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Ethical breeders only breed new litters from carefully health screened parent pups. This helps detect any genetic defects , which might be carried onto the puppies. This will give you some added peace of mind, but make sure that the health guarantee comes in written form with your adoption documents. Although it might seem like an unnecessary step, being affiliated with any of these organizations means that a breeder has to follow their strict health testing standards and ethical breeding practices. Moreover, if you know anyone who has adopted a Labradoodle puppy in Washington, reach out to them and ask about their own personal experiences with Doodle breeders in the state. Our article on How To Choose A Responsible Breeder has tons of more tips on this topic, so make sure you check it out. They specialize in breeding Medium, Mini, and Micro Mini Australian Labradoodle puppies in a variety of beautiful coat colors, including chocolate, red-apricot, caramel, and phantom patterns. In addition to breeding Labradoodle pups, they also raise purebred Golden Retrievers. At Moonlit Acres, their main focus is on breeding healthy and happy puppies with wonderful temperaments. In fact, many of their puppies have gone on to become registered service dogs for families and individuals who need that special canine support only Doods can provide. All of their puppies are born and raised in their very own home so that they all receive round-the-clock care and nurture that they deserve. Their puppies are all well-socialized with young children, adults, and also with other dogs. They start potty training at 3 weeks of age, crate training at 4 weeks of age, and also utilize the Early Neurological Stimulation ENS training. Moreover, they teach their puppies basic commands and even take them on car rides! What Makes This Breeder Unique? Waitlist: Yes. Our dogs are smart, calm, intuitive, and beautiful. We only breed one litter at a time. Together we discover that there is nothing more rewarding than making people happy with healthy, social and gorgeous puppies. They have soft coats and wonderful temperaments. We breed carefully with low inbreeding and provide you with a pedigree. Our breeding dogs pass many tests to qualify for our breeding program. Tests on breeding dogs include hip and elbow xrays, cardiac screening, healthy eye certification, and DNA tests for common diseases in the breed. We take special care of all our dogs and puppies. We love our Australian Labradoodle puppies from start to finish! We do not breed with anxious, aggressive, nervous dogs, but we select our breeding dogs with good temperaments. They have a gentle, calm, happy character with just enough spirit to be playful and fun. We raise our breeding dogs in our own home or in foster families called guardian homes. All dogs deserve to live with a family. We are not a kennel operation. Because the puppies grow up in our home, they are socialized and love people and other dogs. They are introduced to people, children, and other dogs at a very early age. Training with commands such as come and sit start at 5 weeks of age. We introduce them to their crates at the same time. Our labradoodles keep us laughing with their clownlike antics. We have a lot of experience and knowledge raising and training dogs and we promise a lifetime of support. We distinguish ourselves by having the healthiest, friendliest dogs with wonderful temperaments. They are mostly hypoallergenic dogs. They are very intelligent and easy to train, so Australian Labradoodles are used for emotional support and service. Our whelping boxes and pens are cleaned and sanitized every day. The puppies start pottying on grass outside at about 5 weeks old. They are introduced to crates at 5 weeks old but will not be fully crate trained. We want them to love their crates. We send one home with you. Reserve early as most puppies are sold before they are born! Responsible Breeding Early Socialization and Positive Training Starts at Birth Responsible Breeding Inbreeding analysis before breeding any dogs to be sure there are no close relatives for generations. Pedigrees, and health tests posted. Our breeding dogs do not shed. Tests on breeding dogs include hip and elbow xrays, cardiac screening, healthy eye certification, DNA tests for Common diseases in the breed. We socialize with many people and other dogs. We introduce crate training at 5 weeks in a manner that they will love their crates. Love and handling starts at birth. Most puppies come and sit before they go home. Olympic Peninsula:. Breeders ofMulti-generational Australian Labradoodles Australian Labradoodles are such a wonderful, versatile breed. They are adaptable, affectionate, eager to please, friendly, intelligent, sensitive and very trainable. They are good for the laid back person to the active family, as long as they are with their people they are happy and content. They have non-shedding coats that are allergy friendly! Our objective is to breed healthy, well-tempered, and beautiful Australian Labradoodles. To achieve our objectives, we subject our breeding dogs to rigorous health and temperament testing, we expose our pups to enriching experiences appropriate to their age. We use temperament testing to match pups to families to support the best fit of pup to lifestyle. Our breeding dogs are loved family pets and our pups are raised in our home or with one of our amazing guardian families. We are not a kennel! We are a registered breeder with the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association WALA and operate in a manner that respects the highest ethical and professional standards. Evaluated by Pat Hastings of Dogfolk, Mila was rated top breeding quality for temperament and structure. We are excited to announce that the perfect prince was found and Mila had her first litter April 13, .After crucial upbringing with Mom and litter mates, intentional Puppy Culture time, Ever After training, and evaluations with Pat Hastings; puppies went home in June of and are all thriving with amazing forever families. Since then, Ever After has continued with unsurpassable breeding practices for the most deserving of dogs and puppy families. Our Story passion for dogs Pictured with Mila below at 15, 13, and 13 years of age, our three family rescue dogs made us one of the most sought-after pet sitters around. We had an evident love for dogs. When our names were passed along to help a local breeder, we fell in love with what felt like the perfect dog for anyone, the Australian Labradoodle. Encompassing so many wonderful adjectives, this silly, light-hearted, energetic, loving, intelligent, allergy-friendly, loyal, therapy-tempered family dog was irresistible. The process of learning how to mate only top-quality partners, whelp healthy litters, care for nursing mothers and newborn pups, and then pass along the healthiest crate-trained puppies to happy families, became intoxicating for our family. We had to be a part of such a fulfilling experience. Thus, after many months of observation, apprenticeship, and studying, Ever After Multi-Generational Australian Labradoodles was created. For the best experiences in life, our carefully selected breeder dogs are raised in homes instead of kennels. Now we have the thrilling task of finding "happily ever after" for every new pup and their family. Why Recommend Ever After? Our puppies sleep through the night in a closed crate from at least 11 P. Ever After is a small family-run business. With that, we are able to spend every waking moment with our puppies socializing and training them ourselves. There is no staff — just us and our eager visitors. Pat and her husband bred 28 different dog breeds across all groups. Hiring Pat and being trained by her, we took the extra steps needed to choose top-quality breeder dogs for our program using the standards set in place by the Australian Labradoodle Association of America ALAA. Already feeling confident as trustworthy breeders, Pat gave us the additional tools to be the best. She reminded us that no dog is perfect; but it should always be our mission to nurture the development of our breed and strive for the healthiest of pets — emotionally and physically. The Australian Labradoodle is bred for exceptional health, gentle temperament, intelligence, low to non-shedding, very soft allergy friendly coats and their loving, loyal and joyful nature. All puppies are crate trained and sleeping through the night before joining their families. Each puppy is evaluated for Temperament and Structure. Your Reservation Deposit is Fully Refundable any time for any reason. Blue Star provides endless information to help prepare you for when your puppy comes home. Between weeks puppies are worked with individually, in a new area, to get used to being away from the litter. They experience new sights, sounds, smells, surfaces, going up and down stairs, and one-on-one training. Each puppy is lovingly and gently handled and worked with from birth, socialized with other dogs, people and children, until they join you as a new member of your family. Why we do all these things… To ensure a smooth transition for our precious puppies from our home to your home. In addition to having gentle, loving temperaments, incredibly soft wavy, or curly, fleece coats, they are low to no shedding and allergy friendly. Both male and female Australian Labradoodles have gentle, loving temperaments, are easy to train and have joyful personalities. This has been done to protect the buyer and support parentage identification. We are dedicated to rearing pups that have gentle temperaments and are physically sound. We choose our parings of Sires and Dams very carefully with the goal of maintaining the integrity of this incredible breed and improving it. The puppies are raised in our home in the Puppy Nursery, have our complete focus, and are loved and cared for from the moment they are born. They receive lots of neuro stimulation, love, attention and begin their training early. They are so smart that by the time they are weeks old these precious little ones are already sitting on command. They recognize many words and short phrases i. Come Puppies, Hungry? For more information see below.

The mother was imported from Finland and the father was imported from Poland, both from top show kennels within their respective countries. Both parents are stunning examples of the breed and can be seen. They conform with the breed standard, and both come from a long line of standard champions and health tested dogs. A lot of research and effort went into importing the parents of these exceptional puppies and we are so lucky to now have them as part of our family. They have the best temperaments one could wish for, very friendly with that breed typical clownesque nature. Puppies have been cherished since birth, so much care and attention has gone into their upbringing, by way of nutrition, handling and socialisation, no expense was spared to ensure the best start for them. Currently there is one male and one female available and are already displaying excellent character with big ambitions to lead a mischievous life. They are IKC registered with pedigree, vet checked, wormed, microchipped and have received their first vaccinations. If you are looking for a new addition to your family, I would be happy to have a chat with you about the possibility of reserving a pup. No private numbers will be answered and please no time wasters. Thanks for looking. Showing 1 - 40 of 93 resultsPage 1 - 93 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Glamorous frenchies currently have.Dewormed, first vaccinations and clear health check. These babies are desensitized to.She is 14 weeks old and ready for new adventures. She is Blue is 10 months old and is a fluffy.Vaccination and health certificate. Black female Brown female Merle females with blue eyes Fawn boy with blue eyes .They come in Lilac and Cream chocolate Merles and blue Merle and one solid chocolate. They come microchipped, We do not keep them locked in cages. He has an amazing blue coats and the most memorizing emerald green eyes. .He is one the sweetest pups you"ll meet. .Best offer. Hamilton We have a beautiful litter of 7 French Bulldogs. Here is what left: 1. Blue boy. Merle boy blue eyes. Merle boy. Shots and deworming are done. Puppies will come with the starter kit. This will be our last litter of the year and will be ready to go home mid-September. Beverley is blue and tan and.We have 6 cute puppies in total. PM for more pics and info Blue tan: one boy. Pupies were born on July 6th. Parents are on site and puppies raised under foot. Microchipped and vaccinated as well as dewormed. Puppies will go home with a.Please Contact French bulldogs blues!!!! Victoria Ckc registered puppies ready to set foot in their forever homes beginning of September Dna health tested All puppies will be up to date on vaccinations dewormed and veterinarian health checked.

