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Written step-by-step video tutorial: For the first few steps, don't press down too hard with your pencil. Use light, smooth strokes to begin. Step 1: Draw two circles as guides for the first part of the golden retriever's body. First draw four small marks for the height and width of the circle, then connect the marks using curved lines. Sketch lightly at first so that it's easy to erase if you make a mistake. But the circles don't have to be perfect. They're just guides. If you do want perfect circles, trace the outer rim of a coin, a bottle cap or any other object with a circular edge. The circle on the right should be smaller than the one on the left, and their edges should touch. Place the circle on the right slightly higher so that the top edges of both circles are at the same level. Step 2: Draw another circle on the top, left side as a guide for the golden retriever's head. Draw this circle the same way. First draw four marks that indicate the height and width, then connect the marks using curved lines. The edges of the circles should touch. This circle should be a bit smaller than the body circle on the right. Step 3: Draw a curved horizontal line across the golden retriever's head. This is a construction line that will help you place the dog's facial features later. Add a curved vertical line on the top left side of the head for another construction line. Step 4: Draw a small circle on the lower left side of the head as a guide for the dog's muzzle. The top edge of this circle should touch the construction line, and the bottom edge should be outside of the head. The left edge of the circle should also be outside the head. Pay attention to the size of this circle in relation to the golden retriever's head. On the right side of the head, below the horizontal construciton line, draw a V-shaped line for the golden retriever's other ear. Add an extra line on the V-shaped line that attaches to the edge of the head. To complete this step, use two symmetrical curved lines and an arc at the bottom of them. Add the facial features of the Golden Retriever. Now you should add two oval eyes and the nose using a curved line. Depict the top of the head and ears. Draw curved lines above the previously drawn elements and on the sides of the head. Sketch out the torso and forelimbs of the dog. Below the previously drawn head, draw curved lines, as shown in the figure. Add the fingers on the front legs of the dog. At the bottom of the previously drawn paws, draw short, curved lines to indicate the toes. Start drawing the back of the Golden Retriever. On the right and left sides of the previously drawn torso and front legs, add curved lines. Finish drawing the torso and paws. Draw the flanked feet and lower torso using curved lines. Add the outlines of the fingers on the hind legs. Color the drawing. To color the Golden Retriever, use beige, gray, and black. I remind you that you can download the PDF file that I have prepared especially for your convenience. This file contains a short version of this lesson and has additional useful training materials. Download this file so as not to lose it and return to this lesson at any time convenient for you. January 11, January 26, Welcome Peggy Osborne back in for another of her wonderful step-by-step tutorials. How to Draw a Golden Retriever For this tutorial I decided to draw a golden retriever as I see a lot of people struggle with the coloring of Goldens. Goldens come in a variety of golden tones from a deep red to a pale, almost white golden color. This Golden Retriever is a mid-range golden color. I chose this reference for his sweet expression, which is common to this breed. Here is the reference photo from Pixabay. I cropped the original a bit. I thought the color would be a nice background to work on, giving a warm glow to the final drawing. Start with an Accurate Line Drawing I start with a sketch showing the details I want to draw and the placement of the important features. Getting the Eyes Right I usually always start with the eyes. The reference photo shows reflections of the window and shadows in the eye. I want to try to convey this in my drawing, so I start by placing those highlights with White. Then I start layering Sienna Brown, Chocolate, Light Umber, and Dark Brown into each eye using a sharp point and light pressure to build up the layers slowly. I outline the eye and draw the pupil with Black, and use Blue Slate in the highlights. Next, Draw the Hair Around the Eyes Remember to always look closely at the reference photo and observe how the fur is arranged and growing. Start at the root of the hair and draw outward the way the fur grows. This gives you a sharp line at the end of the hairs and makes the hair look more natural. Then I begin building up layers with lighter colors such as Light Umber, Beige, Peach, Sand, and Goldenrod, working from light to dark. I continue layering those colors, but if I see another color in the reference photo, I add it as I work. In addition, I keep drawing hair-like strokes in the direction the fur grows. I lay in the darkest areas in the ear with Sepia and Light Umber. I wash the whole ear with Sand using a light touch. Next I use White in the highlighted areas of the ear to create depth. Then I use a wash of Beige before going over the ear again with layers of Sepia and Light Umber to create more shadows. With each layer, I draw more details in the ear, repeating the same process with the colors mentioned until I am finished. When the ear is finished, I move to the other side of the face and ear using the same method and colors. Continue checking the reference photo as you work, and look for the color placement and apply colors accordingly. I drew the light and dark areas lightly with White and Light Umber to show the contours of the face. I finish the muzzle using the same colors as the rest of the fur. To start the nose, I mark the highlights with White and the darkest areas with Black. Drawing the Neck and Chest The next area is the fluffy hair beneath the chin and ear. I draw in the area with Light Umber. Using various colors as previously stated, I add several layers of color so I can use the solvent to blend them smoothly. You need 4 to 5 layers to get a smooth blend when using solvent. I use a light touch and draw lines to show definition in the fur and shadows. Sometimes, I also use the pencil on its side, softly creating a wash over the whole area. I repeated this step until I got the drawing where I wanted it. Once the main colors are in place, I continue adding more layers and details, still using pretty much the same colors throughout the piece. For the solvent blend, I apply the solvent with a little brush and make sure to follow the direction of the hair with the brush. This softens the colors without completely blending them and makes them look more natural. The solvent also makes the colors look brighter. I apply this with a small brush over the areas I blended with solvent. You can see this in this photo. The Final Steps Just before finishing the drawing, I place it in a comparison split photo to see how the colors compare side-by-side. I needed to add more Goldenrod and Greyed Lavender. I also added Dark Umber in the dark areas and then went in again with the Titanium White mixture to add more depth. To add whiskers, I first used White, then went over them with Titanium White mixture to punch them up. Then I converted the reference photo to black-and-white for a comparison of values without color. This is the finished piece. My thanks to Peggy for another great tutorial. I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and are now ready to try your hand with a Golden Retriever portrait. Peggy is an accomplished self-taught artist living in Canada specializing in creating beautiful realistic portraits of pets and family members. She started out using graphite pencil so it was an easy transition to carry on with colored pencils. Love of animals and art go hand in hand. Peggy is in awe of what can be accomplished with colored pencils. Ready for a more in-depth tutorial from Peggy? Purchase her Blue Eyed Aussie tutorial today for more great teaching. Share this:.

NKC Jr. Little did I know what I was getting into, learning quickly that American Bulldogs can be a handful, to say the least. But nonetheless, Coot and I had a wonderful bond and shared an adventurous life together for 10 years before I lost him to cancer. From the start, Nashi immediately became part of the family, living in our home in the NC Mountains, surrounded by active adults and teenagers. We spent endless hours training and socializing her with people, taking her to various stores, festivals, hiking in the mountains, car rides, and dogs shows. We competed in our very first conformation show in , competing until we retired Nashi after she produced her first litter. We kept Boss and Domino from the litter, competing in the show ring once again with Domino. In , we produced our second litter from Domino, expanding our list of dogs with the addition of Wick. We love that the American Bulldog is the embodiment of loyalty and devotion. The perfect combination of a working dog, true guardian, powerful athlete and companion. They are very intelligent, courageous, goofy, sensitive and stubborn. We enjoy the breed because we can do everything we want with them; hike, swim, camp, hunt, the possibilities are endless. The American Bulldog isn't for everyone, they can be territorial and dog aggressive. As a puppy, one must be dedicated to training and build a good foundation, socialization and defining boundaries. Look no further than Hooch Jr. With his endearing resemblance to the iconic Hooch from the movies, Hooch Jr. His expressive eyes and that classic pitty smile will melt away your worries in an instant. But wait, there's more — Hooch Jr. It's like he's a master at tugging at your heartstrings with every glance. Hooch Jr. He thrives on human companionship and can't wait to become your new best friend. While he's more than happy to make new furry buddies, his heart truly belongs to his human family. He's a prime example of a lap dog trapped in a slightly larger body, and he's guaranteed to provide you with an endless supply of cuddles, snuggles, and affectionate gazes. Whether it's a romp in the yard or a leisurely stroll with his canine pals, Hooch Jr. This little guy is no slouch when it comes to learning. And if you're a fan of peaceful walks, you're in luck! He's a leash-walking extraordinaire, making every stroll a breeze. If you're looking for a furry companion who wears his heart on his paw, Hooch Jr. His enthusiasm for life and his love for everyone he meets are truly heartwarming. Whether you're young or young at heart, he's bound to wrap you around his little paw with his irresistible charm and his expertly executed pout lip. If you're ready to open your heart and home to a forever friend, don't miss the chance to bring Hooch Jr. He is microchipped, current on his vaccinations and preventatives. If someone has caught your eye and you wish to arrange a meet and greet, we do need you to fill out the adoption application. When your adoption application is received our screening team will verify the information given. Once your application has been confirmed and approved, we will be send it over to the foster parent for review to determine if your home is a good match for the dog. In the event one lucky dog receives multiple applications, please know we do not select based on a first come basis. We try our best to select the best-fit for our animals and families.

Adoption Form Think Before You Adopt Before you adopt a Boxer or any other animals, we would like to request that you consider few things: Boxers may live for 15 years. Please consider that your lifestyle may change. You may not have the same job where you are able to come home at lunch, you may not have the same roommate, you may graduate from school or move to a smaller house. You may have a baby, get married or get a divorce. If you think that you may not be able to make a lifetime commitment to one of our Boxers, then we kindly request you reconsider adoption. No dog is ever perfect, just like people are not perfect. It requires work to make things work. Your expectations needs to be realistic. Do you have small children or a baby? Boxers are similar. They need love, attention and an opportunity to learn too. Are you familiar with the breed? If not, you may want to look into fostering with us before making a decision to adopt. Boxers are a highly affectionate breed and very energetic. Do you have the financial means to care for the dog? Annual food and medical cost can add up. Are you older and wanting to adopt a young energetic dog? Please think about more mature dogs that need homes. Everyone wants a young dog … if you are a mature human being, please consider more mature dogs that have been waiting for their forever homes for a while. Before you fill out this application, please read our Adoption Criteria. This is required reading, and it will answer many questions you may have. Thank you for taking the time to read our guidelines and becoming familiar with our process. Here are most, but we reserve the right to refuse adoption to any home which we deem unsuitable. Dog must be an inside dog. It is OK to have an outside dog run with inside access. This is because Boxers must be protected from heat and cold. Dogs are family members and do not sleep in a garage or outside. If you expect that the new dog will not react when a child hits them, throw toys at them, takes away their toy or food, etc, then please do not adopt from us. You are not required to have a fenced yard. However, if you do not, you will need to take the dog out for a potty break at least 4 times a day, more if they do not feel well. Same goes for a home with a low fence. If you are looking to adopt a puppy, please be realistic. Any home where no one is home for more than six hours a day times a week will be rejected for puppies. We do not do female to female placements of bully breeds. That means Boxer, Bulldog, Pit bulls, etc. We will consider female to female adoption of dogs with extreme age and size difference. Here are basics you will need: Flat Leash — Nylon, cotton or leather, 6 ft long Good quality food with no corn additive Food and water dish. This way, the dogs receive one on one care, as well as the love attention that only comes from being in a family environment. We learn their likes, dislikes, and temperament and can address any illnesses or behavior problems quickly. They live indoors with our own pets, as they are our very own! We have many wonderful Boxer dogs available for adoption. An adoption donation fee is required to adopt a rescued Boxer. Most of our Boxers come from high kill shelters. Some of our rescue Boxers were picked up as strays by Animal Control. Some of them have been surrendered by their owners due to divorce, death, financial problems, etc. If you are interested in adopting from our rescue, please fill out an Adoption Application today. We thoroughly screen applicants and check references. Please feel free to browse through our available dogs! Everyone I was in contact with was so very nice, understanding and immediately became good friends… I cannot begin to express the gratitude I have for Blue Ridge for putting the three of us together. Alan B A few months ago, my husband and I decided we were ready to open our home up to another boxer. After looking through the available males section we found him. Ruger is a fawn boxer with a little white smudge on his nose. He is also a three-legged boxer…. He has become such an amazing part of our family. We adopted Juneau aka Chrysler four years ago. He has since earned his UKC novice agility title, starred in a local commercial and just recently earned his first leg toward his AKC Novice agility title! Juneau took first place with a perfect score and a course time of .He is the best dog and we can never thank BRBR enough! Alka Alka is a very sweet girl who needs a family that will help her feel safe in the world. Once you have earned her trust.My foster mama says I am a darling and petite beauty with a warm and affectionate personality. While energetic and spry, I am content.Please come back to Ava's profile page as her foster family gets to know her better. His heart is functioning acceptably but as he grows the defects may change, for the better or for the worse. NCBR will not accept applications.She walks well on a leash. Loves people and attention and would thrive in a home where the humans are present. She would do well in a calm home and responds well to.Read More Adopted Canella Canella loves to be with her humans and loves giving and being hugged. She will jump up very gently on you and put her paws on either side of your stomach, or if you are stilling down she'll put her.She is super energetic and loves playtime with toys or just rolling around on the ground. She was very timid and shy at first and would flatten on the ground if.Please come back to Darla's profile page as her foster family gets to know her better. They call me "Handsome Man Dave". I am a bit on the smaller size at 48 pounds but I am a solid ball.I love following my foster parents around the house whether it is out to play or into the bathroom to keep them company lol! I love.Please come back to Finn's profile page as his foster family gets to know him better. Hi, I'm Frankie! I've been in foster care for over a year and I'm ready to find my forever home! My foster mom says.He loves to let you know when he's ready for dinner or treats with a low growl and occasional bark. His tail is wagging the whole time letting you know he's in.Read More Adopted Gracie Gracie is sweet and lovable. She enjoys going for short walks and is very well behaved on a leash. She loves her daily zoomies so a fenced in yard would be ideal. She enjoys being with her people and is.Please come back to Gronk's profile