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People love the hypoallergenic coats of Saint Berdoodles, which are usually low-shedding or non-shedding. Saint Berdoodles have wonderful temperaments and are usually great with kids. Saint Berdoodles have hybrid vigor, which results from crossing two purebred dogs. Hybrid vigor typically results in a healthier offspring, and Saint Berdoodles have a much longer life expectancy than a purebred Saint Bernard. Purebred St Bernards usually live years; whereas Saint Berdoodles are usually expected to live years. Anyone who has owned and loved a Saint Bernard might wonder why anyone would get a Saint Berdoodle instead. There's a seven-fold answer for why Saint Berdoodles win the battle for many families. St Bernard vs St Berdoodle Hypoallergenic: St Berdoodles usually have low-to-non shedding coats like poodles and are typically far better for people with allergies than a purebred Saint Bernard, which sheds its coat. Health: Hybrid vigor typically improves a dog's health. There's a reason that humans don't marry our relatives. Saint Berdoodles tend to have fewer health issues than a pure Saint Bernard. Intelligence: Poodles consistently rank as one of the top if not THE top breeds for intelligence. Saint Berdoodles are very quick learners. Trainability: Usually the St Berdoodle's increased intelligence makes them an easy dog to train. Saint Berdoodles love pleasing their owner. Walking Partner: Although Saint Berdoodles are one of the lowest energy doodles, they tend to be more active than a somewhat lethargic purebred Saint Bernard who usually prefers to lounge all day. Although a Saint Berdoodle will not be an active runner like a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Aussiedoodle, or Springerdoodle, you can usually take a Saint Berdoodle for a long walk--more so than a purebred Saint Bernard. Nathan Crockett was one of the first breeders to raise top quality Saint Berdoodles. We have people from all over the U. Saint Berdoodle Pricing. Life Span Did You Know? Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both of their parent breeds, well-socialized Saint Berdoodles tend to be affectionate and loving dogs with sweet natures and social personalities. This designer dog breed may not be recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are still recognized by other notable dog organizations. The Saint Berdoodle is a gentle giant that makes a great addition to any family. Well-socialized, they tend to be social and friendly with charming, cheerful personalities. They also tend to be affectionate, loving, and highly intelligent dogs. These dogs can be good watchdogs as they are initially wary of strangers and will alert you when someone is on the property. Although Saint Berdoodles do tend to have a protective instinct over their family and territory, they tend to be quite social and friendly and do not tend to be aggressive provided they have been properly socialized and trained. Saint Berdoodles are moderately adaptable dogs. Due to their sheer size, they are better suited to larger homes with yards where they can run and roam freely. They could potentially adapt to apartment living if they are given enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, but their size will definitely be a challenge in smaller spaces. This dog adapts well to most moderate climates. As a large, fluffy dog, they are also sensitive to heat and can easily overheat. Because a Saint Berdoodle craves attention, bonds closely with their family, and loves being with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A crossbred dog can inherit the potential health concerns common to one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Saint Berdoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure that they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog, the Saint Berdoodle is also at a higher risk of bloat just like both parent breeds. Bloat in dogs can become dangerous quickly and is fatal if the stomach flips. Although the Saint Berdoodle will grow to be a giant dog, they tend to be gentle and highly trainable. Their high intelligence and eagerness to please means they pick up on things quickly and are relatively easy to train. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They respond best to positive training methods that are calm and consistent and focused on reward and praise. Puppy training classes are always an option and can be a good opportunity to socialize a puppy, which is even more important in a dog this size. The maintenance your Saint Berdoodle requires will depend completely on the coat they inherit. But, they will require daily brushing and professional grooming every weeks. Once or twice monthly nail trimming is usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. You can also support your efforts to prevent dental diseases later in life with dental hygiene chews and treats approved by your vet. Saint Berdoodles tend to have a moderate energy level. They will be energetic while playing and require some exercise, but they will be happy to be a couch potato every now and then. Daily walks plus some time to play are usually enough for this big dog. They may not be a good fit for a running partner, but your Saint Berdoodle may enjoy going on hikes with you, taking trips to the dog park, or even going swimming. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until their bones and joints finish growing and developing. A fully-grown Saint Berdoodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. They are one of the largest dog breeds. Saint Berdoodles generally live for years on average. This designer dog breed is most commonly known as a Saint Berdoodle, but they are also sometimes called a Saint Berpoo. Featured Saint Berdoodle Article. The Saint Berdoodle or St. Berdoodle is a cute teddy bear of a dog that will gladly cuddle with you while you binge-watch your shows! As you might have guessed, St. Berdoodles are obtained by crossing Saint Bernards with Poodles. The result? A guard dog, a babysitter, a nanny dog, an exercise buddy, and a loving companion all in one fluffy package! Read on to find out more about the St. What is a Saint Berdoodle? Berdoodles are the product of crossing a Poodle with a Saint Bernard. You could have St. Berdoodles of different sizes such as Standard or Mini St. Berpoo, Saint Bernard-Poodle mix, or St. It is estimated that Saint Berdoodle is the largest of all Doodle breeds. Origins of St. Berdoodles Before getting one, it may be good to know a bit of the history and origins of a St. It is estimated that this hybrid dog might have been created in the s or s. This was the time when Doodle breeds designer dog breeds having one Poodle parent were highly in demand due to their high trainability and low-shedding coats. To understand St. Origin of the Poodle Exactly when the Poodle originated as a separate breed is hard to say. The Romans were known to have carved Poodle-like dogs on their tombstones. However, some canine experts believe that the French Water Dog — Barbet — might have been one of the ancestors of the Poodle. Others are of the opinion that Poodles were first bred in Germany where they were used for working in the water. Origin of the Saint Bernard The real history of the St. Bernard dog breed is also shrouded in mystery. Records show that the breed might have originated in Switzerland. The monks at Hospice and Simplon were known to raise large dogs which they named after the good old monk, Saint Bernard. Saint Bernard is believed to have trained these smart dogs to aid him in the rescue of weary travellers and mountaineers missing in the snow-capped mountains. Note that, like all designer dog breeds, the St. Similarly, in Australia breeder organisations like the MDBA , issue papers for puppies and have started a Theodore breed register in an attempt to have the Cavoodle Cavalier Poodle Mix Breed recognised as a breed in its own right. Physical Attributes of St. Its size mainly depends on the Poodle parent as breeders could use Standard or Mini Poodles in their breeding programs. Standard-sized St. Berdoodles are estimated to grow to a height of inches 60 to 76 cm and weigh between lb. A Mini Berdoodle could grow between inches 35 to 60 cm and weigh between lb. The coat colours typically seen in the breed are white and brown and white and black. They also may be red with white accents. Are St. Berdoodles Hypoallergenic? The coat of a St. Berdoodle could take after any parent- it could be short or long, curly, wavy, rough or soft. If your puppy develops a tight curly coat like the Poodle, then it could be low-shedding. F1-Berdoodles are obtained by breeding purebred St. Bernards with purebred Poodles. These dogs have an equal mix of genes from both parents. Berdoodle back to a Poodle. Thus, the F1-B Berdoodle is most likely to have a hypoallergenic coat because of the wider Poodle gene pool. The Temperament of St. Berdoodles Well-bred St. Berdoodles are laid-back, sweet, loyal, charming, and affectionate dogs. They are extremely protective of their owners and property and that makes them excellent guard dogs as well. These dogs do not need a ton of exercise and are willing to cuddle and snooze all day. However, the hybrid dog is also known to get rather clingy and could even get depressed if left alone. This dependent nature makes them prone to separation anxiety as well. It is also a good idea to assess how long you will be out of your home before bringing home this dog breed. If needed, you could enrol your St. Berdoodle in doggy daycare or hire a pet sitter to watch over it during your working hours. You might also want to train and desensitise your Saint Berdoodle from a young age to stay alone in order to prevent behavioural issues like indoor soiling or the destruction of property. Like their St. Bernard parent breed, St. They are ideal pets for families with children and are known to be extremely gentle with the little ones. Berdoodles Easy to Train? The St. Keep the training sessions short and end each session with playtime. Never hit, punish, or shout at this sensitive dog; that will only worsen matters. Are Saint Berdoodles Calm? As mentioned before, there is no standardisation when it comes to St. You can always train your dog to remain calm and avoid behaviours like jumping on people. Do St. Berdoodles Bark a Lot? No two dogs are the same — even from the same breed. Some St. Berdoodles bark a lot, while others are known to be quieter. Check on your pet to find the reason for barking: it could be anything from barking at strangers or possums, due to being trapped under the fence, or simply from boredom or loneliness. Obedience training can help curb excess barking. Do Saint Berdoodles Swim? Yes, St. Berdoodles can be trained to swim. Some Doodles take to the water right away while others might take some time to get used to it. How Much is a St. In general, mini St. Berdoodles are costlier than Standard Berdoodles-given the high demand for small-sized dogs. Expect to pay almost purebred dog prices for this dog. A Standard St. Before buying your puppy, take the time to thoroughly research the breeder. There are not too many breeders dealing with this relatively rare designer Doodle dog. Therefore, you might not have too many options. In any case, before buying your Saint Berdoodle puppy, ask to meet the dam and sire. This will help you assess their temperament. That is why it is important that you evaluate your financial situation and budget for it. The first year cost of raising a St. What to Feed a Saint Berdoodle? Berdoodles are prone to bloating so always use a slow feeder bowl for feeding your pet. You can choose to feed your buddy dry, raw or wet food. Ask your vet nutritionist or breeder which food is best for your pet and how much to feed it. Remember to always keep plenty of fresh drinking water for your St. Health Issues in St. When you buy your St. Berdoodle from a reputable breeder, chances are that your dog will live a healthy and hardy life. This is because good breeders take efforts to raise healthy litters. Their breeding stock undergoes hip and elbow scoring and genetic testing which can help prevent joint and eye-related issues in the offspring. Common illnesses seen in the breed are a mix of the two parent breeds. Mini Poodles are susceptible to luxating patella. The average lifespan of Saint Berdoodles is years. Looking to find a Saint Berdoodle puppy? The Saint Berdoodle is a rare poodle mix breed in Australia. Berdoodle breeders or puppies for sale near you, consider looking for a rescue or other similar poodle mix breeds such as the Roodle, Standard Schnoodle , Mini or Standard Bordoodle , Labradoodle , Aussiedoodle or Groodle. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.

Several puppies available yet! A Furever Friend We would love to invite you to our facilities to meet our dogs and see the latest litters. Give us a call or send us an email to set up a day and time that works for you, we are more than happy to show you around! Litters are arriving! We have lots of puppies available and had several litters. We have a brand new litter out of Bella born November 14th and Ruby had hers on November 15th. Sandy had her litter on September 28th, Annie had her litter October 6th and if you scroll to the bottom of this page, you will see current available puppies still looking for loving homes. Sign Up For Updates Sign up Photo Gallery Lexie and Magnum, one of our breeding pairs that have produced some beautiful puppies either black and tan or all black Bella is one of my favorites with her motherly instinct she even cares for other dams' puppies Buddy is a handsome hunk that is a lover and he knows how to please the ladies. He has thrown some nice all white puppies with great personalities Ceasar is considered a long coat with is flowing hair that shows red and black. Debbie is retired! Duke was our first and had sired a lot of puppies in our first few years here at Grandview Kennels. Duke has passed on at 12 years Show More Please contact us if you cannot find an answer to your question. First Question What are your plans for your puppy once he is grown? Second Question Are you interested in a specific puppy on our website? Third Question What are important traits to you in a puppy? Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. The average price for a German Shepherd puppy in South Dakota will vary depending on the breeder. If you are looking for a quality German Shepherd puppy, there are many reputable breeders in South Dakota who can help you find the perfect pup. Most of these breeders have been raising GSDs for many years and they know how to produce healthy, sound puppies. When selecting a German Shepherd breeder, it is important to consider a few things. This is the governing body for dog breeds in the United States and only registered breeders are allowed to sell puppies. In addition, responsible German Shepherd breeders will always do health screenings on their breeding stock to ensure that they are free from genetic defects. Some common health problems seen in German Shepherds include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, epilepsy, nerve problems, and autoimmune disorders. Reputable breeders will also require that you sign a contract promising to return the puppy to them should you be unable to keep it. Seeing where the puppies live and how they are treated is an important part of choosing the right breeder. As you visit, look around for cleanliness, proper conditions, and healthy-looking dogs. Finally, consider contacting your local Better Business Bureau BBB or animal services in order to learn whether there are any complaints against the breeder. If there are, be sure to ask the breeder directly about them before signing a contract—while reputable breeders may not have perfect histories with these organizations, problems uncovered by BBBs can show signs of poor business practices. These references can give you a good idea of how the breeder operates and whether or not they are reputable. If there were any problems with the purchase process, such as delivery issues or incorrect paperwork Overall satisfaction with the experience of buying a puppy from this breeder If you cannot find any references from previous buyers, it is best to move on and find another breeder. Responsible breeders will always be happy to provide references from their past customers. Ask Your South Dakota German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers If for any reason you cannot find references from past customers, your final option is to contact the breeder and ask if you can meet some of their previous owners. While this may not be a perfect substitute for written references, it can give you a good idea of whether or not the breeder is reputable. That being said, meeting previous customers in person is always an excellent way to determine how reliable your German Shepherd breeder in South Dakota may be. If the breeder is unwilling to let you meet any of their past customers, it may be a sign that they have something to hide. One of the best ways to determine whether or not a breeder is responsible is to ask about their veterinarian. Reputable breeders will have a good relationship with a veterinarian and will be happy to provide you with their contact information. This veterinarian should be experienced in treating German Shepherds and should be available for check-ups and consultations after you take your puppy home. If the breeder does not have a good relationship with a veterinarian, it may be a sign that they are not concerned with the health and well-being of their puppies. If you encounter a breeder who is not reputable, there are several signs you can look for: The breeder is unwilling to answer any questions about their breeding stock or the puppies The breeder does not have a good relationship with a veterinarian The breeder tries to pressure you into buying a puppy The puppies are unhealthy or have genetic defects The puppies are very young below eight weeks old or very old above 12 months old If you encounter any of these red flags, it is best to walk away and find another breeder. It is never worth risking the health and well-being of your puppy in order to save a few bucks. Unfortunately, not all breeders do this, which means that some puppies may be born with health problems. A reputable breeder will always be happy to provide you with information about the health of their puppies. If the breeder is unwilling to provide you with any information about their breeding stock or will not let you visit the parents of your puppy, it may be a sign that they are not responsible and do not care about the health and well-being of their puppies. A good breeder will always be open and honest about any health problems in their German Shepherd puppies. Responsible breeders should always stand by their puppies, which means that they usually offer at least one health guarantee against genetic defects. If the breeder does not offer any health guarantees, it may be a sign that they are not concerned with the health and well being of their pups. The best way to avoid forgetting anything is to make a list and start checking items off as you purchase them. When preparing your home for a new German Shepherd, here are some things that you will need: Food and Water Bowls — You should aim to have two food bowls and two water bowls in different locations around your house. It may also be a good idea to get one or two elevated dog feeders, which can help prevent bloating and add additional comfort to your pup. This is especially important for long-haired breeds like German Shepherds, who often kick their food and water all over the place as they eat. German Shepherds love their crates and will often retreat there whenever they want some peace and quiet. Toys — German Shepherds love to play and will need plenty of toys that they can chew, tug, fetch and chase after. Steer clear of rubber balls that are easily chewed apart as well as plush animal toys, which can be ripped apart by sharp teeth within seconds. Rawhide bones are also not recommended for puppies below eight months old, as they tend to break off small pieces inside the mouth that could cause choking risks. If you are not comfortable using a standard leash and collar, there are many other types of leashes and collars available on the market, such as halti or gentle leader headcollars. Bed — A soft bed is ideal for your German Shepherd puppy. It may also be helpful to put your pup on a regular potty schedule. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Search in content Post Type Selectors We are reader supported, we earn a small commission when you buy something using our retail links. This breed has many fans across the country. However, finding a healthy dog from a responsible breeder might be tricky, as there are many. To help you out, we researched the most reliable German Shepherd breeders in South Dakota. Their parents are healthy and have good temperaments. They produce dogs that follow the SV standards for height, weight, and temperament. Most importantly, they raise the pups with a lot of love and care. They are the only certified and reliable German Shepherd breeders in South Dakota. They ensure that their breeding dogs are degenerative myelopathy tested and cardiac clear. They are MDR1 clear, and their dentitions are up to date. Before they leave for their new homes, a licensed vet inspects them and gives them their 5-way vaccine. These dogs make perfect family dogs and working ranch dogs. They excel in obedience and scent work. Their puppies come with a month health guarantee. The breeders vaccinate and deworm them. They also carry a certificate of health from a registered veterinarian and a lifetime of breeder support. They breed for good health, wonderful temperament, and sound minds. Also, take a look at the breeding and whelping facilities before deciding on a pup. A clean and friendly kennel ensures a healthy and well-adjusted pet. If you found this article useful, share it with your friends and family!

We expect they will be lbs when fully grown. Applications and deposits are accepted on a first come, first served basis. See below for photos of this litter - and the 4 available male puppies! They can go home Sept 23! We reserve the right to cancel any sale and refund money paid at any time for any reason. This combination makes a very healthy hybrid. These are crossbred together and the resulting puppies tend to be healthier than either purebred parent. This is because purebred dogs tend to have more genetically transferred disorders the most common being hip dysplasia, eye and thyroid issues , because in breeding dogs of the same breed, more recessive genes are passed along. Both our dogs have been DNA tested and are free of any genetic abnormality that can be seen in Golden Retrievers or Poodles. Additionally, our puppies have been bred and raised with a special curriculum for having the temperament for training as service dogs. They get along well with children and crave human attention. They are quick to learn new things as they are eager to please their human friends. Goldendoodles should be exercised daily in some manner as they love to be active and can find mischief if bored or left alone for too long. Consistent grooming is also something to consider as their hair needs to be brushed and cut regularly to prevent matting and keep it soft. Grooming can be expensive! Fully grown, our medium sized Goldendoodles range in weight between 30 to 40 pounds, averaging around inches in height. Proudly created with Wix. Vandenbark Doodles Finding a Responsible Goldendoodle Breeder With the Doodle star on the rise, these pups often sell for quite a bit of money. You need to keep an eye out for fake advertisements. These people will direct you to send them a hefty deposit for a pup and then quickly disappear. Fraudsters, on the other hand, breed poor-quality dogs in puppy mills. GANA offers breeder accreditation at different levels dependent on the facility in question, demonstrating specific breeding criteria, including reliability in coat, type, health, and temperament. A GANA membership demonstrates quality in a breeding facility but do make sure you double-check that they really are registered before purchasing a pup from them. Ensure Appropriate Health Checks Genetic testing and wellness check-ups are a crucial part of breeding. Then they need to make sure that any puppies born are in the best possible health. It can be pretty tricky for a novice owner to know exactly what to be on the lookout for when determining whether Goldendoodle puppies are healthy or not. However, the breeder should be very open with this information, happy to discuss their dogs with you and provide evidence of their suitability for breeding. For a quick overview of conditions common to Doodles, check out our dedicated article Doodle Health Issues and Diseases. Look For a Health Guarantee One of the best indicators that a breeder has true faith in the quality and health of their puppies is if they provide a health guarantee. This generally says something along the lines that they will issue a full refund if certain genetic health conditions become apparent in one of their puppies within a specific amount of time usually 24 months. The breeder will usually ask you to take your pup for an initial health check with your vet as soon as you bring them home on top of the check they do before the puppy leaves their facility to make sure everything is okay from the get-go. Seek Recommendations from A Trusted Source These days there are plenty of expert sites such as this one offering advice and recommendations based on research and user reviews. This is a good place to start your search for a breeder, but make sure to do some research on top of this, too. Breeder status can change quickly — especially when under new management. Read Online Reviews Online reviews are probably the best place to get up-to-date info on breeders in your local area. Social media is an excellent place for this. Generally, the more reviews a breeder has, the more confident you can be that the reviews are genuine. For more top tips on picking the perfect pup from the very best facility, check out How To Choose A Responsible Breeder. They specialize in all sizes of the Goldendoodle — from the largest Standard Goldendoodles to the tiniest Toy Goldendoodle variety. Selah Mountain Dogs is an in-home breeding program, where the whole family takes part in raising the pups. Their breeding mamas and papas are all very much loved family pets, either living with the breeder or in carefully chosen guardian families. They oppose keeping their dogs in kennels or outdoor enclosures, and each of their breeding dogs is a pet first and foremost. Their puppies grow up in a safe and loving home environment around playful children, friendly neighbors, adult dogs, and other pets like cats, horses, and chickens. This breeding facility focuses on creating sound and mellow-tempered Goldendoodles, with health being the most crucial consideration. To get their puppies started on the right foot, they follow the Puppy Culture program along with many other enrichment techniques. What Makes This Breeder Unique? This demonstrates their commitment to breeding the best dogs around. They follow the strictest health testing requirements as necessary for this level. Moreover, they conduct temperament testing on all of their puppies at 7 weeks of age to match each of them to the most suitable forever home. They also come with a microchip and a free day pet insurance plan. Waitlist: Yes. Goldendoodle via imgoldenyoona How To Find A Reputable Goldendoodle Breeder Selecting a breeder is a major decision that everyone who wants to bring a Goldendoodle into their home has to face. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the Goldendoodle these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs — whether they are breeding from purebred Golden Retrievers for F1 Goldendoodles and Poodles or from Goldendoodles for later generations like F2 Goldendoodles. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from a Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Further Reading.

