is a great step to take. Now what? A big part of the preparation is to ensure that everything is ready for the new mom and pups once she is done. She is going to be exhausted, needing lots of rest and love. And the newborns will be adorable little helpless creatures that need their canine mom and their human mom or dad too! Making sure they all stay home, clean, and healthy is the number one priority after birth. During your discussions with your vet, this should be something that is covered. Your vet will offer specifics if there are particular health concerns for your German Shepherd. But otherwise, they will have general guidelines to keep the new family safe and sound. Once your German Shepherd has had enough time to recuperate and seems to be doing well after the last birth, take her outside to urinate and get some fresh air. She may not want to, as she wants to stay with her newborns, but encourage her to go outside for a quick pee and move around. Next, try to get her to drink some water and see if she has an appetite. At this point, all the puppies should be warm and snuggled in the whelping box. Let Mom join them and begin nursing them. They are going to be hungry, sleepy, and hungry again. Your job is to make sure the pups are getting enough food from Mom, and that mom is getting enough rest to care for them properly. If your German Shepherd stops producing milk for a while, you will need to have supplements and formula on hand so you can feed them yourself from a bottle. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are smart, instinctual, and fiercely protective. They also make amazing moms. And they know exactly what they need to do during the birth of their puppies. We hope this article has given you confidence in knowing what to do when your German Shepherd is giving birth. You will know when you are needed, and you will have everything ready to go from your checklist if she tags you in. You will soon be hugging those little bundles of joy and wondering what to name them. This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute pet medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for your pet. Please consult a licensed veterinarian in your area for pet medical advice. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. They cannot see or hear yet, or regulate their body temperature, and they require a lot of tender care from their mom. The new mom is usually very excited and concerned about each newborn, and sometimes overly enthusiastic about chewing off the umbilical cord, which may later result in an umbilical hernia that will take a little longer to close, but is no danger to the puppy. We record the ribbon color and weight of each puppy so that, when we weigh the pups throughout the next days and weeks, we can make sure that each one is gaining weight. Normal weight for a newborn German Shepherd puppy ranges from g to g 0. We take great care to ensure that our newborn German Shepherd puppies have the best chance for a healthy start. A German Shepherd female can be in active labor for 6 to 18 hours, sometimes even longer if she takes a break while having a large litter, and we of course do not leave her side during this time. I stay up making sure that the whelping box which is always in my office or bedroom is clean and dry after each puppy is born, and that the temperature stays constant 86 - 88 F in the room. We keep the temperature at this level for about 2 weeks, gradually reducing it down to normal F by the end of the third week. Someone is always present with the puppies during the first 5 days. I handle the puppies several times a day, as well as weigh them every other day during this period, to make sure that everyone looks and acts healthy, nurses well, and is gaining weight. I usually buy a dozen fluffy cotton towels, and use two at a time as bedding for the whelping box. I change these towels twice daily at this stage to make sure the puppies are always clean and dry. Starting from day 3, and until day 16, I follow The "Super Dog" Program for our puppies - an early neurological stimulation program described by Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It has numerous benefits later in life for puppies. Often, puppies that were born the smallest overtake the bigger ones. Even at this tender age strong individual differences can be noted among German Shepherd puppies. Also, there is difference in their color and markings, and long-hair German Shepherd puppies can often be identified at this age. The new mom is very attached to her puppies at this age and is very reluctant to leave them even for the shortest time. She spends a lot of time sleeping with the puppies nursing peacefully, and is also very happy to be busy cleaning each puppy several times a day and flipping them around gently with her nose. At about 2 weeks of age German Shepherd puppies actually start looking more like puppies, and not just fat black sausages with feet attached. We use undiluted evaporated goats milk from a can, warmed up to be pleasant to the touch. Most puppies readily accept the bottle, and we consider this to be very important bonding and social time as well. Three weeks of age is my favorite age of all. The puppies now can be recognized as German Shepherd puppies. They are alert, playful, and there is a lot of wrestling, tail-wagging, and even barking going on as they explore their surroundings and interact with each other and their mom, all of which is extremely cute. I will often just sit in the whelping box with them, letting them play with my clothes, climb up on my lap, and generally just enjoying their carefree company. We also provide them with various toys starting at this age, and make sure that they listen to loud music, banging on the door, vacuum cleaner, etc. They weigh around 1. At first, they may not have a lot of success with it, as some of them try to suckle on the meat, but in a few days they master this new type of eating very well. We also continue giving them goats milk, but in a shallow saucer pan now, and with some rice baby cereal added, so that they can practice lapping. At this age, the mom is no longer so keen on constantly staying with her puppies, and only visits them to feed them and for a clean up. We continue changing the bedding twice a day now, knowing very well that in about a week it will become times a day, as the mom will not be able to keep up with her cleaning duties any more. We wash soiled towels with a little bit of bleach and a little bit of perfume-free detergent. Four weeks of age is even more fun as the puppies keep developing, but the amount of cleaning starts to increase in geometrical progression, and it becomes a full time job to keep the puppies well fed and clean. The mom is only visiting now and then at this point, and enjoys spending her time in the office, so that she can hear and see the puppies, but not necessarily be with them. With mom visiting for a few brief feedings each day, we feed them three times a day with the following diet: 1. Cottage cheese 2 tbsp per puppy , mixed with plain yogurt 1 tsp per puppy , evaporated goats milk, rice baby cereal 1 tsp. Raw tripe, or beef liver cooked with all kinds of vegetables At about 5 weeks of age the duty of keeping the whelping box clean becomes nightmarish, and this is a good time to introduce German Shepherd puppies to the outdoors. This is a room that is a part of the house, but has free access to the outside world. This room is equipped with a wooden resting platform so that puppies do not lay on concrete, with a heating lamp above it, and the floor is completely covered with a layer of pine woodchips. The outside area is about 6 x 6 ft and the floor is made of paving stones. There is another wooden laying platform here. This is a very important period when we introduce our German Shepherd puppies to more noises, show them the way in and out of the house, introduce them to the other dogs, play tug-of-war, etc. Also, we introduce raw frozen sardines and "The Honest Kitchen" products to their diet, and will occasionally feed kibble, soaked well in warm water and mixed with green tripe from a can At 3, 5, and 7 weeks of age our German Shepherd puppies get dewormed with a high quality wormer, to be certain that they are free of intestinal parasites. At about 6 weeks of age the puppies get their first combination 5-way vaccine including Parvo and Distemper , and at 7 weeks of age we start welcoming visitors who are interested to come and look at the puppies. Often during weekends we have several groups of visitors of all ages coming to interact with the puppies, which is such a great socialization opportunity for them. Copyright .All rights reserved.

Revered for their versatility as companion and for their dedication to work, this breed has the distinction of being the first dog ever used as a guide for the blind. Today the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the world. Character The German Shepherd is a breed of classic beauty and possesses superior intelligence. They are highly adaptable, energetic, curious, strong, and dependable. This breed displays a magnificent appearance and is extremely agile with great stamina and endurance. Temperament A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd is fearless, bold, hard working, and alert. They are esteemed for their loyalty, deep devotion, and courage. This breed thrives on human interaction from their family and does not like to be left alone for extended periods of time. German Shepherds are exceptionally wary of strangers. They will most generally get along with other household pets they have been raised with. This breed will attempt to perform the task of herding on anything and everything that moves. The German Shepherd is not recommended for the novice, apathetic, or sedentary owner. Care This breed requires daily brushing to minimize loose hair. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat. German Shepherds are prone to such health issues as blood disorders, elbow and hip dysplasia, epilepsy, flea allergies, digestive problems, and chronic eczema. Coat The German Shepherd is a double coat breed. The outer coat is harsh, straight, and thick. The under coat is dense and soft. The coat comes in a variety of colors such as black and tan, black and cream, black and silver, solid black, and sable. The German Shepherd comes in three varieties: rough coat, long hair, and long rough coat. This breed is a continuous shedder with seasonal heavy shedding. Training The German Shepherd requires early intensive and extensive socialization and obedience training. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed is obedient and quick to learn. Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, reward, and consistency. They are exceptionally talented in tracking, schutzhund, agility, obedience, fly-ball, and ring sport. The German Shepherd is often used in police work, search and rescue, as a guide for the blind, and military work. Activity This breed is happiest when given a job to do. They require strenuous exercise and enjoy securely leashed walks, family play sessions, and a large safely fenced area to romp and run freely in. The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention. Jean-Francois: How much is a purebred German Shepherd puppy without papers worth? I'm guessing it's a rip-off. Our nonpaper German shepherd just had 12, her 1st litter of no papers German shepherd pups. You can visually see the traits. I do suggest making sure vaccinations are given before buying the puppy. Answer by JTP Actually, that is a great price! I would even say that's pretty cheap, especially since it's a German Shepherd. Answer by SuperGirl It doesn't matter if the parents have papers. Parents with papers should have puppies that have papers as well. I'm also guessing mom and dad don't really have papers either, because papers come to puppies with papered parents. Answer by Kayleigh Let me explain what happened to us. I was young at the time and didn't realize what "limited" rights were. This means the woman who sold me my puppy would not give me the right to register my purebred GSD as a purebred GSD unless I got her spayed. We bought her with the intention of eventually breeding and keeping some puppies for ourselves but also selling a few. I would be breeding my dog with a purebred GSD who is registered, but since I cannot register my dog due to this lady's way of giving me limited rights I would not be able to register the pups either. She is our rescue dog. I got a blood test done that shows she is a purebred German Shepherd, but there is no way of knowing whether she was registered or not. We are going to breed her with one of my friend's purebred German Shepherd males. I was thinking of selling the puppies for around , which is about 1, dollars cheaper than what they are selling registered puppies for in this area. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