Both puppies and adult dogs cry and whine, but often for different reasons. Puppies cry or whine when they are distressed, such as when they cannot find their mother. They emit sounds so that their mother can seek them out. When adult dogs cry and whine, their vocalizations may convey a greeting, a message of defense, an invitation to play, or maybe a sign of submission. It is important to determine why your puppy is crying or whining so that you can comfort them when they are distressed and attend to their needs. Puppy Developmental Stages and Learning to Communicate The first two weeks of life for a puppy are called the neonatal period. Puppies are born with their eyes and ear canals closed, and their main activities are sleeping and nursing. They cry or whine to seek contact or care from their mother. At this stage, puppies are helpless; they rely on their mother for everything from food and grooming to a warm and secure place to sleep. The frequency of cries and whines gradually decreases over the next several weeks as the puppies mature and slowly become more independent. The socialization period for a pup occurs next. This is the period of rapid maturation in the brain, and the puppy becomes more coordinated and exploratory. At this life stage, consistent exposure to people, dogs, and other animals is crucial to help puppies develop attachment and gain confidence and familiarity. Also, puppies should be introduced to different floorings, sights, sounds, and objects that they will encounter as an adult. Use positive reinforcement methods to teach your puppy what you want them to do, without scaring them. Positive reinforcement training helps provide a line of communication between the pet parents and the new puppy. It also helps decrease fear and anxiety and increases confidence and optimism in a dog. Puppies may be enrolled in puppy socialization classes if they are at least 8 weeks old, are dewormed, have received their first puppy vaccinations, and are not showing any signs of illness. During these classes, they will get additional introductions to other puppies, people, environment, objects, and maybe even car rides. Why Is My Puppy Crying? Separation Puppies cry or whine when they feel scared and alone after being separated from their mother and littermates and are in a new environment, such as when the pet parent first brings the puppy home. Once puppies have formed an attachment to their pet parents and other family members, they also may cry and whine when they are separated from them. This could be at night, when the pet parent goes to sleep, and the puppy is placed in their pen or crate. Remember, they are used to sleeping with their mother and littermates cuddling up to other warm bodies. Learning to sleep alone can be scary and lonely. They may also vocalize when family members go out of sight for short or long periods of time, such as to the bathroom or work. Also, the puppy may cry if they are separated from other dogs that they have bonded with in the household. They may also protest being placed in a pen for housetraining and being separated from the rest of the family. Pain Puppies cry or whine when they experience pain, such as being stepped on, getting their first vaccine, or having their nails trimmed too short. Illness Puppies cry or whine when they are not feeling well. In addition to the crying, they may have other signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, or discharge from their eyes or nose. Items out of Reach If a favorite toy rolls out of reach, the puppy may cry if they cannot retrieve it. They may whine if the pet parent removes an inappropriate item the puppy is chewing on, such as an electrical cord. Crate Training It is common for puppies to cry or whine when they are being crate trained. You can also give them food hidden in puzzle toys to work on while you slowly increase the distance between you and your puppy. This helps the puppy focus on other activities and learn to be more independent. Sometimes it helps if you stick your hand through the bars so that your puppy can be comforted by the smell and warmth of your hand. This does not make for a comfortable sleeping position, but you may only need to do it for the first few nights until your puppy adjusts to their new sleeping quarters. Additional options include placing in the crate a stuffed toy that makes the sound of a beating heart or that provides warmth while the puppy sleeps. When your puppy is distressed, it is fine to comfort them. You may not need to immediately pick them up after they cry or whine; however, physical contact in certain situations can provide comfort to your puppy, such as when another dog barks at them or just after a veterinarian has given them a vaccination. If your puppy whines out of frustration after losing a toy or after you remove an item from them, such as your expensive shoe or the TV remote, make a noise to distract your puppy and interrupt the crying or whining, then redirect their attention to more appropriate toys or give them back the toy that fell out of reach. Puppies may cry and whine depending on the situation. These are usually cries for help or for the need to be comforted. It is important to provide puppies with the comfort they need in the first few days you bring them home, and to later give them the proper training to address any specific behavior issues or to add to their communication skills. You want your puppy to not be fearful but open to meeting new dogs and people and excited about having new adventures. The more the puppy feels safe and secure, the more confident and positive they will be as an adult. Featured Image: Istock. Wailani Sung has a passion for helping owners prevent or effectively manage behavior problems in companion animals, enabling them to.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Separation Anxiety Excitement Whining can be due to different emotions but excitement is the most common emotion. Whining with excitement will come with a lot of circling, jumping, and activity in general. Your dog may be excited because of things or foods they want. Sometimes your bulldog may whine in an effort to calm themselves down instead of doing it to get your attention. If your Bulldog whines every time they go up and down the stairs or jumps on the couch then they may have joint pain due to arthritis. Boredom Boredom can not just lead to whining but other destructive behaviors like chewing clothes and scratching furniture, etc. If your dog does not have anything to do or is left alone for long hours then they are most likely to get bored. A bored dog will whine a lot. Anxiety and Stress It is very common for dogs to whine when they are anxious or stressed. This type of whining is accompanied by lip licking and yawning. Other signs of whining due to stress could be cowering and flattened ears. A fearful dog may tremble and pant also with whining. Seeking Attention or Asking for Something Your bulldog may also whine in an effort to get your attention or if they want something from you like a toy or a treat. You may notice their gaze shifting between you and that desired object while they whine. If you may be focusing on an important task or having a phone conversation with someone, your bulldog may get jealous and may start whining to get your attention. Separation Anxiety Separation anxiety is quite common in bulldogs and many other dog breeds. It is usually accompanied by other behaviors like pacing, drooling, and destructive chewing, howling and whining especially when they are left alone for extended periods of time. Life changes like moving to a new house, the sudden absence of a family member, or even a death in the family can also cause separation anxiety. If your bulldog starts whining right before you leave the house, it could be separation anxiety. How to Help a Whiny Bulldog? A little whining can be avoidable but excessive whining can be annoying. If your bulldog whines frequently or has suddenly started to whine then it is imperative to take them to a vet to rule out medical issues. Their vocalization may be a response to pain or a painful condition. This is particularly the case if your bulldog whines while lying down in a very submissive posture and does not do anything else to engage you in any other way. If your bulldog whines when they meet people out of excitement or when they are in an extremely aroused state then try to help them control their over excitement using management procedures. For instance downplay greetings and keep them short and simple. Refrain from speaking loudly and in excited tones and also keep your movements slow and calm. Do not pet or interact with your bulldog unless they become less excited. This will teach them to do something else other than whining for greeting for example sitting or hand targeting when meeting or greeting people. Teaching hand targeting involves training your dog to touch your outstretched palm with their nose during greetings to help them stay quiet. Your bulldog may whine less if they are busy performing these quiet and polite behaviors. Attention-seeking whining can also be reduced by teaching your bulldog that remaining quiet is a better strategy. Sometimes dog owners unwittingly are responsible for reinforcing attention-seeking whining in their dogs. Whining gets attention because we are humans and we react in different ways to it. If you are sure that your bulldog is whining to get your attention or food, then before giving in redirect their whining to another behavior. Get your bulldog to sit or lie down quietly. If your dog complies, then reward them with attention, praise, or a treat. Talking to your dog, scolding or even eye contact all constitute attention. Reinforce the non-whining behavior with rewards. Teach your bulldog to remain quiet to receive your attention, treats, or play. Your dog will realize that silence works better to get your attention and will no longer feel motivated to whine. Your bulldog may not be able to control their whining under extreme stress. Working with a professional trainer at a young age can help your dog learn to communicate without whining. Giving in to the whining of a cute puppy every time could yield a whiny adult bulldog. If you give in to whatever your bulldog desires because they are excited they will learn that whining is a tactic for receiving attention, or anything they desire. Whining anxiously due to separation anxiety can be treated by the use of desensitization and counter conditioning techniques. If your bulldog seems fearful and anxious, try to find out the source of the problem. If you can figure out the reason behind their fears, you may be able to desensitize your dog to overcome their fears. Make sure your bulldog gets an enriching environment that makes enough room for both physical and mental exercise. Give your dog lots of interactive toys and some exercise to help them take out their pent up physical and emotional energies. Give your Bulldog an adequate amount of exercise at least once a day. A tired dog will definitely not whine unless there is something wrong. Practice these cue commands by creating a situation that makes your dog whine. If the whining stops, reward your dog with the treat. A bulldog who whines when excited or anxious can be taught to relax with some settling exercises like a down stay. To teach your bulldog the down command, have them sit in front of you and show them a treat. Then lower the treat to the ground towards you. Practice this few times every day. Never react to a whining dog with annoyance but with compassion. Whining can be a sign of stress, sadness, loneliness or want. With positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience you will see that your bulldog will start using non-verbal cues to communicate their needs and also gain the independence to meet those needs themselves. Basic training, physical and mental stimulation and some help from a trainer or a behaviorist can help manage excessive whining in your bulldog. Post Views: 1, Is It Normal for Puppies to Whine? Puppy whining is a normal behavior, and most puppies will do it at some point. So tiny, so cute, so lovable. Sweetest little baby. Just like a human baby, puppies use whining to communicate to their mother that something is not right or that they need something. Whining essentially serves as an alarm for the mother dog, alerting her that her puppy requires attention—perhaps they've become separated from their littermates or are hungry. The mother dog responds swiftly and appropriately to her whining puppy, who then quickly finds comfort and settles down. Once a puppy is old enough to join a new family, they continue to rely on whining as a means of expressing their needs. Now, the responsibility falls on us pet parents to decipher the reason behind their discontent and help them find happiness and comfort in their new home. Why Is My Puppy Whining? There are several reasons why your puppy might whine. These include.Photo: iStock. Your puppy will likely whine if they need or want something from you or need your help with something. Some of these whines might be for critical needs like needing to urgently urinate, while others might be for non-critical needs like wanting you to retrieve their favorite toy from under the couch. At times, your puppy may whine simply because they want you to pay attention to them. Whining can serve as an indicator that your puppy is feeling scared or anxious. This could be due to things like having a new guest in the house or a thunderstorm. Learn more about how to treat and prevent puppy separation anxiety. Puppies may whine out of excitement or in anticipation of a positive event. This can occur when guests arrive at the front door, while loading into the car for a walk or when entering public places. In these instances, whining is typically an expression of their enthusiasm and eagerness for the experience. Puppies may whine to express dissatisfaction with certain situations, such as being placed in a crate. Like humans, dogs have personal preferences and can communicate their displeasure through vocalizations, like whining. By paying attention to these cues, you can better understand your puppy's needs and work towards creating a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for them. Whining can signal that your puppy is experiencing physical discomfort. For instance, if they whine each time they attempt to climb stairs or leap onto the couch, your dog could be suffering from an injured leg. When there is no apparent explanation for your dog's whining all their needs have been met, and there are no anxiety-inducing factors , it's advisable to bring them to a veterinarian. A thorough examination can help identify any underlying health issues and ensure your dog receives appropriate care and treatment. In short, it depends. But if your puppy wakes from a two-hour nap in their crate and starts whining, they very likely need to go outside to do their business. Be aware that if your puppy is resorting to whining to let you know they have to urinate or defecate, an accident is imminent. Crated pups can typically "hold it" for about two hours max, and slightly longer at night. Wolf explains. Promptly take them outside to do their business, as to avoid an inside accident. If they appear to be experiencing physical pain or discomfort.Take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible to assess their symptoms. In this instance, ignoring your puppy's whining may not be effective and is best handled by seeking the advice of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who can help you address the problem, says Dr. The best approach is to ignore their protest and give them time to settle down. If your puppy whines at you to put their food bowl down.Wait for a moment of silence before doing so. Establishing a routine can help your puppy feel more secure and reduce their need to whine for attention. Stick to a regular schedule for feeding, exercise and playtime; and try to avoid sudden changes that may disrupt your puppy's routine. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Puppies have a lot of energy and need plenty of opportunities to burn it off. Make sure your puppy is getting enough exercise and playtime to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. This can help reduce their need to whine for attention. Reinforce calm behavior. When your puppy is calm and quiet, provide positive reinforcement in the form of treats, praise or affection. This can help your puppy learn that quiet behavior is rewarded and encouraged. Avoid rewarding your puppy for inappropriate whining. Remember, attention-seeking and demanding behavior that is rewarded will be repeated. Consider crate training. Crate training can be a useful tool for reducing whining, as it provides a safe and secure space for your puppy to relax and rest. Make sure your puppy's crate is comfortable and inviting, and avoid using it as a form of punishment. Learn more about how to successfully crate train a puppy. Be patient and consistent. Remember that reducing whining behavior takes time and patience. Consistency in your training approach and positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping your puppy learn to communicate in a healthy and effective way. Consider enrolling your puppy in a basic obedience class. Obedience class isn't all about learning cute tricks—the real benefit is creating a shared language between you and your puppy. As they learn to do what you ask, it will help build their confidence, which often helps reduce whining behavior. Learn more about basic obedience training for dogs. To learn more about how to handle whining as your dog ages, check out our articles about adult dog whining and senior dog whining. Additional reporting and expert input provided by Victoria Schade. More about puppy behavior:. Contact Why Do Bulldogs Cry? There are multiple reasons that a Bulldog might whine and steps you can take to not leave yourself in emotional distress over your dog. Why do Bulldogs cry? Normally, if your bulldog is whining or crying they are trying to communicate something to you. They could be telling you that they are hungry, lonely, in pain, or that they need to use the restroom. Whatever the case, you need to learn their signals so that you can help your pet. Here are some reasons your bulldog might be crying: Hungry or thirsty They need a bathroom break They need more attention Something is causing them pain Your bulldog is going through separation anxiety Almost every reason that a bulldog is crying has a simple solution and can be helped and possibly fixed through the right methods. Try to figure out the cause through careful elimination. Bulldogs Cry to Communicate There are a lot of reasons a bulldog might be crying or whining. They are usually trying to communicate something that they need or want. Do they have enough water? Do they need to go to the bathroom? As a dog owner, you should try to become familiar with when and why your bulldog whines. If your bulldog is whining, it may be because it needs something from the list below. Then, you should probably get a feeding calendar and schedule. They need to be petted, hugged, cuddled, and played with. They need attention. Depending on their personality, they may need more or less, but they still need it. They might whine to let you know that an emergency is imminent. My brother has a small dog and I was staying at his house one time. He did his business, came inside, and was as quiet as can be. This whining might come at inconvenient times, but addressing it is better than letting the dog pee inside the house. If a dog is in pain, they will likely whine. Your Bulldog May be in Pain Animals can be in pain like the rest of all living things. The first indication that your bulldog is struggling and in pain is if they are whining. Vets may cost money, but your pet is worth taking care of the proper way. If they get a lot of attention all the time, they might become used to it. They will probably whine for a while, and this is fairly normal. The whining for attention will usually go away after they get back into their usual routine. Bulldogs, like most canines, do well with a schedule. Note: If you are never around, your pet may adjust and it may not. You may be annoyed by the whining, but your frequent absence may be a key reason for the whining. Dogs need attention! Both extremes are unhealthy for your canine and could cause them to whine for attention. Some are more sensitive emotionally and will need to be trained. You can train your animal to not whine when you leave. Here are some things that you can do to stop it: Get a sitter: Pay someone trustworthy to dog-sit your pup. This is the simplest way. Some people might think that this option coddles your pet too much. Keep a routine: As mentioned before, bulldogs do well with routine. The more consistent the routine, the better. This will help your pet not feel quite so lonely and they will be able to relax. You could also play a recording of you talking so they feel like you are there. This alerts them that something is wrong and that you might not come back. This is extremely hard, but it will help with the whining. Give a five-minute window, enough for them to calm down. Exploring the Delicious Diet of Turtles Then you calmly give them the love that they seek. Get a Thundershirt: A Thundershirt is an outfit that helps a dog stop whining. View Price on Amazon. Those are just a few suggestions you could use. Dogs are living creatures with feelings, and they are going to treat others as they have been treated. If you still have many questions about separation anxiety, your closest veterinarian is a good place for you to find more information. Sometimes Bulldogs are hard to read when it comes to their health and emotions. It will put your mind at ease and help your pet get the best help it can. Related Questions… How do I know if my dog is depressed? A dog will usually retreat and distance themselves just like a depressed person would do. Be sure to read Can My Bulldog be Depressed? Other common signs of depression are changes to eating habits, whining more, less social, less energetic, and lazier than usual. How long can a Bulldog be left alone? Post Views: 1, My Josephine just turned 6 months old.This forum is an excellent resource with lots of loving EB parents on it with lots of good advice learned the hard way a lot of the time. This is what I found worked for Josie, and your puppy will let you know what works for him as well. Josie sleeps in a crate in my bedroom so I can hear her, she can hear us and know she is not alone but she is safe while I am sleeping. They don't know chewing on the electric cord will hurt them, or not to pee on the floor. They also get scared they have just lost everything they know and will look to you for comfort and attention. Give him lots of snuggles and love to reassure him that you will always be there for him. The first night home Josie cried and cried so I got up with her and held her on my chest so she could hear my heartbeat. She settled down and fell asleep. She needed this done a few times that first week. At first she woke me up every 2 hours all night long, just like a newborn human. I would take her outside, give her a snuggle then put her back in her crate. I was sooooo tired those first weeks, I thought many times I can't do this, but over time 2 hours became 3 then 4 then a whole night through. When that happens the angels sing and the sun shines and you look in the mirror in the morning and think not bad. Josie still likes to get up early, around 6 am, but my husband is up early too so I simply get up take her outside then deposit her with Daddy for some cuddles and playtime while Mommy goes back to bed for another hour or so. Get an xpen or even a baby playpen, it will save your sanity and your house. Make it a safe fun place for him to be. A few safe toys, chew bone, water, etc. Your puppy needs to go out every hour, like clock work. His bladder is very tiny and he doesn't realize yet that he can hold it. Over the next few weeks start with every hour then when he makes a few days with no accidents go to an hour and 15 do a few more days or a week then add a bit more time. It really helps to keep a book, game or something near where you want him to go since at first he will explore and play not realizing you want him to go potty. Watch him and learn his signs for getting ready to go then praise him like there is nothing greater in the planet than his going then and there. Those first couple of months I spent so much time watching and waiting for her to go potty I felt kind of weird being so obsessed with her bodily functions but you kind of have to be to get control of them. It's helpful to have a command that you always use when he is about to go. We use Go Potty Josie. She will squat on that command now. So pick a command and say it every time he gets ready to go potty. There will be setbacks. I had the hardest time with Josie getting excited during play time and leaking a little piddle, she didn't even seem to realize she was doing it. To control this we changed where and how she was played with and we would take her outside more frequently so her bladder was empty. There is A LOT of trial and error, what works form on puppy doesn't always work for another. You will learn your puppies signals, likes, dislikes and needs and eventually it gets easier. I would highly recommend removing anything and everything you don't want, peed on, chewed on, puked on, etc from the vicinity because trust me the one thing you don't want any of that to happen to it's a guarantee it will. I still have baby gates on all my stairs, rooms shut off so she can't go into them, etc. The world is a huge wonderful place for your puppy to explore and he has time to go slowly and start small like one or 2 rooms then slowly expand his world. He needs to learn this is my home aka crate so I don't potty here, then this room is my crate so I don't potty here, then these 2 rooms are my crate so I don't potty here, until he understands the whole house is his crate and he only potties outside it. Good luck, backtrack a bit and start over setting up a schedule and boundaries, and you will do just fine. It's okay to be overwhelmed every new mother is and that's what you are a new fur mommy with a new fur baby. Cherish every moment they grow so fast! Pacing Whale eyes When they show the whites of their eyes Freezing or very stiff and tense body. Ask yourself: Is your Bulldog overwhelmed, or in a new situation? Is he not understanding you or something you are trying to teach or communicate? Did this come on suddenly, when someone or something came close? Can you figure out a way to remove the stimuli that are causing him stress in order to help him calm down? What to do: Try and change the environment. Be calm and reassuring. Make sure that you are clear with training and giving commands. Try to figure out the trigger and avoid it, or work on training to tolerate it better. Your Bulldog is Excited Bulldogs are courageous and loyal. They make great watchdogs and will happily take on a challenge. This means that they can go from resting to excited and lively in seconds flat. This breed exudes energy in the heat of the moment. At times they can also be high energy that can be perceived as excitement. How to Tell: Tail is wagging, running in circles, jumping up and down, barking. Displaying zoomies a sudden release of energy when your dog seems to go wild and is running around at high speed. Ask Yourself: What is your energy level? Have you just come home from work and they want to greet you? Maybe your Bulldog is meeting someone new or wanting to play. If you are feeling high stress or excitement your dog will feed off your emotion and most likely be showing that behavior as well. What to do: You can redirect his energy by taking him for a run, playing a game of fetch with a toy. Make sure that you have calm energy about yourself. Dim lights, or use some of this therapeutic aromatherapy spray from Amazon Affiliate link to help calm her down. Your Bulldog Wants Attention This is the 1 reason other Bulldog owners give for why their dog cries or whines. Raising and caring for a puppy is no easy task. Bulldogs can sometimes be even more challenging since they can build such strong attachments to their owners and because they are so smart they know how to tug at your heartstrings with their adorable little whimpers! How to tell: Similar to when they are excited, but more direct eye contact with you with intentions of trying to get something. Ask yourself: Has your dog had enough exercise and mental stimulation today. Most Bulldogs need at least 60 minutes of exercise a day as well as plenty of mental stimulation. What is he trying to get your attention for? Is it worth giving the attention or not? Is your Bulldog whining to get food? Check out this article I wrote to see why your Bulldog eats weird stuff! Do you have a new pet, person, or situation in your family? Perhaps your Bulldog is jealous? Remember you only want to reinforce behaviors you would like to see repeated. To truly get this behavior under control you need to completely ignore them. Your Bulldog Has Separation Anxiety For little dogs like our Bulldogs, they can easily get used to going everywhere with us. If your Bulldog is not prepared to handle the separation from you the crying can become extreme! How to Tell: Constantly jumps and whines for you to touch them pet them or cuddle them. Cries or howls when you leave them alone destroys things when you are gone, is overly excited when you return. Ask Yourself: How much exercise has my dog had today. How long have I been gone? Have I trained my dog to be ok without being near me every hour of the day? When you leave, make it subtle and no fussing or kisses goodbye. Make your return no big deal and ignore your pup until they are calm. I always say a tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Giving them something to do while you are gone like this chew toy or this puzzle toy from Amazon affiliate link can help a lot. Try not to leave your dog alone too long if you can manage it. Your Bulldog is Fearful Puppies are very impressionable and teaching them and socializing them starts in the very beginning stages of their life. Unfortunately, there are many people that run puppy mills link to information on how to stop puppy mills that are breeding Bulldogs purely for the money and do not take very good care of them when they are young. When a puppy starts their life in this type of environment it can be very damaging and set them up for a lifetime of fear or aggression. Thankfully there are things that you can do to help if you do end up with a puppy that has been treated this way, it will just be more difficult to get them feeling and behaving confidently. How to tell: Tucked tail, shaking, lowered ears and or head, trying to hide behind you or something else. Ask yourself: How was your Bulldog treated as a puppy? Is your Bulldog a rescue? Was your dog properly socialized when they were young? Does your dog get frightened when they hear a loud unrecognizable noise? What to do: If your dog seems overly fearful of many things and you suspect that your Bulldog is whining or crying a lot because of this, you will need to work very hard at building a solid foundation of trust between you and your dog. Once this foundation of trust is established it will be easier for you to teach your dog that the rest of the world is not as fearful as they suspect it may be. You may also need help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who has experience working with fearful dogs. They will help you come up with and implement a training plan. If you think their fear is a one-time circumstance that has been brought on by something unexpected in his environment, like sudden fireworks or the sound of a car misfiring, then you can isolate that particular thing and work towards training them to tolerate it. You could also try something like this anxiety wrap from Amazon affiliate link that has been useful for dogs afraid of loud noises like thunder. Your Bulldog is Bored When our dog Bear a Maltese Chihuahua mix gets playful he lets us know by barking and whining and begging us to play. Most dogs will let you know when they are tired of laying around not doing a whole lot. Bulldogs in particular love to be entertained and challenged. They were originally bred to hunt foxes so they love to play a game of fetch or do some scent work. How to tell: Short high pitched whines, usually accompanied by a sigh, may seem lazy or disinterested in their favorite toys or games. Ask Yourself: Again you need to think about how much exercise and mental stimulation your Bulldog is getting. Bulldogs do better when they have something to do to occupy their time. It helps if they are constantly learning new things. When was the last time you taught your Bulldog a new command, game, or trick? What to do: Provide your dog with some mental stimulation. Teach them some new tricks, work on training, or give them a fun new toy like this fun crinkle toy from Amazon affiliate link. Try not to leave all their toys available all the time. If you keep all but 2 or 3 put away and rotate them that will keep your Bulldog from getting bored too easily. You can also try this awesome program called Brain Training that can give you a huge boost in your training methods and plans. You may think getting your Bulldog another dog as a friend is a good idea, and it very well may help take the burden of entertainment off your shoulders, but before you decide to do that this article can help you think about the challenges versus benefits. Your Bulldog is in Pain Bulldogs need to be taken good care of especially as they age. They can be a healthy breed, but they can also have problems with their joints or hips or other health issues. If you have a rescue or your Bulldog is aging then pain or discomfort may be a reason your pup is whining. How to tell: Look for any kind of physical signs such as limping, constantly licking a sore area, or yelps and whines when picked up or moved. Ask Yourself: How old is my Bulldog? Has his energy been waning? Are there other red flags such as growling or biting when handled a certain way or untouched food? Has your dog had a recent dental exam. Poor dental health can cause pain for your Bulldog. What to do: If you suspect your dog is in pain take him to your vet right away. Why Is My Bulldog Limping? If your Bulldog Puppy is Crying You can expect Bulldog puppies will whine more than adult Bulldog, but puppies, in general, may whine for different reasons than adult dogs. The younger the puppy the more you can expect to deal with crying. If you are trying to crate train a puppy and he whines a lot when he is in his crate it is most likely because he is lonely and scared. Their sense of smell is 40 times better than ours and much more refined. We can use this power to our advantage in two ways. The second way this will benefit your Bulldog is it will allow the scent of his mother and littermates to get on the item so when you bring him home it will smell like them and help make the transition easier for him. Another great tool to help your little puppy miss his family less is to get a stuffy like this one from Amazon affiliate link that mimics the heartbeat of his mama. Having a comfort item like this can be extremely useful and can make a huge difference those first few weeks you have your new puppy. Make sure that he has his own area Crate or Playpen to stay in, this will help him feel more safe and secure. This small area with a crate inside will help your dog feel more safe and secure. The following article may help you decide. You can take him out for bathroom breaks, but when his bathroom break is over put him back in. If you get him out for a cuddle or let him sleep in bed with you, crate training is going to be a lot more difficult. Most Bulldog puppy owners said that they would let their puppy cry it out for min. Final Thoughts Whatever the reason for your Bulldog whining the best thing you can do is make sure that your dog knows you are in charge! If you continue to have problems with your Bulldog crying please seek help from a professional dog behaviorist or a vet.