What they may not be sure about, however, is exactly which fruits and vegetables are good for Golden Retrievers to eat? Spinach and carrots are good for Golden Retrievers. Carrots are perfect substitutes for dog treats, especially for overweight dogs. For fruits, apples are great substitutes for dental treats and contain essential vitamins and fiber. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Treats like fruits and veggies are best used sparingly to minimize potential health risks caused by some ingredients in them. Fruits are best given sparingly, or not at all. Many vegetables, including leafy greens, are high in fiber. Fiber can be a great supplement for your Golden Retrievers digestive system, but too much can lead to vomiting. Consult a vet if you observe any concerning reactions. In order to keep your Golden happy and healthy for many years to come, scrutinizing any food you give them is a good rule of thumb to adhere to. While you know that eating fruits and vegetables is a benefit to your health, you may be unsure as to exactly how fruits and veggies can help your dog? Golden Retrievers in particular have a higher risk of cancer compared to other dogs, making watching what you feed them of critical importance. Also, keep in mind that Goldens often have to learn to eat these items. Spinach and Golden Retrievers The king of leafy greens, spinach is not only good for you but great for your Golden Retriever! Spinach has a list of nutrients a mile long. Potassium, iron, fiber, and folate are some other great additions as well. To serve, you can peel and serve no more than half a banana to a medium-sized Golden Retriever. Either whole or sliced is fine, and even better are frozen bananas packed into a Kong toy Amazon for your Golden to puzzle out on a scorching hot day. A couple Golden Retrievers taste testing fruits and vegetables. Other nutrients like minerals and antioxidants make this an even better idea, but make sure to portion correctly — a tablespoon is enough. Instead, look for regular canned pumpkin. Apples and Golden Retrievers Apples keep the doctor away for both humans and their best friends! High in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C, apples are a wonderful and healthy way to reward your Golden Retriever. To serve your dog apples, slice them up and remove the core and seeds which contain cyanide. Some Goldens are reluctant to try them, which is where your secret weapon comes into play — peanut butter! Golden Retrievers Love Carrots Carrots are a good substitution for traditional dog treats. You should always slice carrots before you offer them to your Golden Retriever we like to use pre-packaged, organic baby carrots — both raw and cooked are fine no butter, salt, or spices if cooked to use as treats or in addition to dog food. Full of fiber and essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, green beans can be served in numerous ways. Dogs enjoy both cooked and fresh green beans, as either a treat or mixed with wet food. If your Golden always seems hungry, try giving them some green beans with their next meal. Brussel Sprouts and Golden Retrievers Brussel sprouts are full of vitamins, but the antioxidants and fiber help promote healthy blood circulation and heart health. Cook these plain, cut off the woody stem, and serve up to three sprouts to your Golden at a time. Broccoli For Golden Retrievers Broccoli stalks help fight inflammation from arthritis, cancer and boost your Golden Retrievers immune system. Too much broccoli can cause noxious gas, so only feed a few small pieces to your Golden at any given time. Vegetables should always be a supplement! Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! As long as you serve and portion correctly, your pup will remain healthy and happy for a long time. Cranberries Dates Of course there are a few intricacies and stuff that need to be discussed about each and every fruit and some very serious notes about how you can feed them these fruits so they can eat them safely. Blueberries Blueberries are great for your pup, they are low in calories and sugar, and they will provide them with antioxidants, flavonoids, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Plus blueberries are anti-inflammatory and it lowers the risk of cancer and heart diseases, it also reduces the effect of brain aging in older dogs. You can always sprinkle it on the top of their food. For a complete list of all the berries your golden retriever can eat, check out our full list of berries for golden retriever and how to feed them to your dog. I have included 9 berries dogs can enjoy and 7 they must avoid, so make sure to check it out. Mango Besides being refreshing and sweet, mango has a lot of benefits to offer for your dog. Mango is high in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium, B6, zinc, and vitamin E. Giving your pup mango should be in moderation. How to feed them Before giving them the mango, peel it, and remove the pit, cut it into small chunks to make it easier for them to eat and to avoid choking. Just like blueberries, you can serve it as cool treats and you can mash it with plain yogurt Apples Apples are the perfect snack for senior dogs, it provides them with vitamin A, vitamin C, B1, B2, B6, and fiber. You may need to talk to your vet if your dog is on a special diet. How to feed them Wash the apple and cut it into bite-size chunks and make sure to remove the seeds. You can put it in the freezer and give it to them as a treat on warm days. They are also low in cholesterol and sodium, You can only give them bananas as treats and not as a meal or part of the diet. How to feed them Peel it and cut it and serve it to them as a treat and you can mash it with plain yogurt. Or mash the bananas and add some peanut butter to it. Raspberries Raspberries are fine in moderation as they contain antioxidants that are great for dogs. They are low in sugar and calories, and they are high in fiber, vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, manganese, and vitamin C. Just like apples, raspberries are great for senior dogs because they help with aging joints. How to feed them Wash them, freeze them, and toss them as a treat. You can also make homemade frozen yogurt with raspberries and treat them with it when they are well-behaving. Do not give them more than a cup at a time. Watermelon Watermelons are safe for dogs to eat, they are full of great benefits for your dog like vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. It will help to keep your pup hydrated in warm weather. How to feed them Cut into small chunks and make sure to remove the seeds before you give it to them. Maybe cool it first to help them get through the summer without melting. Strawberries Strawberries are safe for your pup, they are sweet and full of antioxidants, vitamin C, and high fiber. They are low in calories, it will help them to stay healthy because fresh strawberries help with the aging process over time. How to feed them Wash the strawberries carefully, cut them into small pieces and sprinkle them over their food, but in moderation. You can just cut it and freeze it and serve it as cool treats and you can mash them with some blueberries and plain yogurt or replace the blueberries with raspberries. Blackberries Blackberries are just like blueberries in everything they are delicious, low in calories, and low in sugar. They will also provide your dog with vitamin A, B1, B2, vitamin C, and fiber. They are easy to chew. How to feed them Blackberries are small so you do not need to cut them into small pieces. If you are giving them to a small pup avoid any danger you can mash them and serve them. If your dog is suffering from diabetes or overweight you should consult your vet before giving them cantaloupe. How to feed them Peel it, remove the seeds, and cut it into small chunks. In warm weather cool them before serving. Goldens can suffer in the hot weather, so make sure you can do whatever you can to help them cool down. You can learn 13 practical ways to help your golden retriever cool down in hot weather here. Oranges According to the AKC, dogs can eat oranges. They are a great source for vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, potassium, and fiber. However, do not get the peel too close to their face because it will make them turn up the sensitive nose. How to feed them Peel it and if there are some seeds please remove them before you give it to them. You can also make some orange cookies for them as a treat. Peaches Peaches are a perfect summer treat that you can share with your dog. They are full of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. They also help with infections. How to feed them Wash them ,of course, remove the seed, and then cut them into two pieces or more if you have a small dog. You can mash one peach with some other fruits and if you want you can add plain yogurt. Make sure to give them the fruits in moderation. Avoid canned peaches. Pears Pears are high in copper, fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Remove the seed and the pits before giving your dog some pears because the pit part has cyanide. How to feed them Wash the pear, remove the seeds, the pit, and cut it into small chunks. Do not give them canned pears because they are high in sugar and they contain sugar syrups. How to feed them Peel it and cut it into bite-size chunks, you can offer it to them as treats. So giving your pup kiwi will be just as a tasty treat and nothing more. Other than that, guava is actually pretty good for your dog. Guava is a great resource for vitamin A, potassium, vitamin C, magnesium, sodium, vitamin K, and fiber. How to feed them After washing it, remove the seeds and cut it into small chunks and toss them this delicious fruit. They are also a homemade remedy for diarrhea. How to feed them you can give them a small piece of pumpkin pie, or peanut butter and pumpkin dog treats which is really good for them and way healthier than their regular treats. Pumpkin dog biscuits are also healthy and soft which will make them enjoy it even more. Honeydew Melon Honeydew melon is like any other melon. How to feed them Peel the honeydew melon, remove the seeds, and cut into bite-size chunks. Let it cool before serving so they can enjoy a cool hydrating snack for warm days. You can also make them a fruit salad with honeydew melon with some strawberries or any fruit you like but in moderation. Coconut Dogs can eat coconuts but it does contain some triglycerides which can cause the bloating and gastrointestinal upset. How to feed them You can feed them coconut in the amount around one tablespoon per 30 pounds of body weight. Watch out for any signs of an upset stomach. Mulberries Mulberries are great in small amounts, just like any other berry except toxic berries of course , it will provide your pooch with vitamin C, potassium, antioxidants, and fiber. But if they ate too many mulberries it may cause digestion problems. However, if you own a small puppy make sure that they can eat the berries because they can choke. Like blueberries, you can sprinkle them on their meal, add it in a fruit salad, or mash them with yogurt and feel free to mix them with other berries but in moderation. Huckleberries Huckleberries are high in vitamin C, and they increase the chance of heart diseases which makes them great for senior dogs, they associate with lowering cholesterol, and huckleberries are great for eye diseases. You can give it to them in moderation and you can ask your vet for the exact amount that you can give to your dog depending on his age, breed, and allergies. Cranberries Unlike grapes, Cranberries and dried cranberries are good for your dog They have a lot of nutritional benefits, they are full of vitamins and fiber. But most important is the quantity. If they eat a lot of cranberries it could lead to a serious stomach upsetting. Your pup will love this light and healthy summer treat. Dates Dates are not toxic for dogs, and dates can promote brain health, and they are full of antioxidants that increase the possibilities of any diseases. So feeding them dates should not be more than three dates at a time. Yes, they can, oranges are full of benefits for your dog such as vitamin A, vitamin B1, B2, B6, fiber, and potassium. You can try feeding them both regular and dried cranberries. Remember to practice moderation as too many cranberries can cause upset stomachs for dogs. Grapefruit - NO Grapefruit contains essential oils and psoralens that are toxic to dogs. If a dog consumes grapefruit it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other issues. So, grapefruit is a NO. Grapes - NO As we mentioned at the beginning of this post, you should never let your dogs have grapes. Grapes are extremely toxic to dogs. This also includes raisins. If your dog eats any grapes, call your vet. Grape seed extract is actually beneficial to your pup, whereas grapes are extremely poisonous. The acidic nature of lemons can cause some seriously upset stomachs, vomiting, and other issues. BUT with that being said, small amounts of lemon juice is found in some treats and foods and is safe for your dog's consumption. BUT with that being said, small amounts of lime juice is found in some treats and foods and is safe for your dog's consumption. This sweet fruit is loved by most pups, just be sure to get rid of the hard pit as it can be a choking hazard and can contain some cyanide which is poisonous for dogs. Another thing to be aware of is the high sugar content in mangoes. Sugar can cause weight gain and potentially diabetes when consumed regularly. So the final word, mangoes are safe for dogs in moderation and be sure to not give your dog access to the pit. So, as long as you just give your pup the fruit and leave the pit out, you are safe to feed your dog nectarines. Orange peels can be difficult for dogs to digest and should be avoided. Some orange benefits are below. High in Vitamin C Potassium Fiber for digestion help Just remember to limit the quantities of oranges for your dog. And like always, monitor your pup when they start eating a new fruit or vegetable. Peach pits are a choking hazard and contain cyanide, which is poisonous for dogs. Also, be sure to steer clear of canned peaches as they typically contain extremely high amounts of sugary syrups. Small amounts of cut-up peaches have some great benefits for dogs. Here are some peach benefits. High in fiber to aid in digestion Rich in Vitamin A Most dogs love the taste of peaches, again, just be sure to remove the pit. Just like other fruits though, be sure to remove the seeds and pit as they contain cyanide which can be poisonous for dogs. Pears can be a great snack because of the following benefits. And a second reminder, remove all seeds and pits before giving your dog any pears. One of the main advantages of pineapple for dogs is bromelain, an enzyme that helps dogs to absorb protein. Pineapples can be a fantastic choice for a sweet treat for your pup. Again, practice moderation and monitor your pup when he or she first try pineapple. Plums are much more difficult to remove the pit and some people get lazy and try to give their dog plums with the pit still intact. This is a big no-no. So, play it safe and just stay away from plums for your pup. Raspberries have loads of benefits for your four-legged friend. Here are some good reasons to feed your dog raspberries again, in moderation. Strawberries - YES Dogs can eat strawberries in moderation. Strawberries contain lots of sugar, so be sure to not overfeed them to your pup. Nothing says summertime quite like strawberries, and most dogs love the taste of this sweet fruit. Some benefits include: Fiber for digestion Vitamin C Teeth whitening properties not like Crest White Strips, but still better than nothing! Go ahead and add strawberries to the list of fruits dogs can eat, just remember to practice moderation. Tomatoes - NO Although the red flesh of a ripe tomato is fine for dogs, the green parts are toxic. With that being said, we recommend playing it safe and just avoiding tomatoes all-together. If you have tomatoes in your garden, we recommend fencing it off or closely supervising your pup around these plants. Some signs of a dog ingesting the green parts of a tomato include: Upset stomach. Can dogs eat fruit? The answer depends on the type of plant, as only some are safe for canine consumption. We know that fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for humans, but dogs have very different nutritional requirements. Some fruits can benefit dogs by: Strengthening their immune system Aiding digestion Improving their skin and coat However, in other cases, the risks associated with dogs eating fruit can far outweigh the potential benefits. For example, doing so could cause dog diarrhea , constipation, diabetes, or food poisoning toxicosis. What fruits can dogs eat? Many dogs enjoy snacking on healthy, fruity treats between meals. Still, you should only let them indulge from time to time to avoid the risk of adverse side effects. So, what are some of the best fruits to feed dogs? Apples Apples are great for dogs are chock-full of vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and dietary fiber. You can safely feed them to your dog, but make sure to remove the seeds because apples can contain small amounts of cyanide. Cut the apple into smaller pieces to make it easier for your pet to chew and digest. Bananas Bananas are rich in potassium, biotin, vitamins, and fiber. Just keep an eye on them and go to the vet at any signs of distress. Blueberries Blueberries are good for dogs because they're loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and dietary fiber. Strawberries Strawberries are another great alternative to store-bought dog treats. On the flip side, these bright red berries are high in sugar, so be sure to serve them in moderation. They can also cause an allergic reaction in some dogs, so make sure to be extra careful when feeding them to your pet. Raspberries Raspberries are low in calories but rich in antioxidants, potassium, copper, manganese, iron, magnesium, folic acid, and fiber. These tiny red berries are one of the best fruits for dogs in their late years due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in many fruits and veggies, as well as other human food products, but toxic to animals in high doses. As with the other fruits on this list, make sure to feed them in moderate quantities because too many could cause stomach upset. Cranberries Cranberries are safe for canine consumption, but only in moderation to avoid GI issues. These nutritious berries are naturally acidic and a great fruit choice for dogs with urinary tract infections UTIs. However, never feed your pet store-bought mixtures of raisins and cranberries because raisins are highly toxic to dogs. Your dog would have to consume a significant number of pits in a relatively short time to be affected by the cyanide present in them. Oranges Many dogs like oranges and can safely eat them in moderation. Be sure to remove the peel, seeds and only feed the juicy orange flesh. Peaches Peaches in dogs provide an excellent source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. However, just like all stone fruits, remember to remove the pit before feeding a peach to dogs due to the possible intestinal blockage and traces of cyanide and. Also, avoid feeding dogs processed or canned peaches. These contain added sugars that can cause diarrhea and stomach upset. Pears Pears are full of contain fiber, copper, and immunity-boosting vitamin C, vitamin K, an essential aid to blood clotting. Remove the pear seeds before serving and steer clear of canned pears due to the high sugar content. Mangoes Dogs can eat mango , a tropical fruit packed with nutrients like carotenoids, fiber, and potassium, plus vitamins A, B6, C, and E. Mango pits present a severe choking hazard due to their size, so be sure to remove them, as well, before serving to pets. Pineapples Pineapples are a great source of vitamins C and B6, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, and folate, making them a wonderful treat for dogs. However, they also contain a significant amount of sugar that can cause digestive issues like diarrhea. Only to serve the fleshy part of the fruit after removing the peel and crown. Coconut Coconut meat and coconut oil can be great for dogs. Both have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help with many conditions, including skin allergies, inflammatory bowel disease IBD , and arthritis. However, the triglycerides in coconut can be unsuitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and those prone to pancreatitis. The fruit is also high in calories, so overweight dogs should choose alternative options. Kiwi Also known as Chinese gooseberry, this fruit is brimming with vitamin C, potassium, fiber, plus antioxidants that strengthen the immune system and protect against cancer. Eating kiwi can also contribute to a healthy digestive system and rejuvenate the skin. Cantaloupes Cantaloupes are an excellent source of vitamins A, B6, C, potassium, niacin, folate, and fiber. The seeds are harmless but be sure to remove the outer shell as it can cause digestive issues. Watermelon Watermelons are low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, B6, as well as minerals like potassium. This juicy fruit is also an excellent way to help your stay pet hydrated during the summer due to its high water content. Be sure to remove the seeds and rind them before feeding watermelon to your pup. What fruits can dogs not eat? While many fruits are safe and even beneficial for our four-legged friends, others should be avoided. The list of fruits not suitable for dogs includes: Lemons and other citrus fruits The fleshy part of citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruits are quite acidic and can cause stomach upset. The peel of all citrus fruits presents a choking hazard and can also cause GI issues. Symptoms of persin toxicity include diarrhea and vomiting. If your dog accidentally ingests these parts of the avocado fruit, call your vet right away. Grapes and raisins Both grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs. Even if fed in small amounts, they can cause kidney failure in some dogs. If your dog consumes these fruits accidentally, call your vet immediately. Figs Figs are very high in fiber which can cause diarrhea in your dog. If you decide to feed figs, be sure to limit their intake to one or two per week. If your dog exhibits symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, or abdominal pain after ingesting parts or a fig plant, be sure to take them to the vet. First of all, ingesting whole dates together with the pits can result in bowel obstruction. Second, dates are quite high in sugar and dietary fiber, so consuming more than a few can cause diarrhea. Chances are, if your pup indulges in cherries, they will swallow them whole. Not only do the pits contain traces of cyanide, but they can also cause bowel obstruction. Plums Similar to dates and cherries, the main concern with plums is associated with the ingestion of the pit. Finally, if the pit is crushed, it can release cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. The flesh also contains high amounts of sugar and should be fed in small amounts. Hedgerow berries While some berries, such as strawberries and blueberries, are safe and even beneficial for dogs, others growing in the hedgerows should be avoided. Juniper, holly, elderberries, and rowan are all harmful or poisonous and therefore should not be offered to our canine friends. Dried fruits When fruits are dried, the water gets removed, and sugars get concentrated, making them unsuitable for dogs. In addition, store-bought dried fruits can contain chemical compounds that are potentially toxic to dogs. At best, your dog could suffer from vomiting and diarrhea, and, at worst, dried-fruit poisoning can result in kidney failure. Pro Tip: The value of pet insurance can be a lifesaver in case of food poisoning. When faced with expensive vet bills, dog owners who have insurance are better prepared to provide the best care for their dogs without worrying about how it will affect their finances. They also contain calcium, phosphorus, and fiber. Apples even aid in the cleaning of teeth and the freshening of doggie breath. Apples have a sweet flavor and a crunchy texture that most dogs appreciate. Also, remove the seeds because they contain a compound called amygdalin, and food enzymes break this down into toxic cyanide. However, to be poisoned, your Golden Retriever will have to eat a lot of apple seeds! For example, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a person weighing 70kg would need to eat about 40 apple cores to receive a lethal dose of cyanide , while a Golden Retriever weighing 35kg would need to eat 20! Apricots Golden Retrievers can eat apricots. These sweet and tangy tropical fruits are high in vitamins A and C. They also contain potassium, copper, and beta-carotene, which can aid cancer prevention. Apricots can also protect against illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. Although the fleshy fruit is safe to feed your Golden Retriever, you must not give the pit, leaves, or stem. When chewed and digested, these parts contain cyanide, which can be dangerous if ingested in large quantities. Nonetheless, poisoning