Some Final Words In this situation, how short you cut the nails on your French Bulldog will depend on you and your ability to cut nails, as well as how long you want them to be. You can cut them short, almost to the quick, or you can just trim a little off each time. The recommended time is once every 3 weeks maximum. In other words, you should not trim them any sooner than that. If you do cut them shorter than average, then you would have to trim those nails every 2 weeks or even sooner. If you are confident in your abilities to trim nails to the right length, then cut them close to the quick. That will give you a few extra weeks off from doing this duty. But keep your ears open as you will need to hear those tiny clicks on the floor or concrete sidewalks. Those sounds tell you it is time to clip again. You are always free to clip those nails before you hear those sounds. Use your best judgment on this issue. How to Cut Those Nails Find a safe, secure, and relaxing spot where both of you can be comfortable Make sure you have all the tools you are going to use next to you and within easy reach Cut carefully. If you are taking a lot off do so in short cuts and not one big one unless you are very experienced at clipping nails. Make sure to stop before you cut the quick. Use a file to help smooth out those sharp edges. This will protect your dog from scratching itself and causing some bleeding Cut one nail at a time taking your time to make sure you cut properly. Also, go one paw at a time. Give a reward to your dog and a few words of praise when they do not cause you a lot of hassle during this process. Some French Bulldog Nail Cutting Tips Here are a few tips you need to listen to as they will help guide your work: Make nail clipping a normal activity so your dog does not stress out Keep calm and do not let your dog pick up on your nervousness Always use the right tool for the job and keep those blades nice and sharp Never cut the nail to the base. You will hurt your pet if you do Never panic if you happen to cut the quick. The reason for this is said to be that French Bulldogs are not as active as other dogs. Like other dog breeds, you need to trim those nails regularly or they can curve and become ingrown nails requiring the aid of a vet. Make sure to use the best nail clippers, scissors, or grinders. The better the equipment the better the experience for you and your pet. If you do not have any confidence in trimming those nails, go to a professional groomer to get it done. Also, if you are not confident enough to clip those nails in one shot, trim off tiny pieces and make 2 or 3 cuts instead. If you are not sure about the first two keys, go to your local groomer and have them do it for you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. Please assume all such links are affiliate links which may result in my earning commissions and fees. This will not incur additional cost to you. Unfortunately, dogs must have their nails trimmed at regular intervals to prevent painful injuries. Overgrown nails tend to curl under and if left untrimmed, while begin to grow back into the skin. This can be very painful and also risk infection. For most of us, dogs with long nails are unsightly. No dog wants to be seen with overgrown claws! Keeping your Frenchie on a regular nail trimming routine will prevent accidental scratches during play sessions. Your vet will also appreciate it when your Frenchie goes for his vaccinations. There are several risks to long nails: 1. Limping Overgrowth nails mean your dog cannot comfortably place his paw on the ground. To relieve the discomfort, they will put less weight on their paw. This causes them to limp. Although this will stop the pain from the overgrown claws, limping puts pressure on other parts of the body which are now carrying more weight than normal. This can lead to further medical issues such as joint pain. Eventually, the nail will start to curl back towards the paw. If left untreated, the nail will penetrate the skin. This can lead to infections. For Frenchies, infections are dangerous, as their short face makes breathing difficult. Infections also raise body temperature. To try and combat this, dogs will pant to lose heat. Frenchies are not able to lose heat as quickly as other breeds, so catching infections can be a serious medical problem. Not only are these infections dangerous, but they are also painful. Twisting This occurs when a dog with overly long nails gets them caught on something. By catching the nail, the momentum of this sudden stop causes the toe to twist. This will cause trauma to the tissue and also risks dislocating or fracturing of the bones in the toe. How do I know if my dogs nail is infected? While limping might be the most obvious symptom of a nail infection, there are other signs you can look out for. Excessively licking of the paw Redness around the nail bed Swelling of the skin around the nail Change in colour of the nail Difficulty walking If you suspect that your dog may have a nail infection, it is best to check each of his nails and the skin around them. Signs of infection on multiple toes could be a sign of a more serious medical condition. An infection due to overgrown nails is easily treated if done so promptly. You must seek veterinary advice. How often should you cut a French bulldogs nails? French Bulldogs were not bred to be active dogs. Usually, a dog will naturally file down their nails by walking and running on a variety of different surfaces. Leaving them longer than this will result in your Frenchie not being able to place his paw flat on the ground. French bulldog nail length To ensure your Frenchie is not at risk of suffering nicks or catching his nails, they should be kept to a short length. It is important to remember not to cut off a large section of nail in one go. The centre of the nail contains nerves and blood vessels, known as the quick. It is better to cut just the end of each nail to begin with and take off a little more each week until you reach the required length. This will make subsequent trimming much more effective and far easier to manage. Once you have the nails at a short length, you will only need to trim them every 3 weeks. If your Frenchie has never had his nails cut before, or finds the procedure uncomfortable, you will definitely need some tasty treats. You will also need to purchase a pair of dog nail clippers. Human clippers are not strong enough to break through the nail and can cause more damage. If you are interested in purchasing Dog Nail Clippers and Trimmer, then there is an excellent selection on Amazon with thousands of customer reviews. It is best to do this in a quiet room that your dog feels safe and relaxed. Step 2: Position is everything If you are sitting on the floor or on the couch, have your dog laying across your lap. If you have a table or counter for him, have him lying down. A wriggly Frenchie does not make for easy nail trimming! Step 3: Have your tools organized Make sure you have everything you need before you begin and keep them within easy reach. You will need clippers, treats, and cotton wool balls. You may also want to have a file handy and some styptic powder in case the nail bleeds. For dogs, this is harder. Start by cutting just 1mm each time. This makes it less likely for you to cut the quick by mistake. If your dog has clear or pale nails, you will be able to see the quick. It will be the pinkish part in the centre of the nail. Darker nails are harder to see, so you will have to be careful. Some dogs have a few pale nails and a few darker ones. You can use the length of the paler nails to guess how much to clip off the darker nails. Step 5:Get the file If you are unsure how close to the quick you are, or if your dog does not like the clippers, you can use a file with a rough grit instead. Step 6:One at a time: Focus just on one nail until you get the length right. You can then use this nail as a guide for the remaining nails. This reduces the risk of you accidentally cutting the quick on the other nails. Step 7:Front and back Generally, the quick on the front paws will be slightly longer than the back paws. You will probably notice that the back paws do not take as long to trim. Removing the nail filings and dust will prevent bacteria and also stops the skin from becoming irritated. Step 9:Praise and reward Remember to gently praise your dog whenever he is being calm. You can also give him a treat as a reward. This will help him relax and see the experience as a positive one. You can use styptic powder to stop the bleeding. Simply press a small pea-size amount onto the end of the nail. If you do not have any styptic powder, corn starch is a good alternative. Prolonged bleeding increases the risk of infection setting in. Try selecting a brand that has a nail guard. This will help prevent cutting too close to the quick. The clipper head should be stainless steel. This will make for a clean-cut and reduce the risk of crushing the nail some nail clippers come with a file included. If you are purchasing them separately, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you need a file with a rough grit. The too soft file will not be strong enough to have any effect on the nail. The file should have a sturdy handle. This makes the file easier to hold and also easier to move across the nail. They have a cylindrical handle which houses the batteries. The head of the gadget will have a small circular file that spins at high speed. You can purchase replacements of these files online or from your local pet store. Rather than using old-fashioned cotton wool and warm water. There are several benefits to these. The wipes are antiseptic, so they help to remove bacteria from the nail and skin. They also contain dog-safe fragrance to keep your dog smelling fresh. Many brands of grooming wipes are now hypoallergenic, so they are suitable for dogs with sensitive skin. Things To Remember Dogs are sensitive to our emotions. If you are tense or anxious, your dog will pick up on this. For nail trimming to be a pleasant experience, you need to be confident. Never restrain your dog or scold him for trying to getaway. This will only make him more nervous the next time you try to trim his nails. Allow him to sniff the clippers and file before you start and only use gentle motions, to begin with. Not all nail clippers will be suitable for French Bulldogs. Do your own research and choose a nail clipper that is specifically designed for small breeds. The blades of the clippers will be thinner to ensure a clean cut. Blunt blades or those that are too thick may crush the nail rather than cutting it. This can be very painful for your Frenchie and may cause medical problems requiring veterinary treatment. Fish Oil vs. Disclaimer : FrenchieBuddy. You can also pick up a couple of really quick tips that will make the process easier with time. This is very helpful, but you have to remember and stay on top of your trimming and grooming schedule. Most people just pay a groomer to handle these things once or twice every month-and-a-half, or so. We like to bond with our frenchie babies, so we take up the task on our own. Below, you can see a frenchie whose claws are way too long and are beginning to curl under. This is very uncomfortable for your companion and you should immediately begin trimming back their nails a little bit at a time. You just need a couple of things and lots of treats. The key to getting your french bulldog to cooperate with you is to provide a ridiculous amount of praise while you trim their nails, lots of treats, and lots of regularity in the routine. The quick will grow deeper into the nail the longer you allow it to grow. It is very painful and can cause bleeding. We like to use these nail trimmers. They have a back-stop guide that prevents you from cutting too much off. We use them in our nail-trimming video. You want to focus on stopping the bleeding, quickly. The easiest way is to use some styptic powder: Styptic powder is a clotting agent that will essentially stop the bleeding nail immediately. It works fast and is the best solution.