Things to do in Arizona with you English Bulldog English bulldogs are a beloved breed among dog owners worldwide, known for their distinct appearance and loving personality. While they may not be the most active breed, they still enjoy spending time with their owners and being involved in various activities. Here are some ideas: Hiking Arizona is home to a variety of stunning landscapes and hiking trails that are perfect for exploring with your English bulldog. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your furry friend, as well as a leash to ensure their safety on the trails Dog Parks Dog parks are a great way to meet other dog owners and allow your furry friend to interact with other dogs in a safe and controlled environment. Just make sure to keep an eye on your bulldog at all times, as they can be prone to overheating and exhaustion in the hot Arizona sun. Swimming While Arizona may be known for its arid climate, there are still plenty of opportunities for your English bulldog to cool off in the water. Many parks and lakes in the state allow dogs to swim, and there are even some dog-specific swimming pools that cater to canine guests. Road Trips Arizona is home to a variety of scenic drives and attractions that are perfect for a road trip with your furry friend. Just make sure to plan ahead and bring plenty of supplies for your bulldog, including food, water, and bedding. Agility Training While bulldogs may not be the fastest or most nimble breed, they can still enjoy agility training and benefit from the exercise and mental stimulation it provides. Look for local agility classes or set up your own obstacle course in your backyard. Just make sure to check ahead to ensure that the establishment is truly pet-friendly and allows dogs inside. Camping There are plenty of pet-friendly campsites throughout the state, as well as national parks and forests that allow dogs on the trails. Just make sure to bring plenty of food, water, and bedding for your furry friend, as well as any toys or games they enjoy playing. Therapy Dog Work English bulldogs are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, which makes them great candidates for therapy dog work. Just make sure to invest in proper training and certification for your bulldog before starting this type of work. In conclusion, there are plenty of things you can do with your English bulldog in Arizona to keep them happy and healthy. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Arizona? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. We have high quality English Bulldogs that we have puppies from. However first and foremost these are our family pets. We LOVE them dearly as we consider each and every one of them our family and great friends! We are truly grateful to have them in our lives and we appreciate all their different personalities as each one of them are unique and a pleasure to be around! We do breed for the rare colors lilac, chocolate, blue, black from merle to tri as well as the classics fawn, red, white, brindle. We breed for healthy pups! To many times while talking to our clients we hear the horror stories of bad experiences. As well as having some of our own in the past. We decided when we started Estrella bulldogs that we would set ourselves apart from that! We are a breeder you can trust! We would never breed an English bulldog that shouldn't be bred just to pass it on to our clients. We believe in giving you the best experience possible when buying a puppy from us. We know your not just getting a pet your bringing home a family member. We take pride in our babies and our customers are very dear to us as well! We are never more then a phone call away and we do our best to exceed your puppy buying experience. Let us know what we can do to help. Or if you have any special requests.Please never be afraid to ask! Message received. English Bulldog Description The Bulldog is a small-statured, medium-sized dog, originally bred for working with bulls but trained and bred to fight bulls for sport. This practice began in England in the s and throughout Europe until the mids. Its distinctive undershot bite allowed it to hang on to the bull with amazing strength. Discover more about our English Bulldog puppies for sale below! The shuffling gait is a result of this selection since the dog needed to be able to withstand severe shaking and thumping without having its spine or ribs broken. Bulldogs can move swiftly and make sudden leaps, which accounts for their surprising agility and cleverness. The coat is glossy and fine, with standard colors including, red, white, yellow or a combination of those. Young bulldogs are full of energy, but they slow down as they age. Their appearance makes them great watchdogs, but their personalities make them huge lovers. A Bulldog that understands its place in the human pack with thrive with all people including kids. The English Bulldog is described as very affectionate, dependable, gentle with children but known for its courage and bravery. This breed is good with family pets , but some English Bulldogs can be combative with strange dogs especially if their owners are not present to lead them. Bulldogs are very people-oriented and will seek as much love and attention as they can get; in fact, these dogs require a lot of affection from their owners if they are to thrive and be happy. This breed snores very loudly so buyer beware. This is a trait that these dogs are famous for and it is just a fact of life for them. Most English Bulldog puppies also drool and slobber so they are messy eaters, but most owners find these qualities endearing in their bulldogs. They are also prone to flatulence, especially when fed food other than their regular dog food diet. A once ferocious and tough dog — through select and skilled breeding — the bulldog has become a docile and loving pet and cherished member of countless families. The bulldog is beloved for its patience and affection for children making it an excellent family pet known for being jovial, charming and at times comical though messy. The breed is devoted, obedient and always willing to please, yet preserves its own independent brand of stubbornness present in the bulldog breed. Most of them are pleasant or even aloof towards strangers; however, some can be hostile to unfamiliar dogs, though the breed is compatible with most household pets. The fact is dogs are much happier when they know they follow their human. English Bulldogs can be a bit dominating so their owners are best to show strong leadership and understand alpha canine behavior. This is not a dog to drive around within your car, especially in the Arizona summer months. The breed is prone to mast cell tumors , skin infections, and hip and knee problems. See store for details on a specific puppy. American Canine Association. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? If you head to your favorite search engine and look for a Phoenix Bulldog puppy for sale, you'll get countless results, but they can't all be trusted. Some sites supply pups from unethical sources like puppy mills and backyard breeders, and some sites even include scammers. Uptown is different. What are puppy mills and can I trust them? If you're searching for a Bulldog Phoenix, you should definitely steer clear of puppy mills. They're like dog factories—places where pups are bred over and over again, without proper care or ethical treatment. Those low prices might sound tempting, but Bulldog puppies for sale Phoenix from puppy mills often suffer major health issues and require expensive veterinary treatment. How about backyard breeders? Backyard breeders should also be avoided for anyone looking for Bulldog puppies Phoenix. They're similar to puppy mills, but on a smaller scale, often selling unhealthy pups to unsuspecting buyers. Buying a Bulldog for sale Phoenix from a backyard breeder can be a real mistake, leading to big vet bills and serious disappointment for the owners. How big are Bulldogs? Bulldogs are a medium-sized dog breed. They can grow to an average height of about 12 to 15 inches, with the females usually being a little shorter than the males. The average weight of Bulldogs is between 40 and 50 lbs, and despite their size, Bulldog puppies in Phoenix are a good option for apartments and small homes since they have relatively low energy levels. Are Bulldogs a good choice for apartments? It's vital to choose the right-sized dog for your home, especially if you live in a small space. A Bulldog for sale in Phoenix can be a really good choice for apartment dwellers due to its low energy levels. Just be sure to take your Bulldog for walks and play with them regularly so they don't spend all day sleeping and gain too much weight. Are there any Bulldog puppies for sale right now? The Bulldog is a hugely popular breed all over the world, so there are plenty of great Bulldog breeders out there and an almost constant supply of pups. Are Bulldogs easy to train? For the amateur or first-time dog owners, Phoenix Bulldog puppies for sale are an excellent choice. They're surprisingly intelligent dogs and are very calm and obedient in general, great for toilet training and simple commands. They're not always great at learning complicated tricks, but they can handle the basic stuff with ease. Are Bulldogs good family dogs? Statistics show that lots of families are looking for their very own Phoenix Bulldog for sale, and it's easy to see why. Bulldogs have many family-friendly advantages, such as the fact that they get on well with kids and love to play with little ones. They're also low-maintenance and don't have high energy levels, as well as being very cute, cuddle-loving, and friendly. How much do Bulldog puppies cost? One of the most common questions people tend to ask about a Bulldog for sale Phoenix is: 'How much does it cost? Factors like coat color Bulldogs can come in a range of colors and breeder experience can all impact the price. How do you screen breeders selling Bulldog puppies? There are lots of highly-rated Bulldog breeders Phoenix, but there are also some lower quality, untrustworthy breeders too. This way, our users can search for Bulldogs for sale in Phoenix without worrying about any puppy mills or backyard breeders.