would take a large number of pits, as previously mentioned. Banana Bananas are edible for Golden Retrievers. They are full of potassium, which can improve kidney and heart function. Vitamins B6 and C, biotin, silk, magnesium, and copper are also abundant. Overall, bananas manage blood pressure, help to prevent cancer and diabetes, and are good for digestion. However, since they are a high carbohydrate snack, they contain a ton of sugar, so feed them in moderation. You should also not provide peel because it is difficult for your dog to digest. When we go on a long walk, I enjoy giving my dog a few small banana pieces as it gives her a quick energy boost. Bananas may also be mashed or frozen. Blackberries Golden Retrievers can eat blackberries. They are rich in antioxidants, which can help prevent or delay cell damage deterioration. They contain less sugar than other fruits and are an excellent option for your dog. I love picking blackberries in the summer, and these soft, juicy fruits are perfect for sharing with your dog. Some dogs, on the other hand, may not like their taste. In hot weather, frozen blackberries can be a welcome treat to help cool your dog down. Blueberries Golden Retrievers can eat blueberries. This superfood contains antioxidants that help to prevent cell damage and cancer and reduce inflammation. They help lower blood pressure, prevent heart disease, and have anti-diabetic effects. Phytochemicals are also present. According to scientists, these compounds can be helpful in the fight against cancer and heart disease. Blueberries are a perfect snack for your Golden Retriever because they are balanced and nutritious. Coconut Golden Retrievers can eat coconut. Coconut assists in preventing viruses, reducing inflammation, and treating yeast infections. The natural oils make his fur shinier and his skin less dry. Coconut lacks many proteins that people with tree nut allergies are allergic to or sensitive to. In any case, a coconut allergy is exceptionally uncommon. Fun fact! Cranberries Golden Retrievers can eat cranberries. This superfood contains vitamins C, E, K, manganese, and fiber. They have anti-inflammatory effects, and according to this study — cranberry juice significantly improved antioxidant capacity in animals. They can also prevent cancer and are good for the heart. These tiny fruits also have antibacterial properties that can help prevent and regulate urinary tract infections. They can be given raw, cooked, or dried. Dogs should avoid cranberry juice due to its high sugar content. Cucumbers Golden Retrievers can eat cucumbers. Calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, B1, C, K vitamins, and biotin are all present. They help to strengthen bones and improve joints and connective tissue. They can even aid in the freshening of doggy breath! Dates Golden Retrievers can eat dates. Dates are rich in nutrients and offer a range of health benefits. Fiber, potassium, calcium, vitamins A, B, and C, and disease-fighting antioxidants are abundant. Despite some confusion, dates are perfectly safe for Golden Retrievers to eat. As these fruits are usually sold dried, their resemblance to raisins dried grapes , which are poisonous to dogs, triggers confusion. Dates are high in sugar, so keep that in mind when feeding your dog to prevent a stomach upset. However, they can be helpful if your dog needs a fast energy boost after a long day of exercise. To avoid choking, make sure you remove the stone before eating. Kiwi Fruit Golden Retrievers can eat kiwi. This sweet fruit is loaded with nutrients, especially vitamin C and potassium. It also contains iron, calcium, beta carotene, fiber, and antioxidants which aid in the prevention of cancer and strengthen the immune system. Although the flesh is also nutritious, it is difficult for your Retriever to digest as it contains a lot of insoluble fiber, which can cause an upset stomach. To serve, cut the kiwi into slices rather than feeding it whole or freeze it into popsicles. You can scoop out the seeds, which is quick and easy. A belly ache, vomiting, and diarrhea will occur if we eat too many citrus fruits. Lemon, lime, and grapefruit are also all nutritionally ineffective for your Retriever. Furthermore, most dogs dislike the intense aroma of citrus fruits and will not even lick them, let alone eat them! If your Golden Retriever is bold enough to try a bit, make sure the peel is removed first. Also, avoid feeding the pith white parts or seeds, as they contain psoralens which are toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. There are much better fruits available on this list. Mango Golden Retrievers can eat mango. It is rich in vitamins A, B6, C, and E and is also a decent source of fiber. However, it contains a lot of sugar, so feed it to your Golden Retriever in moderation, as excessive sugar can cause vomiting and diarrhea. You should remove the skin because it is difficult for your doggo to process. Cut into bite-sized chunks to serve, and it can also be served frozen. If your Retriever swallows the stone, it may cause a severe blockage in his digestive tract. Melon Golden Retrievers can eat melon. It is a perfect source of vitamins, dietary fiber, niacin, folate, and potassium. Its high antioxidant content also promotes healthy cell function and lowers cancer and arthritis risks. All types of melon, such as cantaloupe and honeydew, have high water content and are low in calories. Small pieces are tasty and soothing for your Golden Retriever, particularly on hot days. However, you should not feed the seeds and rind because they are difficult to digest. In the summer, my dog enjoys a refreshing chunk of melon. They are high in beta-carotene, which the body transforms into vitamin A to help keep skin, teeth, and bones healthy. They are also high in fiber which aids digestion, and potassium, which is beneficial to heart and kidney health. Your dog may eat the fleshy bits but must avoid the stone to stop poisoning, choking, or GI blockage. If you want to feed these fruits to your dog, keep in mind that they are very sugary. Olives are technically a fruit since they are the fruit of the olive tree and contain seeds. But, many people consider them vegetables because they are such in the culinary world. With one or two caveats, they are perfectly safe for dogs to eat! A healthy snack for your Golden might be a couple of plain, unsalted olives. However, to stop choking, blockages, or broken teeth, you must remove the pits. Dental costs are high, and the pits often contain hazardous chemicals. However, your dog will have to eat many of these to become critically ill. Dogs can consume these two related citrus fruit species, but some steps must be taken. Like other citrus fruits, your Golden Retriever may not like the acidic zing of oranges! However, if you find you have a citrus-loving pooch, only let him have a tiny amount due to their high sugar content and tartness. Since the leathery peel is difficult for your Golden Retriever to digest, you must only feed the orange flesh. Also, avoid the seeds and white pith because they contain toxic compounds. After the tiniest sniff, my dog turns her head away. Oranges are certainly not her favorite fruit! Pears Pears are quite edible to Golden Retrievers. Potassium, vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber are abundant in this fruit. Because of their antioxidants, pears are thought to lower the risk of strokes, and they have anti-cancer properties. Vitamin K is well-known for its ability to improve bone density. Pears are high in sugar, so feed them in moderation, particularly if your Golden Retriever needs to shed some pounds. On the other hand, a few slices in the week can be a safe and nutritious treat. The core and seeds, much like apples, must be removed first. Persimmon Persimmons are beneficial to dogs because they contain a lot of Vitamin A and C. They also contain antioxidants, fiber, potassium, manganese, folic acid, and beta-carotene, among other nutrients. Persimmons have a range of health advantages, including the potential to improve overall health and fight cancer. Owing to their high fiber content, they can also aid with inflammation and constipation. Take care of the seeds as they can trigger a belly ache, so you must remove them first. Pineapple Although Golden Retrievers can eat pineapple, they may not like its tangy flavor! Bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties, is also present. Remove the prickly peel and crown first if you want to give your dog a little slice. Pineapple is also high in sugar, so feed it in moderation unless your dog has developed a taste for it and needs a fast energy boost during a long hike! In the summer, frozen pineapple chunks are a refreshing snack that will keep your Golden Retriever hydrated. Avoid canned pineapple, though, because it has a lot of sugar added to it. Raspberries Raspberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, folic acid, iron, potassium, manganese, copper, and magnesium, and they are low in sugar and calories. They have anti-inflammatory features beneficial to the joints and are perfect for older dogs or those suffering from mobility problems like hip and elbow dysplasia. Xylitol is found in small amounts of raspberries. To put this in perspective, a 10kg dog must consume at least 32 cups of raspberries to be killed. My dog adores raspberries, and she enjoys them frozen when the weather is hot. Strawberries Strawberries are a scrumptious fruit to eat. You can get them all year long, and my dog dotes on them. These berries contain abundant fiber, vitamins C, B1, B6, K, folic acid, potassium, iodine, and magnesium. Antioxidants flourish in strawberries and can help with weight loss, slow aging, and improve the immune system. Given their sweetness, they have low sugar and calorie content. Watermelon Watermelon is safe to eat for Golden Retrievers — if you take a few precautions! They are high in vitamins A, B6, and C and fiber, which helps with digestion. They also contain potassium, which helps reduce blood pressure and the risk of heart disease and stroke. Everybody, including my dog, enjoys a cool slice of watermelon in the summer. Break it into cubes to serve. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Read the full disclosure here. However, not all fruits are safe for dogs to eat, and some are downright dangerous! So, what fruits can golden retrievers eat? Golden retrievers can eat a variety of different fruits without experiencing any side effects. In fact, my golden is munching a slice of apple right now! Still, while apples are perfectly safe for goldens, other fruits such as grapes, raisins, cherries, and avocados contain toxic substances that can poison your dog! Keep on reading to learn what fruits are safe for golden retrievers to eat and how to feed them to your pooch. Fruits can also be a tasty reward for good behavior and serve as a low-fat and low-calorie treat for overweight and senior dogs. Here are six fruits your golden retriever can eat! Blueberries Blueberries are a superfood rich in antioxidants and one of the healthiest fruits you can feed to your golden retriever! These tiny purple berries are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals but are at the same time low in fat and calories, which makes them an ideal healthy snack for both young and old golden retrievers. Blueberries contain high amounts of phytochemicals, naturally occurring compounds found in plants that have numerous health benefits, including the ability to fight certain cancers. Feed fresh or frozen blueberries to your golden retriever as treats. You can freeze and serve blueberries as refreshing treats on hot summer days. Also, you can mash fresh blueberries and serve them with plain yogurt or simply sprinkle them over one of the best dog foods for golden retrievers. Bananas Golden retrievers can also eat bananas! When fed in moderation, this tropical fruit is a low-calorie treat for dogs and is also full of essential vitamins and minerals. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C and B6. This yellow fruit is high in fiber, too, which supports good digestion and can be beneficial if your golden retriever is suffering from gastrointestinal problems. Since most canines love to eat bananas, they are an excellent alternative to fatty commercial dog treats. Remember to only feed peeled bananas to your golden retriever! Additionally, eating too many bananas can cause a stomach upset in dogs since they are high in sugar. Thus, you should only feed your golden retriever bananas in moderation as an occasional treat. Besides giving your golden a piece of banana as a treat, you can also mash it and mix it with dog food. Alternatively, for hot summer days, you can freeze a whole banana, peel it, and slice it before serving it to your dog as a refreshing treat. Apple Apples are safe for golden retrievers to eat and are an amazing source of antioxidants, potassium, and vitamins C and A. This crunchy fruit is low in calories and full of fiber, which makes it an ideal treat for overweight dogs who are on a diet. However, since apples contain a lot of sugar, eating a whole apple might be too much for your golden retriever. Eating too many apples can result in a tummy ache and diarrhea, so be sure to only feed them in moderation as a special crunchy treat. Keep the seeds away when feeding apples to your golden. Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, a toxin that can be dangerous for your dog when consumed in large amounts. Remove the tough core, seeds, and stem, peel the apple, and then cut it into bite-sized pieces before serving it to your dog. Cantaloupe Full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, the cantaloupe is safe for golden retrievers to eat in moderation as a tasty treat. Besides being low in calories, this delicious melon has high water content, making it ideal for keeping your dog hydrated on hot summer days. However, there are some risks associated with feeding cantaloupe to golden retrievers you need to know about! First of all, cantaloupe rings can cause stomach upset and intestinal blockage, and they are also a choking hazard due to their hard texture. Also, cantaloupe is high in sugar and may not be a good choice for a diabetic dog or a pup on a diet. If you decide to feed cantaloupe to your golden, remove the rinds and the seeds before cutting the cantaloupe into bite-size pieces and serving it to your pooch. Strawberries Strawberries are another tasty fruit you can feed to your golden retriever! Low in calories but full of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C, B1, B6, K, and folic acid, strawberries are a healthy treat for dogs. Feeding strawberries to your golden occasionally may even boost their immune system, slow down the aging process, and help with weight management. Before serving, wash the strawberries thoroughly and cut them into small pieces to make them easier to digest and prevent choking. Pineapple Both puppies and adult golden retrievers can eat pineapple as a delicious treat in moderation. If your pooch likes the sweet yet tangy flavor, pineapple can be a great source of essential vitamins and minerals. Ripe pineapple is full of vitamins C and B6, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folate. This tropical fruit is also a great source of minerals including potassium, copper, manganese, iron, and magnesium. All of these nutrients make a pineapple a wonderful snack for your canine companion and a great way to boost their overall health. When feeding pineapple to your dog, remove the spiky skin and the tough central core, as they can pose a choking hazard and lead to intestinal blockage if swallowed. Also, pineapple is rich in natural sugar, and eating too much of it can cause constipation or diarrhea. To take full advantage of everything pineapple has to offer to your dog, feed your pup a few bite-sized chunks as an occasional treat. Fruits are natural sources of essential nutrients that are preservative-free, thus keeping the dog healthy in the most natural way possible. Fruits provide the following nutrients: Macronutrients These are the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that a dog needs in abundance for the maintenance of muscle mass, fat layers, energy reserves, and procurement of energy. Vitamins These natural compounds are essential for the maintenance of different body systems of a dog such as the immune, circulatory, and skeletal systems and vision. Minerals These include the basic elements that we call electrolytes viz sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, etc. Although required in small quantities, their absence can lead to severe organ dysfunctions. Fibers Fibers are insoluble plant compounds that cannot be digested but they absorb a lot of water. Thus, they give bulk or volume to feces, decreasing the chances of diarrheal stools and allowing easy passage of feces through the digestive system. Too much fiber, however, can lead to constipation so that should be kept in mind. But some fruits like oranges and bananas are rich in calories while others like cucumbers contain too few of them. So it becomes important to know how much fruit to give and whether to give it as a meal or a post-meal snack. Antioxidants Antioxidants are a variety of compounds that help detoxify toxins and reduce inflammatory mediators thus minimizing the damage to the body tissues by foreign and innate chemicals and reducing signs of natural aging. Fruits and vegetables are great sources of antioxidants and should be included in the diet. Be sure you know how often to feed your Golden Retriever puppy so you do not overfeed them. Thus, they help maintain muscle mass, and blood cell count, aid in digestion, regulate vision, and all this while providing adequate calories for everyday activities. Peaches These contain a lot of fibers that give bulk to the stool, allowing it to pass easily through the gut without much straining. This makes them also a good food during diarrhea bouts. Peaches also provide some quantities of protein, sodium, and sugar. It is very easy to remove the seeds and leaves from peaches as most of it is just juicy flesh that your dog will like a lot. The fiber contained in them makes them good for the tummy. Plums also are a good source of calories so they will be a good pre-workout snack for your Goldies too. Peeling plums is not required as dogs generally can eat their skin, however, you can just cut them into smaller pieces so they are easy to chew and digest. Apple No list of fruits is ever complete without the mention of apples. Their vitamin C content makes them good for immunity. The fibers make them make your dog feel full with a small caloric intake, helping in maintaining a good weight. The number of ways apples can be given is also amazing, you can give them as small chunks alone, mix them into a salad, or make apple juice. However, apple seeds contain cyanide that is poisonous for dogs so these must be removed before serving. Strawberries We all know strawberries for their sweet taste and the fact that strawberry shake is fantastic, but did you know that strawberries also provide fibers and antioxidants? The antioxidants in them reduce inflammatory mediators and help the body recover from illnesses. Also, these slow down the aging process. Cranberries Cranberries are essentially fat-free while having moderate calories. They also contain proteins and electrolytes like sodium thus making them good for dogs to recover from strenuous activities. The sugar content provides energy while the fibers are good for the stomach. Banana Being abundant in electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, bananas help regulate the function of nerves and heart muscles. The biotin content is good for the skin and hair of your pooch. I like them for being easily digested, and providing quick calories for dogs, especially before an activity. You can give small pieces to your pooch to eat or mix bananas with other fruits in a salad. One thing to note is that too much of these can lead to weight gain as they contain a lot of calories, so give these in moderation. Apricot These tropical fruits are full of nutrients. The beta carotene in them helps in vision while vitamin C makes the immune system stronger. They are also full of electrolytes like copper and potassium that help regulate cellular activities. Plus, they contain adequate fibers. Before giving your pooch apricots, make sure you have removed the seeds and leaves as they contain cyanide and can be toxic to your pooch. Pear Most of you already know that pears are a good source of fiber and water to help with loose stools but their nutritional value is little known. Pears are rich in potassium, copper, and magnesium, these electrolytes are required for the normal functioning of cellular enzymes and for maintaining the electrical activity of nerves. It is easy to cut pears into smaller chunks before giving them to your pooch, also you can freeze them during summer and serve them cool to fight off the summer heat. Pineapple Pineapples are just beautiful to look at but are a very nutritious fruit for dogs. They are a good source of vitamin C, provide moderate fibers, and are low in fats. Their caloric content makes them a good snack before sports while they are juicy enough to provide some water as well. With that, pineapples provide sodium, potassium, and magnesium to help in electrolyte balance. However, make sure you remove the crown and peel off the skin and give your dog thin slices to eat. Persimmon These sweet fruits provide manganese, folic acid, and beta-carotene to name a few micronutrients. Antioxidants and vitamin C help keep your dog young and healthy by fighting off inflammatory compounds and improving immunity. I like to give persimmons to my dog as treats every now and then after I have removed the seeds. Clementine Clementine is a hybrid citrus fruit that is rich in vitamin C with some quantities of vitamin B6, potassium, and dietary fibers. I use these as snacks for my GRs and serve them from time to time. If your dog likes oranges, it would definitely like them as well. Melon Melons contain folate and niacin which are good for nerve tissue development. They also contain enough fibers to help you with digestion. Contrary to the general belief, melons are not high in calories despite being sweet because their volume is due to their high water content. This also makes them good food to fight dehydration in summer. Their seeds are pretty much harmless but I prefer removing them as they are a nuisance in the mouth and my dog prefers the pure flesh part to eat. Kiwi Kiwis are good for fighting off infections as they contain antioxidants and are rich in vitamin C. Also, they contain adequate electrolytes. The seeds are easy to remove and you can serve them in slices or make icy popsicles in summer by freezing .Lime Although these provide copper, potassium, iron, and calcium, Limes are not a major source of these elements and their high citric acid content makes them unhealthy for the stomach when given in excess. Plus, their sour taste makes them not a favorite snack for a lot of Goldies. Still, if you find your dog liking Limes, you can give these in moderation after peeling off the skin. Grapefruit You can add these to your fruit mixture for GRs in small quantities due to their high citric acid levels. They have a similar taste to lime and not all pooches will like them so have to be careful with these. Tangerine Another citrus fruit that is abundant in vitamin C is tangerine although known by different names across the world. Dates Despite being sweet, dates are good for the health of your dog as they contain vitamins A, B, and C with a lot of fiber while being cholesterol free. As mentioned before, these aid in maintaining eyesight, skin, and hair growth. The calcium content is good for keeping the bones healthy and the potassium keeps the electrolyte balance in the blood. Sugars in dates are quick to be digested and available for usage, thus they can be given for a quick boost in energy before any exercise. Coconut Golden Retrievers can eat the fleshy part of the coconut after removing the husk and hard coat. This is rich in essential oils that are good for the hair and skin of the pooch. Also, coconuts contain antioxidants that reduce toxins in the blood and slow the aging of cells. Dogs with tree allergies will rarely be allergic to coconuts as they do not have most of the proteins involved in inflammation. Orange Oranges are a big source of vitamin C, keeping the immune system of your pooch healthy. Also, they provide a lot of water and some fibers to ease digestion. However, not all dogs like their taste, so you need to do your experiments with this fruit to see whether your pooch is a fan or not. Due to their citric acid content and high sugars, oranges should be given in moderation. These are harmless in the amount you would naturally give to your dog. Folic acid and vitamin content make them good for immunity, skin health, and nerve tissue maintenance. Being rich in antioxidants makes them good for dogs that are ill and would result in quicker recovery. Also, they contain a lot of electrolytes like copper, manganese, potassium, and magnesium. Blackberries Blackberries are not just soft and juicy but also contain many antioxidants, helping your pooch