page as his foster family gets to know him better. She is social, snuggly, and snorty. She enjoy walks, riding in the car and chewing on her morning Kong. She is a fast eater so she is learning to take her time with a.Please come back to Hazel's profile page as her foster family gets to know her better. He loves to smile and show off his playfulness. He prefers to hangout with his person wherever they are and doesn't like being left alone much. He would thrive being a.I love to play with my chew toys especially the squeaky ones. I wrestle all day with my sister Julie and new foster dog family. I usually win! Read More Adoption Pending Jane Please note: Puppies will only be adopted to a home with a preexisting adult dog, no children under age five, no unfenced pools, and where the puppy will not be home alone for long hours. Do not fill out an.He is very smart and engaged with his human. He is learning everything for the first time and is a blank slate for any training or activities his new family wants to do with him. I just love playing with my brother Jake and new foster dog family. We sure do love.A bit timid with new people but warms up quickly. She loves to play wrestle with her foster brother but also loves to cozy up on your lap and snooze. She came from a family with children, does well with the children in our house, and already knows the basics. Lacey knows "sit", "down", and picked.Please come back to Lizzie's profile page as her foster family gets to know her better. She is pretty mellow and calm, and loves to give kisses and to get attention. Her hind legs are limited in mobility due to her severe back problems. She absolutely must have.Please come back to McQueen's profile page as his foster family gets to know him better and follow his recovery. Imagine, two hauntingly large eyes staring at you.Please come back to Naija's profile page as her foster family gets to know her better. Read More Adoption Pending Naomi My foster mama tells me I am a darling bundle of joy who dishes out oodles of love and affection. As a stunning, spry, playful, athletic, youthful and darling beauty, I adore being around my people. Cuddles are my jam.Read More Adopted Nevada Nevada is a friendly outgoing puppy that loves to cuddle. She enjoys having another dog to play with. Nevada looks forward to going on walks and she loves her toys and treats. Nirvana is a big, powerful girl but also a love around the house. She is very smart and already knows several commands, such as.Read More Accepting Applications Olive Olive is very sweet and mellow with humans, and loves head rubs, belly rubs and general love and affection. She is dog and leash reactive, so will need some training and patience when on walks. She enjoys playing fetch with.Read More Accepting Applications Pablo Sir Pablo is a gentle giant that loves human and dog interaction but can be a couch potato too. He would be a great office dog, that's his daily routine right now. He's a typical boxer who thinks he's a.He is sweet, silly, snuggly, and ridiculously cute. He is just about everything that is good in a dog. Petey loves to entertain himself and others with his playful attitude and his puppy-like.Take a look at cutie patootie, Roxanne! She is a 45 ball of muscle. Roxanne is a happy go lucky girl that loves zipping.Read More Hospice Schatzie Schatzie loves to be held and is very affectionate. She will walk up to you and rest her head on your hand or lap. She is slowly learning how to play catch after watching our resident dog and loves holding.Please come back to Skye's profile page as her foster family gets to know her better. Read More Adopted Slade Slade is as sweet as they come. Slade is excellent on the leash; she will stay right on your hip and frequently look up to give you a glimpse of her big, beautiful smile. On her walks, Slade is very.Please come back to Star's profile page as her foster family gets to know her better. Read More Accepting Applications Stormy Stormy is a compact version of the sweetest, silliest, squishy faced, white boxer girl. She is all wiggles when greeting you. She is super soft and loves scratches, snuggles and being close. Stormy is smart, curious and adventurous but silly.Read More Hospice Tank is living out his days in his foster home. Because of anxiety, she has failed in several foster homes, mostly because she had issues with being left. She has been in her current foster home almost two months and is doing.Please come back to Toby's profile page as his foster family gets to know him better. I am so happy in a home with those that love me. I don't mind having other dog friends, but not sure I like to share my humans with them. I absolutely love to.Hello, my name is Tripp! I love walks, car rides, but I especially love playing with squeaky toys. Handsome man Zach is a big, good looking white boxer who has an impressive boxer wiggle and loves snuggles. Zach has been living with.Zeus is very smart and playful, he loves toys and learns routines quickly. Zeus loves to play chase and tug anytime. He is learning.He would be a great office dog, that's his daily routine

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. We have answers. Why are French Bulldogs so expensive? Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but Frenchies are definitely unique. Their narrow hips make breeding them a bit more difficult than other dogs. They must be artificially inseminated and usually give birth via C-section. This means that Frenchie breeders must be especially skilled and experienced. At Uptown Puppies, we only work with the best breeders in the business. We have a strict screening process to make sure that all of our partners adhere to our high standards of puppy care. That means no puppy mills - only responsible, ethical breeders who pledge to treat their puppies humanely. Do you work with puppy mills? There is no denying that puppy mills are detrimental to both the puppies and their new owners. Dogs bred in these conditions are often sickly and have behavioral problems, making them a costly investment in the long run. If you're considering adding a puppy to your family, please do your research and choose a responsible breeder. Your furry friend will thank you for it. If you're looking for a low-maintenance dog that's perfect for apartment living, a French Bulldog is an excellent choice. These friendly pups are relatively small, and they don't require a lot of exercise, making them ideal for city dwellers. Additionally, French Bulldogs have short, fine coats that shed less than other breeds. French Bulldogs are the perfect dogs for people who wish their pooch was a little lazy and pint-sized. They don't need much exercise and their short coats make them low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. If you're looking for a laid-back dog that will be content lounging around your home, a French Bulldog is a great choice. Are French Bulldogs a working breed? Looking for a family-friendly pet that will make you laugh? Look no further than the French Bulldog! These goofy pups are not only incredibly adorable, but they also have loving and sweet personalities. Perfect for families of all shapes and sizes, a French Bulldog will quickly become a cherished member of your household. Will my French Bulldog for sale in Reno snore? While many dog breeds are known for their snoring, Frenchies are certainly among the most notorious. Their squished faces make it easy to understand why they struggle to keep their breathing passages clear. If you're planning on sharing a room with your Frenchie, be prepared for some serious snoring! Reno Frenchies have docked tails, right? Docking tails is a practice that has come under scrutiny in recent years. Many believe that it is cruel and unnecessary, however there are some breeds who are born with naturally short tails. The French Bulldog is one such breed. Their tails can vary in length from curly to nubs, but they are all born with a stubby tail to match their stubby body. So if you were concerned about breeders docking your puppy's tail, don't be. Can French Bulldog puppies Reno handle hot weather? Dogs with shortened snouts, like Pugs and Boston Terriers, require special care in hot weather. Their shortened snouts make it difficult for them to pant and cool off as other dogs do. Ensure your pooch has access to air conditioning during summer months to keep them comfortable. What is a fluffy French Bulldog Reno? Looking for a French Bulldog with a difference? Why not go for a fluffy version! Although this look is relatively rare, there are breeders out there who specifically cater to those looking for a long-haired French Bulldog. Just be aware that this type of dog may be harder to come by than the standard short-haired variety. Do you like French Bulldogs? They are definitely some of the most interesting looking dogs out there. But that's not all they offer — French Bulldogs also have great personalities, making them perfect dogs for families. And since they're pint-sized, they're suitable for both city and rural families who might not have a lot of space. If you're looking for a travel companion that won't require a lot of work, consider a French Bulldog. They're small, don't shed much, and are relatively inactive. Plus, they love cuddling! Just be aware that French Bulldogs don't do well in hot weather.

Black, black and tan, red and tan, fawn and tan Activity level High; requires up to minutes of exercise daily Suitable for families Yes, for families that can meet the exercise and nutritional requirements Dietary needs High-protein diet; adults require high quality food depending on activity level Potential health issues Hip dysplasia, bloating, osteoarthritis, arthritis, allergies, and cataracts Australian Kelpie History Image Source: Gili Pup — pexels. The Australian Kelpie is a herding dog that was originally bred in Australia in the s. The German Shepherd is a working dog that was originally bred in Germany in the late s. These two breeds were mixed together in the early s in Australia. The Kelpie dog breed is known for being intelligent, loyal, and hardworking. They are also very active and need an abundance of exercise. German Shepherd Australian Kelpie Mix makes great family dogs and are good with children. Appearance of Kelpie Shepherd The Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix is a beautiful dog that is sure to turn heads when out on walks. They have a sleek, black coat with tan markings around the eyes and on the legs. This unique combination makes them stand out from other dogs and is sure to get you compliments from strangers. While they may be a bit of a handful, the Kelpie Shepherd mix is a loving and loyal dog that will be your best friend for life. They are great with children and other pets and will make a wonderful addition to any family. If you are looking for a new furry friend, be sure to consider the Australian German Shepherd mix. Size Australian Kelpie German Shepherd Mix are a large breed of dog, averaging between 20 and 24 inches in height at the shoulder. They can weigh anywhere from 50 to 80 pounds. German Shepherd Kelpie Mix are medium to high energy dogs that need lots of exercise and activity to stay happy and healthy. Average weight of a Kelpie is around lbs. They are also very intelligent and can be trained to do many things. Kelpie Australian Mix are a great choice for a family dog. They are also good with children. It is good to know about Kelpie temperament before buying this dog. This mix is an excellent choice for families with children, as they are very loving and protective. When it comes to grooming, the Australian Kelpie mix is relatively easy to maintain. They only require occasional brushing and bathing. It is important to keep their nails trimmed and their ears clean to prevent infections. Australian Kelpies are known for being heavy shedders, so regular brushing is necessary to keep their coat looking its best. German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds seasonally. This mix is moderate shedders, so they will require more frequent brushing during shedding seasons. Overall, the Kelpie mix is a low-maintenance breed that is easy to groom. Feeding them the right amount will help keep them healthy and prevent obesity. When it comes to German Shepherd Kelpie Mix, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to feeding. First, these dogs need a lot of protein to maintain their energy level. Exercise Kelpie Australian Shepherd mix are a great breed for those who want an active and intelligent dog. They excel in obedience and agility trials and make wonderful companion dogs. However, they are not the best choice for first-time dog owners as they can be headstrong and require firm training. Australian Kelpie German Shepherd Mix need lots of exercise and if left alone for too long, they can become destructive. If you are looking for a Kelpie Shepherd to add to your family, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. They make wonderful companion dogs for active families. Training Aussie Kelpie Mix are highly intelligent and active, so training is a must. They need an experienced owner who can provide firm, consistent leadership. Training should be started as early as possible to prevent any unwanted behaviors from developing. Here are some tips on how to train your German Shepherd Australian Kelpie Mix: — Be consistent with your commands and rewards. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you will be able to successfully train your Kelpie Shepherd Mix. Soon you will have a well-behaved, obedient dog that is a joy to be around. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common among large breeds, and the Australian Kelpie cross German Shepherd is no exception. This can be a very painful condition, and it can lead to arthritis. This disease is a blood disorder that can cause excessive bleeding. Allergies are also common in German Shepherd cross Australian Kelpie. Many dogs in this breed are allergic to grass, pollen, and dust. If your dog is showing signs of allergies, it is important to take them to the vet so that they can get the proper treatment. While there are some health problems that are common among Australian Kelpie German Shepherd Mix, there are also many that are healthy and happy. This breed is a great choice for families who are looking for a loyal and loving companion. The answer is yes, this mix can make a great guard dog. They are loyal and protective of their family and home. They are also intelligent and easily trainable. However, they can be territorial and may not do well with other animals or children unless they are properly socialized from a young age. If you are looking for a guard dog that will also be a loving family member, then the Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix may be the right dog for you. How much does a Kelpie German Shepherd Mix cost? They are medium to large-sized dogs that are very active and need plenty of space to run around. They are also very intelligent and trainable, making them great pets for families with children. Well, it depends on a few factors. Of course, like with any dog, there are always exceptions to the rule. Some pups may cost more or less depending on the individual circumstances. These dogs are highly trainable and make great family pets. However, they do require plenty of stimulation and may not be suitable for first-time dog owners. If you think you can provide a loving home for a Kelpie German Shepherd mix, then check out our list of rescue organizations below. Rescue Organizations:. German Shepherd history German Shepherds have been around since the late s, along with a handful of other working dogs in France and Italy. As a breed, it was found to be a relatively no-nonsense herding dog, with the demeanor almost of a stern nanny — it would protect its flock from outside predators, but sometimes seem like a brusque barking authoritarian. Proof that the value of the breed was highly appreciated is that during and after the Second World War, the German Shepherd disappeared for a while. The two names are still interchangeable today, although in the significantly post-war world, the name German Shepherd has lost the vast majority of its stigma. An intelligent and perhaps surprisingly good-natured breed, they are generally patient with children. Beware boredom in the Kelpie, though — either physical or mental. Bore a Kelpie and you can expect barking for attention and even the digging of random holes, simply by way of exercising the legs. Train an Australian Kelpie and it will pick up disciplines relatively easily and without too much fuss — some Australian Kelpies have been trained as rescue dogs because of their calm capability in most situations. Simple walks with plenty to see and smell will keep your Kelpie happy, as will some toys in the home environment. German Shepherd personality and temperament The temperament of the German Shepherd is mostly calm , intensely loyal to its clan or family, wary of strangers, either human or canine, and highly trainable. The breed was originally a herding animal but has proved adaptable to urban occupations, for instance with police departments, as sniffer dogs at airports, and in search and rescue operations. Exercise and stimulation will take the edge off your German Shepherd though, and let its loyalty and intelligence win through. The mix brings both the intelligence and trainability of its parent breeds forward, so you get a highly aware, hugely loyal dog that likes — in fact, that needs to have some sort of purpose to be best pleased with its life. Good with children, the Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix has a protective streak that can be useful in a watchdog, but can also, without training, be preemptively defensive against strangers — both human and canine. Usefully though, the breed takes to training instinctively, the herding instinct of its forebears making it one of the easier breeds in which you can instill rules