Reasons why your German Shepherd is not eating As pet parents, we all want our four-legged family members to get the best nutrition to keep them strong and healthy, so it can be worrying if their appetite changes. Your dog is stressed or anxious Stress hormones can suppress the appetite. Dental problems Gum recession, tooth root abscesses, fractured teeth, or teething can all cause pain in the mouth that might mean chewing is uncomfortable for your dog. Dogs with dental disease might drop their food, throw it around their mouth, or struggle with dried kibble. If their food is causing some vomiting or diarrhea regularly due to allergies, your dog might not be keen to eat it if they know it makes them feel poorly. Your dog will pick up on this change and might not be hungry at the new feeding time or might be feeling stressed. German Shepherds need around 2 hours a day for adults. Less than this and they might only want a small portion of food to avoid overeating and weight gain. How can I get my German Shepherd eating again? Getting your pup to eat again after a period of inappetence can be challenging, and you want to be sure you are offering your dog the right food to get them back to their usual selves. Here are our top tips to help get your German Shepherd eating again: Switch their food Dogs like variety, so switching up their food by mixing wet and dry or adding some water, or even changing brands every few months can keep them interested. Feed at a specific time each day and stick to a routine Dogs are creatures of routine, and German Shepherds are very sensitive to change. Establish a routine when your dog is a puppy and introduce changes gradually. Your dog will learn to expect and want their food around a certain time, and they may not be hungry outside of it. A behaviorist can help you here, and some simple training techniques will help. Make mealtimes fun Games, interactive feeders, and slow feeding bowls can make mealtime more interesting for your dog, stimulate their senses and make them more enthusiastic about their food. When to see the vet A lack of appetite can be worrying for any pet parent. The vet will examine your dog and might want to do tests to find out what the problem is and get your dog the treatment they need. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are highly intelligent and sensitive dogs, so they can go off their food for reasons as simple as a change in routine or environment, or stress such as separation anxiety. Most adult dogs can go a day or two without food. Puppies cannot go as long without food. When should I worry about my dog not eating? If your dog is not eating for 24 hours or more, or it is a long-term problem then get them checked at the vet. Why does my dog suddenly not want to eat? Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Sep 1, Share Determining the causes of a loss of appetite in your German Shepherd is often tricky. The symptom is non-diagnostic and can point to so many reasons. It can indicate minor things or something more serious. Is there nausea or vomiting? Is your pet experiencing GI distress? You should be aware of anything unusual. When symptoms appear together, it can give your veterinarian a shortlist of things to check. Just saying that my German Shepherd is too skinny is vague. It can make learning the root of the problem more difficult. Remember that canines have a keen sense of smell with over 16 times the sensory receptors and 40 times the brain capacity. That means dogs are often more sensitive to different foods. Image Credit: Angeleses, Pixabay 2. You probably know about chocolate. However, there are also several obscure ones, such as avocados and macadamia nuts. Eating Is Painful Dental problems are often a culprit that can turn your pup off its food. Severe cases might make it too painful for your dog to eat. That makes regular dental care imperative. Image Credit: PixieMe, Shutterstock 4. Common types include chemotherapy drugs, pain meds, and some antibiotics. Luckily, the symptoms resolve quickly after your pet goes off the things causing the problems. Fortunately, many are specific to the condition, which makes diagnosis easier. Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss occurs with several of them, including stomach worms, roundworms , and threadworms. They also resolve quickly once they are identified. It can have a similar effect on your canine friend as it does on humans. Think of how you feel in a tense situation. Probably the last thing you want to do is eat. Your body—and that of your German Shepherd—allocate its resources to escaping the threat instead of passive ones like eating. They sometimes experience separation anxiety if they are kept alone for long stretches. It can manifest in many ways, including a loss of appetite. Counterconditioning therapy can help your pup cope better with your absences. Image Credit: DanaTentis, Pixabay 8. Veterinarians can tell you a plethora of stories about the things dogs have swallowed, from socks to rocks to Super Balls. A loss of appetite, vomiting, and pain are the telltale symptoms. The list includes a broad range of conditions, from liver disease to bacterial problems to urinary tract infections. Your vet will likely begin with a complete blood profile. Image Credit: Goran Horvat, Pixabay .Your Pup Has Cancer Cancer often causes a decrease in appetite, too. It can result from the disease or its treatment. The difference is that it can often result in a dramatic weight loss that is visible quickly and noticeably. Keeping your German Shepherd will give your pup its best defense against this disease. Final Thoughts Dogs differ from cats in that they often wear their symptoms on their proverbial sleeves. Related Read:. Check Price on Amazon 5. If you give treats just to entice your German Shepherd to eat, you are turning him into a fussy eater! So, are German Shepherds fussy eaters? Now and again, a little healthy treat is just fine. You can also try some fruits or vegetables , especially if the treat cupboard is bare. Your German Shepherd may have also eaten something poisonous while roaming in the garden or fields. Dogs are known for eating anything they can find left lying around or even getting into the garbage! Take care with foods like chocolate or grapes , and never leave these lying around where your dog can get at them, as they can be highly toxic. If your German Shepherd has had his recent vaccinations, sometimes these can cause adverse reactions, including loss of appetite. The good news is this should only be brief — just ensure your dog is drinking plenty of water and keeping himself hydrated. If nothing else seems to be working and you are worried, you should schedule a visit with the veterinarian as soon as you can. He likes to eat at certain times of the day Just like you might not like to eat breakfast at 6 a. Though this can be concerning at first, you should be keeping track of how much food in total your German Shepherd is eating throughout the day. If he still eats about the same amount, he simply might prefer to eat at specific times of the day! On a similar note, your dog may prefer to eat little and often. My German Shepherd used to eat one meal in the morning and one in the evening. However, now that she is older, she prefers to eat both meals in the evening. Take your dog on a long walk before feeding — so he works up an appetite. Give him lots of praise when he eats from his bowl. Make feeding time fun — try putting a lid on his food, so he must remove it first. It gets over , top reviews! If your dog refuses his meal, take his bowl away after 15 minutes and then only put it down again a few hours later. Limit treats to training times only. If he senses that you are stressed and anxious about his loss of appetite, he may also become stressed and not eat at all! A sudden lack of appetite and resulting weight loss can signify other issues going on. Switch His Food If your dog slowly lost interest in food over a few weeks, he might no longer like his current food. Here are some ways to target his diet and boost his loss of appetite. Choose a more fragrant food. Try picking food that smells more like meat and has a more intense aroma. Add wet food or soak his food in warm water. I feed her cold-pressed dog food, which she just adores and continues to thrive on. Hopefully, these steps will fix the situation and return your dog to regular eating habits. Take Him to the Vet Vet visits can be costly, but so are the treatment methods for the condition or disease your dog might currently be experiencing. I would always recommend having a decent pet insurance policy in place, as this will always give you peace of mind. A healthy German Shepherd can go up to five to seven days without eating as long as they are still drinking water. However, if your German Shepherd refuses to drink water for 48 hours, it is time to bring your dog to the emergency veterinary clinic. If your German Shepherd is eating only once a day, it may be due to a routine that has been established over time. However, feeding your dog only once a day can lead to health problems such as gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV. Add variety to the diet and check the consumption. German Shepherd Not Eating and Diarrhea. If your German Shepherd is not eating and has diarrhea, it could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a change in diet, stress, anxiety, or a gastrointestinal infection. When your German Shepherd stops eating, you need to take the necessary steps to figure out the source of the problem and how to address it. Add wet food or warm water to boost his appetite and make his food more palatable and fragrant. Keep an eye on his other behaviors to see how his mood and movements have changed. Call the vet and schedule an appointment to have him checked over. Related Posts You May Like:. After covering each one in full detail, you may realize that one of the causes sounds familiar to your situation. The next section will provide the best solutions. There are several reasons why German shepherds stop eating their food. These include disagreeing with their kibble, inactivity, lack of feeding schedule, receiving too many treats, boredom, environmental issues, and underlying health issues. More will be explained about the correct diet and brands in the next section. Recommended Read: Why does my German Shepherd have diarrhea? German Shepherds ideally need around 2 hours or more of exercise per day. Appetite is just one of many things closely linked to exercise. Having routines helps them understand their day and allows them to become comfortable in their environment. Most adult GSDs are fed just twice a day. For puppies, this varies. Day grazing should not be something you engage in with your German Shepherd. By sticking to certain times you are training your German Shepherd to become hungry at those times. Yep, it really does work like that! But it could be the case… If your GSD has been eating the same food for a while, he may just be bored of it. Boredom will not make your GSD sick, so if you do see signs of sickness or being unwell, you can rule boredom out. This may be table scrabs or other forms of food. A change in the environment could be a new neighbor, a new pet, a new person in the household, a loss of someone in the house, or maybe you moved house entirely, the list is quite extensive. Think about your close surroundings and if something has changed. This changes when health issues are present. This is original content produced and published by The Puppy Mag www. There are many common allergens in dog food that may be causing the issues. The biggest culprit being chicken. Yep, chicken, as well as beef, pork, and lamb, are all common allergens, despite being used all the time! Try opting for a premium dog food brand that uses either duck, salmon, or turkey as the main protein source. These digest easily and usually cause fewer issues than chicken. Wet dog food is considerably tastier, juicier, has a higher protein content with fewer preservatives and additives. Adding a small amount to every mealtime will be irresistible for your German Shepherd. This working breed needs this kind of physical activity in order to develop a healthy appetite. Consider his environment Have you recently changed where you put the food bowl? On the flip side, you can try moving his bowl to a different spot to see if that has an effect. If you have young children, allow your GSD to eat in peace. Popular German Shepherd Articles:. Health It is not totally uncommon for a German Shepherd will refuse to eat once in a while. Although this is not totally uncommon, it is always a worrying experience for their humans. This article will help you realize some common reasons why GSDs may have a change in appetite to help you know whether or not to be concerned. So, when they refuse to eat, you know that something might be wrong. Sometimes, this might be because of the sensitive gut the breed is known for. But in many cases, it could be a sign that they are sick or in pain. Additionally, this could also be a sign of other conditions like oral problems or parasites. However, there are fussy GSDs that prefer variety. This issue is most common for dogs that are given access to table food or are fed a wide variety of dog food. They might also lose their appetite when they are depressed. In other cases, medicines can cause nausea or digestive upset, which will also keep your dog from eating. If your dog is refusing to eat because of new medications, make sure to bring it up with your vet. Older dogs become less active and have fewer opportunities to work up an appetite. Sometimes, German Shepherds stop eating the dry kibble that they normally eat. Or, they might ditch the kibble entirely in preference of wet dog food. Here are some of the most common reasons why your dog could be refusing to eat dry food: They have dental issues When oral problems get bad enough, your GSD might refuse to eat due to the pain it causes. This could be caused by cavities, a broken tooth, or swollen gums. In this case, a rotation between kibble brands and variants will help. They just prefer another food Dogs might refuse their regular food in hopes that they will be given another that they have tasted and loved. This might be table scraps or another kind of dog food. In cool weather, German Shepherds use up more energy to