fight off infections and people, the cells, and in turn the dog, young and healthy. Moderate amounts of plant fibers increase the stool volume and help in voiding without much straining. Blackberries can also be given in summer as frozen berries as snacks that also help cool your dog. Blueberries These small little bluish purple berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help protect your dog from inflammatory mediators and age-related health issues. Also, these are delicious while being low in sugar so you can easily give them to your dog as snacks without worrying that it might gain weight. Cantaloupe This fruit belongs to the family of melons and is super soft to eat and sweet to taste. Cantaloupes are rich in electrolytes such as sodium, magnesium, and potassium which help regulate cellular function. Also, cantaloupes contain some fibers which are good for the gut. This is a particularly soft fruit that you can easily cut into pieces to serve your dog without the need for softening it further. Cucumber Botanically regarded as fruit, cucumbers are a great source of fiber with very low calories so we can use them for dogs that need bulk in their stools and need to lose weight. Plus, they contain water mostly, thus helping prevent dehydration. Dragon Fruit Also known as pitaya, this fruit is native to America that is rich in proteins, fiber, iron, and magnesium. Iron helps in maintaining red blood cell function while magnesium along with other electrolytes keeps the cellular electrical activity intact. You would need to peel off the pink layer and give the inner white fleshy fruit in small pieces to your dog. Fruits That Are Toxic To Golden Retrievers Some fruits have chemicals that are toxic to Golden Retrievers and most other dog breeds and your pooch needs to be kept away from them. Grapes Grapes can be toxic to most dogs as they cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is usually mild but still, you should avoid giving your dog grapes. Tomatoes Unripe tomatoes contain tomatine and solanine which are poisonous to dogs and lead to vomiting and diarrhea. When severe enough, it can lead to dehydration, lethargy, and circulatory collapse, hence these should be avoided by all dogs. Ripe tomatoes are safer but they have oxalate in them which can combine with calcium in the blood to form calcium oxalate stones in the kidney. They also decrease calcium absorption from the gut by making insoluble complexes. Thus, tomatoes should be given in moderation only once in a while. Raisins Raisins are toxic just like grapes but more potent and they can lead to vomiting in your Goldies leading to lethargy, weakness, and dehydration. Hence, these should be avoided in dogs. Avocados Persin is present in avocados which leads to diarrhea and vomiting thus leading to severe dehydration. Too much of it can lead to the death of your pooch. Hence, all parts of avocados whether the seeds, flesh, or stem should never be given to dogs. Cherries All parts of cherries contain cyanide, a poison that causes disruption of cellular function leading to hypoxia, and can cause instant death in large amounts. Yes, they can, fruits cover almost all the nutrients needed by a Golden Retriever, but these should be given in small portions every day in the form of small slices that are easy to chew and digest. However, having fruits every day can become mundane for the dog. The way I prefer is to rotate different fruits on several days and then have a fruit-free interval for a couple of days where I give my dog meat or dog food, sometimes with vegetables, and then introduce fruits again. Also, most fruits are rich in sugars while being poor in proteins. Such a diet will lead to muscle wasting in dogs with the deposition of abundant fats. This will make your pooch weak and prone to cardiovascular illnesses. The best way is to have a balance between the different types of foods a GR can eat like fruits, vegetables, meat, and dog food. This reduces any chances of over or undernutrition and keeps the dog fit and healthy. Moreover, if you want to vary the diet, you can follow my list of vegetables that golden retrievers can eat. Final Words — Wrapping Up Fruits are an excellent source of macro and micronutrients for Golden Retrievers and come in a vast variety for the GRs to have and enjoy. However, some fruits are toxic and need to be avoided. Read the article to know about the many fruits that GRs can have and why these are essential.

Do you want to know the secrets of how to make a German Shepherd love you? Imagine how amazing your life would look as your German Shepherd gazes at you with affection and admiration! German Shepherd love and affection is amazing… when you know the secrets to their hearts! I love my German Shepherd and wanted to learn more about how to get a German Shepherd to love you. While the GSD is considered more stoic in their nature, they can also show signs of love openly to their families and enjoy giving their chosen few people their undying attention. Are you looking to bond with your German Shepherd? Now is NOT the time to begin harsh punishment or rigorous, demanding training. As a puppy, or even a new adult dog, show them your affection and attention so they understand that you are a kind and understanding person who wants to help them. Never think you need force to train your GSD! Bonding means your Shepherd wants to be with you, so do things that make your GSD shy away from your affection. Pick a quiet time with no other people or animals around to distract you and your dog. Gently caress their ears or face and look into their eyes. Talk positively to them and use their name frequently in a gentle tone. Sleep with Your German Shepherd or enjoy a nap with them A normal night of sleep is around 8 hours for most people. Your breed is naturally protective and could see you kicking them out of the bedroom or shutting the door on them as a lack of love and affection. This makes them feel at ease and safe next to their person. This is a perfect opportunity to show her some love and affection! This takes just a few seconds but is a great way to make a German Shepherd love you every day. Massage Them for a Super Bond Want to know the secret to a super bond with your dog? Bonus: it also removes loose hair. Massaging your dog is calming to them and they will associate you with relaxing affectionate times. The SPCA states that massage helps reduce stress and this means that you are the bringer of good things for them! Massaging also increases your bond with and teaches them that you love spending time with them! Quiet time relaxing with your dog also gives you a chance to relax and studies show it can lower your blood pressure when you stroke your dog for at least 5 minutes… Preferably every day. Train your German Shepherd daily for positive German Shepherd love! German Shepherds love training with their person! Especially positive and fun training, that uses motivation and their drive like in this program that uses brain games that increase their mental stimulation and improves their behavior. Instead, show them you are a fun and fair leader full of love and affection for them with games and training. German Shepherd love is all about how you treat your companion. Knowing how to make a German Shepherd love you is part of welcoming them into your life. And you should also learn how to make your German Shepherd happy so they thrive in your life! Sweeten your bond and love by spending time positively engaging with them and giving them a good doggy life. Would you also like to learn the trade secrets of professionals to get your dog to become dedicated to you for life using the power of science and compassionate training? Go ahead, show your German Shepherd how much you love them! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Final Thoughts German Shepherds Are Affectionate Dogs German Shepherds are notorious for taking down back guys, sniffing to find people lost in remote areas, and search and rescue teams. However, German Shepherds love affection. These dogs also love to please their owners and make them happy. Sometimes, German Shepherds will do things to try and make their owners happy so that they can have affection. Additionally, obeying commands and instructions is a significant way that German Shepherds show love for others. German Shepherd puppies are excitable and affectionate. They will likely jump up on you, wag their tail, and may pee when they get too excited. German Shepherd being curious beside his owner. German Shepherds Are Perfect For Families German Shepherds are ideal for a house pet of a busy, outdoorsy family with a large backyard and a tall fence. This dog breed is open to strangers when they know the stranger is safe. Because of their semi-reserved nature, German Shepherds are perfect for letting the family know in the event of an intruder or alerting those nearby of danger. German Shepherds are vigilant and will act as mother hens for young children, ensuring they are not wandering too close to water, pools, or open windows. Additionally, a German Shepherd can multi-task and remain vigilant while being playful. German Shepherd looks after the baby. Some ways may be easier to identify, but others may be more subtle. There are some tell-tale signs that your German Shepherd is giving you their uninterrupted devotion. There are countless ways that a German Shepherd may be giving affection, and these may differ depending on each special dog. Look at our 11 methods of love expression for German Shepherds to see if your furry friend is giving you love without realizing it! Snuggling up may mean snatching your belongings, phone, laptops, or books before your furry pal rests their body weight onto your legs. However, the warmth and tail wag are worth the sudden move. German Shepherds may lean their bodies against yours while keeping their eyes peeled for dangers or intruders. German Shepherd sits with his owner in the field. This nudging may mean they want something specific like a treat, a walk, or a meal. Sometimes they want a pat on the head, or they could be gently reminding you that you are their favorite person and that they love you. When a nudge is a declaration of love, your German Shepherd will usually nudge you and put their head down next to you or move their attention on to the next thing. German Shepherd nudges his owner to show affection. They Bring Toys and Gifts Animals will often bring gifts to their owners and friends to show appreciation. Dogs are no different, and German Shepherds often bring their owners sticks, stuffed animals, or blankets when they want to show their owners affection. A German Shepherd trying to show love to its owners may bring their favorite item to their owner or friend. Be vigilant about what kinds of toys your German Shepherd brings you. German Shepherd plays with his toy at the park. They Wag Their Tails Constantly Like many other dogs, a German Shepherd will wag their tails to show they are happy with your presence. This behavior will come with licking, barking, and sniffing. German Shepherd approaching his owner. They Follow Instructions German Shepherds love having tasks to do and thrive on encouragement from a job well done. When your German Shepherd follows your instructions and obeys your every command, they are offering their love and affection for you. German Shepherds will show you how much they adore you by obeying your every command consistently. Keep an eye on how often your German Shepherd is following your instructions to see whether they are showing you affection. Owner trains her train German Shepherd. They Lick and Groom You Dogs are known to groom each other when they want to express their love or adoration for others. This grooming will extend to their human companions. Licking and grooming mean that they love you and they want to do something special for you. They Look You In The Eyes Some dogs do not enjoy maintaining eye contact, but German Shepherds will be intense about keeping eye contact when they want you to know that they love you. Sometimes, a German Shepherd may also smile while maintaining eye contact to express their love and happiness at having you in their life. Two German Shepherds lying on the grass after a training. When your German Shepherd decides to rest their head in your lap , they trust you to keep them safe, healthy, and happy. This act of calmness means that they love you and enjoy your presence. They Smile When You Come Home There is nothing more satisfying than the feeling of walking inside to an excited and happy dog. A German Shepherd is no exception and will wag its tail and bark to show you how excited they are to be reunited again. However, some dogs, including a German Shepherd, will smile at you in greeting. This smile is not to be confused with an aggressive showing of teeth or growl. When a German Shepherd smiles at you, it may accompany sneezing, which dogs will do to communicate that they are calm and happy. German Shepherd smiles upon seeing his owner. German Shepherds are hardwired to be on the lookout for danger, and part of their affection expression means keeping you safe, no matter where you go. If your German Shepherd is following you everywhere, they may be trying to keep you safe because they love you or thrive on your company. Black German Shepherd running. German Shepherds usually love games of toy tug and chasing. However, German Shepherds are highly adaptable and will play nearly any game that you want to play with them. A German Shepherd will roughhouse with you or nudge you to play with them when they want you to know they enjoy your time and are expressing their affection for you. German Shepherd hyper actively plays with a ball. Final Thoughts German Shepherds have dozens of ways of showing you and your family affection. German Shepherds are one of the most affectionate and adoring dog breeds and are also intensely loyal. These dog breeds enjoy doing tasks and jobs. They also love doting on their owners, bringing them gifts, and laying in the lap of a person they love. There are many ways that a German Shepherd will offer affection and love to their owners, visitors, or friends. Loving expressions may mean wanting to play, give up their favorite toys, or follow you around the house, among many other signs. Your German Shepherd may have special and unique signs that mean they love you, like looking into your eyes, climbing into your lap, or laying on clothing or materials that have your scent. A German Shepherd is a perfect pet for a family looking for an affectionate, intelligent, and fun-loving dog. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. On the other hand, German Shepherds are known for how well they work with people, driven by a deep desire to please their human companions. Altogether, this adds up to a dog that bonds strongly with their human companions and shows lots of love and affection. Of course, the way a GSD shows affection for their family is far different than how their family shows affection for them. Even so, there are good reasons why German Shepherds have been the second most popular breed of dog for the last decade, starting with their loving and affectionate natures. As mentioned, German Shepherds were bred, in part, for loyalty. When performing the type of jobs that these dogs are often employed in, loyalty and obedience are vital qualities. German Shepherds are one of the breeds that tend to bond closest with a single person. A GSD will pick one person in the family, usually the person they view as the leader, and form the closest bond with them. And German Shepherds can still be loving with the rest of the family, even the kids! They also want to be a part of everything you do. However, your own German Shepherd is a different matter. Look for eye contact lasting three seconds or longer to indicate the deep affection and trust your German Shepherd feels for you. Dogs use body language, primarily through their tail movement , to communicate with each other. Still, certain tail movements can be interpreted to have specific meanings. The faster their tail is wagging, the more excited they are about the current situation. But researchers have discovered that communication through tail movements goes even deeper. Similarly, you can tell how comfortable they are with that human by the amplitude of the tail wagging. They might be licking your legs , your arms, or even your face! People have various feelings about such behaviors. Either way, you should take this behavior as a positive sign. You might not like being sticky and wet, but one of the main reasons that German Shepherds lick and groom their owners is that they love them! Of course, sometimes, German Shepherds lick their owners just for the flavor! So, you should certainly take that excitement as a positive sign of affection. Few people in your life, human or otherwise, will ever be as excited to see you as your German Shepherd! These dogs are used for a litany of canine jobs, after all, ranging from police and military work to search and rescue or even therapy work. But despite their generally calm dispositions and exceptional work ethic, German Shepherds can be extremely playful pups, particularly with their favorite people! Watch how two dogs that love each other play together. They always get rough and rambunctious! For dogs, playing is a vital form of bonding, and playing with your GSD in such a way will help to continually improve the bond between you. These are common experiences for all dog owners, but especially those with dogs as intelligent and empathetic as German Shepherds. But your German Shepherd wants to be around you all the time. Literally, all the time! Your German Shepherd wants to be right up against you, pressed against your side, practically on top of you! However, many German Shepherd parents do let their dogs sleep in bed with them, and the fact that your Shepherd prefers to sleep in bed beside you is a major sign of affection. Your GSD moseys over and places their head squarely in your lap. Naturally, you reach your hand down and give your GSD a little scratch behind the ears and pet them under the chin. Though satisfied, your dog simply keeps their head there. Why else would your GSD want so much of your attention? When you come home, does your German Shepherd jump up on you, putting their front paws up on your belly or chest? This is why it feels like your GSD is looking for every opportunity to be as close to you as possible…they are! Ever notice that whenever you sit down, your German Shepherd suddenly appears, seeming to believe that your lap is the perfect place to lay down? While your GSD is a puppy, this is cute and you probably like it. Once your GSD is full-sized, however, it can be much more difficult to let them up on your lap! This is a sign of affection, so it can be cute, but at the same time, a giant German Shepherd hopping up on your lap can be crushing! If you have more than one, you might notice that they often fight over toys, as one or the other may claim particular toys as their own. Even so, your GSD can be very giving and sharing. Has your GSD ever brought you their favorite toy as an offering? Sometimes, however, this is actually an offering. This is one of the ultimate signs of affection that your German Shepherd can display. Sighs can be emitted when bored, sad, or even when content. Your GSD comes and lays beside you. You start to pet them. They reposition a little, and as they get comfortable, they take in a deep breath before letting out a long and relieving sigh. Does this sound familiar? This is because of your presence and touch. Your German Shepherd loves you so much that just your presence can make their whole world feel content and complete! If you work in some petting, you may even get a few grunts mixed in with their sighs! Even though your German Shepherd might roll over for you to pet them, the underlying meaning is the same. Often, those spots have smells that are associated with you. For instance, does your GSD ever lay on your dirty laundry? Or maybe they prefer to lay on your bed? These items bring comfort to your pooch since they love you so much. When this happens, your dog might even lick or chew items just because they smell and taste like you. While these behaviors might seem a little gross to you, they help your dog to feel closer to you. Ever notice the way that two dogs that are close with each other tend to lay on top of each other when they sleep? Well, your GSD will do the same with you, wanting to lay down with their body against yours while they relax or even while they sleep so they can be comforted by your presence. They may not be as cuddly a Pittie but most German Shepherds will enjoy a good snuggle! Your dog does this to prolong the physical touch between you because it makes them feel content and relaxed. It should go without saying that the only reason physical touch between you and your German Shepherd makes them feel so good is because they love you so much! Still, the fact that your German Shepherd does obey you is a clear sign of their respect and love for you. German Shepherds are incredibly smart dogs. Remember, researchers discovered that German Shepherds are the third smartest of all breeds, as I mentioned earlier. For your German Shepherd to follow your commands, they must love and trust you deeply. Often, dogs from animal shelters and humane societies have had less-than-ideal lives. Many have been abused or at least found reasons to become fearful and distrusting. If your German Shepherd is a rescue, then it may have the natural inclination to display such behaviors. Namely, their intelligence, loyalty, and natural protective instincts. Some dog breeds have faces that naturally appear to be smiling. Instead, GSD faces often seem intimidating! Even so, many GSD owners have seen their dogs exhibit facial expressions that look an awful lot like smiling. In truth, they are smiling! As you can see, there are many ways that your German Shepherd shows their affection for you. But things change as your GSD matures, which often includes behavioral changes. These changes also extend to the way that your German Shepherd shows affection for you. Puppies may behave in the following ways to express their love for you, but generally, they either grow out of these behaviors or are trained out of them by the time they reach adulthood. Adult German Shepherds can contain their excitement to displays of intense tail wagging, for the most part. But if your adult German Shepherd is still peeing when they see you, then you might have bigger problems on your hands! Still, your German Shepherd is very likely to jump on you as a puppy. Even so, you should put an end to this behavior as early as possible. Also, be aware of the difference between chewing a few of your items and obsessively chewing, licking, and eating non-food items, which is a condition known as pica. These behaviors are negative, and if you see your German Shepherd behaving in the following ways, you should put a stop to it through training. Not only is excessive licking annoying, but it can also be a sign of pica or anxiety. Herding When your German Shepherd herds the children to keep them in the yard, the behavior is cute and harmless. German Shepherds are members of the herding group , so herding behavior is natural to the breed. Affection from Male vs Female German Shepherds Overall, many of the affectionate behaviors displayed by male and female German Shepherds will be similar, but there may still be some behavioral differences between the sexes. These differences will likely have more of an effect than the differences caused by sex. Anecdotally, some people have noticed that males tend to be more affectionate than females in general. It has also been observed that females tend to be more territorial than males, a trait that is often noted to become stronger after giving birth. But many German Shepherds love nothing more than to cuddle up with their favorite human! You should be able to tell pretty easily whether your GSD likes to cuddle or not. Devote Plenty of Time to Play and Exercise For your German Shepherd, few things are more fun and enjoyable than a good play session with their favorite person! German Shepherds are extremely energetic dogs that need a lot of activity. Playing with your GSD and taking them on walks, jogs, hikes, and other activities is great for their health, but it also shows them how much you love them. Your German Shepherd wants to be part of everything you do, and you make them feel loved and included when you let them accompany you on your trips or you make special trips just for them. Play a game of tug-of-war or fetch with your German Shepherd and see how happy they get! Again, this is not just for the positive health benefits, though there are plenty of those. Playing together or doing physical activities can help strengthen the bond between you and your German Shepherd and really shows them how much you care. Along the same lines, you can use grooming as another form of petting. Closing Thoughts There are nearly countless ways that your German Shepherd shows their affection for you. About The Author Dean Eby An avid learner with a thirst for experience, Dean has spent a lifetime discovering interests and digesting as much knowledge as possible. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully.