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Labrador Retriever Stages of Development Labrador Retriever Stages of Development If you are new to the Labrador Retriever world and you have a new puppy, you may be wondering when Lab puppies finally calm down. First, for those that do not know, the Labrador Retriever breed is not for those that want to lay back on the couch and toss back a few beers. Labs are people dogs meaning that they are very sociable and do not like to be left on their own all the time. They have a great deal of enthusiasm and energy. That is why it is important for this breed to get plenty of exercise and social interaction. We did a lot of research about the breed and found that many people have their own ideas on the age of maturation. In all honesty, there are differing levels of energy that the Lab will go through during its life and from the age of about 10 weeks old to 5 years old, the energy level can remain quite high. Stage 2: Toddler — This stage starts around weeks old and goes until about 5 months old. The energy level is quite high at this time as the puppy is learning all it can about the world and go through many biological changes. It tests its environment with its mouth and as it gets towards the end of this stage, it begins to chew on everything it can to try and get relief from teething. It is usually to have some terry cloth towels that have been soaked in water and sitting in your freezer, waiting to be gnawed on! Stage 3: Adolescent — This is a tough stage and starts around 5 months old and go anywhere up to a year, depending on the dog. Some would call it the terrible twos because all of a sudden, your sweet Lab baby has forgotten everything you have taught it and has the manners of any human teenager out there! Sure, they know not to go on the couch but they will test you again and make sure you meant it. This is when you need to reinforce all your training because if you let them get away with it now, it is harder to break them of it later! Stage 4: Maturing — Usually this starts around a year old and goes until the 5-year old stage. The level of energy is still high and is equal to a college student or young twenty-something adult. They get more comfortable with their surroundings and take a little more time to enjoy life and the company of their owner and family. This is more of an enjoyable time with your family Lab! Stage 5: Senior — Around 5 years and up, the little puppy you once knew with all the energy level of an energizer bunny is there in spirit but the body is slowing down more. They still have a good amount of energy but nothing compared o stages 2 and 3! Life is good and comfortable. So, when does a Lab puppy start to calm down? Well, generally it is around stage 4 but can happen before that stage. The one thing people with Labrador Retrievers, or any dog for that matter, need to understand is that each dog is different. Yes, there are certain traits in the Lab breed for which we eagerly welcomed them into our home, but just as human identical twins can have opposite personalities, so can your Labrador Retriever. For example, if you are in stage 2, there is housebreaking and teething to deal with. Your puppy also needs help with getting rid of some of that pent up energy it has and it is your responsibility to give it safe and structured ways to expel that energy. Short walks work well on soft surfaces for young pups as well as schedule play times. Whatever you choose to do, high energy levels in Labs are normal during certain stages — just remember to enjoy them while you can because your Lab will only be a puppy once. Post navigation. But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun. Image from Pixabay Labrador Puppy Behavior and Growth Stages Labrador retriever puppies do plenty of growing, learning, and maturing in a short amount of time, especially when compared to humans. Labs also change quite a bit, both mentally and physically from even birth to 8 weeks, which would be around the time you would bring your new puppy home. They are dependent on their mother for most things and although they have fur at birth, their mother keeps them warm because their internal thermostats have not begun to work yet. Their mother only lets them alone for bathroom trips and to eat and drink while the puppies huddle together for warmth. Two Weeks Newborn puppies cannot see or hear but by 2 weeks their ears and eyes should begin to open, allowing for hearing and sight. Handling should begin with the breeder for their first introduction to socialization. Puppies will receive their first worming. Three Weeks Puppies will begin teething as teeth come in and some solid food will be introduced gradually. Puppies can sit, stand, and trot about, a little unsteadily, at this time and even play with littermates, each developing their own personalities. Four Weeks Labrador puppies are becoming a lot more vocal and they are looking and acting more like dogs, wagging tails and playing with enthusiasm. Their mother who has kept everything clean until now is beginning to grow weary, so clean-up will now fall to the breeder. Puppies will receive their second worming. Mothers also teach pups not to bite so hard when feeding and playing. Six Weeks Worming will take place for the third time. Puppies are eating all solid food about six times a day and are totally weaned. Their mother still works with them in regards to biting and gives them a sharp bark, or reprimand, when they play too roughly with littermates. Seven Weeks Puppies will be socialized more, often with breeders beginning initial housebreaking. Usually, puppies will be checked out by a veterinarian before leaving their mother, brothers, and sisters for their new home at 8 weeks. Potty training and socialization should continue. Even though your pup was checked out by a veterinarian, you will need to make an appointment to begin the necessary vaccinations. Before bringing your new puppy home, make sure you have all of the necessary supplies for the pup such as bed, blanket, crate, toys, dishes, food, treats, collar, and leash. Keep in mind that this is the first time puppy has been away from their mother, littermates, and their familiar home. Have patience and give them reassurance and love. They may cry or be shy or fearful until they feel comfortable in their new home. Nine Weeks Your Labrador puppy should feel more familiar with its surroundings. Keep on top of housebreaking, taking them out every 20 to 30 minutes, especially after meals. Work on some basic training but keep sessions short. Socialization will be your biggest task now. Take them to as many places as you can so they can see situations as an adventure, not something to be feared. Ten Weeks Your puppy will need more vaccinations and their veterinarian will check them out and their weight to ensure that they are growing properly. Keep working on socialization. By this time your pup should be properly socialized, but continue to take them to as many places as you can. They may act independently and test you by ignoring certain commands that they are very familiar with. Be firm. Five Months Your puppy may be totally housebroken by this time and able to be left alone a little longer without accidents. Some pups take a little longer just as children may for potty training. They are beginning to be stronger and when they become too weighty, pulling on the leash will be a chore if not properly trained. Six Months Between 4 and 6 months your pup may try to challenge you or other family members. You and others must be the dominant forces in the family. Your pup is also looking more like a dog, but keep in mind, they are still a puppy at heart. Meals can now be reduced to two times a day. You will need to continue with training and obedience classes can be a huge benefit. Your pup will be quite a lot of fun at this time with lots of energy, stamina, and exuberance but will also show some characteristics of a rebellious teenager which may be frustrating. Be patient, yet firm. They may have the appearance of an adult Labrador but are without the maturity of one. When is Do Labs Stop Growing? Keep in mind that just as humans are individuals, so too are dogs and some may be full-grown at a certain age, while others may add a few more pounds after this time. Their full height, however, will be reached by nine months of age. A full-grown Lab will range in weight from 55lbs — 75lbs for females and 64lbs — 85lbs for males. Your Labrador retriever may grow to be large or be a smaller version. This helps to ease your mind. Enjoy every moment with your Labrador puppy as they grow through the stages. Recent Posts. Labradors go through different stages of development, which are easy to identify with a trained eye. These growth stages — newborn, juvenile, adolescence, and adulthood — all come with marked periods of development. You may notice that your dog looks lanky or slimmer during the latter half of this period. During adolescence, they will complete skeletal growth. They will then begin to fill out until they reach their full adult weight and height. As your Labrador Retriever enters adulthood, you will notice a slow in physical growth and weight gain, as well as a calmer demeanor. Labs officially reach their final size around a year to 18 months considering all the different growth stages. Labs are a highly active breed that requires training, plenty of exercise, and a balanced diet. This helps prevent problems with weight gain, which can lead to more dangerous health conditions as your dog continues to age. As puppies pass adolescence and settle into adulthood around two years of age, Labs start to calm. Another sign that your dog has stopped growing. What Factors Contribute to a Labs Growth? An average male Lab will stand around inches and weigh roughly pounds. Female Labradors will grow to inches and pounds, respectively. Several factors can affect how large a Lab can be. Many of them are related to elements controlled by the owner rather than the dog. Food and Nutrition As with any pet, healthy food and nutrition are essential to ensure that your Lab grows appropriately. A balanced diet for a Labrador Retriever is a must. Ensure your pup gets the right amount of fats, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. All these aids in a healthy growth curve for your dog. It may be tempting to feed a hungry dog, but overfeeding your Lab can cause problems in their early development. When you give your young Lab too much food, you may encourage excessive growth that can be taxing on their skeletal structure. When bones grow too fast, it leads to orthopedic issues in the breed further down the line. Related: Spaying and Neutering Spaying and neutering can have one of the largest impacts on the optimal growth of your Lab. The extended period of growth is due to the interference of estrogen and testosterone levels. This can result in a bigger dog and lead to health issues. Long bone growth and delayed joint development can cause many orthopedic issues in the breed. The main contributor to health problems is hip dysplasia. Just be aware of the timing and delay operations until crucial skeletal development is complete. General Health and Genes The final and most significant factor in determining the size of your fully-grown Labrador is a general health and genetic history of your dog. If you purchased your puppy from a lineage of larger Labs, you could assume your pup will be slightly larger than an average-sized adult dog. The same can be said for Labs will family lines that veer towards smaller percentiles. Overall, what is most important to consider in the growth of your Labrador Retriever is that they have a balanced diet and get plenty of exercise. A healthy, well-attended puppy will inevitably lead to a well-developed adult dog. Also See:. Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Almost Home Campaign Puppy Developmental Stages and Behaviour To have a well-adjusted and social dog, you need to ensure his needs are met during each phase of development. Building the foundation for a great dog starts with appropriate training at each stage of development and establishing appropriate guidelines so that that your puppy is properly integrated into the family. You will see many behaviour changes during the life stages of your pup. Knowing how to handle your pup through each developmental stage will help to shape your puppy into a lifelong family member. Puppy Developmental Stages The puppy development process covers five distinct stages. However, puppies grow through these stages at their own pace and these timelines can vary. Stage 1: Neonatal Period 0 — 2 weeks This is the first stage of puppy development and begins at birth. At this age, puppies only have the sense of taste and touch and rely totally on their mother. Stage 2: Transitional Period 2 — 4 weeks Sensory development continues with hearing and sense of smell. Puppy teeth start coming through and their eyes will begin to open. Puppies will interact with their litter mates, wag their tails, stand, walk a little and bark. It is vital to understand this stage as most puppies go home to their new parents between 7 — 12 weeks. During this period, changes start to occur rapidly. Between 3- 5 weeks puppies start to become aware of their surroundings and have the ability to develop a relationship with people This is the period where puppies get familiar with the day-to-day noises of a regular household such as TVs, vacuum cleaners, telephones, etc. At this age puppies are just learning to interact with each other and beginning to play. They are also learning their doggie social skills and exploring their ranking status within their pack. Their curiosity is developing, as are their biting skills. Nipping behaviours begin as they practice biting behaviour with their mother and litter mates. At the weeks stage, they will have full use of all their senses and will be ready to go home to their new owners. Bringing your pup home usually between weeks is right in the middle of his socialization period. Therefore, it is vital that you introduce your puppy to as many new dogs, people, objects and surroundings as you can. BUT, make sure you do so in a controlled manner and never put your puppy in a dangerous situation where they can be injured, scared or contract disease. This is a great period to begin crate training, for a variety of reasons. Puppies are old enough to start getting used to being left alone to avoid separation anxiety from developing and are capable of being house-trained. Even though your home is likely puppy proofed, it also saves your possessions. During this phase of development, puppies are developing their reactions to things much more consistently. They are also likely to focus more on different types of people and should be friendly and approachable to strangers. During this time they are also going to continue to practice their biting skills a whole lot more! It is important to learn how to manage this behaviour early on. You may also notice that they are more curious and will probably look to explore their environment more. Be prepared for this and keep your puppy close to you and leashed. Stage 4: Testing Period 3 — 6 months This is the time your puppy starts to test their boundaries within their world. They will test the limits with their owners and other animals. At this age many adult dogs will start to enforce manners. Problematic behaviours can begin to arise in this period. At this age your puppy is going to go through teething and chewing is a common side effect. Make sure he has plenty of chew sticks and toys. Use commercial sprays or gels that dissuade your puppy from chewing your belongings. Try soaking a cloth toy in chicken stock and freezing it if your puppy is experiencing pain while teething. Once frozen, this can be given to your puppy as a chew toy and will help to relieve sore gums. Puppies are usually finished teething by the age of 6 months when the upper fangs canines come in. Your cute little puppy is becoming a teenager and will start producing hormones which may result in changes in behaviour. Dogs go through adolescence much earlier than people; for small breeds, is can be as early as six months old while larger dogs starting at nine or 10 months of age. Adolescence in larger breed dogs continues until they are two or three years old with smaller dogs reaching maturity at about 18 months. Typically the larger the dog, the slower the development. Signs of Puberty in Canines Here are the typical signs to watch out for to tell you that your own puppy has hit puberty: Males.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. We have answers. Unfortunately, Pugs can suffer from a range of different health problems. Anyone thinking about buying San Jose CA Pugs for sale should be aware of these issues, ready to spot the signs and take action as needed. Thanks to their flat faces, Pugs can suffer from various respiratory problems They're also at risk of obesity, so they require a reasonable amount of mild exercise each day. Can I only search with local breeders? The Uptown network extends all across America and our users are free to search for a San Jose CA Pug for sale with all of our vetted breeders and businesses. Even if your dream San Jose CA Pug puppy for sale is far away, the seller will be more than happy to make special arrangements to get your chosen dog to an airport in your area. How do you screen breeders selling Pug puppies? One of the things that makes Uptown different from other sites is that we only ever work with the finest Pug breeders in San Jose CA. What exactly is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are like factories, but rather than producing items, they produce dogs. They produce one litter after another, often keeping the pups in terrible conditions and failing to provide even the most basic standards of hygiene and care. Pug puppies for sale in San Jose CA from mills often have a much higher risk of health issues. What about backyard breeders? Backyard breeders are similar to puppy mills in a lot of ways, as they also sell unhealthy and badly-treated Pugs for sale San Jose CA at very cheap prices to try and tempt people into buying them. Unfortunately, if you do adopt a Pug for sale San Jose CA from a backyard breeder, there's a good chance that you'll have to pay lots of vet bills to deal with its health and behavioral issues, so we always recommend buying from trusted, humane breeders instead. How does Uptown work? To start off, simply check out all of the currently available pups, all over the US. When you find one that catches your eye, send a message to the breeder to learn more. Once you're ready to bring a pup home, all you need to do is make the necessary arrangements with the seller. About how big are Pugs? The Pug is a small breed, and Pugs never really get too tall. In general, fully grown pugs measure up at about inches, and the males tend to be a little taller than the females. The small stature of San Jose CA Pugs for sale means that they're a terrific choice for smaller homes or apartments, and they have quite low exercise requirements too. What are the origins of Pugs? Pugs have a very long and interesting history, originating in China and then slowly spreading around the world. They became popular with European nobles and royal families and were reserved for the rich and famous at first, but later became more commonly kept as household pets by many people. There are various kinds of Pug puppies for sale San Jose CA, as this breed can be found in a range of different colors and styles. Some people really want to find a black Pug San Jose CA, for example, and if you've got a specific kind of Pug in mind, we'll do our best to meet your needs. Check out the currently available Pugs for sale to see if your dream Pug is just waiting to meet you! How is Uptown different from other sites selling Pugs online? There are many sites out there that offer to help you find Pug puppies San Jose CA, but they aren't all worthy of your time and attention. Some sites only care about profits and are happy to work with backyard breeders, puppy mills, and even scammers. We're different. We have some of the strictest standards and one of the toughest screening processes around, and we promise to exclusively work with only the best Pug breeders San Jose CA.

Not too far from the beaches, we spend most of the year playing in the sand or swimming in our pool. In , we gave our 5 year old little girl a puppy for Christmas. She instantly fell in love with the little girl puppy, and wasted no time picking out a name for the pure white, English Cream Golden Retriever. So when we imported a boy puppy the following year, we all decided to stick with the snow theme for a name. Snow Ball was now officially part of the family. With Snow Flake and Snow Ball being the best of friends, we knew it wouldn't be long before the Snow Pups would arrive. Happy, Healthy Bloodline We take great pride in knowing that we offer some of the healthiest and best pedigreed golden retrievers in the state of Florida. Our sire was imported from one of the top kennels in Europe. Big, blocky, and white as snow, he is truly a once in a lifetime dog. With a pedigree full of world champions, and a slate full of health clearances, Clumbret Lucky One, aka Snow Ball, represents the breed standard perfectly. Plus, he's super sweet and is best friends with a mini pig! We are very proud of the health clearances and genetic testing that our dogs have undergone. And we are pleased to provide any hard copies of any testing done upon request. All of our puppies come with an AKC registration number, health certificate from a licensed veterinarian, dewormed, and first round of vaccinations. Also, each of our puppies has a 1 year guarantee against any congenital defect. A Furever Friend As the years have gone by, we have continued to add to our breeding program, while continuing to maintain our high level of excellence. Each of our new additions are also imported from the top European kennels. We even have an Italian girl that can only speak her native tongue! More than being breeders, we are ultimately dog lovers. We love all of our dogs, puppies or not, and are quite proud of our crazy little dog family that we lovingly call, "The Gaggle. FL These Maximus's puppies are absolutely stunning All families receiving one or more puppies were taught a comprehensive cancer and disease prevention program to keep their Golden healthy for life! We have a .I teach all new owners Longevity! Their approach to caring for their puppies is beyond any breeder I have found. I was amazed at the information that is provided on his website. The owner offers a wealth of knowledge online and personally. I was impressed by his screening of potential buyers for his pups. They keep you informed as the process progresses. They provide you with links to read , recommends a book to read that will support your knowledge with the Holistic approach in raising a healthy puppy thru adulthood. The owner was generous with his knowledge in helping me with my 13 year old Golden Dewlee by recommending certain products, which made a huge difference in his overall health. They are dedicated breeders and invest countless hours in the puppies well being. When we arrived to pick out our puppy, we found the pups to be stunning in looks and their demeanor was outstanding. The puppies are well socialized and next to impossible to pick! I was impressed at their schedule for viewing the puppies, with time for the puppies to nap before the next viewing. This demonstrates, that his puppies well being are his only concern. Throughout the entire process, being responsive to each and every question you may have if the Holistic approach is new to you. He advises you on what to expect on your first Veterinarian visit, answers any questions you may have. The owners are dedicated breeders, they will welcome you into their home when it comes time to pick out your puppy and assist you in picking from the most flawless litter of puppies I have ever had the opportunity to choose from. I have had the joy of owning 5 English Golden's, this by far has been the most educational, interactive and amazing journey. Bozlee will arrive this week, and I am confident that I will be assisted with any questions I will have along the way. We focus on temperament and health above all in our puppies. We have an extreme love for the golden retriever breed and believe the English cream golden retriever to be the perfect dog for anyone. They are fun loving, loyal, intelligent, calm natured dogs. Reserve your puppy! Golden Cellars Cash Wonderboy winning his international champion title! Our sincere thanks and appreciation to Michelle of Golden Cellars. The love and training she puts into her puppies is amazing. Our little girl is housebroken, sitting on command and sleeping through the night. Michelle did a great job starting her off just right. Would absolutely recommend her as a breeder. Very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the process. He is the sweetest, most gorgeous puppy I have ever seen. He brings so much happiness and joy to our lives every single day. Thank you Michelle! Kelly We just got our puppy from Golden Cellars and we are so in love. Bogey is just 8 weeks old and already sits and goes potty outside. We highly recommend Michelle and Golden Cellars for giving us the smartest, cutest pup ever!