keep themselves warm. But in the hot summer months, they prefer to lounge around and keep cool. After some exercise, give them time to cool down completely before giving any food. Dogs can survive up to five days without food as long as they keep drinking water. Fasting for this long may have long-term consequences. More critically, it might be a sign of an underlying illness. If they suddenly have no appetite but they normally eat voraciously and never miss a meal, it should definitely be a cause of concern. Just make sure you observe them for any other warning signs. You might also observe changes in their stool consistency or a lack of enthusiasm for their regular activities. Whether or not they have a good reason for refusing food, here are some things you can do to encourage your German Shepherd to eat: Cut down on treats. Your dog can lose their appetite for their regular food when they have plenty of better-tasting treats throughout the day. Make feeding enjoyable. GSDs are always eager to please. Teach them to wait for their food and take it only on command. Then, praise them for finishing their food. Make food more appetizing. Try topping kibble with different types of food that might whet their appetite. Sometimes, a little bit of boiled chicken or beef broth will do the trick. They might not like the print, the ability to see their reflection, or the feeling on their tongue. Using another feeding bowl might help. Give them plenty of exercise. The energetic German Shepherd may need to tire themselves out to work up an appetite. Give your dog the daily exercise they need and then wait at least half an hour after any physical activity before giving them their meals. However, when your dog refuses to eat, you should also keep an eye out for other signs that could be a cause for concern. While many types of food might help jumpstart their appetite, there are several that might do more harm than good. Even if these foods might get them to eat, the effects might be more harmful. Instead, you can first try to give them some wet dog food for German Shepherds or mix in some plain rice and chicken with their kibble. You know what is normal for your dog! If their change in appetite veers too much from their norm it is best to make an appointment with the vet just to be safe. Final thoughts Why is my German shepherd puppy not eating? Food is a huge part of raising a dog: ensuring they have a proper diet, portion size and get all the nutrients they need. So when your puppy stops eating, it is natural to worry! But there are many different reasons to explain a decrease in appetite, and most of them can be solved relatively easily with nothing more than a quick Google or a trip to the vet. Typically, it can be due to intestinal distress or a temporary illness. However, a more serious condition could be occurring. Check for other signs of distress, such as avoiding people and general sluggishness. If possible, see your vet for a check-up if your dog still refuses food after a few days. Medicine or treatment will clear up the issue or reveal a long-term problem. This can make picking the right food tricky but not impossible. Digestion or strange eating habits can come from simple genetics, eating too fast, or even unknown allergies. If your puppy often throws up after eating, they might be eating too fast for their stomach and need to slow down. A specialty bowl or smaller portion sizes given out more frequently can cure this issue. In addition, if your German Shepherd puppy avoids some foods but not others, check for any ingredients that might be causing the avoidance. You can also get them tested for any allergies that might be causing their stomach issues. Changes in routine such as a move, the introduction of a new family member or dog, or even picking up on the nerves of their owner can cause a loyal German Shepherd to feel stress. Stress commonly manifests in stomach problems or reduced appetite. If you feel your puppy could be stressed out, try to figure out what changes in pattern or behavior could have led to it. Perhaps rottweilers have separation anxiety, and more close attention could help. If a change in routine is causing stress, work to make your dog used to the change. Consider asking your vet for ways to help your dog calm down and return to normal appetite levels. Dental pain or toothaches are also common symptoms of not eating simply because it hurts the puppy. They might have pain when they eat, a missing or broken tooth, or another oral issue interrupting their eating habits. Dental issues are commonly shown through signs such as sudden bad breath, bleeding gums, or an increase in drooling. If you notice an issue, schedule an appointment with your vet at once to solve the dental problem and return their appetite to normal. This is particularly noticeable if your dog refuses their usual food but eagerly eats treats and snacks without issue. Pain or illness do not stop them from eating, but they refuse their current food. This points to boredom instead of a more serious problem. Try dressing up their food with meat broth, rice, or treats to make it more appealing. If possible, use a mix of wet and dry food to make the overall meal easier. Seek out another type of food with a different texture or different ingredients while still being nutritious. This should help their boredom issues and get their appetite back to normal! What should I do if my German shepherd puppy is not eating? Once you notice that your puppy has a decreased appetite, it is time to figure out why. However, determining the exact issue can take time, and getting some food into your puppy to keep them healthy should be a top priority. So, here are a few things to try to increase the chances of getting your German Shepherd puppy to eat! Put their food into an interactive toy or game. Making eating fun is a great way to bypass a decreased appetite. Use canned food or flavored meat broth. Personally encourage your dog! Using treats, affection, and personal attention, there is a chance you will be able to help your dog eat more. If the issue is stress or anxiety rather than illness, personal encouragement can help solve the problem. These are some of the options you have. However, remember to consult a vet as soon as possible to find a more permanent solution! How much food should a German Shepherd puppy eat? Feeding a puppy can be tricky, but keep in mind that you want them to eat enough to grow strong without getting fat. From two to three months old, vary between cups with an average of about 1. Double that to about 3 cups once they are six months, transitioning to about 3. What should I feed my eight-week-old German Shepherd puppy? Going by this same math, a four-month or eight-week-old puppy should be eating no more than 2 cups a day. Ensure they get at least 1. How long can a German Shepherd go without eating? Unlike adult dogs, puppies do not have reserves of fat. They need to grow! Older dogs can last a few hours longer, but puppies need careful attention to grow. How many times a day should a German Shepherd puppy eat? Puppies need to eat more frequently, so it is recommended that you feed your puppy at least three or four times a day for their first four months. After this, you can switch to two large meals a day. Are German Shepherds picky eaters? German shepherds are not generally fussy eaters if you do not overindulge them. Too many treats or specialty meals can make them picky, but ordinarily, you will not have an issue getting them to eat. What do German Shepherds like to eat? German Shepherds will gravitate towards high-protein items containing beef, lamb, chicken, and other meats like most big and athletic dogs. Non-meat items like vegetables and grains should also be included. How do I get my German Shepherd puppy to eat more? Some dogs have smaller appetites but treats like broth and canned food encourage them to eat more. Switch to new food and make mealtime more personal and entertaining to ensure that your dog eats more! Final thoughts Feeding your puppy usually is easy, so any issues can be upsetting. Your German Shepherd puppy will eat like normal in no time! Doing this will make it easier to find out the exact cause of their loss of appetite, and will provide valuable information to you and your vet when needed. To check your german shepherd do the following. Check Their Body Over The first thing you should do is check them over. You should especially look for any problems in their mouth or with their teeth that could be causing them not to eat. As well as that, give their body a once over as well. You should be looking for parasites, injuries and lumps or bumps that could be causing them discomfort. But also look for other things, do they still seem as energetic and active as usual, or are they lethargic? Are they going to the toilet normally or is there a problem? All of these are indicators that something could be wrong with your pup! And look at anything else in your house your german shepherd can get too which they may have eaten. Bearing that in mind, here are some of the most common reasons your german shepherd may not be eating. As well as solutions that can often help the problem and eliminate it altogether! Illness And Disease One reason your german shepherd may have stopped eating could be due to illness and disease. As well as a lack of appetite you should look for other signs of illness or disease such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Solutions As previously mentioned, if you think that your german shepherd is sick then the first thing you should do is take them to the vets. Make the meal more appealing to them by pouring warm water over it or meat broths that are going to give it more flavor. For example, if they often eat dry food give them wet food, and if they eat wet food give them dry food. Try feeding them food by hand to make them feel more comfortable. Looked for cracked, loose or broken teeth which are quite common in bigger dogs. As well as this, you should also make sure you check them mouths for any cuts or objects which have pierced their gums, tongue or roof of their mouth. Lastly, you should look for lumps which could signify cancer. Find out some of the common reasons your german shepherd might have bad breath. Fortunately, in a lot of cases, not much will need to be done. If your german shepherd has an upset stomach then they may simply not feel like eating. As well as a loss of appetite, you may also notice that your german shepherd is vomiting as well as having diarrhea, flatulence and appearing nauseous. Find out why your german shepherd is so skinny and what to do or what to do with an overweight german shepherd. Some medicine will make your german shepherd feel nauseous whereas other medications may cause their stomach to hurt. If you think that your german shepherd has lost their appetite longer then you should have then consult your vet. However, apart from that you just have to wait it out. In more severe cases, you not being around can even cause anxiety which is known as separation anxiety. However, if you think they have separation anxiety then you should work on fixing the problem. Not only will it reduce the chances of you coming home to a destroyed house, but it will also make your german shepherd a lot happier as well! In most cases, your best bet is to talk to a behavior specialist who can teach you how to solve their separation anxiety effectively! One great way to stop your dog from feeling anxious is to use an Adaptil Pheremone Diffuser designed to keep dogs calm. The Time Of Day Sometimes your dog may not like eating at certain times of the day. What To Do The simplest way to fix this is to feed them at a different time in the day. If they learn to graze instead of eating two big meals, then they may become fussy eaters. Their Food Has Spoiled In some cases, your german shepherd may not want to eat because their food has spoiled. While most dog food has a long shelf life, in some cases, it may have passed its expiration date. Stress And Emotional Issues Your pup may also be suffering from stress or emotional issues. There can be so many causes behind this as well. Whatever the case they may be, it could stop them from eating. Just like humans, emotional distress can either cause them to stop eating altogether, or start eating a lot more. But it could also include giving them more attention during the day and playing with them Stress and emotional issues caused by new changes should clear up fairly quickly. It could be something to do with the environment around them, for example, they may not like eating near other dogs that can be aggressive or try to take their food. Or it can be something even simpler. Maybe they struggle to eat from the bowl this is especially common in older dogs. What To Do If your german shepherd is a picky eater then there are a few things you can do to help them get their appetite back. First of all, stop feeding them treats. You can also try feeding them at the same time every day. If you have been giving the same food for a long time then you may also want to change it up for them. For example, you could heat it up, add dry or wet food, add other healthy snacks find out which ones here , heating their food up, or adding water to it as well. Here are the reasons, they may have lost their appetite. Here are some great things you can do to help your soothe your puppies teething, as well as some of the best chew toys. You could also try putting food in the fridge, as cooler food will soothe their gums. Here are some more things you can try! As a rule of thumb, you should be walking them for 5 minutes per month old they are. For example, a 4-month-old could walk for 20 minutes. This means if you have any chicken leftover after eating, for example, you throw it away instead of giving it to them. So sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind. If your german shepherd is eating but not drinking, then it can often be the sign of a more serious condition such as diabetes or a kidney problem. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here , to learn exactly what the course has to offer! Recap As you can see, there is a whole range of reasons that your german shepherd may not be eating. But fortunately a lot of solutions as well! If you liked this article, make sure you check out the rest of the website. Otherwise have a great day!