Breeds The link has been copied! Are you ready for some puppy talk? If you're a fan of the French Bulldogs, you're in for a treat! These adorable little pups are known for their charming personalities and irresistible squishy faces, but just how many of them can one Frenchie mama have? In this article, we'll explore the fascinating world of French Bulldog litters and answer the burning question on every dog lover's mind: how many puppies can a French Bulldog have? Get ready to unleash your curiosity and let's dive in! On average, a French Bulldog can have a litter size of between 2 to 4 puppies. However, it's not uncommon for some Frenchies to have larger litters of up to 5 or 6 puppies, while others may only have a single pup. French Bulldogs are known for being small, compact dogs with a big personality, and when it comes to their litters, they tend to have a smaller number of puppies compared to other breeds. There are several factors that can influence the size of a French Bulldog's litter, including genetics, age, and overall health. For instance, younger Frenchies and those in peak physical condition tend to have larger litters than older or less healthy dogs. It's worth noting that while having a larger litter may seem exciting, it can also come with some challenges. French Bulldogs, like many small breeds, can experience difficulties during labor and delivery, so it's important for breeders and pet owners to work closely with a veterinarian to ensure a safe and healthy birth for both the mother and her puppies. On average, a French Bulldog can have up to 4 litters in their lifetime, with each litter having between 2 to 4 puppies. This means that a Frenchie can have anywhere from 8 to 16 puppies over the course of their breeding years. However, it's important to note that breeding a dog should be done with careful consideration and only under the guidance of a responsible breeder or veterinarian. Overbreeding can be harmful to a French Bulldog's health, and can also contribute to the problem of overpopulation in the dog breeding industry. It's also important to consider the ethical implications of breeding dogs, including the responsibility of finding suitable homes for each puppy and ensuring that they receive proper care throughout their lifetime. Factors That Affect the Litter Size There are several factors that can affect the litter size of a French Bulldog, including: Age: As a general rule, younger female dogs tend to have larger litters than older dogs. This is because their reproductive systems are more efficient when they are in their prime. Health: A French Bulldog's overall health can play a significant role in the size of their litters. Dogs that are in good physical condition are more likely to have larger litters than those who are not. Genetics: The genetics of the dog can also impact litter size. Some dogs may have a genetic predisposition to smaller litters, while others may be more likely to have larger litters. Nutrition: A well-balanced diet is essential for a French Bulldog's health and can also impact litter size. A dog that is malnourished or underweight may have smaller litters or may experience complications during pregnancy. Breeding frequency: French Bulldogs that are bred too frequently may experience smaller litters due to a decline in fertility. It's important to give the female dog enough time to recover and regain their health between breeding cycles. Breeding method: The method used for breeding can also affect the litter size. Artificial insemination may result in smaller litter sizes than natural breeding. Hormone Imbalance Hormone imbalances can also be a factor that affects the litter size of French Bulldogs. Hormones play a critical role in the reproductive system of dogs, and any imbalances can lead to reduced fertility and smaller litter sizes. One hormone that is particularly important in female dogs is progesterone. Progesterone levels rise during the second half of a dog's reproductive cycle, and they play a key role in preparing the uterus for pregnancy. If progesterone levels are too low, the uterus may not be ready to support a litter, resulting in smaller litters or even infertility. Another hormone that can affect litter size is luteinizing hormone LH. LH is responsible for triggering ovulation, and if levels are too low, ovulation may not occur, leading to smaller litters or infertility. In addition to these hormones, imbalances in other hormones such as estrogen, follicle-stimulating hormone FSH , and thyroid hormones can also affect a French Bulldog's reproductive system and ultimately impact litter size. If a hormonal imbalance is suspected, a veterinarian can perform tests to determine the levels of various hormones and recommend appropriate treatments or management strategies to support the dog's reproductive health. Age Female dogs are most fertile between the ages of 2 and 5 years old, and during this time, they are more likely to have larger litters. As dogs age, their fertility decreases, and they may experience smaller litter sizes or infertility. It's important to note that breeding French Bulldogs before they are fully mature can also have negative consequences. Breeding dogs that are too young can result in smaller litter sizes, and it can also put the mother and puppies at greater risk for complications during pregnancy and delivery. On the other hand, breeding dogs that are too old can also increase the risk of complications and smaller litter sizes. Female dogs that are past their prime reproductive years may have a reduced number of eggs, and their uterus may not be as capable of supporting a large litter. In general, the ideal age for breeding French Bulldogs is between 2 and 5 years old, when the dog is in optimal reproductive health. However, it's important to work closely with a veterinarian or responsible breeder to ensure that the dog is physically and emotionally ready for breeding, regardless of their age. Genetics The number of puppies that a Frenchie has in a litter can be influenced by the genetics of both the female and male dogs involved in breeding. In general, large dog breeds tend to have larger litters than smaller breeds, and this can be reflected in the litter size of mixed-breed puppies. However, French Bulldogs are a relatively small breed, and their litter sizes are typically smaller than those of larger breeds. The genetics of the female dog can also play a significant role in litter size. Some French Bulldogs may be more predisposed to having smaller litters due to their genetics. In contrast, other dogs may be more likely to have larger litters. Genetic testing can help breeders to identify dogs with optimal reproductive health and litter size. Health A Frenchie that is in good physical condition is more likely to have larger, healthier litters than a dog that is not. Dogs that are malnourished, underweight, or have an underlying health condition may have reduced fertility, which can lead to smaller litters or infertility. Proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary care can help to ensure that a French Bulldog is in good health and ready for breeding. It's also important to note that French Bulldogs, like all breeds of dogs, can experience reproductive health issues that can impact their litter size. Conditions such as infections, tumors, or abnormalities in the reproductive system can reduce fertility and result in smaller litters. Regular veterinary checkups and reproductive health screenings can help to identify and address these issues early on, improving the chances of a successful breeding. In addition to physical health, a Frenchie's mental and emotional wellbeing can also play a role in their reproductive health. Dogs that are stressed, anxious, or in poor mental health may experience reduced fertility, and this can impact their litter size. It's important to ensure that the dog's environment is safe, comfortable, and conducive to their overall health and wellbeing. The process of breeding for these colors can be complex, and it often involves breeding dogs that carry specific color genes. For instance, a blue merle French Bulldog may carry two copies of the dilute gene, while a lilac Frenchie may carry one copy of the dilute gene and one copy of the chocolate gene. Breeding for exotic colors or even fluffy coats can also involve the use of artificial insemination or the use of stud dogs that are carriers of the desired color genes. However, it's important to note that breeding for these colors can come with some risks. French Bulldogs that are bred specifically for their color may be more prone to health issues, including skin problems and eye disorders. In addition, the popularity of exotic colors like the platinum coloring has led to an increase in the demand for these dogs, which has resulted in some breeders engaging in unethical breeding practices, such as inbreeding or breeding for extreme physical characteristics. These practices can be harmful to the health and welfare of the dogs and can result in a range of health issues. It's important to work with a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and wellbeing of the dogs above all else. Breeding for extremely small size can increase the risk of a number of health problems in French Bulldogs, including respiratory issues, hip dysplasia, and spinal problems. Additionally, breeding micro French Bulldogs with a focus on appearance rather than health and temperament can lead to a range of serious health problems that can negatively impact both the mother and the puppies. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and well-being of the breed and carefully select breeding pairs based on factors such as health, temperament, and genetic diversity. Breeding French Bulldogs for extremely small size or for specific coat colors can compromise their health and result in a host of problems that can be detrimental to their overall well-being. Female French Bulldogs typically reach sexual maturity between 6 and 12 months of age. However, it's important to note that while a female dog may be physically capable of breeding at this age, it's generally recommended to wait until the dog is at least 2 years old before breeding. Breeding a Frenchie too early can have negative consequences, including a higher risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. Additionally, dogs that are bred too young may not be emotionally or mentally mature enough to handle the demands of pregnancy and motherhood. French Bulldogs, like many brachycephalic short-nosed breeds, are at increased risk for complications during natural birth due to the shape of their skulls and bodies. The breed's unique anatomy can make natural birth dangerous and potentially life-threatening for both the mother and her puppies. French Bulldogs have a relatively large head and narrow pelvis, which can make it difficult for puppies to pass through the birth canal. This can result in prolonged labor and increased risk of fetal distress, stillbirth, or death of the mother. In addition to the breed's physical anatomy, French Bulldogs can also be prone to certain health issues that can increase the risk of complications during natural birth. For instance, obesity, poor nutrition, and other health issues can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. For these reasons, many veterinarians and responsible breeders recommend that French Bulldogs give birth via cesarean section C-section. A C-section is a surgical procedure that involves delivering the puppies via incision in the mother's abdomen, and it can greatly reduce the risks associated with natural birth. The First Month of French Bulldog Pregnancy During the first month of French Bulldog pregnancy, the fertilized eggs travel down the Fallopian tubes and implant in the lining of the uterus. At this point, it can be difficult to detect pregnancy as there are no external signs. However, some dogs may exhibit subtle changes in behavior or appetite. It's important to ensure that the dog is getting proper nutrition and exercise during this time, as this will support the health of both the mother and the developing fetuses. It's also a good time to schedule a veterinary checkup to confirm the pregnancy and monitor the dog's health. The Second Month of French Bulldog Pregnancy By the second month of French Bulldog pregnancy, the fetuses have developed significantly and are about the size of walnuts. The dog's abdomen may begin to swell, and she may exhibit signs of morning sickness or fatigue. During this time, it's important to continue to provide the dog with proper nutrition and exercise, and to monitor her health closely. The veterinarian may recommend additional testing, such as an ultrasound, to monitor the health and development of the fetuses. The Third Month of French Bulldog Pregnancy During the third month of French Bulldog pregnancy, the fetuses continue to develop rapidly, and their organs and body systems begin to mature. The dog's abdomen will be noticeably swollen, and she may begin to experience nesting behavior as she prepares for the birth of her puppies. It's crucial to continue to monitor the dog's health and provide her with proper nutrition and exercise during this time. The veterinarian may recommend additional testing or monitoring to ensure the health and wellbeing of the mother and her puppies. Please Breed Your French Bulldog Responsibly Breeding French Bulldogs is a complex and challenging process that requires careful consideration and responsible practices. The health and welfare of the dogs should always be the top priority, and breeders and pet owners should work closely with a veterinarian or experienced breeder to ensure that the breeding process is done safely and ethically. Breeding French Bulldogs can be a rewarding experience, but it's crucial to approach it with caution and responsibility. Overbreeding, breeding for profit or for the sole purpose of producing exotic colors, and engaging in unethical breeding practices can all have negative consequences for the health and wellbeing of the dogs involved. It's important to prioritize the health and wellbeing of the dogs above all else and to ensure that they receive proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care throughout their lives. By working with responsible breeders and veterinarians and by following ethical breeding practices, we can help to ensure a healthy and happy future for French Bulldogs and other breeds of dogs. Final Thoughts French Bulldogs are a popular breed of dog that many people are interested in owning. This is due to their popularity and the high demand for these dogs. If you're on a budget, you may want to consider adopting a Frenchton, which is a crossbreed between a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier. These dogs can be just as cute and playful as purebred Frenchies, but may be more affordable. It's also important to note that French Bulldogs often require c-sections to give birth, as their puppies have large heads and broad shoulders that make natural delivery difficult. This can add to the cost of owning a French Bulldog, as c-sections can be expensive and require careful monitoring and recovery. If you're considering getting a French Bulldog or any other dog breed, it's important to do your research and be prepared for the responsibilities of dog ownership. This includes providing proper care and training for your dog, as well as ensuring that you can afford any medical expenses that may arise. Keep in mind that there are many other dog breeds to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and needs. Consider researching other breeds that may be a better fit for your lifestyle and budget before making a decision. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent- it is a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Due to this popularity, you may want to breed your French Bulldog to save some bucks since they are expensive. However, the question in your mind will be, "How many puppies can French bulldogs have? Female French Bulldogs can have a maximum of four litters in their lifetime, translating to 12 puppies. Therefore, a female French Bulldog will have 12 puppies before they are considered old to carry more. In the rest of this article, I'll discuss litters as they relate to French Bulldog breeding and the number of puppies. I will also cover the factors that limit a French Bulldog's ability to reproduce. Keep reading to learn more. A French Bulldog will typically have three puppies on average in a litter. This is a low number compared to other dog breeds like Golden Retrievers, which usually have more than eight puppies in a litter. It's worth mentioning that although rare, French Bulldogs can have up to eight puppies in a litter. However, this is considered unsafe owing to the French Bulldog's body size and shape. This means that a French Bulldog carrying more than four puppies at a time is in danger of dying from pregnancy-related complications. As a Frenchie parent, you're interested in knowing how many puppies your Frenchie can have over their lifetime. The number of puppies a Frenchie can have in a lifetime depends on the number of litters. A French Bulldog can have a maximum of four litters in its lifetime. Each of these litters will have an average of three puppies, translating to .Thus, you can expect your Frenchie to give you approximately 12 puppies in her lifetime. It's essential to consider the reproductive age when figuring out the number of pups your Frenchie can have in a lifetime. Most dog breeds, Frenchies included, reach reproductive maturity at six to nine months. Although French Bulldog females usually have their first heat as early as four months old, it's not advisable to breed the dog this early. Breeding a French Bulldog on her first heat exposes her to: Stunted growth Premature aging Complications during pregnancy and birth Even when a French Bulldog has had multiple litters, you should only breed her after two years. For safe delivery and recovery, veterinarians advise that the breeding period should not exceed eight years. However, some breeders inseminate their dogs after eight years to get more puppies. For this reason, knowing the factors that affect litter size will help you decide when to breed your Frenchie. The following are the main factors that affect litter size in French Bulldogs: Hormone Imbalance Frenchie females with a hormone imbalance will often undergo false pregnancies. In most cases, the dog will behave like she is pregnant even though there isn't any puppy inside her. Hypothyroidism is a hormonal imbalance problem in dogs that causes weight gain, lethargy, and depression. In extreme cases, it can cause abortion or decreased litter size in females. Age The older your French Bulldog gets, the smaller the litter size. Dogs bred between two and five years have larger litters because they are still young with more active reproductive hormones. By the time the dog is six years old, the litter size decreases significantly as the reproductive hormones become less active. Genetics Genetics play a role in determining your dog's ability to have puppies at any point in its lifetime. If both parents have a small litter size, you'll most likely have fewer puppies from your Frenchie mom. A mother with a bigger and broader family tree will have bigger litters. Therefore, you're more likely to get larger Frenchie pups if the mom comes from a family of bigger French Bulldogs. Health Healthy dogs can carry healthier and larger puppy litters. For example, your Frenchie can have a healthier and bigger litter if she has good nutrition. That's why it's essential to feed the dog with high-quality pet food throughout pregnancy. You may have questions like: When is the right time to breed my Frenchie? What are the steps to take in preparing for this process? What should I expect when giving birth? To make the experience smooth, here are the two crucial steps to follow: Artificial Insemination Apart from the hassles of looking for an appropriate and healthy stud dog, the narrow hips of French Bulldogs make natural mating hard. As a result, most Frenchie parents rely on artificial insemination. You must get a canine veterinarian to draw sperm from the stud dog and insert it into the female's reproductive tract. This process is usually done two to three times for positive results. The veterinarian will also be in charge of monitoring the pregnancy's progress. Therefore, you must keep in touch with your veterinarian to monitor the dog's progress and prepare for labor. French Bulldogs have a gestation period of approximately 63 days. The day your Frenchie goes into labor will be significantly different for each dog. Besides being responsible for the C-section procedure, your vet will guide you on what to expect during this period. Furthermore, they will take you through how to deal with any complications that may arise after delivery. It's worth mentioning that taking your Frenchie mom through natural birthing can expose them to dystocia. Unfortunately, 1. Factors That Limit a French Bulldog's Reproductive Ability Two to four puppies in a litter is a low number compared to other dog breeds. Why do French Bulldogs have such a small litter size? Read on to find out the limiting factors. Physical Conformation The physical nature of French Bulldogs makes it challenging for them to reproduce in large numbers. French Bulldogs have narrow hips. Although these hips make the dog beautiful, they hinder natural mating. This explains why these dogs are bred through artificial insemination. It's also hard for French Bulldogs to birth naturally due to their large heads. Consequently, most French Bulldogs undergo cesarean section C-section procedures. Due to their large heads, whelping your Frenchie mom naturally is a risky affair that can lead to: The pups getting stuck in the birth canal The mother suffering from complications such as hemorrhage or uterine rupture Injuring the pups Therefore, although costly and risky, C-section is the most humane option for helping your Frenchie canine give birth. Brachycephalic Breed Frenchies are among the brachycephalic dog breeds. Brachycephalic dog breeds have short nostrils and flattened muzzles with longer bottom jaws than the top ones. Due to their squished face, these dogs have difficulty breathing and cooling. This makes them prone to overheating. Moreover, the squished face exposes most of these dogs to Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. This syndrome makes breathing a struggle, leading to challenges in carrying pregnancies and giving birth. Prenatal Care for a French Bulldog Your Frenchie's prenatal care should start as soon as she is pregnant. Here are some key areas to focus on: Diet Your dog needs a high-quality diet to support her pregnancy. A healthy, natural diet will strengthen the dog's body, allowing it to accommodate the mom and pups. Pregnant dogs need the following nutrients : Calcium: 1 to 1. Shopping French bulldogs are a popular breed loved by many. However, certain factors such as the age and health of the mother can impact litter size. How many French bulldog puppies are born in a litter? The average litter size of French bulldogs is small compared to other breeds, with usually only puppies born in a litter. These puppies are typically born between eight and ten weeks old and weigh around two to three pounds at birth. Within the first few hours, French bulldog puppies can stand and walk, and they will nurse for around twelve to fourteen hours. It is recommended that French bulldog puppies are spayed or neutered at six to eight months old. Keeping these facts in mind will help owners prepare for the arrival of these adorable pups. Typically, French bulldog puppies are born in February or March and weigh around pounds at birth. Taking them for short walks, playing fetch, or allowing them to run around in a safe area can help keep them healthy and happy. By following these steps, you can ensure that your French bulldog puppies grow up to be healthy and happy dogs. Health concerns for French bulldogs puppies French bulldogs are prone to various health concerns, including hip dysplasia, bloat, seizures, skin allergies, eye problems, and ear infections. Unfortunately, French bulldog puppies are born with a high mortality rate. Providing your pup with proper nutrition and regular exercise can also help prevent health issues from arising. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian in case you suspect any health issues. They will be able to provide the necessary medications and guide you through the process of caring for French bulldogs puppies. Taking good care of your puppy from an early age can go a long way in ensuring they grow up healthy and happy. What are the risks associated with French bulldog breeding? French bulldogs generally give birth to puppies per litter, making them a popular breed for those looking to start breeding. However, French bulldog breeding comes with its own set of risks, including health problems and even death in the puppies. Raising French bulldog puppies can also be challenging due to their temperament and specific needs. They require extensive training and socialization before they are ready to be placed with a new family. Additionally, French bulldogs need a lot of daily exercise which can be difficult if you live in an urban area. It is important to take all these factors into consideration before deciding to breed a French bulldog or adopt one as a pet. Published Apr 26th, Get 12 months of mentorship and learning to grow your business confidence and profits Our mission is to help you unlock your potential through brilliant content and training. Join our list to stay up to date on our latest features and courses, and any special offers and free classes. By employing an image background remover tool, you can effortlessly remove the background from an image, leaving only the main subject in focus. Indeed, they have inspired an entire fashion industry of French Bulldog clothing, accessories, and even jewelry. That popularity has made an already expensive breed even more valuable. But why do Frenchies cost so much in the first place? The answer lies in their limited ability to reproduce. The average French Bulldog litter consists of 3 puppies. Although some have successfully carried and birthed up to 7 pups, that happens very rarely. In comparison, the average Golden Retriever produces 8 puppies in a litter. Beagles, for example, typically give birth to 6 puppies at a time while pugs produce 5 pups in an average litter. Frenchies typically carry up to 4 litters in their lifetime. Although their average life expectancy is around 12 years old, they can only breed safely between 2 and 8 years old. That limitation affects the number of Frenchie puppies born each year, which directly impacts the value of the breed. Canadian Moto French Bulldogs wearing Frenchie harnesses. French Bulldogs have difficulty reproducing in large numbers because of their physical conformation. Although organizations like the American Kennel Club and the French Bull Dog Club of America see to it that breed standards are upheld, even the healthiest Frenchies will have trouble breeding naturally and copiously. One of the biggest reproductive concerns in French Bulldogs is their narrow hips. French Bulldogs also have trouble birthing naturally. The large heads that are so often perfectly adorned with Frenchie jewelry make a caesarean section necessary. Additionally, the French Bulldog is among the brachycephalic breeds that have breathing issues simply because of their short muzzles and flat faces. Because of this and the way their bodies are built, pregnancy and birthing can be too stressful on their bodies and could become fatal. The limited number of puppies a Frenchie can produce in her lifetime is one of the biggest reasons why this breed is so expensive. And because fewer puppies mean an even smaller probability of producing rare-colored French Bulldogs, the value of specific pedigrees are even higher. For most of us, that cost means settling for getting our Frenchie fix on social media where canine celebrities provide endless joy as they show off the latest in French Bulldog fashion. Dogs of this nature tend to be smaller, and also have smaller amounts of puppies. And with French bulldog dams the females they have very narrow hips and small body. If a female Frenchie does have a large litter of over 3, there can be health implications for the puppies. They will probably be underweight, with the weaker ones in the litter struggling to get the milk they need during the first few weeks of being born. How many times a year can a French bulldog have puppies? How many litters can a French bulldog have in a year? They should not have any more than 1 litter a year, and most preferably every other year. Because they are delivered via C-section, the female needs time to recover and recuperate, so anything intensive is just cruel and designed to make money. For more information on Frenchie C-sections, click here. How many litters can a French bulldog have? Most female Frenchies have around 4 litters in total, although I have heard of irresponsible breeders who try to get more from them. This litter size of 4 puppies is quite normal, with the average amount of puppies being 3. If you are thinking about buying a French bulldog puppy, talk to the breeder and find out how many litters she has had. How long is a French bulldog pregnancy? Frenchies very rarely give birth naturally, with most puppies being delivered by C-section. A French bulldog pregnancy the gestation period i. She will typically deliver by Caesarean section and will have on average around 3 puppies in her litter. Frenchie breeders will often use artificial insemination to get their females pregnant, as this breed find it very hard to mate naturally due to their narrow hips. You can read more about how long a Frenchie is pregnant for elsewhere on the website. When people say a dog is in heat, what they actually mean is that they are in their oestrus cycle. It is very similar to when a human female gets a period. When a Frenchie dam is on her oestrus cycle it means she has gone into heat and will accept a mate and could end up getting pregnant. French bulldogs go into heat from the point they reach sexual maturity. The regularity of their oestrus cycles tends to be every 6 months on average but will vary from dog to dog. It can take up to 2 years for a French bulldog to develop regular heat patterns. Female French bulldogs can gain sexual maturity as young as 5 months old. At that point, if they have started to have regular oestrus cycles, they are at risk of getting pregnant. Do French bulldogs always need C-sections? If your French bulldog does have puppies naturally, it can be very dangerous for both the female and the litter. Handy Hint: French Bulldogs mating naturally is a very rare occurrence. It can lead to health risks too. Find out more about why Frenchies should not breed naturally in this new blog post. The last word French bulldogs make for great companions and pets. If you browse other guides on the website, you will see plenty of photos and videos of Claude, our own Frenchie. However, in recent years their popularity has exploded, and this has led to an increase in unscrupulous breeders who use irresponsible methods of breeding. This can result in poor health — read the various health problems that Frenchies are prone to. If you are thinking about buying a Frenchie, please do your research into the breeder before you even consider buying from them. Unlike people though, an expectant dog mum-to-be has her work cut out for her, as she rarely, if ever, gives birth to a single puppy. The number of puppies that a bitch has is dependent on several factors, namely size the bigger the breed of dog, the more puppies they tend to have in a single litter and the physical characteristics of a breed. There are, however, no absolutes in nature, which means that the number of puppies that a French Bulldog has per litter can vary. The breed has a higher than average possibility of developing a condition called dystocia, which is similar to a breech birth in humans, but far more dangerous. French Bulldogs are up to twenty percent more likely to suffer from dystocia during pregnancy, which is one of the main reasons why your veterinarian will suggest that you opt for a C-section for your Frenchie. Giving birth is just as hard for a dog as it is for a human, and during and after the birth, your Frenchie will need to breathe harder and faster in order to ensure that her body has the oxygen it needs to make it through and recover from the trauma of having a litter of pups. For a brachycephalic dog like the Frenchie, this is much harder than it is for a normal dog and puts the mother at a much greater risk of cardiac arrest, which again is why most veterinarians will suggest that the safest option for any Frenchie mother is always a C-Section. The procedure also carries a risk to the puppies and can put their lives in danger as well, so the fewer C-sections that your dog has to endure, the more likely she, and her puppies, are to emerge from one unscathed. Which most Frenchies are. Always insist on seeing the paperwork, and the mother dog before you agree to buy a puppy. Before we begin, a word of caution. Most Frenchies tend to reach maturity between eighteen months and two years of age, which is why most breeders tend to let their dogs mate between the ages of two and seven. The typical gestation period the length of a pregnancy for a French Bulldog is between sixty and sixty-three days, and the dog can enter labor at any point during that time. In the first month of her pregnancy, you might notice that your Frenchie starts to become even more affectionate than she already is and that her appetite has increased. Her appetite might start to wane toward the end of the second month, as her body starts to prepare to give birth. Post navigation. Ultrasound Widely used in all sorts of animals including humans , an ultrasound is the fastest way for a vet to get a clear idea of how many puppies mama has in utero. This can be done as early as 3 weeks into the pregnancy itself. This is often the first look into how many puppies they can sell for breeders. X-Ray For a clearer picture, an x-ray can also be used to get a set idea of how many pups are in her womb. Since a mom could abort or have a miscarriage of one puppy early in her pregnancy, this x-ray also confirms that she still has the number she had at the 3-week mark. Whichever method is used for viewing and counting the puppies, remember that these are estimates. As well, not all French Bulldog puppies make it through the first shaky few days, even with the most advanced medical help available. Nothing is certain certain when it comes to the size of a French Bulldog litter, just as nothing is certain when it comes to human pregnancies. How to predict a French Bulldog litter size When picking the right mama to impregnate, breeders often look at a few traits to estimate and determine the size of the litter. Size The size of the mama-to-be will be a huge factor in her pregnancy. Health The health of both French Bulldog parents is also an important factor. Nutrition Much the same as health, nutrition will also be a key role. French Bulldogs need a very specific diet, especially when they are pregnant. However, those genes will also determine the size of the litter and the overall litter health. This is why proper paperwork can go a long way to helping determine the size of the litter as well as genetic factors for Frenchie puppy litters. Small litters of Frenchie puppies While the average litter of puppies is 3, some litters can be smaller with only 1 or 2 puppies. This is not a red flag or cause for concern, though it could be happening due to a few factors. The first cause could be as simple as her age. If a French Bulldog is under the age of 2, she is still thought to be too young to have successful pregnancies. Since pregnancy is very hard on even the strongest Frenchie mom, a young one can have smaller litters with plenty of complications that put puppies at risk. Once they are over the age of two, they reach full maturity and can produce full litters. Generally speaking, Frenchie breeds are very closely monitored. They are also high-risk dogs regarding health complications, particularly during pregnancies. Litters between puppies will always end up with better health and longevity than those litters that are above average. Large litters of Frenchie puppies Just like pregnancies can be below the average of 3 or 4 puppies, they can also be above the average with 5 or even 6 puppies. Large litters often happen as a result of an unethical breeder more on that in a moment and should make you raise a red flag when searching. Large litters bring with them quite a few concerns in health and safety all around. Puppies who are in larger litters will quite often be at-risk before and immediately after birth for malnourishment. There is only so much energy that a mom can give to her puppies during gestation and through milk after birth. The more puppies she has, the more they will require from her, which can lead to malnourished, underweight puppies. Having a large litter can also put more strain and stress on the mother, often giving her health problems and difficulties in her future pregnancies. The truth of the matter is that large litters offer the best financial payout. After all, 5 puppies pay better than 3, right? However, this larger litter also puts more strain on the mom and more likely creates puppies that will be saddled with health problems down the road. A large litter, outside of the flukes and medical miracles, is a sign of an irresponsible breeder. Similarly, Frenchie moms should be at least 2 years of age and average about 3 or 4 pregnancies throughout her life. If you are searching for Frenchie moms and find a series of potential mothers that have 5 or 6 puppies. Responsible breeders will only promise or support 3 or 4 puppies per litter and will happily explain why. This would be a sure sign of a puppy mill. A puppy mill is quite literally a factory set-up for puppies. Various French Bulldog mothers simply pump out litter after litter, and their puppies are sold at high prices by breeders whose only focus is money. These dogs are quite often traumatized and abused, amongst other immoral practices. Use litter size to determine the right breeders Any breeder that is in it for the right reasons will be aware of the size of Frenchie litters and their limits. While it seems so simple when it comes to the number of puppies in the litter, that very number can tell you a whole lot about a breeder and their practices. Use that to help you find the right one. Not only will it feel better than unknowingly supporting a puppy mill, but it will also end up giving you a much healthier, stronger, and better puppy!

We named Gabby because as a puppy she was in the middle of her litter and always was the playful one! Comes with 3 lb bag of dog food, 2 toys, 2 small shampoos, 2 sample treats and a soft blanket! She loves cuddling most of all but loves to follow "dad" around the yard. We know she will make a great pet. Zaylee connects with her eyes, looking straight into yours, and tries to reflect your excitement. She was easily trained and loves to be pet and cuddled! Zaylee loves the coolness of the cornfield dirt.Name: Zaylee - loves cuddling, and walks Status: Retired - Looking for her forever home. Comes with 3 lb bag of dog food, 2 toys, 2 sm shampoos, 2 sample treats and a soft blanket! If he could follow you around all day, he would be so happy. He enjoys being held, going for long walks and just looking and smelling everything. Comes with 3 lb bag of dog food, 2 toys, 2 sm shampoos, 2 sample treats and a soft blanket. Is there room in your heart for Cheese? He has the longest tongue for such a small guy. Do you have room for him? Here are the 6 best Labradoodle breeders in Minnesota. With their rigorous screening process for breeders, PuppySpot ensures that all puppies are bred in trustworthy and ethical conditions. Additionally, they offer a health guarantee for all puppies and provide ongoing support to buyers to help ensure that the puppies are well taken care of. This support includes helpful information on training, nutrition, and other important aspects of pet ownership. PuppySpot also offers transportation options for buyers, making it easier for them to receive their new puppies, regardless of their location. With these services and their commitment to responsible breeding practices, PuppySpot is a fantastic choice for those looking for Labradoodle breeders in Minnesota. Heather, who spends time with the furry kids, is originally from Connecticut and has been in Minnesota since .Heather places a premium on the health of Labradoodle puppies and offers a three-day general health warranty. Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles, Minnesota, will give you a full refund if your furry pet develops any of the problems mentioned above after you take them home! They are dedicated to creating healthy, attractive dogs with decent temperaments. They hope to find a loving home for their Labradoodle puppies , where they are well-fed and never have to see a shelter. Hidden Valley Doodles are bred primarily for health and temperament. Thus their parent breeds are examined before crossing. Because of their great temperaments, their canines are prospering as fantastic therapy and service dogs. Their Labradoodle pups come with the following features. Age-appropriate vaccinations Examined by a veterinarian and backed by a two-year health guarantee Microchipped Vitamins and a package of dog food a package stuffed with unique delights This breeder has been growing great service and companion dogs for more than a decade, as well as grooming dogs and cats for over 30 years. For more than 15 years, the owner also worked as a horse trainer. The dewclaws will be removed, but this breeder will not dock the tails. All Labradoodle puppies will be vet checked, dewormed, and have their first set of shots before going to their new homes. Labradoodles on the Lake only plan to breed a specific amount of litter per year to keep the lines healthy and give each puppy the attention they deserve. This breeder raises mini Labradoodles and mini Goldendoodles, mini golden Cockerdoodles, and Cockapoo. Their miniature Labradoodles are renowned for their intellect, calm demeanor, devotion, and graceful walk. They have affectionate personalities and enjoy being in the middle of things. They are extremely intelligent and enjoy playing, although they are rarely demanding. They chose to socialize our puppies by playing with them all day, taking them to an Assisted Living facility, and occasionally taking them to daycares and schools. Mini Labradoodles are often a fantastic choice for a first-time dog owner, a family, a service dog, a school program dog, or a guide dog. All puppies are super healthy, joyful, and confident and are provided with: All immunizations as well as all boosters. We have TWO puppies looking for loving homes as soon as possible. Our F1 Labradoodles want to be your friend! Our latest F1 Labradoodle puppies will soon become one of your "friends! Phoebe is Mom, a silver Labrador Retriever, who weighs around pounds. Augie, our cream-apricot stand Poodle, is the Dad and weighs about 70 pounds. All our puppies received their first shots and a vet exam. He likes to run and play fetch in the field or splash in the water. Lots of Labradoodle to love! He wants to play and simply show you lots of love. I'll be there for you! To ensure our females have the best possible care and attention they deserve in a family of their own, the Guardian Family Program is an opportunity for selected families to welcome one of our dogs into your family at no initial cost. Guardian family is responsible for any other vet care, as needed. A successful litter is four or more healthy puppies. During her first heat cycle after turning two years old, she returns to the farm to breed. She stays on the farm for days. The gestation period is between 58 — 68 days. About days prior to her estimated due date, she returns to the farm to whelp and nurse her puppies. This is for about weeks. Northern Pine Doodles and our veterinarian, with the input of the family, determine the health and timing of breeding. If we determine the female is unable to successfully breed, she is spayed and becomes the family's pet at no cost. Interested in learning more about our Guardian Family Program? Contact Joe at for more information. Available Females for Guardian Program Call or text Joe at to learn more about becoming a guardian family for a female first-generation chocolate Labradoodle. The parents weigh between pounds and we estimate the puppies will be a similar size. We currently do not breed mini-doodles. Labradoodles, especially F1b, are great for families that may experience allergic reactions from pet dander. The dogs will lose hair, like you and I, but won't shed like other dogs. They are great with kids, friendly, and loving companions. Feel free to read more about our puppies from current owners on our Facebook page. Family-raised, our dogs love people and aim to please. Our owners rave about our puppies' temperament, which are friendly, smart, and loving companions. Because they are three-quarter Poodle, the puppies also are hypoallergenic and low shed. We specialize in Poodle-hybrids, or Doodles. Stud services are also available with a cream or chocolate Standard Poodle. Joe Francis and Sue Brague Wagner are the owners and have a great love for dogs. I am interested in more information about available puppies or would like to be added your litter announcement email list.