pug puppies san antonio - A post shared by Jami Miller portie. They require tons of exercise, though you should be careful not to over-exercise them. They require plenty of socialization and training to become well-behaved adults. These dogs are extremely intelligent, so they often take well to training. However, they also need lots of mental stimulation. Without it, the puppies can become quite destructive. Your best bet is a specialized breeder, though you may have to travel far to pick up your puppy. They may come at a higher price than other breeds due to their rarity. As always, be sure to research any breeder before purchasing a puppy from them. Ethical breeders will produce healthy, well-adjusted puppies. Ask about what health tests they perform before breeding the parents, as well as any health certificates and health records for the puppies. They perform well in dog sports and other high-intensity activities that require a lot of training and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. These dogs also love to be around their family and love attention and affection. They require plenty of attention compared to other breeds. Portipoos tend to be extremely intelligent. However, they can also be headstrong if not trained early. Dogs often experience an adolescent period just like humans, when they can be more stubborn. These dogs need lots of exercise and playtime. Their intelligence means they require lots of mental stimulation, too. Many of them love swimming, but they have to be introduced to the water at a young age, otherwise, they may be fearful of it. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, they only do best in active families, as they have a very high-energy temperament. They may also not be suitable for families with younger children, as they can be a bit too hyper and energetic. They need regular exercise and playtime. The Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix can absolutely get along with other pets. Of course, you should always supervise the Portipoo with other pets, as they can be a bit too rough in some cases. However, they do not have any special dietary needs. Because of their active nature, they may require more protein and overall calories than other dogs. There are many dog foods out there for active dogs, and these may work best for Portipoos. A high-quality commercial food is vital for their health. However, be sure to choose the correct food for your particular dog. Puppies should consume puppy dog food, for instance. If your dog is overweight, you may want to switch to low-calorie dog food. Plan to take them on walks and play with them regularly. These canines love just about any type of activity, including swimming, playing fetch, and walking. Be careful not to overexercise these dogs, especially as puppies. They can push themselves too hard and damage their growth plates, which can lead to hip dysplasia. Therefore, they take well to training and are often extremely obedient. Early socialization is necessary to prevent behavioral issues, though. While they do learn quickly, they are extremely intelligent and need a lot of mental stimulation. This mental stimulation need can be fulfilled partly by regular training. They have thick, curly coats in most cases, and they require regular brushing to prevent matting, as well as professional grooming. Brushing also helps keep their coats clean, as the brush can remove loose hair and dirt. However, they do need a bath every 2—3 months. Being a mix prevents them from inheriting many of the common health conditions that affect other dogs. For instance, they can be prone to hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the joints. It causes mobility problems and arthritis-like symptoms, though at a much earlier age than arthritis. These can lead to weakness, weight loss, and lethargy. Because Portipoos have floppy ears, they are prone to ear infections. Keeping their ears clean can help, including drying them completely after swimming. Skin allergies are often common, causing itching and irritation. History Mini Portidoodles are playful, loving, and happy-go-lucky dogs. They enchant with a cheerful attitude and a great love for all things fun. These gorgeous pups are very fond of water, dog sports and games, and most importantly, their family. Known to form strong attachments, the Mini Portidoodles are entirely dedicated to their humans. They enjoy entertaining with comical tricks, are affectionate, fun, and wonderful with children. As great family dogs, Mini Portidoodle pups bring a great deal of love, joy, and laughter into their lucky-to-have-them home. With a cheerful disposition and a friendly demeanor, the Mini Portidoodle Mini Portipoo appears docile, approachable, happy, and sweet. The Mini Portidoodle adult has a sturdy-built body, a long fluffy tail, a medium-length muzzle, cute floppy ears, and dark expressive eyes. Its coat is of medium length, soft, curly or wavy in texture. It is low-shedding, hypoallergenic, and can come in various colors and color combinations. Mini Portidoodle colors include white, black, brown, cream, gray, merle, sable, with various patterns and markings. The Mini Portidoodle size is between small and medium, depending on which side of the family the doodle puppy takes after more. Typically, a full grown Mini Portidoodle weighs between 14 and 28 pounds. F1b Mini Portidoodle dogs can weigh less than 14 pounds. The adult Mini Portidoodle height can range from 10 to 20 inches. They are great with family children, docile with their fur siblings, loyal to their owners, and entertaining for the whole family. These unique dogs exude happiness and are friends with everyone they meet. They are energetic, playful, outgoing, and fond of fun activities. They enjoy social interactions with dogs and humans alike, family adventures, canine games, dog sports, chew toys, jogs, and cuddles. As the offspring of two water-loving dog breeds, the lively Mini Portidoodles love to splash in puddles, swim in lakes, jump in beach waves, and chase sprinklers. Mini Portidoodle puppies are small, adorable, and fluffy bundles of joy. They love to play, bounce, zoom, chase, chew, and get cuddled, pampered, and spoiled. As the fur-babies of two exceedingly bright dog breeds, the Mini Portidoodle puppies are fast learning students, excellent people-pleasers, and eager learners. They pick up on basic tricks and commands impressively fast and are quite eager to move on to more complex training. Training a Mini Portidoodle can be a rewarding experience. For more insights on training dogs effectively, check out our blog Easiest Dogs to Train - Top 5 Pups for Effortless Training Insights Mini Bernedoodle vs Mini Portidoodle Comparison A warm-hearted dog that resembles a cuddly teddy bear or a fun family dog that loves games and adventures — meet the Miniature Bernedoodle and the Miniature Portidoodle. These two dog breeds are among the most popular doodles in the canine kingdom. They are favored for their joyful personalities, keen intelligence, and eagerness to please. Both the Mini Bernedoodle and Mini Portidoodle train easily and are generous with affection. They are a fantastic fit for a wide variety of families, Hypoallergenic Puppies Allergies to dogs are a common thing around the world. Care Grooming Mini Portidoodle dogs are medium to low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Because they have a medium-length wavy or curly coat, they require a quick brush every other day. Their ears should be cleaned regularly, and their teeth brushed a few times every week. It is recommended to start the Mini Portidoodle puppy Mini Portipoo puppy grooming process early to accustom them to the grooming tools and get them comfortable with their ears, paws, and bodies getting handled. Grooming your Mini Portidoodle is essential for their well-being. They enjoy running, chasing, fetching, playing Frisbee, swimming, and any activity that allows them to burn off energy. Because they are great at dog sports like agility, tracking, rally, and water sports, these dogs love challenges and having a job to do. To keep them fit, healthy, and exercised, they need to be walked for an average of 30 to 60 minutes each day and given canine puzzles, toys, and activities that keep their minds stimulated and their bodies worked out. Health Mini Portidoodle puppies are bred by carefully crossing two healthy, routinely vet-checked, purebred dog breeds. They enjoy superior health thanks to hybrid vigor, and they have very few health concerns that can be possible during their lifespans. Common issues in all dog breeds include hip dysplasia, cataracts, allergies, dental issues, and in some cases hypothyroidism. These can occur in Mini Portidoodle adults, most commonly during their senior years. Lifespan Like their parents, Mini Portidoodle dogs are long-lived, happy dogs. Their average lifespan is between 12 and 15 years. Dogs that are loved as members of the family tend to live longer, happier lives. Training Mini Portidoodles are very smart and highly trainable dogs. They can be taught up to words as well as complex obedience and agility lessons. They respond best to positive reinforcement training and reward-based methods. As eager-to-please dogs, Mini Portidoodle puppies can be motivated with praise, a gentle and fun approach, and vet-approved treat rewards. Early socialization, as well as early leash and crate training , are recommended for the Mini Portipoo puppy. Early socialization ensures that the Mini Portidoodle puppy grows up into a well-mannered, friendly, and non-aggressive adult dog. The Mini Portidoodle is somewhat independent and can be left alone for up to 6 hours each day. It is not recommended to leave the Mini Portidoodle or the Mini Portidoodle puppy alone for more than 6 hours each day as they might develop separation anxiety. Early training is key for a well-behaved adult dog. By mixing two highly popular dog breeds, professional breeders aimed to create a hybrid that would possess the hypoallergenic qualities, keen intelligence, agility, and fun nature of both parent breeds. A gift to the world, the Mini Portipoo breed impressed from the get-go and is one of the most sought-after doodle breeds. The Portuguese Water Dog puppy , also known as Cao de Agua dog of water is a centuries-old breed that originated in Portugal. With their webbed paws, excellent swimming capabilities, and great love for water, the Portuguese Water Dogs were trained to lure fish into nets, retrieve fishing gear and nets from the water, and act as messengers between fishing vessels. When fishing ships joined the modernized era, the Portuguese Water dogs moved on to become loyal, affectionate, and treasured companion pets. The Poodle puppies , famous for their big brains, gorgeous looks, and sweet nature, are a breed with a most impressive history. Developed in Germany, Poodles have been long admired for their stunning looks, retrieving skills, performance with the traveling circus, therapy work, companionship, and sporting titles. Officially recognized by the AKC for their three sizes Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle, and Toy Poodle , Poodles, regardless of their size, never fail to impress with their agility, friendliness, and learning skills. They are considered the second most intelligent dog breed in the world and the top breed in many countries. Should a Portuguese Water Dog Mix take after their PWD parent, they will be an energetic, playful, and loving dog that is likely to love the water! Portuguese Water Dogs are known to have friendly, playful dispositions. They bond closely with their families and love being around them. They also tend to get along with just about everyone. As long as they are properly socialized, they do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are even open to meeting strangers! If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from a Portuguese Water Dog Mix. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent as they will their own quirks you will want to be aware of. You can also meet the mother to see what her temperament is like and what behavior she is modeling for her puppies. The breeder should have started some socialization and training, but it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. PWDs tend to be highly adaptable dogs. As long as they get enough daily exercise and attention, they do well in apartments as well as larger homes. They are not overly sensitive to the heat and cold, but you still need to be cautious with extremes as with all dogs. These dogs also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Portuguese Water Dog Mix. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs. Both of these are genetic and reputable breeders should be testing for them. Reputable breeders should be screening their dogs regardless to avoid passing issues to puppies. Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent dogs that are eager to please and pick up on things quickly. As long as you can handle their energy and keep training interesting, they are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Portuguese Water Dog Mix. If the other parent breed is more difficult to train, then you will want to be prepared to enroll in puppy training classes. A Portuguese Water Dog Mix can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a combination of both. If they end up with a Portuguese Water Dog coat, they will be low-shedding, require weekly brushing, and need the occasional bath. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. A Portuguese Water Dog is a high-energy dog that needs daily walks, plus playtime, some time to run, and other activities to be happy and healthy. They are an agile and athletic breed that tends to be well-suited for several dogs sports and are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy breed, then you should expect a high-energy Portuguese Water Dog Mix. If the other parent breed has a lower activity level, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A fully-grown Portuguese Water Dog Mix stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so you want to ask the breeder about them. A PWD generally lives for years on average. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span in a Portuguese Water Dog Mix. Two members of the same family Poodles and Portuguese Water Dogs split centuries ago. The Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix combines the history, heritage and popular conceptions of these breeds. This takes us back to a type of dog that started it all in the beginning. As dogs and men began to work together, various types of dogs were bred and selected. Guard dogs, herding dogs and hunting dogs were probably the first three sorts. Some dog breeds may have been chosen and bred specifically for certain takes. Many other dogs were simply allowed to be themselves, and work was tailored around them. A need arose for dogs who could work as hunters and retrievers in the water. These dogs would bring back ducks, geese and other waterfowl to their owners. And these dogs are the parents of both the Portuguese Water Dog and the Poodle. The major difference is that the Poodle is now generally regarded as coming from France, while the Portuguese Water Dog is from Portugal. This mix brings the two branches of the family back together again. While Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes are mixed breeds, they bring many of the advantages of purebreds with them. This includes an intriguing history, good looks and a dog that is uniquely yours. Some lesser known facts about these dogs include: They can be mistaken for poodles on a regular basis. Their tight, curly coats may make them better for those with allergies. This mixed breed generally results in excellent swimmers. Beyond these general facts, Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes are a bundle of surprises just waiting to be unlocked by you. They are 17 to 22 inches high and can weigh up to 60 pounds. They are not going to be as small as some Poodles may be. This includes brown, black, silver, blue, white and red. You may also find a fawn, cream or grey-coated Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix. Their eyes are usually brown or amber, and their coats tend to be curly and on the shorter side. This means some extra time spent on grooming. These dogs may have long necks, tapered tails and well-defined toplines. Any combination of the above is also possible. The best way to find out what your pup may look like is to find a litter or a group of older dogs and take a look. As both of the parents are intelligent to start with, this mix tends to be even more clever. This can have interesting repercussions. Because of their need for mental stimulation, Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes can be very destructive. However, this is not malicious or aggressive behavior. It also makes them great with small children because they are always up for a challenge. Small children provide that in plenty. They are also very friendly, extroverted and social. Given these traits, deliberate socialization and training are a must in order to provide the best possible experience for you and your pup. To a lesser extent, resources for working with adult dogs are also available. We offer both on our site. What are some specifics for this mix in particular? Kind but firm training is a must, as is enough mental simulation. Intelligence puzzles and obstacle courses may be great choices for a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix. A wide variety of toys and playtime will also help prevent boredom. As these pups tend to be more sensitive and touchy when disturbed, it is a good idea to get them used to other dogs as soon as possible. What can be expected on a daily to yearly basis? And what should you know about the projected lifetime of these dogs? A Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix can be expected to live about 10 to 12 years. While these dogs have no known chronic or ongoing health problems, a few concerns may crop up over the years, both major and minor. Less serious issues that you may face generally circle around eye issues. Eye examinations in particular can be requested if you find any cause to worry. On a day-to-day basis, these dogs have no special medical or health needs. As with every dog, quality food will go a long way to prevent troubles down the road. Talk to your vet or breeder about your options to make sure your choices are headed in the right direction. Daily care for a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix includes frequent two or more times a week brushing and grooming home sessions. Depending on the family, the first answer is yes. Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes are highly adaptable and very intelligent, which makes them a good fit for most family situations. Because they are very active dogs, they might not be the best for a family who is not at home very often or who is not physically very active. Elderly people may have a harder time keeping up with these dogs. However, for families with small children, children with special needs or changing schedules, a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix might be the right dog for you. Because they adapt and adjust quickly, these pups can handle situations that are not predictable or set in stone. Every family is different, but overall, this mix is qualified to become a new member of almost any family. Rescuing a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mix While it brings different challenges than a puppy, it gives a dog another chance and another life with a loving, caring owner. Because a Portuguese Water Dog looks so much like a poodle, it may be hard to rescue this exact breed. Check your local shelters and ask around; those people may have other resources to help your search. Focused social media pages may help you out as well. As you network, you may find families or people who have to give a beloved dog up or strays that have not been taken to a shelter just yet. These are all viable options. Regardless of the network you tap into, it can be done. It might take a little longer and be a little harder, but you have a great chance of finding your forever friend as a rescue. First of all, please avoid puppy mills, obvious and otherwise. These places are out to make money off of unsuspecting people and unloved dogs. No one wins in these situations. These places may also sadly be some of the first places you find through the Internet. When talking to or meeting any breeder, take a double or triple look at their practices and papers. Look for breeders who do not pressure you in any way to buy a pup right away, who may have a wait list or nothing available at the moment, and who will interview you as to your ability to raise one of their pups. Breed clubs for Portuguese Water Dogs or other local focus groups surrounding this mix are a great place to start, as are any referrals they may give you. Online focus groups can also be very helpful. What are some of the best ways to raise a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix puppy? Most puppy advice training is not breed-specific. For Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes in particular, it may be helpful to focus on their intelligence. These dogs are very smart and may not need to be told things very often. However, this can lead to them finding new avenues for mischief. Thus, the emphasis on training their intelligence. In any case, loving, caring and firm training will only improve the bond between you and your pup. Most poodle mixes share many of the admirable traits of the Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix. Depending on the other parent, you may be able to find to some extent a pup that is almost ideal for your needs. Both parent breeds are an option as well. Ask around at various places for other ideas. Everyone will have an opinion. Your best bet is the Internet and focus groups once again. Depending on your location, they may or may not be available. Check particularly with Poodle rescue organizations because they may have a much better understanding of the rescue landscape that you may have. If you are looking for an intelligent, loyal and adaptable companion to be at your side, this mixed breed is right for you. If you are willing to put in the time and effort to help this dog bond with your family, the answer is probably yes. Best of luck to you on your decision. References and Further Reading:. Portidoodles are affectionate, loving designer dogs obtained by cross-breeding a Portuguese Water Dog with a Standard or Mini Poodle. Portidoodles are also known as Portuguese Water Doodles. The first Portidoodle might have arrived on the scenes in the early s when breeders began experimenting with creating hybrid dogs having one Poodle parent. Often, they have low-shedding coats thanks to their Poodle genes. Breeders often aim to breed dogs that shed minimally. After all, there is a great demand for hypoallergenic dogs in families having individuals with pet allergies. The Portuguese Water Dog is ideal to mix with a Poodle because Porties as they are called fondly have hypoallergenic coats as well. In fact; President Obama selected a Portuguese Water Dog named Bo for his daughter Malia since she suffers from pet allergy symptoms around dogs. Let us take a look at the origins of the parent dog breeds in brief so we can understand more about the Portidoodle. They are smart, shed minimally, and are easy to train. Poodles are a German breed — often known as the pride of Germany. The word Poodle comes from the German word — Pudel — meaning to splash or water puddles. Poodles were bred to work in the water and help hunters to retrieve waterfowl. Today, Poodles consistently top the list of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. Their smartness has earned them great accolades. Many Poodles have become famous because of their extraordinary abilities to perform tricks, dance, and even play musical instruments! No wonder you find Poodles performing in circuses, dog shows, etc. Their compact sizes also make them easy to travel with; a feature that circuses need in their animals. Today, Poodles are popular as companion pets because of their affectionate natures and easy trainability. Most importantly, people love them for their extraordinary charm and intelligence. Like Poodles, Porties are equipped with a curly, water-resistant, and hypoallergenic coat. They also have webbed feet which help them propel through choppy waters easily. Porties were mainly bred to assist fishermen to retrieve fish from the nets. They even helped rescue shipwrecked sailors and to retrieve gear tossed out in the water. Due to their ability to work in water, many Porties were employed by National Baseball teams to retrieve their balls from the bay. These dogs even earned money from this job and the proceeds were all given to various pet charities and animal shelters. Portuguese Water Dogs are a rare breed in Australia. After all, these hybrid dogs are not recognised by any of the major Kennel Clubs. In general, you could expect to find Mini Portidoodles PWD x mini-Poodle weighing in the range of pounds kg and measuring between inches cm. The colours seen in the hybrid dogs are black, white, fawn, grey, chocolate, merle, and sable. You could also have various markings and patterns. Are Portidoodles Hypoallergenic? Portidoodles tend to be low-shedding since both the parent dog breeds shed minimally. The Portuguese Water Dog and Poodle both have tight, curly coats. As mentioned, both breeds were originally developed to work around water bodies, and their water-resistant coats dried quickly while also keeping them warm in freezing waters. You may also follow the same precautions as you would when you are around dogs that shed. This includes washing your hands frequently, not allowing your Portidoodle to lick your face, taking baths