of behavior. German Shepherd size, height, and weight The German Shepherd is a dog to be reckoned with. It can stand anything from 1 foot 10 inches to 2 feet 2 inches at the shoulder, so a lap dog, this is not. Weight-wise, it dwarfs the Australian Kelpie, coming in healthily at anything from pounds. Australian Kelpie German Shepherd Mix size, height, and weight There is some fluctuation in the size, height, and weight of the Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix, but it verges more on the lower end of the German Shepherd range than it does on the Australian Kelpie side. So you can expect a dog upward of 50 pounds, with lots of leg power, though nowhere usually near the height and ruggedness of the German Shepherd. If you leave an Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix alone long enough to get bored, both halves of its ancestry are likely to act up — there will be barking, perhaps even a whine or howl, and there may well be digging, vandalism, and destruction. The dog will want to do anything it can to escape — both in physical and mental terms — from the situation in which it has no purpose, no action to take, no stimulation to address. Perversely, though they really need exercising to take the edge of the torpor that is distinctly unnatural to them, Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mixed breeds are not especially high maintenance, physically speaking. Moderate but regular walking will help turn the potentially bored animal into a satisfied companion. Anywhere you can let them run without a leash will be extremely appreciated, but remember to always do this safely and only in designated areas. Prepare for molting come springtime, though — they may need extra brushing then, not only to keep them comfortable but also to save your furniture and carpets from extra clumps of Kelpie hair. Bathe as needed — which might be more often than you think, because they tend to be goal-oriented dogs. That can make them unwary of their environment, so a muddy puddle is an irrelevance in the moment of chasing a stick, say. Shedding is a definite issue with German Shepherds though. There are a handful of things to watch out for with the Australian Kelpie though. Cryptorchidism, dysplasia in the hips, cerebellar abiotrophy, and luxating patella are among the things that can slow your Australian Kelpie down, and as they get older, that slow-down might happen anyway. Perversely, it will be more noticeable in the Australian Kelpie than in many breeds, because for the majority of their lives, they present as being so capable and energetic, without boredom permitting being yappy, attention-seeking dogs. German Shepherd longevity and health issues The modern German Shepherd is something of a martyr to the early in-breeding that helped produce the breed we know today. Hip dysplasia can be a real problem for German Shepherds, and can also lead to arthritis as the dog ages. German Shepherds are also prone to osteoarthritis. As with the Australian Kelpie, you can expect at least a decade of active life out of your German Shepherd. They will slow down and lose a little interest after that first ten years but have been known to regularly live to the age of .Hip dysplasia is common in older dogs especially some that have been particularly bred to have distorted weight distribution towards the back , and both arthritis and osteoarthritis can be issues for this mixed breed. If you can give them that commitment though, the Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix could well be a good, loyal, loving fit for you and your household. Your pet has been marked as adopted Another successful adoption - amazing work Homeless Hounds Animal Rescue! Your pets have been marked as adopted More successful adoptions - amazing work Homeless Hounds Animal Rescue! Would you like to let the other enquirers know these pets have been adopted? Preview this message. 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Final thoughts on crate training What are the benefits of crate training? However, leading animal rights organizations along with reputable training and veterinary experts say that when used correctly, crates provide dogs with a sense of security. Before training begins, you need to choose the right crate. It should be large enough for your dog to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lay down. Chewy offers a helpful crate size chart along with measuring instructions. When purchasing a crate, choose a size appropriate for your Frenchie when fully grown. Place a blanket or soft bed in the crate, and add a favorite toy or bone. Introduce your puppy to the crate by dropping treats directly inside the door to encourage him to enter. Never force him into the crate. Depending on your dog, this step can take from a few minutes to a few days, according to training experts at the Humane Society of the United States HSUS. This helps your Frenchie make a positive association with the crate. The next step is to coax your dog to go in the crate for short periods during the day. Close the door, and sit beside the crate for a few minutes. Your dog now can stay in the crate overnight. Keep the crate in your bedroom at night when potty training so your puppy can alert you when he needs to go out. Are French Bulldogs easy to train? Is crate training good for a French Bulldog? This makes housebreaking easier and helps get your puppy safely through the destructive chewing stage. Additionally, breed experts say that crating keeps French Bulldogs safe when traveling, visiting other homes, or recuperating from an illness or injury that requires rest. Crating also can help Frenchies who suffer from separation anxiety. Editors' Recommendations. Crate training your dog can be very useful for you as well as your Frenchie. You can compare crate training to a cradle for a baby. A dog who has a crate they love is a safe haven for them, just like a cradle is for a baby. Crate training your dog may or may not be an easy task. Either way, a step-by-step plan can only be helpful. And, if followed, will make the end goal easier to reach. Many pet parents feel guilty or unsure about crate training, and understandably so. However, crate training is beneficial for your furry family member and can be a great thing. Your puppy will learn that their crate is their space and where they will rest, so they will want to wait to use the restroom when they are outside. Separation Anxiety Many dogs suffer from anxiety when left alone. This is not uncommon. While being put in a crate can add to their anxiety or stress, their crate can be helpful if it becomes their safe haven and a spot that makes them feel safe. Emergency Use Crate training your dog can lend to be very helpful in case of an emergency. If there is ever a situation where you must evacuate your home or go to a place where a crate is required, having a Frenchie who happily goes into their crate can keep this situation safe and smooth. Another emergency you could face with your dog is surgery on their part or yours. For their or your recovery, being able to have them in their crate is extremely helpful. For Convenience Crate training your dog really helps when it comes to daily life. There are often times when putting your sweet Frenchie away simply makes life easier. These times may include when guests come over for dinner, when fireworks are happening outside, a friend brings their pet over, you have errands to run, etc. A crate not only relieves stress or anxiety your dog may experience when daily life is altered a bit, but it can also help you. Senior Dogs Senior dogs who have been crate-trained will benefit greatly. Older dogs can use their crate as a space to get extra rest. Senior dogs will also like their crate when they no longer have the energy to entertain big groups or children. Crate Options Once you decide that crate training your dog is the right move to make, choosing the best crate will depend on several factors. There are many different crate options depending on your Frenchies size, activity level, and your future plans with the crate. Making sure you select the right crate can make all the difference in creating a comfortable, safe spot for your dog to feel at home. Size Crates come in varying sizes, usually about 20 inches to 48 inches. The ideal size of a crate depends on the size of your dog. Most Frenchies are medium-sized, so a medium-sized crate would be good. The intention is that once your dog is fully grown, they will be able to stretch out and sit up straight in their crate. Before puppies are full-grown, use the divider panel that comes with the crate to expand the crate size as needed. When purchasing a crate, look at the size chart to make the best choice. Crate Types There are three different types of crates: the wire crate, the fabric travel crate, and the plastic travel crate. They are each different. Wire crate A wire crate is the most popular option when crate training your dog. Customer support team based in Indiana We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. It is easy to set up and take with you and is intended for travel as they are lightweight and easy to carry. These crates can easily be chewed on, so they may not be suitable for puppies or any Frenchie that has a habit of chewing. Plastic Travel Crate A plastic travel crate is more robust than the previous two mentioned. It is made of plastic and is also used for travel since it remains set up and is easy to carry. This may be a better option than the fabric crate if you need to transport your dog. They are also easy enough to carry, and your Frenchie is not as easily able to chew them. Some people use these as fixed crates at home, but they are more enclosed than the wire crate. This makes it less desirable for many dogs and owners. Doggy Playpen A playpen is a route some pet owners like to take as opposed to or in addition to crate training your dog. A playpen allows your Frenchie more room for walking around and playing. Playpen Versus Crate Like a crate, a playpen contains your dog in one space. The biggest difference is their size. You may decide to use one over the other depending on your needs. Playpens typically come in two different materials: metal and fabric. The metal playpen is similar to a metal crate, only bigger. Playpen Use: Contain your dog to an area, but give them room to play. You need to leave your dog for a full day more than hours. Your dog prefers a larger space. Crate Use: Contain your dog to a smaller area sometimes makes them feel safer. Sleeptime may go better in a crate. Transportation to another place. You will train your dog to happily go into their playpen as you do the crate treats, slowly increase time, make it a fun space. Having both would allow your pup to have a confined space for sleeping the crate and a bigger area for when they are ready to walk around and play the playpen. You can choose to set the two up in separate places, using each for different purposes and at different times. You can also set the two up together where the crate will open into the playpen. This option would be used with a metal playpen. Of course, this setup will require more space. You could use the following to do so. Bed or Crate Pad A crate pad fits more precisely into a crate than a standard dog bed. Get one that is sturdy and difficult for them to chew, like this chew-resistant pad. Durable crate pads can be pricey, but it beats buying several fluffy, easy-to-chew ones. I like to buy dog pads that have a zip-off cover, making them easier to wash. Your dog will love to cuddle up in this dog bed. This is one tough dog bed. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Chew Toys Chewing can be calming for dogs and gives them something to do while they are in their crate. As mentioned before, providing chew toys will also prevent them from chewing their crate pad. Choosing appropriate toys for your dog is important. Make sure that your Frenchie cannot tear and eat pieces of the chew toy and that it is not too small for them. A chewable stick is a good option. If you have a puppy, you should not leave them in their crate for too long and they also are unable to hold their bladder for too long. In this case, refrain from leaving them water. An option for leaving water in the crate without it becoming a mess is to purchase a snap bowl that easily connects to the side of a wire crate. A regular water and food bowl can be left in the playpen if you leave for an extended amount of time. This can be done with adult dogs, not puppies who need to relieve themselves often. A Possible Step-by-Step Plan for Training Crate training your dog requires a lot of preparation and training, as you may know now. This is only a guide. You know your Frenchie and your situation best, so always do what works for both of you. This plan could also be used for a playpen with alterations where needed. Days Set the crate up and keep the door open for several days. Place a couple of toys and treats in the crate. Place their meal in the crate at times. Allow your Frenchie to choose when they are curious enough to go in the crate. Allow them to explore and find the treats on their own time. Do not shut the door during this time. Shut the door for just a moment while they are in the crate. Stay there and open the door right back up. Increase the length of time, but stay in sight. Days If your dog has responded well to the door closing while you are visible, try closing the door and leaving the room. Start out small and increase the time. Always open the door if they do not respond well. When your dog is able to stay in the crate while you are not visible, try leaving home for just a short time or even stepping outside. Increase this over time. Helping Your Dog Like the Crate In order to ensure that crate training your dog is successful, you want to help your dog like their crate. To do this, it should be a positive experience for them. There are ways to achieve this. Make it comfortable with a crate pad. Give them safe toys to chew on. Before you start to use the crate with the door closed, have the door open for some time, allowing them to go in and out as they please and not make a big deal of it. When you do begin to shut the door, start small by only leaving them in there for a few minutes and slowly increase that time. As mentioned, treats are important for helping your dog feel good about being in the crate. You can use treats to train your dog to go into their crate on their own eventually. Practice this many times before leaving them alone in their crate. Keep training sessions short and repeat them up to several times a day. Tire your dog out by playing with it or walking it before putting them in the crate to help them reach calmness and possibly a level of tiredness that will help them sleep. Length of Time in Crate Once you have trained your dog to freely go into the crate, it is time to try leaving them in the crate for an extended period of time. When you first leave your Frenchie alone in the shut crate, leave home for just a couple of minutes. You can simply go outside your front door to do this. When you return, give a treat and lots of praise. Slowly increase the time they are left in there while you are gone. Puppies should not stay in the crate for more than a couple of hours because they will not have access to water and also use the bathroom more frequently. Once your puppy is older, approximately 6 months, they can stay in the crate for several hours. All dogs are different, and as a pet parent, you should be able to determine how often your dog needs to use the bathroom. If you need to be gone for a full workday, come home on a break, or have a dog sitter let your Frenchie relieve itself at a minimum. Or, you can use the playpen at this time if you have one and your dog is older. There is a very good chance that your Frenchie will whine in the crate. If this happens, you should let your dog out. Maybe you could go on a walk, play together for a bit, or give them a potty break. Then, try again. Otherwise, try to get them to go in peacefully using treats and toys. Provide different or new toys that may pique their interest and distract your dog. If your dog does use the bathroom in their crate, there is likely an issue you resolve. Make their space smaller using the divider that comes with the crate. Use a special cleaner to rid of the smell since dogs often remark the same spots. Give them time to relieve themselves outside right before they go into the crate. Leave them in the crate for a shorter time. Is it Worth It? Most would say yes! Crate training your dog can seem like a lot of work, but all good things do, right? While it takes time and patience, having a Frenchie that can successfully use a crate can really come in handy. As always, your vet can help. Not only can crate training your dog help you as a dog parent, but it also helps your Frenchie in many ways when it comes to their happiness and safety. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. Put the crate in the car with your Frenchie in it, and take them around the block for a short drive first. When you get home, take them out and give lots of praise! Next time, you can even take them for a short shopping and so on, keeping everything smooth and gradual. When is it recommended to crate your Frenchie? For example, when traveling with a puppy on a plane or in a car, using a portable plastic crate or a soft crate is almost essential. Place a soft and comfortable bed for your Frenchie there with their favorite toys, especially one they can chew on. They may even develop separation anxiety, which you can read more about here. Should you crate your Frenchie at night? Read our blog post about how you can train your Frenchie to sleep in their bed. At the beginning, your fur baby might cry for you, which is completely normal at that point. Are you maybe looking for your second fur baby? Two Frenchies are always better than one , so feel free to check out our available puppies here! Visit our webshop to find some great Frenchie crates and carriers from Chewy that we recommend for your fur baby! The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them, and show puppies from their breed. If you have any questions or comments let us know below the article! It also satisfies their natural instinct since most of them live indoors. Safe evacuation is easy in case of emergencies. It helps in potty training the dog. Helps in dealing with separation anxiety common in French bulldogs and the cage; they feel more relaxed. Training Caution Training your French bulldog is not an easy task, and it could be worse if the dog starts resisting the crate. Here are some cautions to prevent the canine friend from feeling trapped: French bulldogs love company, and you should never leave them in the crate for too long. When denied interaction, they become anxious and depressed. The longest the dog should stay in the crate is at night, and the best part is it spends this time sleeping. Find the Perfect Crate Size A good cage plays a significant role in excellent crate training for a french bulldog. Get the right style crate, and the size should be reasonable too. Here are the best features of a training crate: Your buddy should be able to turn around and get out of the crate without touching the side borders. The dog should stand in the crate without touching the top. The crate should be taller by a few inches. Additional space helps keep your dog comfortable, easing the training process. If the crate is too big, the dog might wee at the corner, bringing another problem when potty training. When dealing with puppies, they may wee in the crate at times. You need to be extra patient with their small bladder. You will find different crates on the market, and your choice depends on the breed size and temperament. Crates that come with dividers are the best since you can resize the space your dog occupies when the dog grows bigger. Plastic crates work perfectly for smaller breeds. Besides plastic crates working well for smaller breeds, I recommend a wired crate when training your French bulldog. It lets your dog view the environment, and you will also have an easy time supervising him. Another feature to consider with the wired crate is double doors , as it makes the early training phase easier where your dog can enter the crate from both sides. See our post on the best dog crates for French Bulldogs. The introduction saves your dog from the shock of being locked in the cage, especially at night. Introducing your dog to the crate keeps him secure, especially when you rush out for a few minutes. Crate training is a kickoff for the potty-training process. Once your dog learns to stay in the enclosure, he will learn to hold his bowel and bladder for longer, making potty training effortless. Place the crate in the desired area early in the morning, and the dog will spend time surveying it before he gets inside. Never force your dog into the crate because he will feel trapped and start rejecting it. Let him survey the crate from outside. Consider securing the door to avoid incidences that will make your dog fear the crate, do this after every 5 minutes. The time interval also depends on his reaction when in the enclosure. Begin luring your dog into the crate using a couple of toys and treats. Also, adding a fleece blanket and bed to the enclosure will help immensely. Puppies are easier to teach than adult dogs. However, some older dogs will also give you an easy time in training. Let the puppy keep the instinct of having a den, and he will want to spend more time there. Purchase the crate early enough to start training your puppy. As soon as you bring him home, he will adapt easily. French bulldogs are intelligent, and when you are consistent in your training, they will understand. If you have kids, please introduce a house rule that no one should disturb the sleeping dog. Leave the door open once you set up the crate and add blankets and a bed you can include a puppy pad when dealing with one , and your pet will come closer to it. Ensure that the door remains open to prevent it from accidentally hitting your pup; you can even tie the door. Introduce a Play Session A good way of ensuring that your little friend relaxes in the crate is introducing playtime a couple of minutes before the dog enters the cage. Using interactive toys is another way to engage him before he enters his cage. Some play toys, such as tugs, help teach your dog desirable behavior like soft mouthing. Introduce His Favorite Treats Tossing a treat in the crate is a great idea. The dog will get into the crate trying to retrieve it. Ensure you put the treat far into the cage to ensure he gets in with her entire body. It would help if you were cautious about the diet. Showering your little friend with praises is an excellent supplement to treats. Since Frenchies are playful, placing some chew toys in the crate will easily lure them into getting inside. Remember to purchase nontoxic toys, plus supervise your buddy during playtime. Important: Overfeeding your Frenchie with treats can cause vomiting and other health problems. Never use treats as a replacement for food. Take Meals in the Crate Dogs love food, and introducing it to the crate will be an effective way to make them feel happy while in there. You can start by introducing meals in the crate using a clean pet bowl. Taking meals in the crate is also a good way of making him stay in there for longer; after putting the food bowl in the cage, close and open the door at an interval. It creates a good impression. Repeat the process after every meal. After feeding, start by leaving the room for a couple of minutes. Use this time to complete simple activities and leave the crate closed. Keep increasing the stay-away duration gradually. To avoid raising the alarm, leave without saying goodbye or something that will make her feel that you are leaving. Adding a playpen to the mix is an excellent way to create a larger play space that will help him adapt to the new environment. Potty breaks before sleeping will help reduce waking up. Move the crate to your room, and you can hear your little one waking up for the potty breaks. A crate cover saves the night by minimizing distractions from outside, and your French bulldog will sleep longer. Be Patient French bulldogs can be fearful, and patience is vital in this case. Never think of punishing your dog. Keep the Buddy Comfortable With the dog battling separation anxiety, keeping him comfortable is vital. If you just picked a puppy from your breeder, ensure he sleeps in a warm and cozy area. During the cold season, add some blankets on the sides of the crate for warmth, being careful with ventilation. A puppy heat pad will help immensely. It works well for almost all dogs, and I love the maximum ventilation that comes with it. Most wired crates are foldable and portable , making traveling with your dog easier or moving it to another room. Most of them include a divider that helps adjust the space for your growing pet. A double-door wired crate is the best for training. Not forgetting that when your buddy is in there, he sees the environment and is less likely to experience anxiety. Plastic crates also work well for small breeds, especially when traveling. These cages work perfectly during car travels , plus they are den-like and minimize light from outside that distracts the sleeping puppy at night. The best part is your wooden crates come in many designs. Before leaving your pup, you need to stay around the cage for a couple of minutes before leaving. When leaving the house, direct the dog to the crate and utter the command, and when he obeys, leave him with a yummy treat. Introduce a consistent departure routine, and the dog will soon adapt to not seeing you around for a couple of hours. Chew toys will work well for younger dogs by helping them with teeth issues. You can also introduce dental toys to older dogs to help remove tartar and plaque. Interactive toys also work well during exercising and playtime before getting into the crate. Once you are done playing, the dog will be yearning to relax in the crate. Remember, most dogs suffer from separation anxiety and may have difficulty adapting to crates. However, the earlier you start training your dog, the better. In the training process, you are likely to encounter: Whining You may experience it during the first few days when the clingy friend feels uneasy when left in the crate. With time, this bad behavior should subside. But if the whining and barking continue, attend to him; he might be having a health problem. Destructive chewing When your little friend is overwhelmed with separation anxiety, they will likely get into destructive chewing. Sometimes it could be a sign that the buddy is hungry. Are French Bulldogs Hard to Train? The task is not easy, but you will love the whole process with consistency. Adult Frenchies may prove stubborn, but with consistency, they will adapt. The earlier you start the training, the better. Do French Bulldogs Require Exercise? Your dog needs exercise. It helps her keep the right weight. Wrap Up French bulldogs are friendly, and crate training them is the best thing. Remember that these dogs love cuddling, and you need to set aside some minutes for it. Feel free to drop a question on crate training a French bulldog or ask for clarification in the comments. All the best in your crating journey. Meet our writer Jen Clifford is an animal behaviorist and veterinary technician with more than a decade of hands-on experience working in small animal and specialty veterinary clinics. Leave a Comment. Training your puppy to behave nicely is the key to ensuring harmony in your home. If a Frenchie is going to be a member of your family, he needs to obey certain rules. That being said please note that crates ideally are used with caution as using a crate extensively during puppyhood can affect eye sight development. So, how to do it? With love and caring is the answer. Only if you make your pup fall in love with spending time in a crate will he be willing to follow your orders. Of course, there are some practical techniques to speed up the training process. Crate Placement A yogapose and his spotter. Whether your puppy is going to love its crate or hate it could be decided by its placement. On the other hand, if the position is right, your pup will love spending time there. It needs to be somewhere where you and your family spend a lot of time. And that means that they like to be in the pack, not separated from it. Keeping your French bulldog away from where the people are is going to make him nervous, sad, and depressed. Think of it as the new home of your pup and such, his create should not be moved too often. Take It Easy Although crate-training your Frenchie is not something that should last too long, sometimes it may not go as smoothly as planned. Keep calm and love your Frenchie is the best advice we can give you. If you do that even once, your Frenchie will have negative associations with the crate, subconsciously hating and fearing it. Another thing to pay attention to is not too kip your pup in the crate for too long, especially while still crate-training him. And if you keep on doing it for a long time, you can turn your formerly cheerful puppy into a grumpy dog. Using food is one of the easiest ways to teach your puppy new tricks. And you can use the same method to make him fall in love with living in the crate. What you got to do is place his favorite food inside the crate and invite him to get it. Spending time in the crate can get pretty boring for your Frenchie. A way of dealing with the problem is keeping him entertained by putting some toys inside the crate. Depending on a dog, the perfect toy might be a squeaky ball or something similar. Your pup needs to feel good inside his create, meaning that it has to be spacious enough, as well as warm and comfy. Actually, the size of the crate should be the number 1 deciding factor. The rule of thumb is that bigger is better. Your Frenchie might be only about 25 pounds, but you should go for a crate meant for dogs of larger sizes. Our advice is to buy a crate for medium-sized pets , that is, for animals of up to 45 pounds. And the best thing is that even the best crates on the market are not too expensive. What this means is that anyone can get the kind of crate their Frenchie deserves. If you would like to learn more on how to ensure your Frenchie lives a happy life, just click here and it will take you to a place dedicated to everything about French bulldogs. Love our content? Share it with a friend or link it to social media. Like short clips of cute household pets? Training tips? Follow us on instagram nydognanny or on YouTube at nydognanny. Have some news you needs to get to dog and cat parents stat? Email info newyorkdognanny. Also when you wish to teach your Frenchie to relieve themselves in the right area. Take you Frenchie outdoors to where you want him to use as a bathroom. He may be easily distracted and want to play so make sure you are firm with your instructions. Praise your Frenchie with excitement when they relieve themselves in the correct place outside. Oh and do not forget to do this last thing at night too! Your Frenchies crate should have just enough room for him or her to turn and lay down. Dogs will not usually relieve themselves where they sleep unless they are left for too long. You can give your Frenchie a treat when he or she does well in potty training. But if your Frenchie has an accident in your presence then scold it and quickly move them outside. It is important to remember that your French Bulldog puppy has a small bladder. Make sure they have the chance to relieve themselves every 2 hours and at night when required. Please do not crate your French Bulldog puppy for longer than 4 hours when they are small. Do not scold your Frenchie if it has an accident and you do not witness it, it will only confuse them. Potty Training Your French Bulldog Each time the puppy goes in the right spot, he is being trained to relieve himself there. Consistent training with your puppy will bring consistent results You may found it helpful to have an exercise pen for the house, and one for the yard. But please so not leave your Frenchie out in cold or alone in hot weather. Place the other exercise pen in the spot you wish your Frenchie puppy to use as a permanent potty spot, both as a puppy and adult. Use your Happy Voice! Make sure you take your Frenchie puppy outdoors to eliminate on a regular schedule and especially prior to being left for prolonged periods of time. He will start to circle and sniff and look for a place to potty when he has to go and when you are watching him, you can quickly take him to his potty spot. Minimize his chances of making a mistake by predicting when he will need to relieve himself. If you are going to be playing and interacting with your puppy, then it is absolutely fine for him to be out of his crate as long as you like. Times to watch are : As soon as he awakens, as soon as he finishes a meal, first thing in the morning, after a play session, and as soon as you take him out of his crate. Do NOT let your puppy run lose when your eyes are not on him, even for a couple minutes. Each time your puppy has an accident, he is being trained to potty in that spot. Housebreaking is the most indispensable thing your French bulldog puppy needs to learn. Ordinary sound judgement ought to reveal to you why. Besides the preservation of your general domestic hygiene, trained dogs are contented dogs. Using a Crate Helps As we outlined earlier on this page, French Bulldog trainers recommend using a crate in housebreaking your French Bull puppy. A crate is similar to a cage, having you can see through bars and a locking door that locks. Its area ought to fit sufficiently the dogs dimensions for it to move about in. It is advised to not confine your puppy in his crate for longer than two hours at a time. The thinking supporting using a crate in housebreaking your puppy is that dogs would not foul their areas where they sleep areas. Nevertheless, he may do so if you confine him in somewhere for longer than he can keep it in. At no time use a crate to penalize your dog, it would boomerang. This way out ought to be the one that you desire your French bulldog to scratch to advise you concerning his being called by nature. Taking your pup out at approximately the identical times every day would be extremely useful for the both of you. This would assist in establishing a habit, and would force him learn to keep it in waiting for you to become ready to accompany him out. Watch For Clues If your un-housebroken French bulldog is used to roaming unrestricted about the home, look for signs that indicate to you he needs to do it. Be absolutely watchful enough of his behaviour, i. Subsequently, accompany him into the outdoors and let him conclude what he had started. Offering him treats as a bonus whenever he does his business in the appropriate place can be very useful, too. Being Patient is a Big Asset Similar to any disciplinary endeavour, housebreaking requires a lot of tolerance. Thinking logically ought to let you know you to not give your dog water previous to bedtime if his inclination is to pee frequently at during the night time. Following his timetable as top priority should turn out to be extremely useful in having it slowly switch into yours. Besides tolerance and common sense, regularity is likewise one of the significant factors of this dog disciplining exercise. Bear in mind that the stakes are significant dirty and foul-smelling house. Allocate sufficient time and dedication on your side. We recommend that you should get the little guy out for a walk as soon as he or she wakes up, after play time and also after any eating or drinking. Tip Two… Confine your Frenchie if there is a chance that supervision is going to be a problem. If you limit your dog to a crate or confined