Prevalence: Common Pugs are members of the toy group despite their solid appearance. They range in height from 10 to 11 inches and in weight from 14 to 18 pounds six to eight kilograms. They are square dogs with substantial limbs. Pugs are the sturdiest dogs of the toy group, befitting their mastiff heritage. Pugs are known for their large, round heads, with the shortened muzzles and extensive forehead wrinkles. The vertical wrinkle on the forehead is said to resemble the Chinese character for "prince" and thus known as the "prince mark. The tail curls tightly over the hip. They have a short, but very dense double coat. Colors can range from apricot to fawn, silver and black. All but the black dogs have a dark mask and ears with a trace of darkening down the back. The ears feel like black velvet. Personality: Pugs are not the lively socialites that some of the toy breeds are. They are a bit more serious, with a dry sense of humor. The breed motto is "multum in parvo," meaning a lot in a little, with plenty of dog in a small package. Pugs can be stubborn but normally want to please. These are fairly laid-back dogs, not usually given to extensive barking, digging or chewing. Pugs tend to get along well with other dogs and are sturdy enough to get along with children. They enjoy company and can be quite affectionate. True to their grouping, they are good companion dogs. Living With: Pugs are extremely easy to keep and have a serious tendency to become obese unless their diet and exercise are watched carefully. With the short muzzle, they do not do well in hot, humid weather and must be observed carefully for heatstroke. Pugs do tend to snore, again a result of the short muzzle. The prominent eyes are easily injured and care must be taken to keep them moist. Pugs are fairly robust and often live to 14 or 15 years of age. Pugs do best with some daily exercise to help with their weight problems. Despite their heroic alarm years ago, they are not usually great watchdogs, preferring instead to greet newcomers with a wagging tail. Pugs should be socialized to keep that outgoing temperament, and they do well with other pets. Grooming is important, both for the shedding from the dense coat and to keep facial wrinkles clean. A quick daily grooming, even a swipe with a hound mitt, usually suffices for the coat and a gentle wiping with a wet cloth for the face. History: While the pug is often associated with Holland, the breed originated in China, probably bred down from one of the local mastiff-type dogs. The little dogs with the round heads and expressive facial wrinkles were then transported to Holland via trading ships of the Dutch East India Company. In , a pug sounded the alarm that saved Prince William from the approaching Spanish soldiers, and the breed forever after was tied to the royal House of Orange. Napoleon's wife had a pet pug, and the duke and duchess of Windsor had a pug as a royal companion. Victorian England took on pugs as the latest rage in canine fashion and many pugs can be spotted in paintings of that era. The word "pug" may come from the Latin "pugnus" for fist, possibly describing the round face and head. The name does not fit the breed's temperament, because these are not really guard dogs, but designed first and foremost as companion dogs. Related Pet Care Articles. They thrive on attention and can get pretty worked up and excited if fun things are happening. These are amiable little dogs who want to participate in your activities, too. Pugs with kids and babies are often a great combination since Pugs are fun and enjoy playtime. Finally, when it comes to a career, Pugs may have the best job in the world: being a companion to their loving family. They are average barkers not too quiet, not too much and make fairly good watchdogs. The biggest challenge to Pug care is probably their health needs, which are high. Grooming Guess what—Pugs shed! Black Pugs might shed a bit less than fawn-colored pups, but both shed year-round and not just in the fall and spring as with other breeds. Be sure to clean those wrinkles and skin folds every day with mild wipes to remove dander and accumulations; this will help prevent irritation and infections. If you see redness or swelling or smell an odor your pup may have an ear infection. Your vet can prescribe medication to clear it up. A bath about every month is also a good idea. Be sure to dry those delicious folds completely! Pugs need their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Get the how-to here. If nails are left too long on older dogs, it can make it painful to walk. And be sure to talk with your vet for advice regarding dental health and the use of dental chews. Have your vet professionally clean their teeth every year. Regular dental care will help prevent serious issues later in their life. Pugs are people pleasers, so they want to do a good job for you. You can do this in part by taking your dog to group training classes or becoming involved in a dog sport like agility, obedience or rally. Obesity leads to other health problems down the road. Consider feeding your pup a well-balanced, high-quality commercial diet formulated specifically for toy breeds. Those treat calories count! Finally, consider getting a doggy- Puggy? They are in the best position to help you pick the right food for your dog based on their individual needs. Exercise All dogs need appropriate exercise, and your Pug is no exception. Since Pugs are a brachycephalic breed flat-faced with a short nose , some may have a compromised airway caused by the extreme facial characteristics in their nostrils, palate, larynx and trachea. Instead, aim for shorter exercise sessions, broken up throughout the day. Pugs have pretty low energy levels, and their exercise needs are also fairly low; they typically need less than an hour of exercise every day. While some Pugs do enjoy doggy sports like agility, a short walk or fun indoor playtime will be plenty. Ideal Environment Pugs are wonderfully adaptable to many types of home settings and will be happy wherever you live. No problem for Pugs. Small homes? Big homes with room to roam? You bet! Country homes with huge backyards? Your Pug will love that too, although they may not need a yard of that size to be happy. Pugs are usually open to meeting strangers, even though they may bark to let you know your guests are here. Pugs really do prefer the indoors. Back to Top Pug Health Toy dog breeds tend to have longer lifespans than large dog breeds, and the Pug is no exception. Pug life expectancy is about 13 to 15 years. However, there are a few health issues you should be aware of, so you can help your pet stay healthy throughout their life. Eye Issues: Since Pugs have such prominent eyes, they are more prone to eye issues. Treatment usually consists of medicated eye drops. Weight reduction, physical therapy and surgery are options for treatment. Patellar Luxation: This is the condition where the knee slides out of the joint. In milder cases, pain medication and weight management are treatment options. Surgery is often needed in more severe cases. Pug Dog Encephalitis: This is an inflammatory brain disease and is fatal. Within a matter of weeks, a dog will experience seizures, circling, blindness, then coma and death. At this time, there is no known treatment for the disease, nor are experts sure how they get it. Skin Issues: Keeping your Pug clean helps minimize skin issues. In particular, the skin folds require special attention to avoid irritation and infections. Ear Infections: Those floppy ears are cute, but they may harbor infections. Check their ears every day and gently wipe away any debris. Signs of infection include redness, swelling or a bad odor. Your vet can prescribe medicated ear solutions to get rid of an infection. Allergies: Pugs can be affected by skin allergies. These can be caused by something in the food they eat or their environment pollen, mold, etc. Thankfully, your vet can treat allergies with either dietary changes or medications, depending on the cause. Back to Top Pug History The history of the Pug dates back thousands of years and spans multiple continents. But their not so humble origins began as the beloved companions of Chinese emperors , and they were highly prized and valued for centuries. Some Pugs even had their own guards! By around the s, Pugs began to travel abroad, and they arrived in Europe, where they became quite popular with royalty in Holland. Over in England, Queen Victoria was said to be especially fond of the breed; she shared her home with as many as 38 Pugs. They may be small dogs, but they pack a lot of personality into their small size! The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in , but the popularity of the Pug breed in America declined somewhat around the turn of the 20th century. Today, the Pug enjoys steady popularity, currently ranking 28th of the most popular dog breeds in the US. You can also reach out to Pug rescue organizations to adopt a Pug or keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter. Medium History of the Pug The pug is one of the world's oldest dog breeds, with a history dating back to at least B. There is much debate over the true origin of the pug, but it is generally believed that the breed came from China. The pug might be related to the Pekingese , though some believe the breed descended from the bulldog or mastiff. Emperors of China treasured the little dog, and they were a highly desired gift. Pugs began to spread around the world starting in the s. They became popular among European royalty, which sparked more widespread breeding. A new wave of pugs were brought to England after the British overran the Chinese Imperial Palace in .They contributed shorter legs and the modern style of pug nose to the breed. The American Kennel Club first recognized the breed in .And it is still one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States today. Pug Care Pugs aren't high-energy dogs, but they still need daily exercise. They also require consistent training and socialization to make sure they are well-mannered. And their grooming needs are fairly straightforward. A morning and evening walk plus some active playtime should be sufficient. Pugs also love participating with their humans in dog sports , such as agility and rally. And they enjoy puzzle toys to challenge them physically and mentally. Take care not to overexert your dog, especially in warm weather. The pug's short muzzle makes it hard for the breed to cool itself through panting, which can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Plan to brush weekly to remove loose fur and distribute skin oils. And bathe roughly once a month, depending on how dirty your dog gets. Make sure to dry the folds thoroughly. And aim to brush its teeth every day. Training Pugs typically are eager to please and respond well to positive training methods. Using part of their daily meals for training treats is a good option. Avoid harsh corrections, as pugs are sensitive and will quickly shut down and refuse to participate in training. Begin training from as young of an age as possible ideally with a puppy class, which involves socialization as well. Moreover, aim to expose your pug to different people, other animals, and various locations from as young of an age as possible. Pugs are typically outgoing dogs, and having positive experiences in social situations will reinforce their comfort and confidence. Common Health Problems Like many dog breeds, pugs are prone to some hereditary health issues, including: Brachycephalic syndrome breathing problems and overheating due to their flat face Eye problems, such as dry eye and corneal ulcers. A bit goofy and rambunctious, pugs have also earned a reputation as a canine class clown. Pugs are ideal house dogs thanks to their stable temperament and loving disposition. Although you'll need a quality vacuum, as they shed profusely! Playful but not requiring lots of activity, pugs are content to do whatever their owner wants to do, whether that be watching a movie or going for a walk around the block. Very intelligent, and at times willful, pugs are happy and affectionate pups who remain very loyal to their owners. As a brachycephalic breed, that adorable smooshy face can also be the source of common health problems for pugs, which potential owners will want to understand before they choose to become pug parents. Pugs come in two standard colors with a few tonal variations: fawn with a black mask or all black. The fawn or tan coat color can range from a warm apricot to a cool and rarely seen silver. Their heads feature their signature short, flat, black muzzle covered with deep wrinkles. Their prominent eyes dominate their comical, wrinkly face and showcase a range of emotions, from surprise and happiness to curiosity. They sport moles on their cheeks, called "beauty spots" and a clearly defined "thumb mark" on their forehead. Their short coat is actually a double coat, and they shed like crazy, especially during the summer months. According to the AKC standard , the perfect pug tail has a double curl. Temperament A pug's favorite place to be is right by your side. Bred to be companions, they are completely content snuggling up on your lap and lounging the day away and aren't afraid to hop right into bed with you. But be forewarned: Pugs wheeze, snort, and snore so you may want to invest in some ear plugs. They will be quite unhappy—and will let you know it—if you don't shower them with affection or if you leave them alone for long periods of time. You shouldn't expect a pug to hunt, guard, or retrieve. A pug will have nothing to do with such activities. A funny little dog, pugs often find ways to create their own silly entertainment—but please for their sake pay attention to the show they are putting on—while maintaining a dignified manner when necessary. While they are a toy breed, pugs are a bit tougher than other similar-sized pups and are up for playtime. Avoid disappointment and make sure the kids know pugs aren't likely to play fetch or chase a soccer ball though. Pugs are pretty amenable to getting along with anyone, including other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. Pugs also make great companions for those living in apartments and older individuals because they don't require too much indoor space for activity. We're not necessarily saying pugs are lazy, but they are known to sleep up to 14 hours per day! They also don't bark much because breathing is a bit difficult for them. Their breathing challenges combined with their short legs make them poor swimmers, too. Although they'd likely benefit from a dip in the pool on hot summer days, as they don't tolerate heat—or the cold—well. So be diligent in helping manage their intake—limit their treats and don't feed them table scraps no matter how cute and pleading their stare may be—because their small stature makes them likely to gain weight quickly. You should also encourage exercise, although they don't need much in a day. They find creative ways to burn off energy on their own. Bathing about once monthly and regular brushing with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt, or a hound glove help manage significant pug shedding. And those sweet facial wrinkles need extra attention because they are a breeding ground for infection if they are damp and dirty. Dry your pug's wrinkles thoroughly after bathing and wipe them out in between baths—a dry cotton ball will do the trick. Pugs also need their nails trimmed regularly, as they don't naturally wear by spending lots of time outdoors. Regular teeth brushing is a must as pugs are susceptible to gum disease. Training can be a challenge, Nichols says. Remember their ultimate goal is simply to spend time with you. If those surgeries are not done, expect a lifelong loud snoring dog. These are symptoms of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS , which can also cause saliva disorders, sleep issues, and difficulties with regurgitation. Pugs can face a fair amount of other health issues, including back problems, epilepsy, allergies, hemi-vertebrae or misshapen vertebrae , hip dysplasia , patellar luxation,and nerve degeneration later in life. A variety of skin conditions may affect pugs, including yeast infections, staph infections, or demodectic mange. While their big, dark eyes are adorable, they are especially vulnerable. Pugs sometimes face corneal ulcers, proptosis , and dry eye, among other ailments. Skin conditions such as walking dandruff—caused by a small mite—need to be treated by your veterinarian. Pug parents also need to watch that their pugs maintain a healthy weight; obesity can exacerbate their breathing problems. A study released in comparing the health of pugs to other dogs found "many critical health-related welfare challenges to overcome for pugs. Conversely, according to the study, pugs had significantly reduced adjusted odds of having heart murmur or lipoma tumors. One affliction unique to pugs is Pug Dog Encephalitis , afatal inflammatory brain disease. There is no known cause or test for it unfortunately. It causes a pug to seize, circle, become blind, then fall into a coma and die. Research is ongoing. History Pugs are an ancient breed—perhaps the oldest dog breed, in fact—that originated in China. Going back some 2, years, flat-faced, or short-nosed toy dogs like the pug were popular with Chinese emperors and lived lavish lives because of it, the AKC says. They were only given to those outside the Far East as gifts. But in the s and early s, Dutch traders arrived in Europe with the breed and thanks to popularity with royal households they quickly gained popularity across Europe. Their long history reveals a number of different names for the breed including lo-sze Chinese , mopsi Finnish , doguillo Spanish , and mophonds Dutch , among others. The name pug is supposedly derived from the Latin word "pugnus"—which means "fist"—to reflect the fact that a pug's face looks like a clenched fist, the AKC writes. Pugs were also very popular during the Victorian era, featured on postcards, in paintings, and as figurines. For years they remained largely pets of the aristocracy. Queen Victoria had many pugs and bred them , and Marie Antoinette also had a pug named Mops. They were standardized as a breed in the early s. Upon taking over the Chinese Imperial Palace in , the English discovered several pugs and began breeding them back in England to improve the breed. It wasn't until after the Civil War that pugs came to the United States. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .Initially very popular, pug ownership and breeding waned until the s when the, the Pug Dog Club of America was created and recognized by the AKC. Fun Facts One legend says the pug became the mascot of Holland's royal House of Orange after a pug barked a warning to save the life of the Prince of Orange before an attack by Spanish troops, the AKC writes. Another legend holds that some pugs were prized in Chinese culture because their wrinkles resembled good luck symbols in the Chinese language. A group of pugs is called a grumble. Not surprisingly, pugs' cute mugs have graced the big screen. In recent years, many pugs have become insta-famous on Instagram as well. Doug the Pug is undeniably the most popular of the bunch. With more than 13 million social followers, the celebrity pup rubs noses with stars like Joe Jonas and Shakira. Pug owners and enthusiasts are just as quirky and loveable as the breed, often dressing up their pups and hosting get-togethers and pug parades. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Pugs are clowns at heart, but they carry themselves with dignity. Pugs are playful dogs, ready and able for games , but they are also lovers, and must be close to their humans. Pugs love to be the center of attention, and are heartsick if ignored. Pugs are square and thickset, usually weighing no more than 20 pounds. Their heads are large and round, with large, round eyes. They have deep and distinct wrinkles on their faces. Legend has it that the Chinese, who mastered the breeding of this dog, prized these wrinkles because they resembled good luck symbols in their language. His ears are smooth, black and velvety. He has a characteristic undershot jaw the lower teeth extend slightly beyond the upper teeth and a tightly curled tail. Personality-wise, Pugs are happy and affectionate, loyal and charming, playful and mischievous. They are very intelligent, however, they can be willful, which makes training challenging. If trained and well-socialized , they get along well with other animals and children. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers. Pugs have a short, double coat, and are known for shedding profusely. Pug Highlights Loyal and affectionate: Pugs are known for being very loyal and affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and be around their owners, and they make great companions. Easy to care for: Pugs are relatively easy to care for. Good with children: Pugs are generally good with children. They are patient and gentle, and they enjoy playing with kids. Adaptable: Pugs are adaptable dogs. They can live in apartments or houses, and they can do well in both hot and cold climates. Funny and playful: Pugs are known for being funny and playful dogs. They enjoy making their owners laugh, and they are always up for a good time. Some historians believe they are related to the Tibetan Mastiff. They were prized by the Emperors of China and lived in luxurious accommodations, sometimes even being guarded by soldiers. Pugs are one of three types of short-nosed dogs that are known to have been bred by the Chinese: the Lion dog, the Pekingese , and the Lo-sze, which was the ancient Pug. Evidence of Pug-like dogs has been found in ancient Tibet and Japan. In the latter s and early s, China began trading with European countries. Reportedly, the first Pugs brought to Europe came with the Dutch traders, who named the breed Mopshond, a name still used today. Pugs quickly became favorites of royal households throughout Europe, and even played a role in the history of many of these families. In Holland, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange after a Pug reportedly saved the life of William, Prince of Orange, by giving him a warning that the Spaniards were approaching in .It is known that black pugs existed in the s because the famous artist, William Hogarth, was a Pug enthusiast. He portrayed a black Pug and many others in his famous paintings. In , Goya also portrayed Pugs in his paintings. Before she married Napoleon Bonaparte, she was confined at Les Carmes prison. In the early s, Pugs were standardized as a breed with two lines becoming dominant in England. Pugs were first exhibited in England in .The studbook began in with 66 Pugs in the first volume. Meanwhile, in China, Pugs continued to be bred by the royal families. When the British overran the Chinese Imperial Palace in , they discovered several Pugs, and brought some of the little dogs back to England with them. Two Pugs named Lamb and Moss were brought to England. He was an outstanding dog and was bred many times to dogs of both the Willoughby and Morrison lines. Click is credited with making Pugs a better breed overall and shaping the modern Pug as we know it today. Pugs became very popular during the Victorian era and were featured in many paintings, postcards, and figurines of the period. Often, they were depicted wearing wide, decorative collars or large bows around their short, thick necks. Queen Victoria had many Pugs, and also bred them. The queen preferred apricot-fawn Pugs, whereas another Pug fancier, Lady Brassey, made black Pugs fashionable after she brought some back from China in .At first, Pugs were very popular, but by the turn of the century, interest in the breed waned. A few dedicated breeders kept breeding and, after some years, the breed regained popularity. Pug Size Pugs weigh between 14 and 18 pounds male and female. Generally, they are 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. He tends to be a sedentary dog, content to sit in your lap as you read a book or watch a movie. Au contraire. He is a playful, comical dog that enjoys living it up, and delights his owner with silly antics. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training , and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings or other relatives of the parents is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when he grows up. Socialization helps ensure that your Pug puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling him in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking him to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help him polish his social skills. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Cheyletiella Dermatitis Walking Dandruff : This is a skin condition that is caused by a small mite. If you see heavy dandruff, especially down the middle of the back, contact your vet. The mites that cause this condition are contagious, which means all pets in the household need to treated. A diagnosis of PDE can only be made by testing the brain tissue of the dog after it dies. PDE usually affects young dogs, causing them to seizure, circle, become blind, then fall into a coma and die. This can happen in a few days or weeks. They are prone to a condition called idiopathic epilepsy : seizures for no known reason. If your Pug has seizures, take him to your vet to determine what treatment is appropriate. Nerve Degeneration : Older Pugs that drag their rear, stagger, have trouble jumping up or down, or become incontinent may be suffering from nerve degeneration. Since their front legs often remain strong, some owners buy carts to help their Pugs get around, and the veterinarian might be able to prescribe medication to help alleviate symptoms. If your Pug squints or the eyes look red and tear excessively, contact your vet immediately. Corneal ulcers usually respond well to medication, but if left untreated, can cause blindness or even rupture the eye. Dry Eye : Keratoconjunctivitis sicca and pigmentary keratitis are two conditions seen in Pugs. They can occur at the same time, or individually. Your vet can perform tests to determine if this is the cause, which can be controlled with medication and special care. Pigmentary keratits is a condition that causes black spots on the cornea, especially in the corner near the nose. If the pigment covers the eye, it can cause blindness. Your vet can prescribe medication that will help keep the eyes moist and dissolve the pigment. Both of these eye conditions require life-long therapy and care. Eye Problems : Because their large eyes bulge, Pugs are prone to a variety of eye problems, including proptosis the eyeball is dislodged from the eye socket and the eyelid clamps behind it ; distichiasis an abnormal growth of eyelashes on the margin of the eye, resulting in the eyelashes rubbing against the eye ; progressive retinal atrophy a degenerative disease of the retinal visual cells that leads to blindness ; and entropion the eyelid, usually the lower lid, rolls inward, causing the hair on the lid to rub on the eye and irritate it. Allergies : Some Pugs suffer from a variety of allergies , ranging from contact to food allergies. If your Pug is licking at his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, suspect allergy and have him checked by your vet. Demodectic Mange : Also called demodicosis, all dogs carry a little passenger called a demodex mite. The mother dog passes this mite to her pups in their first few days of life. If your Pug has a weakened or compromised immune system, however, it can develop demodectic mange. Demodectic mange can be localized or generalized. In the localized form, patches of red, scaly, skin with hair loss appears on the head, neck and forelegs. Even so, you should take your dog to the vet because it can turn into the generalized form of demodectic mange. Generalized demodectic mange covers the entire body and affects older puppies and young adult dogs. The dog develops patchy skin, bald spots, and skin infections all over the body. The American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology recommends neutering or spaying all dogs that develop generalized demodectic mange because there is a genetic link. Staph Infection : Staph bacteria is commonly found on skin, but some dogs will develop pimples and infected hair follicles if their immune systems are stressed. The lesions can look like hives where there is hair; on areas without hair, the lesions can look like ringworm. You should contact your vet for appropriate treatment. Yeast Infection : If your Pug smells bad, is itchy and has blackened, thickened skin, he may have a yeast infection. It commonly affects the armpits, feet, groin, neck, and inside the ears. Your vet can prescribe medications to clear this up. Hemi-vertebrae : Short-nosed breeds, such as Pugs, Bulldogs and French Bulldogs, can have misshaped vertebrae. Sometimes, only a few of the vertebrae are affected and the dog is able to live a normal life. Others will stagger and display an uncoordinated, weak gait between 4 and 6 months of age. Some dogs get progressively worse and may even become paralyzed. The cause of the condition is unknown. Surgery can help. Hip Dysplasia : This malady affects small breeds as well as large breeds, including Pugs. Many factors, including genetics, environment and diet, are thought to contribute to this deformity of the hip joint. Affected Pugs are usually able to lead normal, healthy lives with proper veterinary attention. Legg-Perthes Disease : This is another disease involving the hip joint. Many toy breeds are prone to this condition. When your Pug has Legg-Perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur the large rear leg bone is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. Usually, the first signs of Legg-Perthes, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, occur when puppies are 4 to 6 months old. The scar tissue that results from the surgery creates a false joint and the puppy is usually pain free. Patellar Luxation : The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, but many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. Vaccination Sensitivity : There are reports of Pugs suffering from sensitivity to routine vaccinations. Usually, symptoms include hives, facial swelling, soreness and lethargy. A dog that is sensitive to vaccines can develop complications or die, though this is rare. Watch your Pug carefully for a few hours after being vaccinated and call the vet if you notice anything unusual. Pug Care Though playful and rambunctious, the Pug is a low-maintenance companion, making it ideal for older owners. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers as well. Light sleepers may also want to invest in a pair of ear plugs — Pugs are prone to snore. How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. These dogs love to eat, eat, eat. This, combined with their small stature, puts them at risk for obesity. As a Pug owner, you must show great restraint. Do not indulge him with food. Feed appropriate portions , limit treats and encourage exercise. For more on feeding your Pug, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Pugs are typically fawn-colored or black. The fawn color can have different tints, such as apricot or silver, and all Pugs have a short, flat, black muzzle. Pugs shed like crazy, especially in summer. The wise Pug owner accepts this, and adjusts her wardrobe accordingly, wearing light-colored clothing that better hides hair. Following that, regular brushing and bathing helps keep the coat in good condition and shedding to a minimum. A monthly bath is sufficient, though some owners bathe their Pugs more frequently. These folds are hotbeds for infection if allowed to become damp or dirty. The wrinkles must be dried thoroughly after bathing, and wiped out in-between baths. Some owners simply use a dry cotton ball; others use commercial baby wipes to wipe out the folds. Because they protrude, the eyes are vulnerable to injury and irritation from soaps and chemicals. Like many small breeds, the Pug can be susceptible to gum disease. Regular brushing with a small, soft toothbrush and doggie toothpaste helps prevent this. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Though small, the Pug is not delicate like some toy breeds, so he is a good breed choice for families with children. However, children who want an active pet to retrieve balls or play soccer will be disappointed with a Pug. Adults should always supervise interactions between children and pets. Properly trained and socialized , the Pug enjoys the companionship of dogs , and can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Pug Rescue Groups Pugs are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Pugs in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Chinese origins[ edit ] Pugs were brought from China to Europe in the sixteenth century. The pet pugs were highly valued by Chinese Emperors, and the royal dogs were kept in luxury and guarded by soldiers. In Tibet , Buddhist monks kept pugs as pets in their monasteries. Pugs were painted by Goya in Spain, and in Italy they rode up front on private carriages, dressed in jackets and pantaloons that matched those of the coachman. They were used by the military to track animals and people, and were also employed as guard dogs. His self-portrait , which is now in London's Tate Gallery , includes his pug, Trump. Every carriage I meet here has a Pug in it. Many responded to the breed's image of anti-functionalism and diminutive size during this period. The modern pug's appearance probably changed after when a new wave of pugs were imported directly from China. These pugs had shorter legs and the modern-style pug nose. The British aristocrat Lady Brassey is credited with making black pugs fashionable after she brought some back from China in .Hogarth's painting from the 18th century depicts the originally longer muzzle, as well as the picture in a edition of Brehms Tierleben. Since there has been a trend in some countries to breed "retro pugs". Following the deaths of pugs and other brachycephalic breeds, several airlines either banned their transport in cargo or enacted seasonal restrictions. Pugs have elongated palates. When excited, they are prone to " reverse sneezing " which causes them to quickly and seemingly laboriously gasp and snort. The veterinary name for this is pharyngeal gag reflex and it is caused by fluid or debris getting caught under the palate and irritating the throat or limiting breathing. Reverse sneezing episodes are usually not harmful, and massaging the dog's throat or covering its nose in order to make it breathe through its mouth can often shorten a sneezing fit. In serious cases, it makes breathing even more difficult and puts added pressure on the larynx. If this happens, one should inquire with their veterinarian whether or not surgery is needed to open the nostrils. If the prolapse happens on a regular basis, the pug might require surgery. This condition is caused when parasitic mites, that are often present in a dog's skin without causing symptoms, are allowed to do damage because their host has a weakened immune system. It is a problem for many young pugs, although not usually a major one, and is easily treatable, but some are especially susceptible and present with a systemic form of the condition. The condition occurs when two parts of a spinal vertebra do not fuse properly while a young pug is still growing, resulting in an irregularly shaped spinal cavity which can put pressure on the spinal cord. Pug photo, ca .Note its small head and long legs. A pug by Carl Reichert. The pug that was predominantly featured in the commercials was Cheeka. A few other adverts also appeared in the following months, inspired by the idea of a dog following a boy. Pugs have very distinct physical traits that may prompt you to take one home to your family, but before bringing a Pug home, it is important to consider their personality and temperament. Pugs may be well known for their wrinkled faces, stubby legs, and compact frame, but the personality and temperament characteristic of Pugs is vital to understand before choosing one to bring home. During this initial time in their history, Pugs were only allowed to be owned by members of the Chinese imperial household and Tibetan monasteries. Pugs possess a lineage steeped in respect and adoration. They were first brought to Europe around and quickly became a favorite of the wealthy. Pugs are considered one of the oldest canine breeds in existence today. In recent years, they have grown in popularity and now are a well-known and recognized dog breed around the world. Pug Characteristics Pugs are small in stature and are part of the toy breed. They weigh on average between pounds and measure at approximately inches at the shoulder. Despite their petite stature, pugs are full of personality. They are most well known for their short snout, curly tail, large head, and protruding eyes. Unlike many dog breeds, Pugs were not bred to perform a task. They are not hunters, guard dogs, or retrievers; instead, they are companion dogs. Pugs can have a stubborn streak, but though they may be stubborn, they are not aggressive and are eager to please. They can be trained with dedication , patience, and the use of treats as motivation. Pugs are a suitable dog for families with children because of their small stature and love of attention. Because of these qualities, Pugs thrive in homes where they will receive copious amounts of love and attention with very little time alone. Pugs are often an easy-going dog that prioritize pleasing their owners above all else. Pug Behavior Pugs are a calm dog breed that enjoys spending their days napping. Their low energy level means it is easy to keep a Pug in good physical health with just a small walk or quick playtime. Pug behavior is often seen as silly because they are often quite lazy until they get a quick burst of energy, which is then often followed by a nap. Since they are food motivated, Pugs often develop the frowned upon behavior of begging for food. However, with some training and dedication, this habit can be trained away. Pugs are typically a vocal dog breed, which includes barking, yapping, grunting, snorting, or other noises. This may be seen as an undesirable quality depending upon the owner and their lifestyle. Because Pugs snouts are very short, they often wheeze after excessive exercise. If these vocal qualities are unwanted, training can also be used to correct these behaviors. Pug Personality Traits Pugs are intelligent and playful, but also extremely affectionate. Because they are intelligent, they can be mischievous, especially when left alone for extended periods of time. Pugs are a friendly breed, which makes them behave well around other pets and small children. There are many qualities that comprise the unique composition of a Pug personality, but chief among them is their love of sleep. Pugs are wonderful family dogs that love their family unconditionally and will want to spend their entire life by the side of their owners. If you decide a Pug is the right breed for you, it is likely you will be soon sharing your bed with your new family member.

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:. You should take your puppy outdoors and let him exercise his socialization potential at a young age. Visiting friends and family is one way to go about it. You can also spot a dog park and carry him there. Remember that your pet is still learning to follow directions and walk with you. You cannot expect him to cover long distances. The best way to avoid this is to take them far enough from the house and ensure they have a positive outside experience. It is worth noting that you should do this as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training It would be best to start potty training your Lab puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. A good idea is to cordon off a small area and add some bark chippings. Next, you need a potty training schedule such as first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, and hourly for young pups. Many owners use dog crates to help with house training. I have a step-by-step guide on Labrador puppy crate training where you can learn tons more. Discourage Biting If you follow my blog, you know I am against punishment-oriented training. If you train your dog young enough to avoid harsh bites, you will not need punishment-driven discipline strategies. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can cause aggression in your dog. You can also check out my article, How to Discipline a Labrador , for greater insight into this topic. Instead, you can wait until your Labrador bites during a positive activity and then discontinue it. It will anchor the consequence better. Follow up using positive reinforcement by rewarding the correct behavior with a treat. Your Labrador will quickly learn that displaying good behavior reaps nice things. Puppies need to learn their bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the excellent work their mother and siblings taught them. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You must use your best judgment when training your dog to be patient. Generally speaking, your Labrador will be mature enough to learn self-control by the tenth week. You can use a clicker or a whistle to teach your puppy to assume the natural heel position. Chances are, at first, your Labrador will try to change his pace to be behind you because of the force of habit. Walking in areas familiar to your dog will eliminate this problem. While you previously trained him to assume a heel position, you can also teach him these techniques. You may notice that your puppy can tell your words apart by the thirteenth week. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included whistling, clapping, or saying a specific word to indicate that your Labrador is doing a good job, typically followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! Where you previously whistled when your Lab ran towards you, now you must whistle, so he begins his run. This is the start of his Labrador recall training. Teaching good recall is an ongoing process. My dog was around 12 months old before seeing a noticeable improvement in her recall. Please avoid forcing the dog, as that only introduces confusion. Build Comfort With Crowds — Work on Socialization You have trained your Labrador to acknowledge close friends and family in the past few weeks. While this enables the puppy to be more social when you have visitors, a grown dog must learn to walk outdoors without acting out. This transition must be gradual, and try to keep experiences positive. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training , for example, to touch a target with a specific part of his body. Remember that your Lab may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. Here, I recommend teaching your Labrador to touch your hand with his nose. Ultimately, this is an excellent replacement for bites! Hand targeting is fun to teach, helps your pup build trust, and gets him using his brain! You have laid a strong foundation of discipline and positive reinforcement, making it easier to train your dog to follow more complex commands. In these weeks, you will introduce him to assuming different positions, obeying your commands as he moves away from you, and reacting to more nuanced anchors. Remember, 4-month-old Labrador puppies have a short attention span, so avoid long training sessions. Teach the Sit and Stay Teaching your Lab to sit and stay is a useful command for him to learn. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your Labrador to public parks and he has seen other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your Labrador may not bring the toy back to you for a second round, but he will soon get the idea of retrieving it. You can gradually turn it into a game of fetch over the next few weeks and reward your doggo with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of Labrador training, you will continue potty training with a degree of independence. Continue with a good schedule and sync your walks with his natural cycle to align with the times he needs to go. You can use it to control your Labrador and later to test his ability to execute a command off-leash. A harness is also a good idea and is used for outdoor training and walks. Many owners will opt for a rear-attaching harness. Related: Harness vs. Collar for Lab Puppy: Which is Best? How to Train a 5-Month-Old Lab Puppy A five-month-old Labrador puppy is ready to be tested for his general obedience and the ability to deal with distractions, whether other dogs, people, or other animals such as squirrels or birds. Earlier, I mentioned that you could not expect an eight-week-old puppy to delay gratification. Your puppy can deal with distractions at five months old if you introduce them slowly. You must be prepared for your dog to run ahead of you now! However, suppose you have developed a solid relationship with your pup and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay within a reasonable distance, remaining by your side and showing loyalty. Once your Lab puppy has reached his 6-month milestone, it also marks the point where you introduce him to advanced obedience training. The good news is that all the training you have previously given will make it easier for your dog to follow your lead. Conclude Potty Training Your dog has had months to learn how to communicate his need to go potty. He has also likely refined the patience to hold it instead of relieving himself on the floor. Therefore, you can communicate your disappointment with your body language if your dog makes a mess. Avoid physical punishment and even verbal chastising as it impacts your dog negatively. All dogs can still have the odd accident up to 12 months old. Moreover, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened, known as either excitement or submissive urination. Increase Exercise Now that your Lab puppy is six months old, you can increase his exercise to thirty minutes twice daily. Energy levels, especially for larger breed dogs, escalate during this time. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old Labrador can be out for one hour if you split his walks into thirty minutes a day. To train your 6-month-old Lab puppy, start with two commands with the most practical use. From six months onwards, until your Labrador is a well-trained adult, you can teach the following commands or tricks in any order. How to Train a 7-Month-Old Labrador As your Lab progresses to seven months old, a lot of the previous training needs to be kept consistent as you gradually teach him to comprehend more commands. Maybe there is a trespasser, and you want your dog to scare them away. You will need to continue training your dog to hold things or release them on command, but you can also proceed to add distance and even more background distractions. Ironically, you need to teach him to bark on command before learning to be silent on cue. Over this month, he will learn to associate the respective commands with barking and silence. This is quite tricky, but your Lab will eventually get there if you practice and stay consistent. The eighth month is ideal for training your Lab to go to different places upon hearing the command word. Either way, do not overload him with place commands, and stick to no more than two per month. Or you can use the ninth month to teach a cool party trick! After a week, you can remove the treat and teach your Lab to follow your finger. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he follows the command. By the third week, you can cue your doggo to spin and see if he does so without your finger guiding him in a circular motion. It might take an extra week or two, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your pet to learn previous commands better. You can teach him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now progress this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your 1-year-old Labrador only learns to comprehend more at the same pace as he has since the 6-month mark. You should also audit previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. How to Train an Month-Old Labrador You will not have to alter your training regimen dramatically if you have trained your Labrador properly from eight weeks onward. If anything, this is the period where you customize his training to your convenience. Now is when your dog must learn to be compatible with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your dog to be harmonious with modern adult life within reason. It is sad to see dog owners having to give away their pets because of behavior issues. Such things are avoidable if you train your dog correctly and sufficiently exercise him. It would be best if you simply established authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your dog acknowledges your authority and sees you as a guide, you can merely treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. Your job becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule and stick to your routine. This month-by-month Labrador puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and turn him into the beloved companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:. 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. Print The dreaded 3-month-old puppy I really enjoy young puppies. Seven- to week-old puppies can be so much fun and while they can be trouble, it is easy to contain them. But when a puppy turns weeks-old…. Three-month-old puppies start feeling good about themselves. They think they have the world all figured out and they will get into everything and run circles around you, even after being scolded or punished. Here is what you need to know about training your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post five 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 at 12 weeks old Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week five home Bubba should have been named Spunky because she is a handful. She runs around our home with her head and tail high, like she is all that. She pulls our shoes out of the organizer, chews on closet doors and digs and splashes in her water dish. So is the life of a 3-month-old Lab puppy. Patience is required to raise young lab pups. They will give you a run for the money. Even the well-behaved ones. No one escapes the terror of the 3-month-old Lab. So, how can you survive this time. Firm and well-defined boundaries that are enforced endlessly. Now is not the time to give up on training your puppy. It is the time to buckle down and show your puppy that there are rules and boundaries, and they must be obeyed. You puppy can and will learn the rules if you are firm and consistent in your corrections. Whatever you do, do not allow the puppy to do whatever it wants with no corrections. That is not being a good puppy mama or dad and it is really not fair to the dog, because training will require much more pressure and correction when the dog is bigger and stronger. Here are the things we worked on this week for training of Bubba. Crate training Bubba is now completely at home in her crate. She remains in her crate a full 4-hours at a time without accidents, is quiet while in there and walks into her crate on a KENNEL command from feet in front of the crate. Bubba will come to me when called, even when she knows that she is going into the crate. While there are still some consistency issues to work on, Bubba is well crate trained at this point. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking is such a difficult job. You will have periods when the puppy is doing so well that you will think you are done. And then, when you least expect it, your puppy will have an accident right in front of you. Bubba has been good at housebreaking. She has had less than a half-dozen accidents in the house and all of them pee accidents. She has never pooped in the house. So, we thought she was pretty much house broke. Then suddenly, she just up and peed right on the dog bed. Housebreaking is always an ongoing process, and we know that over time the accidents will become less and less. Looking for more information on housebreaking? Obedience training your week-old puppy With any dog training, obedience is key! She will SIT on command about 90 percent of the time. The only time we really have issues is when there is a lot of distractions. That is normal for a puppy of her age, but that does not mean that we just allow her to be disobedient when there are distractions. Rather, we look for distractions and then train through them. This is very important because you do not want your dog to just be obedient when everything is calm. You want, even need, your puppy to be obedient when the everyday distractions happen. HERE command As I have already stated, twelve-week-old puppies are cute, but they can also be little terrors. This is the age when they start to get very independent. With that independence comes the desire to run away from you, run around you, play keep-a-way and just generally terrorize your life. We get lots of calls from owners of puppies this age. They all want to know if we can take their dog now for training instead of at the usual months of age that we usually require for hunting dog training. This is very hard, even for professional trainers. But that is almost always a mistake since Bubba will decide to make a game out of not coming to us. Getting your puppy to come to you There are some techniques to help with this matter. Sometimes this is a good time to start treat-training your dog on HERE. This is a short-term fix that we will not continue for long, but it can sometimes help to get us through the next month or two. Labs are almost always driven by food, so it can help you get a better response to the HERE command. You can also have the dog drag a long check cord. The check cord gives you something to grab onto if the dog tries to make a game of coming to you, but you must be careful since the lead can get caught on something and injure your dog. Remember that each time you say HERE, you need to pull your puppy towards you. You need to associate the HERE command with coming towards you. You need your puppy to understand that coming to you is a good thing. That is why treats can help with this. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. Last week we introduced Bubba to water and got her swimming. Since then, she has been swimming a couple more times and she is very comfortable retrieving in the water. We also introduced her to decoys on land. Introduction to live birds This week we introduced Bubba to a live bird. We do this using a pigeon with the flight feathers pulled out. The pigeon can walk around and flap its wings, but it cannot fly. We ultimately would love to see the puppy chase down the bird, grab it in their mouth and bring it to us or at least prance around with it a bit. For some dogs, this can take a bit of encouragement the first time. But generally, once the puppy grabs hold of the bird, we see their whole demeanor change. This was the case for Bubba. Once Bubba picked up the pigeon, she pranced around the yard with her tail high and a spring in her step. She was so excited and proud of herself. This is a great response. Introduction to gun fire As I stated in last weeks post, we do not want to rush the introduction to gunfire. We have never had a dog we have raised and trained become gun shy and that is because we introduce gunfire is a very slow and painfully methodical way. The first step is that the dog or puppy is in a box on our dog trailer. While in this box, our other dogs are getting marks in the field. The gunners for these marks are anywhere from yards away from the dog trailer and they are using primers or starter pistols. The puppy is hearing these shots, but they are a long way away and are muted by being in the dog trailer. Our puppies hear these shots for weeks, or months before they ever hear anything closer. This is our first introduction to gun fire. Bubba was exposed to this last week and will be every week for a while before we move anything closer to her. Learn more about introducing your dog to gunfire. Continuation of assistant marks Bubba will continue to get assistant marks most days from now until she is done her training. The marks will continue to increase in distance and complexity but all our marking scenarios for our afternoon sessions involved gunners out in the field throwing marks for Bubba. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy You are really in the thick of it if your puppy is around the week mark. The next month or two will likely be the most challenging of your time raising a Labrador puppy. That will make obedience training easier and faster, but that is still a bit of a ways out. Hang in there and push through. Keep your commands and corrections firm and consistent and you will make progress with your puppy. 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 week-old Labrador puppy?