frequently, vacuuming with a HEPA filter-based vacuum, etc. Do check out my guide on Hypoallergenic Poodle Mixes. Like both parent dog breeds, they are incredibly intelligent and respond well to obedience training. Puppy training with this cute dog is a must since rewards and praise can lead your dog to excellent behaviour. Never punish your Portidoodle or use aversive training methods and tools like prong collars, electric shock collars, slip leads or check chains. Such training methods have been shown to increase aggression, stress and fear. Your Portidoodle loves humans and will enthusiastically greet people. Portidoodles make friends easily and do not have a mean bone in them. This trait means that they do not make the best guard dogs, but they are still extremely loyal and possessive about their humans and their territory. Due to this possessive tendency, a Portidoodle might bark at mailmen, squirrels, and even other dogs that walk past your property. They are fun to be around and love to play with children. After all; these small dogs could get injured easily if the kids play rough. Also, you should socialise your Portidoodle with other dogs and cats from an early age. The best doodle breeders do this job for you. They raise their Portidoodle puppies at home where they are exposed to loud noises, doorbells, kitchen gadgets, and car rides, as well as other dogs, cats, and kids. This desensitises the puppies to various human experiences and makes them confident dogs. Inherently, Portidoodles are dependable, brave, and curious. It is rare to see a tired Portidoodle! They are eager to learn new things and quickly learn the commands and words for common objects. Like both parents, Portidoodles love water. Your pet will look forward to going to the beach and swimming and diving. Swimming is an excellent exercise for Portidoodles as it has a lower impact on their joints. Portidoodles are also prone to separation anxiety. Check out our guide to preventing and stopping separation anxiety in doodles for tips. They tend to get lonely, depressed, and bored if left home alone all day. You might want to consider enrolling your puppy in doggy daycare or hiring a pet sitter to watch your dog and take it out for walks especially if you will be gone out all day. How Much Do Portidoodles Cost? They are also rare as there are just a handful of breeders selling these pups. So, you could expect to pay more than purebred dog prices for this hybrid dog. Some Portidoodles including the mini size and those with rare coat colours and patterns can cost even more. You can always consider adopting a Portidoodle. But not many dog shelters have rescued, neglected, abandoned, or abused Portidoodles — they are a rare poodle cross. Try contacting a shelter near you. There is no shortage in the variety of dog food available in Australia. So much so, that it can get confusing as to what to feed your Portidoodle. You can always ask your breeder for guidance. Later on, your vet nutritionist can also recommend the right food for your pet based on its age, overall health, and activity levels. In general, look for dog food containing USDA-certified, human-grade ingredients. It should be minimally processed and ideally made in the USA. The Raggy Dogs enjoy homemade raw dog food meals. Their diet consists of human-grade meats, raw meaty bones, homegrown organic vegetables, offal and Ziwi Peak freeze-dried treats. Portidoodle — Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mix: Health Issues and Lifespan Portidoodles are known to suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and thyroid issues. Some dogs even develop progressive retinal atrophy, eyelid problems, and skin infections. Like Poodles, Portidoodles could experience cataracts, epilepsy, and ear infections. The best Portidoodle breeders DNA test their breeding dogs and conduct hip and elbow scoring. The lifespan of a Mini Portidoodle is between years. Standard Portidoodles have a lifespan of years. The Porti poodle mix is particularly popular because of its non-shedding, hypoallergenic coat and high trainability. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information, exclusive offers and access to our community of reputable breeders. These Poodle Portuguese Water Dog crosses are still a great pet for the right family The origin of these parent breeds is much more similar than many would expect There are misconception about the Poodle because its status as a fashionable dog — once upon a time. Yet, this was a retrieving animal right at home in the water too. The difference is that they retrieved ducks and waterfowl in Germany, while the Portuguese Water Dog originated in Portugal. This origin leads to similarities in their athletic build and the quality of their coat. They are lean, energetic dogs with dense coats. This has two implications for the Portuguese Water dog and Poodle mix — their grooming needs and activity levels These Portuguese Poodle mix pups should have that same thick, dense coat — either tightly curled like the Poodle or a little looser like the Water Dog. This means that they need lots of regular brushing and grooming in order to keep this coat in the best condition. Be careful which tools and products that you use because of the quality of the coat. However, there is also the fact that these cross bred pups are sure to be hypoallergenic. Both parents are, with the most minimal of shedding and no dander. Therefore, these mixes are a great choice if there are family members with allergies. As for the exercise needs, this active dog will require plenty of walks and a good diet to stay lean and strong. They share the affectionate, loving and playful tendencies of both the parents. However, this is best achieved with the right training and socialization. This is because of their tendency to be a little more sensitive than some other breeds. Most families will love playing with this loyal cross breed. This is important because of the intelligence of the dog, as well as that need to bond with the family pack. Problem solving games and agility are a great option here. This is important when dealing with that sensitivity and socialization, as well as obedience, barking issues and any other problems that arise. Those that continue to struggle to get results should turn to an online guide for help. Other important information about these Poodle Water Dog crosses Training, exercise and a good diet are all important for a happy, healthy pup. On that note, there are some health issues to remember when taking care of this cross. There is a chance that these dogs could develop some of the more common conditions of their parents. Still, they could be long lived, with an average life expectancy of years. Anyone with concerns over the health care of this dog should check out the Ultimate Guide to Dog Health. It offers great advice on a range of subjects, with accessible information for new owners. Finding the right breeder for a healthy Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix So far in this guide we have highlighted the benefits of the cross between the Standard Poodle and the Portuguese Water Dog. This is because this is the safest, most viable Poodle cross around. This appealing to all those that want to find a way to shrink a Portuguese Water Dog. However, there are health implications and risks. Image source The solution here is to search for Portuguese Poodle breeders that know what they are doing — preferably with a Standard Poodle and Portuguese Water Dog. They best way to be sure is to visit them at home. Take some time to meet the litter and parents to understand more about the pups. There is also the option of Poodle Water Dog mix adoption. Some shelters may have one of these animals in need of a good home. However, it can be difficult to know the precise parentage of some dogs. These Poodle Portuguese Water Dog crosses are still a great pet for the right family Whichever you end up with — a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix or a mini Portuguese Water Dog — there are some great traits to this dog. They are smart, keen to learn and play and a joy to have in the home — with the right training. They are also playful and hypoallergenic with minimal risks to family members. As long as you are careful when searching for Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix puppies for sale, and treat them well, this should be a great pet. Featured Image Credit: Source.


Similar services:

pug puppies san antonio - This is appropriate if you intend to replace a worn-out or damaged collar and are certain that the replacement will be the same size. Measure from the center of the buckle to the current sizing hole for the most accurate results. If your dog has had not any collars before, use measurement tape. If you lack a loose tape measure, you can use any available string, yarn, or ribbon. Now, let go and mark the location on the string where your finger met the end of the string. Then, use a tape measure to determine the length of your string measurement. Not only will a puppy require time to adjust to their new collar, but you will likely need to replace it multiple times to accommodate its growth. You want your dog to develop a bond with their collar and view it as a normal, comfortable part of their life, so take care to select the proper size to facilitate this. Choose The Right Materials Of The Collar Collars for dogs are constructed from a variety of materials that prioritize comfort, aesthetics, and longevity. Golden Retrievers are medium to large dogs who put their collars through the wringer, so durability should be a top priority. The widest variety of designs, colors, and widths can be found in nylon and polyester, the most popular materials. Polyester and nylon are highly flexible and relatively simple to clean fabrics. Cotton Fabric Cotton is highly durable, insulating, and capable of controlling moisture. In addition, they are simple to clean, cost-effective, and simple to maintain. Numerous collars are made of cotton in a variety of patterns and hues. Some collars have an inner fabric sleeve wrapped around a nylon band to increase their durability. Bio Thane Some dog collars are made of the waterproof material Bio thane. Bio thane is composed of polyester and polyurethane and polyvinyl layers. Its waterproof qualities make it ideal for Golden Retrievers, who are likely water-loving canines. Leather Leather is an organic material that is both durable and versatile. They are an excellent option for Golden Retrievers with allergies or sensitivities, despite being more expensive. In contrast to collars made of synthetic materials, it is easy to clean and can be used for years without fading. Neoprene Neoprene is a rubber-based material that has a wide range of applications. It has exceptional water resistance and does not retain moisture, which can lead to odors or mildew growth. Neoprene dog collars combined with nylon or polyester are extremely sturdy and long-lasting, able to last for years. Polyester Or Nylon Due to their popularity, nylon or polyester collars typically have the greatest variety of styles, colors, and sizes. Polyester and nylon are highly flexible synthetic fabrics that are also easy to clean. Different types of collars are necessary for thick and thin furs. The collar size and style are influenced by factors such as hairstyle. These are some tips for selecting the appropriate collar for your puppy. Little Fields Farm is the place to go if you want to find additional dog collar options. This list is not exhaustive, but it does contain some examples. Rope Collars: Rope collars are both comfortable and durable without irritating the skin. Flat-Front Dog Collars: These are the most common collars that are used daily. They consist of a flat, fabric-based collar with a plastic or metal buckle. Safety Considerations When it comes to choosing a collar for your pet, safety should be a top priority. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind: Choose a secure buckle or clasp: The collar should have a buckle or clasp that is secure and will not come undone easily. This will help prevent your pet from escaping and getting lost or injured. Avoid choke chains and prong collars: These types of collars can cause pain and injury to your pet, especially if they are not used correctly. Check for proper fit: A collar that is too loose or too tight can be dangerous for your pet. Make sure the collar fits snugly but not too tightly, and can be adjusted if needed. Consider breakaway collars: If your pet spends time outdoors or unsupervised, a breakaway collar can be a good option. These collars are designed to come apart if they get caught on something, reducing the risk of injury or strangulation. Choose a collar made of safe materials: Some materials can be harmful to pets, such as those that contain toxic chemicals or are easily chewed or swallowed. Choose a collar made of safe materials, such as nylon or leather, and avoid those made of cheap or unsafe materials. Your dog should wear a flat collar at the base of its neck. Golden Retriever puppies will grow quickly, so get a collar that can be adjusted, is easy to put on and take off, and, ideally, has a place for a nametag. It would be enough to have a flat collar with a buckle made of soft, long-lasting materials. No matter whatever option you go with, your four-legged companion needs plenty of exercise and opportunities to run around and play in order to remain healthy and content. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? The idea of a lost puppy is terrifying, but an ID tag will help them return home. Although this silicone ID tag is more expensive than standard tags, I love that it is silent and attaches right to the collar. Crate and or containment gate Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. You can accomplish this with a crate and containment gates. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. I recommend a crate with an adjustable divider so you can give your puppy more room as they grow. Another option is to use a Cumbor containment gate to limit access to certain areas of your home. Food and water bowls There are endless options of food and water bowls. If your dog eats fast, I recommend adding slow feeder attachment. These aids in proper digestion and reduce overeating behaviors. Food and treats Your vet is probably your best source of information for selecting the right food. They create personalized plans for your dog and deliver the food right to your door. I shared my journey of picking the right food in this blog and video. Toys and chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with a variety of items to see what interests your puppy most. Ellie still has her first toy, Dino, from 5 years ago! The safest way to deliver bully sticks is to use a Bow Wow Buddy safety device so they cannot swallow or choke on the last end. Check out this blog for all things grooming. Bonus Recommendation! Online Access to Dog Training We recognized the need for convenient and effective dog training solutions, which is why we created The Hapco. Within our app, you'll discover a wealth of resources, including: video tutorials. Small to Medium 1. Dog collars are made from a variety of materials that are built for comfort, aesthetics, and durability. Golden Retrievers are medium to large dogs that can put their collar through the wringer, so durability should be one of the top things on your list! Nylon or polyester are the most popular materials and offer the greatest range of designs, colors, and widths. Nylon and polyester are highly flexible fabrics that are also relatively easy to clean. Cotton Fabric Cotton offers great durability, insulation, and the ability to control moisture. Many collars are made of cotton in a number of different designs and colors. Some contain a cloth sleeve on the inside around a nylon band to increase the longevity of the collar. Biothane Some dog collars are made of Biothane , which is a waterproof substance. Biothane is made of polyester and layered with polyurethane and polyvinyl. Its waterproof properties make them ideal for Golden Retrievers that are more than likely, water-loving dogs. Leather Leather is a durable, organic material with plenty of styles. Although they are more costly, they are an excellent choice for Golden Retrievers with allergies or sensitivities. Unlike collars made of synthetic materials, it is simple to clean and may be used for several years without fading. Neoprene Neoprene is a rubber-based substance that is used for a variety of applications. It has exceptional water resistance and does not retain moisture, which can lead to the development of odors or mildew. Neoprene dog collars combined with nylon or polyester are incredibly strong and durable and able to last several years. Polyester or Nylon Nylon or polyester collars often have the greatest range of designs, colors, and sizes due to their popularity. Nylon and polyester are highly flexible, synthetic fabrics that are also relatively easy to clean. However, unlike slip or choke collars, you can set the limit to which the collar can close. Rope Collars: Rope collars are both comfortable and long-lasting, without being abrasive on the skin. Flat Front Dog Collars: These are your everyday collars that are the most commonly found. They are a flat, fabric-type collar that fastens with a plastic or metal buckle. Training or Aversive Collars This group of collars includes: Shock collars Prong collars Slip collars or choke chains They are designed to give a firm correction in the form of discomfort or pain when an undesirable behavior is displayed. A shock collar delivers an electric shock, or vibration which is controlled remotely. This is a form of correction to a specific behavior, and while their use is justified in some adult dogs that have aggression, they are not suitable for use on puppies that need positive reinforcement. And the most common training collar is the slip collar or choke chain. It does exactly that if used incorrectly, choke the dog. When it comes to puppies, there are a lot of things that people get wrong. These collars are not meant for beginners and should be used with care by experienced trainers only. You should avoid using them on young pups and only use this as a last resort when all other training methods have failed. If your pup is exhibiting behavior severe enough to warrant a stern correction, it might be better for you to seek help from a professional. We use the 8mm size for our dogs. Alvalley is a high quality brand for all lengths. For an adult dog, use an 8 mm or larger. For a young puppy, an 8 mm leash works fine, but I prefer the smaller 6 mm Alvalley Snap Lead one for ease of use when working at home. This size fits easily into the outside pocket of a treat bag. If going for a walk, use a more substantial leash such as the 8 mm Alvalley leash. For at-home use, a 6 mm collar is fine. I like to attach a snap lead permanently to a martingale collar for ease of use. The collar and leash can easily be slipped off and on as needed. Puppies and even some dogs like to chew the plastic ones. At 10 weeks of age, we are using very small bowls for ease of use during training. Golden Retrievers tend to act like they are starving and eat too fast, even at their correct weight. These bowls slow them down so that they will come closer to chewing their food than inhaling it. I like to use buckets instead of bowls for water. Puppies love to dig in their water which makes a mess out of it. Hang the bucket on the outside of the crate by the handle that is on the bucket. Then attach the clip for security by using only one side of the clip to attach the handle to the crate. Leave the other end of the clip just hanging. Never put water inside a crate with a dog. I recommend the 2-quart size for one or two big dogs. This size is also a good size for a puppy. I use two snaps to stabilize the bucket. Though wire crates usually have a divider so that you can size the crate down, we recommend that you go ahead and purchase a 24 inch wire crate along with the correct size for your dog when he is grown. Most puppies can use the 24 inch crates for about 2 months after they are weeks of age. It is also helpful to have a smaller crate when traveling. If you want this option with a Summer Brook puppy, you can have a small icrate shipped to our home address for you to pick up when you get here. The best size crate for adult girls is a 36X24X27 inch wire crate. For an adult boy, use either a 42X28X30 or 36X24X27 inch wire crate. We prefer wire crates in most cases because they give more ventilation and Golden Retrievers like it to be cool. Midwest Life Stages : These are heavy duty and come in both double or single door options. I prefer the crate with the double door because you will have the opportunity to use it turned sideways with the entrance on the side as well as the end. The Icrates are also two inches shorter and two inches narrower than the Life Stages crate. They are larger at the bottom than the top so they fit better in the back of an SUV or van. They are crash tested and have excellent safety records. These crates are a bit difficult to set up and take down so we only recommend them for those that want a crate that stays in a vehicle most of the time. They are perfect for families that take their dogs with them a lot and want a somewhat permanent fixture in their vehicle. This crate is very lightweight and sets up and folds down quickly and easily. We love these crates for motels and dog shows. Wood Crate Denhaus Townhaus : I recommend this crate if looks are important to you. This crate looks just like a nice end table. Though it was expensive, mine has held up well for several years. Crate Pad Primo Pads: These are my favorite crate pads. They are made of a heavy-duty vinyl and I have yet to have a dog chew one up. The vinyl is cool so that my dogs like them even in the summer. They come in a big variety of sizes so that they will fit your crate like a glove. These pads are not sold anywhere except from the manufacturer. Order your Primo Pads here. This is a raised cot-like bed that is cool and comfortable. There is a new Kuranda Bed that we have not tried ourselves but it looks amazing. It is a raised cot like the aluminum bed that we have loved for years but it is sized to fit perfectly into a crate! We have purchased both the aluminum as well as the less-expensive PVC Kuranda beds. Our aluminum beds still look brand new but our PVC beds are starting to warp a little after a few years. We like the Ballistic Nylon fabric which has held up for us for several years. The large is the correct size for both boy and girl Goldens. We have two of them and they are as comfortable as many human beds. We have the extra-large size but a large would be plenty big enough for a girl. At first, your puppy will have to be watched almost every minute when they are out of the crate or pen in order to establish good potty habits and also to teach them not to chew. Until you teach them otherwise, some puppies will try to chew everything, including the furniture and even the woodwork on the walls so I have found the pen to be a huge help. If you get a pen, you need to begin training your puppy not to jump on the sides right away. Never pet your puppy or let him out while he is jumping. Reward him for sitting. They open and close easily and in both directions. The Richell Pens look really super nice. They also can be set up as room dividers. We own at least a dozen sets of these pens and have used them in a large number of configurations. However, like most exercise pens, many puppies will eventually learn to climb or jump out of them. Families must be on top of training their puppy not to jump on the sides. Unlike the Richell pen, most, if not all pens have doors that open in only one direction. If you get one of these pens, set your pen up so that the door opens to the outside. If you are getting your puppy from a breeder other than Summer Brook, plastic pens are a good option for a 7 to 10 week old puppy. It is easier to house train if you start off not allowing your puppy in too large of an area. It also has the added convenience of being able to be easily removed by simply pushing a button that locks it in place. However, this gate must be mounted to the wall. Baby Gates that are Mobile Regalo Extra WideSpan Walkthrough Safety Gate : This gate can span a space inches For a pressure-mounted gate, the Regalo gates do very well and are a good simple solution if you only want a gate for a few months until your puppy is house-trained and can be given the full run of the house. However, understand that many puppies cannot be totally trusted in large areas until they are over 6 months of age. It takes some until they are close to a year. Doggy Door Why to Use a Doggy Door If you are able to put a doggy door in, this is by far the easiest way to house-train a puppy. Also, it provides an ideal way to leave a dog when they have to be alone. I teach our puppies to use a doggy door before they go home. In the last days before they go home, I section off a small area inside next to our kitchen with free access to a doggy door that leads to our side yard. When I keep a puppy past 8 weeks, I gradually increase the size area of the indoor area as they show dependability. I reserve the times when they are free in the house to the 30 minutes right after they have pottied. We highly recommend it. If you have a particularly aggressive chewer then I would buy the Extreme Kong but if your dog is average then I would use a Classic Kong. Bob-a-lot : You can fill this toy with a lot of food; the dog has to work at getting the food out by pushing it around. JW Pet has other great toys too. If you have a particularly aggressive chewer then I would buy the Extreme Kong but if your dog is an average chewer then I would use a Classic Kong. Puppies love them and they keep our puppies happy in their crates. Toys for Month Old Puppies.