space then they will refuse to relieve themselves in what they would see as living quarters or sleeping quarters. This also goes back to their clean breed set up. Tip Three… Keep your eyes peeled for any warning signs from your French Bulldog! They will include things like circling in the room, pacing around from one room to another, some sniffing about, whining, maybe even a little barking. Remember, if you spot any of these sure fire signs then immediately take your Frenchie outside to eliminate. When they finish heap loads of praise on them while they are still outside or on the training mat and give them a little treat. It will not take long for them to get used to this command and eventually just go outside! You want to eliminate the odor of urine and feces around the house as when the dog smells this around the house he or she will be more inclined to use it to go to the toilet. A good tip is to remove the guys little accident into the back garden or yard and leave it out there, that way they can identify the spot with where to go potty. Frenchies have an estimated 15 minute attention span so when you are training your little friend then make sure you keep that in mind as anything over this and he will already be losing his focus. If you schedule these little bursts of training sessions throughout your day, you will make more progress and keep these sessions happier for both of you. Make sure that you have established yourself as the Alpha leader with your Frenchie. They will always respond better to training when they know who is in charge at all times. This does not mean that you have to hurt or dominate your French Bulldog. It can be as simple as ensuring that you always eat first at mealtimes before giving him his food. Do not limit rewards to your French Bulldog to just when he follows your commands. If you see him doing good positive things reward him then too. He will catch on very quickly! It will get him used to what he needs to respond to. When giving commands to your Frenchie make sure that you are serious at all times. Do not reward or scold your French Bulldog for something they did 15 or more minutes ago. They will not associate the action with the event! They have terrible memories remember! Your Frenchie may do funny things that are also bad. This will only confuse your dog and make training harder down the line. Training Your French Bulldog To Use A Leash And Collar There are many different techniques you can use to train your French Bulldog on a lash or a collar , and it is important to find one that works for you and your family in order to have the most loyal and well-behaved pet possible. It is fortunate that French Bulldogs are innately programmed to submit to a leader, it allows them to follow commands and make training easier. Each French Bulldog has its own personality, which is emphasized even further by many years of selective breeding. The personalities of individual French Bulldogs can be very different, even within the same breed. It is up to you, as the owner, to determine which method of training will work best for your French Bulldog, so it is important to work with the trainer in order to attain your goal of an eager, well-trained and friendly French Bulldog. For example, certain working French Bulldogs, such as police French Bulldogs, rescue French Bulldogs or guard French Bulldogs, tend to gain from leash and collar training. The level of correction used should be relative to the situation, as too much correction, or not enough, can prove unproductive. Once the French Bulldog seems to understand the command, the leash is then used to modify incorrect behaviors. The leash is used as the main form of control and communication with the French Bulldog in this form of training. The French Bulldog is considered fully trained when the handler is able to show that the French Bulldog will follow a command even if he does not want to. While this does not mean using brute force, it will likely necessitate some physical handling. This type of handling is most effectively completed by use of the leash. Anyone attempting to train his or her French Bulldog should understand that the leash is merely a device. While the leash is necessary for this style of French Bulldog training, it is important for the French Bulldog trainer to strive for the same results using whatever gear are nearby. Building a trusting relationship between owner and French Bulldog is vital, and it is important that the leash is used as a tool rather than a crutch. A properly trained French Bulldog should be eager to obey with or without a leash. Knowing what you want to train is as important as training your French Bulldog. You can begin training almost immediately, at around six weeks of age. A puppy is a blank slate and does not know any rules, therefore it is a wise idea to make a list and have an understanding of what you would like your puppy to do. What are the household rules and proper dog etiquette? As he grows, the same principle applies and you may adjust training from the basics to more specialized behaviors, such as making your dog a good travel, hiking, agility, hunting, or simply a companion dog. Know what conditions and circumstances you plan to expose your dog or puppy to outside of the household and strategize to be prepared for those encounters by slowly introducing your dog to those situations. Establish yourself as the pack leader from the time you first bring your new dog or puppy home. Life is much easier for your dog if you are in charge, leading, and providing for his needs. Leading as the alpha assists in the act of working together with your dog towards the goal of understanding the rules of conduct and obedience. Your dog will be at ease when the rules are understood. Training should be an enjoyable bonding time between you and your French bulldog. Remember that there is no set time limit defining when your dog should learn, understand, and then obey commands. Use short training sessions and be aware that if either of you are tired, it is recommended that you stop and try again later. If something does not seem quite right with your dog, in any way, have him checked out by a veterinarian. Timing is crucial when rewarding for good behaviors and making corrections for bad. Patience and Consistency are your allies in the training game. An easy way to avoid the onset of many different behavioral problems is to give your dogs or puppies ample daily exercise to keep them fit and healthy, and destructive behavioral problems at bay. Always provide consistent structure, firm but fair authority, rule enforcement, and importantly, love and affection. By maintaining these things, you will help to create a loyal companion and friend. Reward good behaviors, not for simply being cute, sweet, loveable, and huggable. If you wish to reward your dog, always reward after you issue a command and your dog obeys appropriately. Only train one command per session. Puppies only have the attention span to go about 10 minutes per session, but never exceed 15 minutes. Training a command once per day is enough for your dog to begin to learn and retain, but whenever the opportunity presents itself you should reinforce the training sessions throughout the day. For example, opening a door or putting down a food bowl first command sit, down or stay and be sure not to reward your dog unless your dog obeys. The most important thing to remember is to remain relaxed, keep it fun, and enjoy this time of bonding and training your dog or puppy. All dogs have their own personalities and therefore respond to training differently. No matter the breed that comes with its own characteristics, you need to account for individual personality and adjust accordingly. If needed, do not hesitate to solicit professional help and advice. We all love treats, and so does your dog. Giving your dog a treat is the best way to reinforce good behavior, to help change his behavior or just to make your dog do that insanely funny dance- like-thing he does. Make the treats small enough for him to get a taste, but not a meal, kernel sized. Remember, you do not want him filling up on treats as it might spoil his dinner and interfere with his attention span. You do not want to miss a chance to reward a good behavior or reinforce a changed behavior. Always carry treats when you go on a walk. Remember what treats your dog likes most and save those for super special times. In addition, what you consider a treat and what your dog considers a treat are two vastly different worlds. A single malt scotch or chicken wings might be a treat in your mind, but dried liver bits or beef jerky in your dogs. Tell your dog to sit, stay, or lie down, print two copies of your resume, anything, before you reward your dog with treats, petting, or play. By asking for good behavior, before you give your dog a reward, you demonstrate you are in charge, in an easy fun manner. There is a common misconception that dogs are selfless and wanting to behave only to please out of respect for you. This is horse pucky. This line of thinking is incorrect and detrimental to your success with the training. You have to make sure that your dog knows exactly why he should be listening to you. You are the alpha, the keeper of the treats, the provider of the scratching and the purveyor of toys. Keep this balance of power and the results will be your reward. Do not send mixed messages. Simply, ignore the bad behavior and reward your dog when he does the action you request to be done. You will be continuously training your companion, but use the formal training sessions to focus on one objective. Any session longer than 15 minutes will be hard for your dog to stay focused. During training, this is the attention span of most canines. Ten minutes per session is a good time limit for young puppies. Some breeds stay puppies longer than others stay, and may not fully develop until year two. Use a variety and an abundance of different treats and rewards. Rewards are play, toys, praise, affection, treats, and anything that you know that your dog enjoys. When you master this one, it will make life easier for both of you when at home, and either at the groomer or the vet. It also helps when there is unwanted or accidental touching and especially when dealing with small children who love to handle dogs in all sorts of unusual and not so regular ways. This one will take patience and a few tricks to get it started. Remember, it is important to begin handling your new puppy immediately after you find each other and are living together. Understand that muzzles are not bad and do not hurt dogs. They can be an effective device and a great safety feature when your dog is learning to be handled. Easy cheese or peanut butter spread on the floor or on the refrigerator door should keep your puppy in place while he learns to be handled. If your puppy does not like to be handled, he can slowly learn to accept it. You must practice this with your puppy for at least one to three minutes each day so that he becomes comfortable with being touched. All dogs are unique and therefore some will accept this easier and quicker than others will. Handling training will be a life-long process. With all of the following exercises, follow these steps: — Begin with short, non-intrusive gentle touching. When he settles, treat him and remove your hands. Overstimulation can cause your puppy stress. Handling the Body Paws in the clause It is a fact that most puppies do not like to have their paws touched. Proceed slowly with this exercise. The eventual goal is for your puppy to adore his paws being fondled. In the following exercises, any time your puppy does not squirm and try to get away, click and treat your pup. If he does squirm, stay with him using gentle contact, when your pup ceases wiggling, then click and treat, and release when he calms down. Each one of these steps will take a few days to complete and will require at least a dozen repetitions. Make sure you successfully complete each step and your puppy is at least tolerant of the contact before you go on to the next one. Repeat this five times and then continue forward by adding an additional one second each time you pick up his paw until ten seconds is reached. Begin with two seconds then in different sessions work your way to twelve. It is not easy and it can cause extreme pain to your dog if you are not properly trained. Do this about ten times or until your puppy seems comfortable and relaxed with it. Increase the amount of time until you have achieved about ten seconds of holding and your puppy remains calm. Click and treat after each elapsed amount of time. Work your way up 2,4,6,8 to 10 seconds of holding. This may take several days and sessions. If he accepts this and does not resist, click and treat, and repeat. Repeat this step until he is content with it. Now, switch to the top of the collar and repeat the whole progression again. Remember slowly increase the time held and the intensity of the tug using a slow pace. You can practice touching the collar while you are treating during training other tricks. Gently hold the bottom or top of the collar when you are giving your dog a treat reward for successfully completing a commanded behavior. Then release when he does not resist, click and treat. Be cautious with this one. If any of this is confusing, do not worry, because I walk you through the training process, step-by-step. Clicker training started over seventy years ago and has become a tried and true method for training dogs and other animals. The outcome of using a clicker is an example of conditioned reinforcement. Rewarding the animal in combination with clicker use has proven highly effective as a positive reinforcement training method. It is a humane and effective way of training dogs without instilling fear for non-compliance. I know that my mother wished she would have known about clicker training when my brother and I were growing up. I am sure she would have put the clicker into action so my brother would place his dirty clothes inside the bin, rather than on the floor. In the s, Keller Breland, a pioneer in animal training, used a clicker while training many different species of animals, including marine mammals. He met great success using this method of training on these animals. His system developed for clicker training marine mammals is still in use today. Keller also trained dogs using the clicker. Because of its effectiveness, it was brought into use by others in the dog training community. The success of the clicker spans 7 decades and now is a widely accepted standard for dog training. A trainer will use the clicker to mark desired actions as they occur. At the exact instant, the animal performs the desired action, the trainer clicks and promptly delivers a food reward or other reinforcements. For example, clicking and rewarding slightly too early or too late will reinforce the action that is occurring at that very instant rather than the action you were targeting the reward for. Shaping is the process of gradual transformation of a specific action into the desired action by rewarding each successive progression towards the desired action. This is done by gradually molding or training the dog to perform a specific response by first, reinforcing the small, successive responses that are similar to the desired response, instead of waiting for the perfect completion to occur. The trainer looks for small progressions that are heading in the direction towards the total completion of the desired action and then clicks and treats. It is important to recognize and reward those tiny steps made in the target direction. During training, the objective is to create opportunities for your dog to earn frequent rewards. During training, and in conjunction with clicker use, the introduction of a cue word or hand signal can be applied. Eventually, the clicker can be phased out in favor of a cue or cues that have been reinforced during the training sessions. As a result, your dog will immediately respond by reacting, obeying, and performing actions to your hand gestures or verbal commands. Watching this unfold is a highly satisfying process, which empowers your friend to be the best he can, and while you have fulfilled your role as alpha and pack leader. Why is clicking effective over using a word cue first? The clicking sound is a unique sound that is not found in nature, and it is more precise than a verbal command. Verbal commands can be confusing because the human voice has many tonal variations, whereas the clicker consistently makes a sound that your dog will not confuse with any other noise. It is also effective because it is directed at him and followed by good things. Therefore, your dog completely understands which action is desired and your dog will quickly understand that the click is followed by a reward. The clicker sound is produced in a quick and accurate way that is in response to the slightest actions that your dog makes. This clarity of function of this tool increases the bond between you and your dog, as a result making your dog more interested in the training sessions, and ultimately your relationship more engaging and entertaining. Dare I say fun? On that note, do not forget to always have fun and add variety to your training sessions. Variety is the spice of life, mix up those treats, rewards, and commands. Clicker training works this way At the exact instant the action occurs, the trainer clicks. Usually the reward is a small kernel sized food treat, but a reward can be a toy, play, or affection. Whatever the dog enjoys is a reward worth giving. In as soon as clicks have been issued a dog will associate the sound of the click with something it enjoys. Once the association is made, it will repeat the action it did when hearing the click. The three steps are as follows: 1. Get the action you request 2. Mark the action with your clicker 3. Reinforce the action with a reward. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published.