NYLON 3. These unique collars are designed to be compatible with the Fi Smart Dog Collar, making them an excellent choice for pet parents who want to enhance their dog's appearance while maintaining the benefits of smart tracking technology. In this article, we will explore what sets Rope Hounds Fi Compatible Collars apart, their features and benefits, how to choose the right collar, and tips for caring for these accessories. Rope Hounds Fi Compatible Collars offer a range of features and benefits that make them a preferred choice among dog owners: Durable Material: These collars are crafted from high-quality rope materials, known for their strength and longevity. The sturdy construction ensures that the collar can withstand rigorous activities and daily wear. Trendy Designs: Rope Hounds Fi Compatible Collars come in a variety of fashionable designs, allowing dog owners to choose a collar that suits their pet's personality and style. From vibrant patterns to solid colors, there is a design for every fashion-forward pup. Compatibility with Fi Smart Collar: Rope Hounds collars are specially designed to securely hold the Fi Smart Collar module, ensuring a reliable connection between the collar and the tracker. In conclusion, when selecting the best collar for your Goldendoodle dog, consider their specific needs in terms of tracking, control, comfort, and visibility. The Mimi Green Dog Collar provides an adjustable fit, a reflective strip, and a quick-release buckle. The Rope Hounds Collar combines elegance, durability, and comfort. Choose the collar that best suits your hunting dog's requirements and enjoy a safe and successful hunting experience. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Collar for a Goldendoodle Comfort: Opt for a collar made from soft and non-irritating materials to ensure your Goldendoodle's comfort throughout the day. Size and Adjustability: Goldendoodles come in various sizes, so it's crucial to measure your dog's neck accurately and choose a collar that can be adjusted accordingly. Safety: Look for collars with safety features such as reflective strips or a breakaway mechanism, which allows the collar to release under pressure to prevent choking. Durability: Select a collar that is sturdy and can withstand the active lifestyle of a Goldendoodle. Training and Behavioral Needs: Consider your Goldendoodle's training requirements. Certain collars, like martingale collars, are effective for training purposes. Types of Collars for Goldendoodles Martingale Collars Martingale collars are excellent choices for Goldendoodles, especially during training. They provide gentle control without putting excessive pressure on the neck. The adjustable loop prevents the collar from slipping off, making it ideal for dogs with narrow heads. Breakaway Collars Breakaway collars are designed with a safety buckle that releases under pressure, reducing the risk of strangulation. This type of collar is particularly beneficial for Goldendoodles who love to explore and may get caught on objects during their adventures. Rolled Leather Collars Rolled leather collars are not only stylish but also gentle on your Goldendoodle's delicate fur and skin. The rounded design prevents matting and tangling, making it a comfortable option for daily wear. Harnesses If your Goldendoodle tends to pull on the leash or has any neck or trachea issues, a harness may be the best choice. Harnesses distribute the pulling force evenly across the chest, reducing strain on the neck and throat. Sizing and Adjusting the Collar To ensure a proper fit, measure your Goldendoodle's neck circumference using a flexible tape measure. Allow a two-finger gap between the collar and your dog's neck to ensure comfort and prevent choking. Remember to check and readjust the collar as your Goldendoodle grows. Material and Durability When it comes to materials, nylon, and leather are popular choices for Goldendoodle collars. Nylon is lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, while leather offers a classic and long-lasting option. Consider your dog's activities and lifestyle when selecting the material. Style and Design Collars come in a wide range of styles and designs, allowing you to showcase your Goldendoodle's personality. From vibrant patterns to sleek and minimalistic options, choose a collar that matches your dog's unique style. Safety Features When selecting a collar for your Goldendoodle, prioritize safety features such as: Reflective Stitching: Collars with reflective stitching enhance visibility during nighttime walks , improving safety. Breakaway Mechanism: A breakaway collar features a quick-release buckle that opens under pressure, reducing the risk of choking or accidents if your dog gets caught on something. ID Tags: Ensure your Goldendoodle's collar has an ID tag with your contact information to facilitate their safe return if they ever go missing. Training and Behavioral Considerations Consider the specific training needs and behaviors of your Goldendoodle when choosing a collar. If you're working on leash training, a harness might provide better control and reduce pulling. For behavioral issues, consult with a professional dog trainer to determine the most suitable collar and training methods for your Goldendoodle. Cleaning and Maintenance Proper cleaning and maintenance of your Goldendoodle's collar are essential for hygiene and longevity. Follow these tips: Read the Manufacturer's Instructions: Each collar may have specific cleaning instructions based on the material. Follow the guidelines provided to ensure proper care. Regular Cleaning: Depending on the collar material, clean it regularly using appropriate methods. Some collars may be machine-washable, while others require hand cleaning. Remove Odors: If the collar develops odors, soak it in a mixture of mild detergent and water, then rinse thoroughly. Allow it to air dry completely before reattaching it to your Goldendoodle. Ensure that the collar is not too tight or too loose by checking the fit regularly. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the collar and your Goldendoodle's neck. Avoid Continuous Wear: While your Goldendoodle needs to wear a collar for identification purposes, it's recommended to remove the collar during unsupervised play or when they are indoors. This allows their skin to breathe and prevents any potential discomfort or accidents. Keep the Collar Clean: Regularly clean your Goldendoodle's collar to maintain hygiene and prevent odors. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific cleaning method based on the collar material. Personalize the Collar: Consider adding personalization to your Goldendoodle's collar, such as an engraved ID tag with their name and your contact information. This helps in identifying your dog if they ever get lost. Monitor for Signs of Discomfort: Pay attention to your Goldendoodle's behavior while wearing the collar. If you notice any signs of discomfort, such as excessive scratching or agitation, it may indicate an issue with the collar's fit or material. Adjust or replace the collar as necessary. Replace Worn-Out Collars: Over time, collars can become worn out or damaged. Replace the collar if you notice any fraying, weakening of the material, or broken hardware. This ensures the safety and effectiveness of the collar. By following these tips, you can ensure that your Goldendoodle's collar fits properly and is used safely. Remember that the collar should be a comfortable and functional accessory that enhances your dog's well-being and style. While regular collars can be used, it's recommended to choose a collar specifically designed for Goldendoodles, considering their unique needs and characteristics. What is the recommended width for a Goldendoodle collar? The recommended width for a Goldendoodle collar is typically between 1 to 1. Should I choose a collar with a buckle or a quick-release feature? Both options are safe, but a quick-release buckle allows for easy removal in case of emergencies or when your Goldendoodle is being groomed. Can a Goldendoodle wear a collar and a harness at the same time? Yes, a Goldendoodle can wear both a collar and a harness simultaneously. The collar can hold identification tags, while the harness provides better control during walks. How often should I check the fit of my Goldendoodle's collar? It's important to regularly check the fit of your Goldendoodle's collar, especially during their growth stages. Ensure that there is enough room for comfort and adjust as needed to prevent any discomfort or choking hazards. Conclusion Choosing the best collar for your Goldendoodle is a vital decision that combines style, comfort, and safety. Consider your dog's specific needs, such as size, behavior, and lifestyle, when making your selection. By following this guide and considering the outlined factors, you can find the perfect collar that enhances your Goldendoodle's well-being and keeps them looking stylish on their daily adventures. The link has been copied! When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? Cart Puppy Shopping Checklist Below are some of the items you should consider when preparing for your new Moss Creek Goldendoodle puppy. You will not need everything listed before your puppy arrives - this list is intended to help you consider all your puppy's basic needs. You can print this and take it with you when you are shopping for your new puppy. General Paper towels - a lot of paper towels. Then use old towels. Once puppy is reliably crate trained, a "real" crate bed can be used. Old Blanket or Towel s to cover wire Crate. Acrylic Fake Nail file, cardboard with sandpaper type, for smoothing nails, if desired. Hydrogen Peroxide - to induce vomiting, if necessary. Baby Gate s - Try baby supply stores and Target - generally more choices and cheaper than pet stores Beware that horizontal bars provide a foot-hold for climbing puppies. Also consider spacing between bars, as some times it is large enough for little puppies to get caught. Storage bin for dry food - air tight. Poop Scooper I. Tag - See boomerangtags. They also sell collars with tags included for the smaller sized dogs. You can also make them yourself at PetSmart or PetCo. Wire Crate for crate training - Double door folding crate with divider. Check out the Crate Shopping page for the crate we use and recommend. Medium - Standard sized Goldendoodles need at least a 42 inch crate - If you have room, get the 48 inch. Doodles sleep stretched out like frogs. They like a lot of room to be comfortable. Small Doodles can use a 36 inch crate. This will work for them for several months. Smaller for mini-small Goldendoodle puppies. Food and water bowls stainless steel or ceramic, no plastic. Waste Bags Poochie-Bells to hang by back door. Helps with house training - they learn to ring the bell to alert you that they need to go out. I highly recommend them for house training your new puppy. Nutrition is incredibly important for our puppies, and we want to make sure that we are in compliance with current, science-based recommendations. Read more about this Food on our Puppy Food page. Your puppy will start them at 6 weeks old. You cannot purchase these at the pet store, you will need to order them online. Visit our NuVet Vitamin page to order online or call order code - .Shop NuVet Vitamins Chews, Treats and Toys Puppies don't need a lot of treats for the first month until they are about 12 weeks old - treats can upset their stomachs and cause diarrhea. It's best to treat them with pieces of their dog food and lots of praise. All rights reserved. You may not copy or otherwise use anything on this site without our written permission Made with Xara. New Puppy Shopping Checklist Here are some items that you should consider when preparing for your new Goldendoodle puppy or Labradoodle puppy. You may not need everything listed before your puppy arrives, but this list is intended to help you consider all your puppy's basic needs. General: Paper towels a lot of paper towels : Old Towels for Crate Once puppy is reliably crate trained, a "real" crate bed can be used. When puppy has diarrhea or constipation, a tablespoon or two with every meal for several days should help alleviate symptoms. Freeze excess in ice cube tray. Baby Gate s Try baby supply stores - generally more choices and cheaper than pet stores Beware that horizontal bars provide a foot-hold for climbing puppies. Tag e. They also sell collars with tags included for the smaller sized dogs. Travel Crate for car until puppy is big enough to wear a car harness Food and Treats: It is best to start with the same food the breeder was feeding. Puppy Biscuits. Booda bones cow tendons or bully sticks for chewing cow ears for chewing. Once they are fully grown into adulthood , this collar can be discarded in favor of a more appropriate adult collar. If it has extra sparkle or pizazz to mark their initiation into adulthood, all the better! We have an assortment of collars and leashes that provide our beloved Lexie with the extra something and sparkle for special occasions. We used the wider width collars on Lexie because we believed them to be more comfortable for her as she grew. When selecting a collar for a mini Goldendoodle puppy , the fabric is essential. Puppies have delicate skin, which can easily be irritated. Harsh fabrics, hard buckles, or snaps should be avoided in favor of simplicity and comfort. Another option for new mini Goldendoodle puppy owners is to choose a harness instead of a collar. Puppies are growing every day from head to toe. This growth includes their neck area, with the trachea being located there. As stated above, adjustable collars are best. Please set it to the appropriate size and work one way or the other to see what gives the best fit. If it is too big, the collar can quickly come off or, worse yet, get caught on something while they are running around. When should a Goldendoodle puppy start wearing a collar? This answer depends on the family, and when the mini Goldendoodle puppy will begin training and socializing. Ten weeks is a good time to start using a collar. Wearing a collar and leash training can be started as early as the family wishes, from eight weeks on, but sometimes it is just nice to give a new puppy time to adjust to their new home. A mini Goldendoodle puppy will move to a new home in the beginning weeks, with new smells and people, and there can be some apprehension combined with curiosity. While new puppy owners may be anxious to welcome the new family member, they may need time to adjust. The mini Goldendoodle puppy will have plenty of time to adjust to a collar and leash and learn what is expected of them, but sooner is better rather than later. During the early months of their life, they will be spending most of their time indoors as they are being house trained and getting acquainted with their new family. For training purposes, this is to start the puppy off on the right foot. If a puppy of this age wears a collar , it is best to have the collar on for short intervals as mini-training sessions. In the beginning, perhaps 15 minutes, and gradually increasing as they get used to the collar being around their neck. Some puppies will not like this while others will be okay with earing it. It is essential to keep a close eye on the mini Goldendoodle puppy when wearing the collar. Strangulation can accidentally occur if they manage to get caught on something while unsupervised. Whether they rest and sleep in a crate , soft bed, or the couch, they can accidentally get injured if they move around and get it caught on something. It is also a good idea to give their neck, skin, and fur a break from wearing the collar collar is like us removing our jewelry and necktie. Imagine wearing that to bed, uncomfortable, right? It also allows the fur rest and go back to its natural position, which, of course, keeps them looking adorably perfect! Final Thoughts. One thing you can do to prepare for your new bundle of fur is to go shopping! A picture is worth a thousand words, so the pictures and product links are there simply to serve as examples to assist you in preparing for your new goldendoodle puppy. Be sure to browse through the myriad of gorgeous and unique handmade collars on Etsy! Flexi leads are not the best choice for young puppies. We have leashes made by Kakadu and DexDog that we use regularly, and we have been happy with them both. Dog Crate with Divider Metal is preferable over plastic, as it is easier to clean and allows your puppy to watch everything going on around her. You may prefer to use a smaller crate can be used while your puppy is little rather than using the divider. Dog Treats Treats should be soft, small, and easy to chew quickly. Purebites dog treats are a good option. They are made with just one ingredient i. Metal Comb or Grooming Rake A metal comb is a great tool for curly coated Goldendoodles and a grooming rake works well for wavy coated Goldendoodles. These will help keep in undercoat free from tangles. For more information on grooming, check out our goldendoodle haircuts post. Slicker Brush A slicker brush is handy for fluffing the outer coat on your goldendoodle. Styptic powder is located next to the nail clippers in the pet store. Doggie Toothbrush You may find that the finger toothbrush is easiest to use when your goldendoodle is a puppy. Toys When your goldendoodle puppy is young, she will enjoy soft toys , but keep in mind that her sharp teeth will eventually allow her to chew through stuffed toys quickly. As she gets older, Jolly Balls, chew ropes, etc. Food dispensing toys are a fun way to encourage your puppy to channel her energy into something productive. Avoid raw hides, as they are not healthy option for your puppy, and never give your dog poultry bones, as they can splinter easily. Curious what your puppy will look like as an adult? View our goldendoodle puppy time lapses to see goldendoodle puppies with different hair types grow up before your eyes! Also learn about how big your puppy might grow up to be. Share this:. Guide John January 27, This article aims to help dog parents by answering the question regarding what size collar for Goldendoodle puppy is suitable. It is very important to know about a suitable collar size for a Goldendoodle puppy and then buy a collar. The Goldendoodle puppies are not only fluffy and cute but also super smart and energetic. It can be very difficult to train and control them without having a properly sized collar. Collars help to train the dogs and keep them safe, so it is very important to choose the right size of the collar. Choosing a collar for your Goldendoodle puppy is not as easy as it seems. What I Will Learn? The perfect size of collar for a Goldendoodle puppy is simply the one that can be put on and taken off easily. The most common sizes in inches are 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, .It is very important because it can be very dangerous to leave your pup with an oversized or tight collar on. If the collar is too loose, the pup can escape from it. If the size of the collar is perfect then the puppy will be calm, comfortable, and quiet. A Goldendoodle puppy is very playful and full of energy. If the size of the collar is too big your pup will be able to pull and wiggle out of it which will be very dangerous for your pup. Also, do not put on a collar that is too small as it can be very uncomfortable for your pup. Martingale Collar It is suitable for those dogs that like to wiggle and escape from their collars. It has a special loop that you can tighten or loosen as necessary. This type of collar is perfect for any smaller breed because it helps to control them better on the leash. Neoprene Collar These collars are great for water dogs. Breakaway Collar It is made of nylon and has a safety buckle that will break open if your pup gets caught on something. It can be easily adjusted to the neck size of any breed dog because you can attach or detach lead without any problems. This type of collar is perfect for small breeds. No, Pull Collar This collar is great for those dogs who like to pull and wiggle on their leash. It has a loop that you can put your hand into to avoid pressure when the dog pulls. Conclusions To conclude we can say that the Goldendoodle breed is one of the most favorite dog breeds in many countries. To keep your Goldendoodle pup safe there is one important thing that you need to do — get a good collar that is not too tight, not too loose, not too big or small. So, we hope that now you are well aware of what collar size for a Goldendoodle puppy is suitable and that perfectly fit on their neck. FAQs 1. How big is the neck of a Goldendoodle puppy? The neck of a Goldendoodle puppy is around 12 inches. However, the size may vary from one dog to another. What kind of collar should I get for my Goldendoodle puppy? There are many types of collars for dogs available in pet stores. You need to get a collar that is not too loose and not too tight, just perfect. How big is an 8-week-old Goldendoodle? An 8-week-old Goldendoodle is between 3 and 5 pounds. The size of a puppy depends on his parents as well.