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:. Florida I agree, what you are doing is excellent. We do the same. For example, we were at an outside outlet mall the other day with Roamin'; whilst I shopped for shoes, my husband sat on a bench outside with the puppy feeding him bits of kibble to keep his attention on his person and not on the passers by. Since this was the third time we'd done this type of "passer by" training, he was actually voluntarily ignoring some of them after a few minutes had passed and so the treating slowed down. Because this was an exercise to get him to not move towards the others, my husband would just say "we are training, please don't interact with him. Thanks" and everyone just smiled and nodded and moved on past. At the very end about 15 minutes , my husband did allow one person to approach and Roamin' responded almost perfectly. So we are making some progress.BUT, doing the same thing next time may find us moving a step backwards. We have to "manage our expectations" that because he did well the second and third time out that the next time will be the same or better. Print Preparing for the teething stage If you have been following my puppy training program since the beginning, you will have some down time for the next month or so. This is not to mean that you will not be working with your puppy at all, but only means that you will not be adding any new training. For the next month or two, you should continue working on basic obedience. I will discuss this more later in the post but Here is the training for your 4-month-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post eight of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba Training and socialization for four-month-old Labrador puppy Here are the things we worked on during the past two weeks while training Bubba. Working on self-control and restraint If you have ever been pushed out of the way as your large dog rushes to get outside or inside ahead of you, you know how that feels. It can be downright dangerous, and there is no reason to allow it. You can start eliminating these future problems by spending time now, teaching your 4-month-old puppy to have self-control and restraint. There is a vast array of situations that you can use to teach your puppy self-control. The first and easiest one to teach is sitting before eating. Simply do not give your puppy their food until they SIT calmly. Here are some other opportunities. Sitting before getting a leash on and off Sitting by door, waiting to go outside or inside, until released from SIT Staying in crate or kennel until released, even with door open All these training opportunities work toward the same thing — self-control. There are probably many more situations that would also apply, use your imagination, and teach your puppy to listen and exert restraint in all situations. Bubba has learned all these lessons well. She understands that she must wait for a release command and that if she SITS very still the release comes sooner. Obedience training your 4-month-old puppy We continue to work on obedience training using a chain collar and heeling stick. Bubba has come a long way regarding heeling. She is not perfect, but she does understand the command. However, remote SIT is not going well. Bubba really struggles to SIT still, even for a few seconds. I had to be reminded that Bubba is a chocolate lab. Chocolate labs tend to mature much slower than blacks or yellows, and Bubba is proving that to be true. Given this, Bubba will probably need some more maturity before I can expect too much from her on obedience. Well, let me rephase. Bubba knows the HERE command but still struggles to respond to it consistently. This is a huge source of contention for me, but again, Bubba is a chocolate and is very immature. A halt on retrieving Up until now we have been doing retrieving daily with Bubba, but as she enters the fourth month, we are increasing aware that she will be teething very soon. Because of this, we will be stopping retrieving until we can confirm that all her adult teeth are in. This concerns a lot of owners; they are concerned that their puppy will forget how to retrieve or will stop wanting to retrieve. We have never had this happen. Final thoughts on training for your 4-month-old Labrador puppy As your puppy approaches four months of age, it is good to take a moment to reflect on all the progress you have made in terms of training. These are important steps that will lead your puppy down a path of becoming a happy, healthy family dog and hunting companion. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Training your 4-month-old Labrador puppy? Puppy training development after 6 months It is very tempting to get carried away with puppy training. Your young do is so willing to please and such fun to be around. It is important to go at a happy pace for you both. Positive reinforcement training is the right choice for your puppy because there are no negative consequences to getting something wrong. But you can still both suffer from burnout and frustration if you try to reach the later puppy training stages without totally aceing the earlier developments. Your Puppy Training Schedule This may not be exactly the same for each puppy, especially with retrieving which is more Labrador specific. However, it gives you a rough idea. Constantly changing direction. Stopping frequently for cuddles and rewards. This means I blow the recall whistle whenever the puppy runs towards me, no compulsion, and no whistle unless the recall is already underway. Socialisation: Lots almost daily of outings to different places rural and urban carried Visits to family and friends. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow mouthing. Working with food: Learning how to take food gently without snatching or grabbing at the treat pot. I still give the puppy lots of encouragement by running away as soon as I blow the whistle. Socialisation: More socialisation, at least twice a week to busy public places. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow gentle mouthing. Retrieving: Encourage chase and pick up retrieve drive. Hand touch: I teach all new puppies to touch my hand with their noses. This is a great foundation for other skills. Recall: Puppy recall continues, reduce my run to a walk, avoid any distractions. Still frequently blow the recall whenever the pup runs towards me of her own free will. Socialisation: From ground level after vaccination. No other leash walking at all Bite inhibition: No biting, gentle mouthing allowed. Retrieving: Continue to build drive. Positions: I introduce three positions — sit, stand, down. What to expect from your 3 month old puppy Most three month old puppies will be sleeping through the night. And will be having less potty training accidents in the house. There are a few potty training problems that arise at this age, and they are all covered in 15 potty training problems solved. Biting is a big shock and a big problem for many new Lab puppy parents so do check out our complete guide to biting , and join the forum for help and support. Help encourage your puppy to stay in their bed while you are eating. I have a pot of dog treats on our kitchen table, and whenever we sit down to a meal, the puppy gets a treat each time she steps into her basket. Just a treat for stepping in there. What to expect from your 4 month old puppy Your 4 month old puppy will be pretty much potty trained, but accidents still happen if they are left alone too long. Biting is usually starting to subside now, and many four month old puppies will be able to mouth at your hand without hurting you. At this point I start to discourage all mouthing. I teach every puppy to let me touch her face or approach her with my hand, food, a leash etc while holding eye contact and not grabbing at me, or at what is in my hand. This is the age at which people often start to push forward with training. Your 4 month old puppy is capable of quite a lot. There is nothing wrong with teaching your puppy different cues and even some tricks. I recommend you still avoid long duration activities at this point as they are a common stumbling point with puppies young enough to have a short attention span. A ten second sit is ample. Add mild distractions Recall: Fade additional cues. Begin to whistle the pup and stand still. Add mild distractions. Clicker train to polish this in more mouthy puppies. No commands are needed for this. Gradual introduction of distractions. Advanced puppy training begins in earnest This is where I start a programme of sporting training with my Labs. You can begin raising your standards and expectations, asking for longer and more complex behaviors. Teaching your puppy to walk to heel nicely for longer distance and past all kinds of distractions and temptations. Or teaching your puppy to sit and stay for longer periods of time, and even while you go out of sight or while other dogs play nearby. What to expect from your six month old puppy Six months is a common time for people to have a lot of questions and to be struggling with a few challenges. This is now a very bouncy, quite powerful and rapidly maturing young dog. And you may need to patch up a few holes in his training or manners. We have a great article for owners of six month old Lab puppies.

His name is Dyno pronounced die-no. Dyno is very playful and full of energy. White American Shepherds are very much like the German Shepherd in temperament. They need a dominant owner to establish a pack leader position. They do best with firm discipline and training. Can be very cautious of strangers but very friendly once acquainted. Shepherds do need daily exercise. They will do well indoors but really need space to run and play. He's a 2-year-old White German Shepherd. We're from Toronto, Canada. Your site has helped me a lot; he's more obedient than he used to be. Blitz is a dominant dog but I'm training him, being consistent and he's becoming a very good dog. He used to growl at me when I told him to get off the bed but now he doesn't! He'll do as told. Your site really helps me out. I'm still working on Blitz. Blitz and I go on many long walks, the dog park and pack walks. Blitz loves long walks and playing ball as well. Overall he's a good boy who is very friendly and playful, just in need of more training. An interesting fact about Blitz is that he loves eating oranges. I don't give him oranges often, sometimes though if he's really good I'll give him a slice. I don't know what I would do without her. And, when you add an amazing collar, it gets even better. Family Portrait Photo from: Pinterest They say intelligence is inherited from your mom, but I think beauty is, too. Look at that gorgeous-looking GSD, proud of her white pups! Ready For The Trip! The sooner we arrive at the doggy park, the sooner I get to show you all my tricks! A nice bath after the walk will make the fur shiny again! Head Tilt! Even German Shepherd puppies do the head tilt. Who can resist such a cute face?! My bet is on the ball… 8. Play Time Photo from: Pinterest Would you look at that? Sitting and playing tug-of-war. Ladies and gentlemen, we might have a case of too-cute-to-move kind of laziness. Toe Beans! First Command Learned Photo from: Pinterest German Shepherds are well-known for their intelligence, and we have proof right here. Good boy! It looks like a white GSD puppy! Now, you know why… They start practicing their jumps very early. Photo from: Pinterest Just boop the nose for good luck! Boop it three times for a GSD to appear. Try it again! Beach Fun I swear the bird was this big, and it went that way! True Cuteness This picture is a true example of absolute cuteness! Serious Doggo Photo from: Pinterest This looks like a true guard dog on duty. Good Morning! You are safe! Final Frame No matter if you have a white GSD or any other coat color, we know your dogs are just as adorable as the white ones. But, this was an ode to white GSDs so that everyone can see how cute they are. Take your time to go through these photos, and I am sure you will be reading these last few sentences with a smile on your face. Enjoy, and have a pawsome day! Sweet puppies and cute babies: perceptual adaptation to babyfacedness transfers across species Post navigation. Alyssa provided an excellent insight into White Shepherd and how they can be claimed by three different breeds. The outline of the White Shepherd is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. Working dogs are not to be penalized under any conditions for scars or blemishes that are due to occupational injuries. The temperament of White Shepherds all depends on breeding and can absolutely vary from dog to dog, however on average, they tend to be a bit calmer. From meeting other White German Shepherd owners we all seem to say the same thing. Exercise all depends on the drive and energy level of your dog. German Shepherds on average White Shepherds included need quite a bit of exercise. They can get bored very easily so its important to keep their mind busy. Training sessions also do a great job of keeping them mentally stimulated. Ash, meanwhile, underlined the importance of keeping a White German Shepherd busy! They have a lot of energy like any other German Shepherd they need a lot of exercise. Ghost sleeps a lot during the day but in the afternoon his energy kicks in. As this breed is very needy and they can become very clingy from boredom if they do not use that german shepherd energy! White Shepherds are incredibly smart. Just keep at it and make sure to give lots of praise when they exhibit the correct behaviors. White German Shepherd Photo: Adobe Stock The White Shepherd has a weather-resistant double coat with a straight, harsh outer coat and a thick, fine inner coat. And Ash warned potential White German Shepherd owners to be prepared for dog hair! The only thing that is worse is that the fur is white! It stands out so much on your clothes, regular grooming and brushing is usually the best way to keep on top of it. I recommend at the beginning of spring to get your pooch groomed professionally. It just makes dealing with the fur a lot easier in the shedding season. They love their families and will do anything to protect them. Because of this, they typically are a bit skeptical of strangers but this can be worked through with proper socialization and training. The White German Shepherd is a little more timid and shy, are softer in the heart and they are not so aggressive. The German Shepherd is an excellent family and pet friendly dog, with the fun playful side for the kids and family to the hard working training for security for the home. This breed will have your back like no other. It usually occurs when a dog owner leaves their canine companion at home alone. Alyssa believes members of the breed are susceptible to some separation anxiety. White German Shepherds are prone to separation anxiety due to their love for their people. Its hard to want to leave your cute new puppy alone but the work we did with Lumi at 8 weeks to get her comfortable on her own has carried through to today. German Shepherds are notoriously fussy eaters and tend to be prone to sensitivities. From my experience, White Shepherds are no different. Food is food right?! Once your White German Shepherd gets a taste for the finer things in life you will be ruined! My breeder fed him raw mince, so I decided to keep him on a RAW diet. I change it around sometimes from meaty bones to livers and giblets, it is all about knowing what exact meats to give your dog on this diet, like anything else you need to do your own research on whats best for you and your pooch. You may find a White GSD in need of a forever home. Otherwise, you may want to seek out a specific White German Shepherd organization to find some breeders of these elegant dogs. The cost of White Shepherds can vary quite a bit, especially when taking location into consideration. Be smart about the dog you choose to bring home and make sure their personality matches your lifestyle. Other then that if you are looking for a breeder make sure you do some research. I have grown up with the standard colour German Shepherd my entire 26 years of life and when I got my first White German Shepherd I did notice a slight difference. I made sure to do my research on the breed, what the dog needs. I do not recommend getting any type of German Shepherd if you are not ready for the hard work they require. They are very hard work sometimes and very stubborn but also so so rewarding. White German Shepherds will shed a lot so you should be prepared to brush your dog regularly as well as have a lint roller close by at all times to remove white fur from your clothes. Hiding treats for your dog to find. Obedience training Grooming The White German Shepherd is a heavy-shedding dog with a double white coat and requires regular brushing. Ideally, a White Shepherd should be groomed every other day, possibly daily, during the peak shedding season. Male vs. Female While for many animal species, the female is larger, with the German Shepherd, it is the males that are larger. While German Shepherds are all loyal and loving family dogs, it is often noted that females are more docile than males. This makes a female Shepherd a better choice for homes with young children. A female White Shepherd reaches sexual maturity at two years of age and has a litter of between five to ten puppies. They have an intelligent and fearless personality and are eager to learn and please. These traits make them wonderful family pets. A determined personality also makes shepherds adept at being working dogs. The White German Shepherd is a loyal and loving dog that quickly forms an unshakable bond with its family and is fiercely protective of them. It is vital for all dog owners to understand that training is important. Any German Shepherd breed needs to be trained and socialized correctly. Failing to do so leads to problems with jealousy and distrust of strangers. White German Shepherd Health and Care All dogs come with their own potential health problems and care requirements. For the White German Shepherd, there are several critical quality-of-life considerations to make. While both White and regular German Shepherds suffer from a lot of the same health issues, there are some with a higher prevalence in white breeds. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues faced by White German Shepherd dogs. Caused by a misformation of the hip joint, dysplasia is a painful condition resulting from bone-on-bone grinding. While it can be seen in White German Shepherd puppies as young as four months, it is more common in older dogs. It can be treated with the help of CBD Oil for hip dysplasia. Sadly, this painful condition is very prominent in German shepherds. This is largely due to their combined size and energy levels. Unfortunately, arthritis is a progressive condition that cannot be cured. In the White GSD, arthritis is more common in their hind legs than in their front. Gastric Bloat Gastric bloat is the common name for a serious medical complaint known as gastric dilatation volvulus GDV. Bloat commonly occurs in larger dogs, particularly German Shepherd breeds. There is no time to waste with this condition. If a dog is showing signs of bloat, they need immediate medical attention, as it could quickly become fatal. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy CDM Canine degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease that affects the spinal column. German Shepherds are one of the most commonly affected breeds. The result of CDM is commonly rear-leg paralysis. Middle-aged dogs between 4 and 14 years are more likely to be diagnosed with CDM. Pay attention to any limping or signs of motion impingement. Other Diseases Deafness is another disease that is more common for the White German Shepherd than other breeds. As a general rule, deafness is a common health concern for white-coated dogs and other animals. Some of the core allergies that affect this breed are related to chicken, wheat, and dairy. Dental decay is also a serious problem that is frequently observed in German Shepherds. More so with them than many other breeds. Using dental chews in combination with a healthy diet is a great way to promote healthy teeth and gums. They love to be challenged, while their loyalty sees them eager to please. While Shepherds make great pets, it is important to train them from a young age. Below are five training tips for White German Shepherds. Be consistent: White and other German Shepherds all respond better to training when there is consistency to things. Everything from your manner to the commands you use needs to be consistent from one training session to another. Layer your training in easy-to-iterate steps. Master one of two commands before introducing something else. Be a leader: It is important to remember that dogs are looking for you to be a leader and not a dominator. You must be prepared to take charge rather than use aggression as a training tactic. Communicate properly: Dogs do not communicate the same way humans do. It is important to understand the right way to communicate with your White Shepherd. Short and clear commands yield the best results. Also, avoid using similar-sounding commands, as these are likely to confuse your dog. Practice positive reinforcement: Never punish a dog for not doing well in training or for struggling to recognize a command. Instead, positive reinforcement is the recommended training practice. Reward your furry friend for every good deed. However, the exact costs will vary depending on where you are and the size of the litter. The price also relates to buying White Shepherd puppies from a recognized breeder and not from a puppy farm or through shelter adoption. White German Shepherds are different from other German Shepherd dogs in so far as they have a white coat rather than the traditional tan and brown. However, genetically, there is no difference between White Shepherds and other shepherds. The difference between them is that the White German Shepherd carries a recessive white gene that changes its fur color. This is the same way some humans are born with blond hair. Conclusion The White German Shepherd is the rare form of one of the most easily recognized dogs in the world. Wonderful family dogs. German Shepherds love to be part of the family. They struggle when home alone for long periods. Luckily, this breed is very good with children. The same as any other dog, White Shepherds need to be trained. Exercise is also crucial for this breed, as they can become destructive if they do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. If you work from home or have a family member at home a lot of the day, then a White German Shepherd is an ideal dog. Just make sure ahead of time that you understand the amount of work it takes to train a shepherd puppy from a young age. Whether you are a new or experienced dog owner, the White Shepherd is a great choice for your house. All dogs need love and affection, but the hyper-intelligent German Shepherd needs more than most in order for them to truly feel settled in their home. Luckily, the effort you put in is returned multiple folds in the affection your dog shows. Related Guide:. Lifespan Sociability Naturally occurring White German Shepherds are quite rare; to produce a white puppy, both parent dogs need to carry and pass on the recessive white gene. It is therefore often the case that White German Shepherds will have siblings within their litter that are not white. In fact, the only way to guarantee a litter of white puppies is to breed from two white dogs. As such, it is significantly more difficult to find and purchase a White German Shepherd puppy than a standard colored pup. From a practical point of view, for those looking to buy a White German Shepherd, you should expect to wait longer for a puppy to become available, and you may also need to pay more than you would for a standard German Shepherd puppy. However, this is not the case. Like Black German Shepherds, their coloring is the result of carrying two recessive genes. Animals that are albinos have deficient pigmentation, and this results in them having pale skin, pink eyes, and colorless hair. The White German Shepherd has either pink or black skin, a black nose, and normal brown- or gold-colored eyes. The White German Shepherd does not have any additional health issues Contrary to popular belief, White German Shepherds do not have any additional health issues. They are usually just as healthy as any other German Shepherd and are susceptible to the same health issues as any other German Shepherd. German Shepherds are extremely intelligent dogs and are capable of being trained to a particularly high standard. They are also a loyal and protective breed that will fearlessly defend their home and family members from any perceived threat. While German Shepherds are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds, they are not for everybody. They need plenty of attention and exercise and firm and consistent training. Being big, strong dogs, they also need a confident and strong-willed owner who can maintain a consistent approach and keep their dog in line. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Despite their intimidating size and manner, though, they can be big softies at heart, and they love nothing more than running around the yard playing with and watching over children. Like all German Shepherds, White German Shepherds can be protective and may act aggressively toward any stranger whom they see as a threat. This is something that can be kept in check with appropriate socialization and training. However, due to their white coat, they can appear to be more friendly than other German Shepherds, and people who would typically be wary of approaching a German Shepherd may feel more comfortable approaching a white-colored dog. While this can be a good thing, it can also be problematic if your dog tends to act aggressively toward strangers. Still, unless they spend time with and around a variety of other animals when young, they may not be accepting of your other pets, though this can typically be overcome with effort and training. That said, this is something that needs to be managed carefully, as these dogs can easily injure or kill other small animals if they respond aggressively toward them. There are quite a few different brands of food available online and in pet food stores, and ideally, you should buy a product that contains a high percentage of meat protein and that has been formulated to provide a complete and balanced diet. It is also a good idea to find a brand of food that has a range of formulas for dogs during their different life stages. This will ensure that your dog gets the best nutrition from the time that they are a young puppy to when they are an elderly or senior dog. Ideally, this should include at least an hour of outdoor activity, as well as a good long walk or run every day. Working dogs will likely get sufficient exercise and mental stimulation on a daily basis and will not need the same amount of play and exercise as those that spend their days as family pets. However, even working dogs will enjoy a walk or long play session every day or two. In fact, training is essential for these big dogs, and you should start their training regimen by enrolling them into puppy school while they are very young. Once your dog has mastered the basics, you may find that your White German Shepherd will enjoy something a little more challenging, like agility training and dog sports. This type of advanced training can be enjoyable for both dog and owner and is a great way to get your dog out for exercise and mental stimulation. Regardless of whether you have a long- or short-haired dog, your White German Shepherd will have a thick double coat and will shed year-round. For most of the year, your dog will typically need a brush once or twice a week. Your pooch will also require a bath every couple of months or more frequently, if they get their white coat dirty and their claws clipped every month or two. Yet, like most breeds, there are a few health conditions to which they are susceptible. Many of these can be prevented or at least significantly reduced in severity through careful breeding practices. These conditions include the following. Minor Conditions. Our extensive collection features hundreds of stunning photos of these adorable canines in various poses, settings, and backgrounds. Type of Images Available Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images features a variety of different types of photos, including portraits, candid shots, outdoor and indoor images, and more. From close-ups of their expressive faces to action shots of them running and playing, our images capture the energy and character of this amazing breed. Our images can be used for a multitude of purposes, including websites, blog posts, advertisements, social media, books, magazines, and more. Whether you're sharing photos of your own German Shepherd puppy or you need images for a commercial project, our collection is a great resource. Tips for Choosing the Right Image Choosing the right image can make all the difference when it comes to creating a compelling design or message. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect image: Consider the mood you want to convey Think about the context in which the image will be used Look for images with high resolution and clarity Take into account the color scheme of your project and select images that complement it Choose images that have a clear focal point and aren't cluttered Why Choose Our Images? Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images offers a unique combination of quality, variety, and affordability. We pride ourselves in providing images that are visually stunning while still being accessible to a wide range of individuals and businesses. Plus, we offer flexible licensing options, including Royalty-free and Extended licenses, to fit your specific needs. With our images, you can create compelling projects that capture the essence of this beloved breed, no matter what your design or marketing goals may be. So why wait? Browse our collection today to discover the perfect German Shepherd puppy image for your next project! First you must find your foundation. I started thinking about how nice it would be to have a German Shepherd Dog like when I was young. I remember how pretty they were so I told Jeffrey, "I want a German shepherd". He immediately went on the hunt. He loves that stuff. When Jeff started showing me the dogs he was finding I couldn't believe what I was seeing. It is so hard to find a old fashion discerning yet calm, straight back shepherd these days. We found out the show dog people, changed the appearance of the Shepherd. It all looks legit so we bought a couple. I didn't care how much money or time I had in them or how great their paperwork said they were I had enough. I couldn't take it anymore. It was not what I wanted. Next Shepherd dog we found was the working line. We got a beautiful pup we called Titus. When we went look at him as a pup I mean he shined. He was like his owners shadow. He never got tripped on and moved like the wind. I knew that this dog had a high prey drive but I didn't know he didn't have an off button. We loved him but at a year old we placed with a man who lived on an 80 acre farm. Lord Jesus, what happened to the big beautiful straight back family farm German Shepherd Dog? I mean who would have thought? How hard could it be? But nowadays, what we were wanting was the minority. Most shepherds now either have the curved back that they swear is healthier, tested and winning everything. That is how they separate them now. They need a job, a serious job. They to hyper and to prey driven for what I wanted. Thanks to The Good Lord Jeff had ask me several times if I would be interested in the white shepherd. I said, "That is exactly what I want. We bought off different litters. These dogs are mentally smart. They are like a human with fur. They will understand your language and they learn everything very very fast. You should just be able to tell them once or twice and they get it. They potty train very fast! They are clean dogs. Most GSD tend to be wary of strangers or aloof, but not ours. Their drive to retrieve things makes them a companion for entertainment. They love kids. Who better to trust watching over the kiddos than the trusted loyal White Shepherd. I know my own and my own know me. According to an article in USA Today, 1, sheep fell off a cliff to their deaths in Turkey in .One sheep fell, so the others followed suit and jumped. In the end, sheep died. The ones that survived only lived because they were cushioned by landing on top of their fellow herd members. As a child growing up in church, I remember seeing a picture of Jesus with a lamb wrapped around his neck. As I grew older and visited more churches, I remember seeing similar pictures at a lot of places. I never questioned the image. The Bible is clear that God is our shepherd, and we are the sheep of his pasture, so I assumed the image demonstrated that biblical truth. However, several years ago while I was attending seminary, the image of the lamb wrapped around the neck of Jesus was explained to me. Because sheep tend to stray and will also follow wherever they are led, shepherds often had to discipline lambs that would stray from their shepherd. The shepherd would use his rod to break the leg of a wandering lamb. After binding the break, the shepherd would carry the lamb on his shoulders while the wound healed. If the lamb struggled and fought, it would quickly realize that the broken leg wouldn't allow it to flee. The lamb learned during the healing process that the shepherd could be trusted. The lamb needed the shepherd to provide food, transportation and protection. Once the wound was completely healed, the lamb was fiercely loyal to the shepherd and wouldn't stray from the shepherd's leading. A few years ago a news story broke about Shrek the sheep. Shrek was a Merino sheep who lived in New Zealand. Shrek became famous because he managed to avoid being captured and shorn for six years. His wool continued to grow and thicken, and his eyes were eventually hidden behind the thick coat. Shrek dodged the sheering by hiding in caves and running from his master. Once Shrek was finally captured and shorn, he carried 60 pounds of wool on his body, nearly six times the average amount. The wool on Shrek's body was enough to produce 20 men's dress suits. It's easy to see why the Bible compares us to sheep. We often follow the crowd, even when it leads to our own demise. We stray from the shepherd who loves us and seeks to protect us. We don't appreciate when God disciplines us. But if we surrender to him we learn through the discipline that God can be trusted. We are often like Shrek the sheep as well. We hide from God, clinging to the things that need to be shorn from us. We become weighed down with the burdens God could easily remove from us. The Bible also shares with us that God anointed his people with oil just as the shepherds anointed the heads of their sheep with oil. This wasn't just a symbolic ritual. Sheep are easy targets for flies, lice and ticks. A sheep that was not covered in oil on his head could easily become the victim of infestations of these pests. However, it wasn't just a nuisance. Bugs would crawl through the ear canal of the unoiled sheep and nest in its brain, eating away at it. The pain from the bugs would be so severe on the sheep that the sheep would bang his skull on rocks and against trees to ease his suffering. The sheep could break his own skull seeking relief from the brain-eating parasites. When God offers to anoint us with his oil, it means he offers us protection from the parasites of this world that seek to eat away at us. If we hide in caves, or jump off the proverbial cliffs of this world, dodging his anointing and protection, we may become victims of this world. We may become so filled with pain that we hit our heads against rocks to ease our suffering. God seeks to shepherd us through this life. Oftentimes that is through discipline, sheering or anointing. But it is always with love, and it is always with our best interest at heart. He is our shepherd. He can be trusted when we surrender to his leading. Jamye Lanning Duncan is a curriculum writer and has served as a minister and teacher throughout North Carolina. She holds an Master of Divinity in Christian education and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education. She is married to Dr. Hunter Duncan, and they have two children, Katherine and Cameron. For six television seasons Bullet played in episodes of the Roy Rogers show called Bullet the Wonder dog. Bullet was fast enough to keep up with the camera shots of Roy Rogers galloping on trigger in pursuit of something. Bullet was an exceptionally smart dog. He did everything a good dog would do. Rin Tin Tin Rin tin Tin is a story of a dog who went from rags to riches. He was an orphan from world War 1 and was found by Mr. Lee Duncan. Mr Lee trained Rinty to do tricks and to do silent picture work for dogs. Rin Tin Tin immediately was a big success. He was responsible greatly for the increasing popularity of the German Shepherd breed as family pets.

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:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Sometimes I look at photos of my dog when she was small enough to sit in the palm of my hand. When did she get so big?! Times like those make me wonder, too: how much bigger will she get? Exactly when is my puppy likely to reach her full size and stop growing? If these sound like questions you have asked yourself, then you are not alone as a pet parent. Puppies change so much in the first months of their lives, but then things slow down. As a result, their changing size can sometimes creep up and surprise you. Exactly how long it will take for your dog to reach their full size depends on their breed, and them as an individual. Read on as we look at when different types of dogs reach full size and signs that indicate whether your pup may still be growing or has finally stopped. Puppies can reach their full adult size anywhere between six and 24 months of age. Smaller dogs tend to reach their full size sooner, and live for longer, while larger dogs tend to take a bit longer to fully mature and have slightly shorter overall lifespans, but these rules do not hold true for all dogs. Below you will find a list of some of the most popular breeds and when you can expect them to reach full size. Labrador Retrievers One of the most popular breeds in the United States often used as working dogs, Labrador retrievers measure between .They tend to reach their full size at around 12 months of age. Golden retrievers are another dog popular as both family pets and working dogs. They measure between 20 and 24 inches and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. They will reach their full height at around 12 months. German Shepherds Popular as police dogs, affectionate family pets, and guard dogs, German shepherds measure between 22 and 26 inches and weigh 50 to 90 pounds. They are not considered fully grown until they are at least 18 months old. French Bulldogs These adorable compassion dogs usually stand about 12 inches tall and can weigh between 16 and 28 pounds they have a tendency to put on weight when overfed. Unusually for such a small dog, they need months to reach their full size. Bulldogs A little bigger than their French cousins, people love these dogs for their distinctive faces. They are usually 12 to 15 inches tall and weigh about 15 pounds. It takes them about 18 months to reach their full size, skin rolls and all. Poodles Among the most intelligent dogs, poodles are fantastic companions and are often used in mix-breed dogs because of their hypoallergenic coats. While toy and miniature poodles are common, standard poodles are inches tall and weigh 45 to 70 pounds. They do not reach their full size until two years of age. Beagles These little English hunters with their floppy ears measure 13 to 16 inches and weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. They reach their full size at around 18 months. Rottweilers While rottweilers can have a bad reputation because of the ways that they have been used in the past, they are naturally intelligent and non-aggressive. They are big dogs, measuring inches and weighing 80 to pounds. They are slow maturing and will only stop growing somewhere between two and three years old. Daschunds Sausage dogs come in many shapes and sizes, but all have distinctive long bodies with short legs. The standard size is 14 to 19 inches and can weigh between 12 and 30 pounds. They grow up fast and will reach their full size at around eight months. Pembroke Welsh Corgis These little herders from Wales will measure between 10 and 12 inches and weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. Most will be pretty much their full size by one year of age, but they may have additional growth spurts until they are as old as three. Australian Shepherds These intelligent working dogs from California despite the name measure 18 to 23 inches and weigh between 35 and 70 pounds. They will reach their full size at around 16 months of age. Yorkshire Terriers Yorkshire terriers are one of the smallest dog breeds measuring just inches and weighing just pounds. They stick to the height-related growth rules and will stop growing when they are only months old. Great Danes Great Danes are great in terms of both their size and their personality. These German kings and queens grow to between 28 and 35 inches and weigh between and pounds. They will keep growing until at least 18 months, and will probably be full size before two years. Boxers Boxers are another German dog of medium to large size. They grow to between 21 and 24 inches tall and weigh pounds. They will reach their full height somewhere between 18 and 24 months old. Siberian Huskies These dogs were bred to pull sleds in cold places, but their cute wolf look makes them popular household pets. They grow to inches tall and weigh 35 to 60 pounds. They will reach their full size at 15 months of age. Cavalier King James Spaniels These dogs can look a bit bigger than they are thanks to their flowing locks. They will reach between 12 and 13 inches tall and weigh pounds. They will reach their full size at around 18 months. Doberman Pinschers Regular Doberman pinschers are quite large dogs, measuring inches and weighing pounds. They will reach their full height at around one year old but will continue to fill out noticeably until around two years old. Shih Tzu This Asian toy dog breed from Tibet measures between 8 and 11 inches and weighs pounds. They will be their full adult size by the time they are about 10 months old. Pomeranians Fluffy Pomeranians are inches tall and weigh just pounds under all that hair. Most will reach their full size at six or seven months old. English Mastiffs English mastiffs are big dogs , measuring around inches and weighing up to pounds. They will only reach their full size at about three, but growth slows significantly around the one year mark. Chihuahuas Another of the toy breeds, Chihuahuas, hailing from Mexico, measure inches and weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. They will reach their full diminutive height by around 9 months of age. Basset Hounds The short legs of a basset hound mean that they only grow to about inches, but they can weigh as much as 75 pounds. Maltese These white balls of love and fur measure inches tall and weigh pounds under all that hair. They will reach their complete size at months old. Dalmations Dalmations are known for their distinctive spots, but they are also strong and intelligent dogs. They reach between 19 and 23 inches and have an athletic physique of pounds. Greyhounds There is more to these spindly littler racers than it seems. They grow to between 27 and 30 inches and weigh pounds. They will reach their full racing height at months old. Mixed breed dogs are likely to reach full size sometimes between the time period for their two purebred parent breeds. If your dog is not on the list, you can compare them with dogs of a similar size for a general guide. The best thing to look at as a guide is their paws. Look at the size of paws of similar dogs to help you determine whether they are the right proportions for your pup. If you are desperate to know how big your dog will be, you can also do a dog DNA test that can help you narrow down the possibilities. Factors That Influence The Size Of Your Dog While breed and genetic hereditary factors are the most important factors when it comes to the size of your dog, there are a few lifestyle factors that may result in your pup being bigger or smaller as well. Worm Infections If your puppy becomes infected by hookworms or roundworms as a puppy, this can stunt their growth. The worms steal calories and nutrition from your dog, which means that it is unable to grow the way that it should. Worm infestations are more common than many people imagine, as they are easily picked up in the environment. Poor coat quality, potbelly, and regular diarrhea are all signs that they may have worms. Other puppy diseases such as Parvo can also stunt their growth. Most dogs are vaccinated against Parvo, but it can be a problem when they have not yet been vaccinated. Prioritize food that is rich in protein and healthy fats, and keep carbohydrate intake under control to ensure they can reach their full size in top health. Spaying Or Neutering While many dog owners will tell you that spaying or neutering their dog seems to have stunted their growth, the evidence is anecdotal. In studies that have been run, it seems to have a negligible effect. It is often a good idea to delay spaying female dogs until they are fully grown, rather than at around six months, but this is to prevent related cancer risks as opposed to size considerations. Excessive Exercise Exercising your puppy too much can be detrimental to their growth. While it may not stunt their overall growth, it can cause different parts of their body to grow at different speeds. This can lead to malformations such as elbow and hip dysplasia. This is most common in larger dogs since the puppies have lots of energy to burn off, but as a general rule, until your dog is fully grown you should exercise them for five minutes per day for each month of their life. If your dog is six months old, then, they need just half an hour of exercise a day. If they are still growing at one year, they will need just 60 minutes, rather than the 90 minutes they will want when they are a full-grown dog. You can read more about the right way to exercise Labrador puppies here. FAQs Do dogs double in size from six months? No, at six months old most small dogs will be almost fully grown. Larger dogs, on the other hand, are likely to be about two-thirds of their adult weight at six months. Only very large breeds such as Rottweilers and Great Danes are likely to still be half their adult size at six months. Do the back legs of puppies grow faster? It is true that not every part of your dog will grow at the same pace, and it is not unusual for them to be a bit disproportional while they are growing. Puppies often have legs that are too long for their body. It can happen that their hind legs grow faster than their front legs, but this is not an overly common phenomenon. Do dogs have growth spurts? Rather, they have short rapid growth spurts that make it seem like they grew an inch overnight. They also tend to put on a bit of weight and then lean out as their body goes through its quick growth stage. Their appetite will also increase before a big growth period. If you are worried that your puppy is not growing at a normal rate, you should speak to your vet to see if there really is something wrong. Slower growth could be normal for them. If you want to give your dog the best chance to reach their full size, focus on good nutrition. The Verdict As your adorable puppy seems to just keep getting bigger each day, it is normal to ask yourself when exactly they will stop growing. How long it takes dogs to reach their full size depends significantly on their breed, so there is no single rule for all dogs. As a general guideline, vets will tell you that small dogs grow quickly and will reach their full size between six months and one year. Larger dogs grow more slowly and can take up to two years to fully grow, but there are many exceptions to the rule. It is best to research your breed and see what is normal for them. If you have a mixed breed, their age will sit somewhere between the ages of their two parent breeds. In terms of skeletal growth, paws are generally the thing that the rest of the body is catching up with, though they might still fill out. Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article. When do Labradors calm down? If your Lab seems to be acting out, or is refusing to follow commands, you may need to reflect on their training. Sometimes you need to go back to the beginning to move forward. When Do Labradors Mature — Physical Maturity Large breeds like the Labrador Retriever will reach physical maturity somewhere between the ages of 11 and 18 months. This can vary based on genetics, sex, and more. Physical maturity can affect a lot of things, including, the type of food your dog eats. When are Labradors Fully Grown? This question will depend a little on the size of your Lab when fully grown. Even within one breed, adult sizes can vary a lot. Fully grown Labs can range from 55 to 80 pounds in weight, and from .Females are usually smaller than males. Your Lab will usually reach their full grown height and weight at some point between 11 and 18 months old. But, the exact time will depend on their adult size. When Should I Neuter my Lab? This is because, after being neutered, your dog lacks the hormones that would switch off his growth. Studies have shown that early neutering or spaying Labradors before 6 months old can increase their risk of developing joint problems like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cranial cruciate ligament tear. Speak to your vet to get the latest information on this topic. Neutering or spaying your dog can have a number of health benefits, including the obvious birth control. This study suggests that neutering a Lab before 6 months old can significantly increase their risk of joint problems. So, you may choose to wait until your Lab is physically mature before you neuter or spay them. Puppy food and adult dog food have very different balances of nutrients. Puppy food will contain higher levels of protein than adult dog food. But, this can vary from dog to dog. Some dogs will still be growing at this age, so should wait a little longer. The best person to advise you about this is your vet. They will be able to offer advice tailored to your specific Lab. Generally, Labradors will usually reach sexual maturity somewhere between 6 and 9 months old. Although, this stage could be later. This means it is very possible for your Lab to get pregnant whilst she is still a puppy. When Can my Labrador Breed? As Labradors can reach sexual maturity from as early as 6 months, some Labradors can technically mate from this young age. When your female Lab has her first heat, it is possible for her to get pregnant. Male Labs will usually start showing interest to females at around this age, so you should assume they can impregnate another dog from this age. Whether you have a male or female Lab, you should avoid breeding them at this age. Female dogs need to be both physically and sexually mature before they are bred. But, they also should not be too old. Ideally, somewhere between 2 and 4 years old is the right age for breeding your Labrador. If you are not looking to breed your Lab, you may wish to talk to your vet about spaying or neutering them after they reach sexual maturity. Just remember the affect this can have on their physical growth, and the risk of joint problems. When do Labradors Mature Mentally? The third type of maturity that will be of interest to Labrador owners is mental maturity. Labs have a reputation for being friendly, affectionate, and eager to please. Lab puppies, like any puppies, can be boisterous, destructive, and bitey. This can lead to stress, exhaustion, and hopelessness in puppy owners. The bad news is that this stage of maturity takes the longest to reach. In fact, some Labs can take up to two years to reach full mental maturity. Labrador puppies are known for their biting phase. But, this stage does pass as your Labrador puppy matures. Some of this biting is down to teething. Lab puppies will usually start teething from around 3 or 4 months old. This stage can last until around 7 months old, when your Lab will have their full set of adult teeth. But, not all biting is due to teething. Puppies will also bite during play. So, practice calm behavior and ignore any biting that does happen. These steps can help to shorten the bitey period. When do Labradors Calm Down? Along with biting, Labrador puppies can seem very boisterous and over-excited, particularly when they are playing with you. So when do Labradors mature and settle down? It can take up to 2 years for Labs to completely mature mentally. This means, boisterous and excitable play can last up to two years. But, there are things you can do whilst your puppy is growing to reduce this boisterous behavior. Make sure to reward your puppy when he or she is calm. This could be when they are entertaining themselves with a toy, or just when they are chilling around your house. This way, your puppy will learn that calm behavior earns them great things! And, they will be more likely to act this way in the future. There may still be times when your Lab seems boisterous, noisy, or over-excitable, even with this tactic. But, it will help calm your pup down before they reach their full mental maturity. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! In terms of friendliness, affection, intelligence, and loyalty, this breed is hard to beat. A non-aggressive nature, a playful and exuberant disposition, an eager-to-please attitude, and a love of people has endeared the Labrador to thousands of dedicated enthusiasts. What you may not be aware of is that while Labs are absolutely wonderful companions, it can take a while for them to reach that point. Actually, quite a while. When do Labradors mature? Labs will reach physical maturity by 18 months. Sexual maturity will occur between months 6 .Though some maturity will be noted before age 2, a Lab will usually take 2 to 4 years to reach full mental maturity, and by the age of 5, a Lab should be well mannered, calm, and a joy to own. No more puppy issues! No more chewing slippers! Not going to happen. Your Lab will go through several developmental phases, some more drawn out than others, before becoming fully mature. Still, maturity in Labs can be difficult to measure, because, in some ways, a part of them always seems to retain some endearing puppy characteristics. Physical Maturity Most Labs will be close to their final height by around the 9-month mark. By 12 months of age, a Lab has reached his full height. Until about 18 months, a Lab will continue to add muscle and fat to his frame and fill out quite a bit, leaving behind that gangly, adolescent look. Generally, English Labs have a stockier appearance, a broader head with a shorter muzzle, a thicker coat, and are slightly more laid-back than their American counterparts. American Labs have a finer bone structure, more slender appearance, and narrower, longer muzzles. Fun fact: English Labs are more commonly seen in the show ring while American Labs are used more extensively in field trials due to their athleticism and above-average enthusiasm, but both types are Labradors through and through. Sexual Maturity Anytime between the ages of 6 -9 months both male and female dogs become sexually mature, capable of producing a litter. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about having your Lab spayed or neutered. Large breeds like Labs take longer to mature physically, sexually, and mentally, but Labs, in particular, are famous for taking an extra-long time to finally grow up and calm down a little. Brace yourself, because the answer here may be far from what you were expecting. While defiance, limit testing, and destruction should be on a downward trend by the second year, a 2-year-old Lab is still very much a puppy and will have a ton of energy. Labs who are between 2 and 4 years of age usually have an unrivaled zest for life and are always ready for action. For this reason, a sturdy crate is highly recommended until your Lab is fully mature and trustworthy enough to be left on his own in the house. By the fifth year, most Labs will be well behaved, calm, obedient companions with lower energy levels and a true desire to please their owners. Destructive behavior will begin to subside, not everything will still be viewed as a game, less time will be spent roughhousing, and more time will be spent relaxing. Puppy and adolescent behaviors such as stealing shoes, testing the limits, and outright defiance will be gradually replaced by a more calm demeanor and trustworthy behavior. Will the Teething and Chewing Ever End? Take heart! Unfortunately, no. Labradors, by nature, are a mouthy, orally fixated breed. They were, after all, bred to retrieve for hours on end, using their mouths to carry back downed waterfowl and fish a long time ago to their masters. When playing outside, many Labs will constantly have something in their mouths such as a stick, pine cone, ball, anything will do really. Socks, shoes, remotes, table legs, the list goes on and on have you ever seen Marley and Me? Training your Lab what is acceptable and what is an absolute no-no is crucial. Related Posts:. 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.