They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. 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. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. They've won the dog personality popularity contest for so many years, as Labs are devoted to their owners—always willing to show you their affection and receive your adoration in return—are highly intelligent, and are happiest doing any and all family activities. Their enthusiasm not only makes them fun to be around, but also makes them a hard-working breed. Labs are companionable, bonding with all family members, and famously friendly to every person and pup they meet. While they have high energy and require lots of activity , they are eager to please and highly trainable. Appearance Thanks to their role as a hunter's companion, the Labrador retriever is a sturdy dog, weighing in at anywhere from 55—80 pounds. Labs come in three colors: chocolate, black, and yellow. While black Labs were an early favorite with breeders, all three types of Labs are common today. Some breeders do offer "rare" Labs, including polar white, fox red, and even silver, but these are simply variations of the three original Lab coloring combinations. Their top coat is short and thick. Their undercoat is softer and helps provide protection from the weather, especially cold temperatures and water, a nod to their original role as retrievers. A Lab's tail serves a purpose in their heritage as well. They are thick and tapered, an "otter tail" that acts as a rudder when Labs swim. But watch out on land—this happy breed gets to wagging their tail often and eagerly, and won't stop if you happen to be in the way. Yellow Labs might be easy to confuse with golden retrievers. Though both are friendly pups and popular with families, they distinctly different breeds. Temperament "The ideal disposition is one of a kindly, outgoing, tractable nature; eager to please and non aggressive towards man or animal," the breed standard says. They are friendly with new people and animals they meet. Tops in the personality department, Labs are also highly intelligent, making them very trainable. They do have lots of energy, so you'll need to stay active with them, but they are also happy to relax at home for family movie night. What many veterinarians do find, however, is that each Lab is an individual with his own personality. Some Labs are more mellow, while others can be higher energy. Some tend to be more anxious dogs. And you can even have a Lab that is a bit of a goofball. But no matter what personality your Lab puppy grows to develop, one thing is always the same. Living Needs Labs adore their owners. They will want to live indoors and sleep as close as possible to you—or even on you. They like to get outside to play, but don't leave them unattended for too long as they may prove they have a naughty side. Labs have been known to dig and chew, so invest in plenty of sturdy chew toys to keep yours entertained. If properly introduced and trained, Labs can also get along well with other pets in the home including cats , other dogs, and small animals. They are competitors, doing well in agility, field tests, and at dog shows. And they absolutely love to swim. Care When you welcome a Lab to your home, be prepared for lots of shedding. Grooming isn't substantial, but brushing your dog daily will help reduce the tumbleweeds of fur scattered about your house from their thick double coat. They should be bathed every other month to keep them smelling fresh. Brushing their teeth a couple of times a week, keeping their nails trimmed —likely once or twice a month—and checking their ears for redness or odor should also be on your Lab care checklist. A daily minute walk or a lively game of fetch will help your pup burn off some of his energy. Lack of activity could lead to undesirable behavior, but don't overdo it—this "workaholic" breed is apt to exhaust itself. Don't let Lab puppies run and play on hard surfaces for their first two years so they don't damage their joints. Of course their reputation for good behavior precedes them, but that doesn't mean you can skip training sessions with your Lab. Training is important to ensure they don't grow to become too rowdy. Introduce Labrador puppies to other humans and animals early to help socialize them properly. This, coupled with ample positive reinforcement , will allow your pup to grow into the friendly Lab many know and love. Health Labs are a pretty hearty and healthy breed , living 10—12 years. But, as with all breeds, there are some common conditions to be aware of. Elbow and hip dysplasia , heart disorders such as tricuspid valve dysplasia TVD , epilepsy , and hereditary myopathy or muscle weakness can all affect Labs. They can also face eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Owners should also be aware of a condition called exercise induced collapse EIC. Labs may also develop hot spots —or acute moist dermatitis—cold tail, and ear infections. History A bit misnamed, Labs actually come from Newfoundland—off the northeastern coast of Canada—not Labrador, according to the Labrador Retriever Club. Descended from St. John's water dogs, Labradors are a traditional waterdog used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company. At the end of the work day, Labs were then happy to head home to spend the night with the fishermen's families. They became increasingly popular starting in the early s, when they were brought to England by nobles who appreciated their work ethic and disposition. Public Domain It may be hard to believe, but by the s, Labs were almost extinct because of government restrictions and tax laws—the same laws that led to the St. John's water dogs' extinction, according to the Canadian Broadcast Corporation. Thankfully saved by English breeders, they were introduced to the U. After World War II, the Lab's popularity took over and grew for decades until they ultimately achieved the status of America's—and England and Canada's—most popular pooch. Fun Facts In , for the 29th year in a row, the Lab was voted the number one most popular breed. King Buck was the model Labrador retriever featured on a U. Another famous Lab is Ben of Hyde , born in .Considered the first documented yellow Lab, today most lines of yellow Labs can be traced to his bloodline. The star of the show, Marley, is actually several different Labs who played the role to reflect the various age stages of Marley during the film. His family adopted another chocolate Lab, Seamus , after Clinton's presidency ended. Was this page helpful? She was born in on February 14, Valentine's Day, which is funny because she is a chocolate labby: I got Maggie in the spring of .And totally crazy. For the first few months I had her, I had a tough-love relationship with her. Because she was pretty much out of control, along with being a very dominate puppy , I had to make sure from the beginning that she knew that I was the pack boss. As she got older she also showed some signs of aggression to dogs and people outside of our pack family. Maggie took to training like a pro. She loved to "work", as I called it. Her attention and focus on me was, and still is, out of this world. When she is playing with her doggie friends, I can call her out and she will practically fly to me, completely forgetting the other dogs and instead focusing on me. Her focus on me was so great that she was off leash trustworthy in nearly any situation by 11 months. Now at almost 5 years old, she is perfect. It takes a lot to get a dog close to perfection, and Maggie is as close to it as a dog can get in my opinion. I call them The Three Hoods. I had heard people say if you have a good dog and you get a puppy, the older one will play a big part in training the new pup; I now know that is true. They are a huge part of our family and we couldn't imagine life without them. He is waiting for his owner to throw him the ball. Notice how his tail is up. That indicates that he is in an excited state of mind. Oscar gets a lot of excited physical exercise playing ball. This type of exercise tires out the body, but keeps the mind in high excitement mode. A pack walk is also needed to exercise and calm the mind. Never met a stranger. Miss him dearly. He likes to sleep a lot and play tug-of-war. He also likes to dig up the yard which mommy and daddy aren't too happy about .He loves walks and playing with other dogs. He's a very smart pup and learns very fast. He's practically potty trained—we use the ring the bell on the door system—and he sleeps through the night. He also likes to cuddle on your lap, which could pose a problem when he's 80 lbs. Labradors "Molly Girl at 2 months—Molly is every bit chocolate Lab, but with none of the horror stories I was warned of! She is not super high energy, probably due in part to the daily exercise I make sure she gets. She is eager to please and extremely loyal. She greets everyone with a wag of the tail and loves to be loved on! As with any dog, consistency is important when training, and thanks to that, and dog parks , Molly is the perfect dog: " Ripley the silver Labrador Retriever at 11 months old Silver Labrador Retriever, photo courtesy of Crist Culo Kennels Tai the chocolate Lab at 1 year old with a long stick in his mouth Three adorable puppies showing the three Labrador colors, front to back, black, yellow and chocolate, photo courtesy of Mirage Labrador Retrievers "This is our newly adopted black Lab named Dozer. He is one and a half years old in this picture and we adopted him from the pound. Like most Labs he loves the water as you can see in the picture ; in fact, he loves it a little too much. We need to work with him on not obsessing over the water so much, but he is so eager to please that it shouldn't be too hard. We take him on two walks a day with him carrying a doggy backpack, one being a three-mile walk with at least a half hour of swimming. I watch the Dog Whisperer all the time so I know that with following his methods and with Dozer being so eager to please that whatever issues he has we will be able to improve them. Cappy is an all-around great companion and fun dog. His favorite activities include car rides, swimming, fetch, meeting new people and playing with his big sister, a black Lab. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. History and Origins The Labrador Retriever breed originated not in Labrador, but on the coast of Newfoundland, in the 17th century. They were trained to bring in the fishing-nets through the icy waters for the fishermen and, in the early 19th century, were brought to Poole Harbour in Great Britain. They were so attractive and with such appealing personalities that the fishermen had umpteen offers from Englishmen to buy them. The breed with their working abilities was instantly successful as a gundog. The Earl of Malmesbury became fascinated by these dogs, known at that time as Saint John's Dogs, and he started breeding them, calling them Labrador Dogs. Today, Labradors are still used as working gundogs as well as being beloved family pets. Ideal Owner Ideal Lab owners enjoy long walks, are mud-proof and water-proof, and have the time, patience and skill to teach this breed to be a polite member of society. Although universally thought of as the ultimate, easy-going family dog and they do generally love everyone! Great for active families with children who can take part in training and exercise — and who can walk this active gundog a couple of hours every day in all weathers. Exercise Needs Labradors will adapt to the amount of time you can allocate for their exercise, as long as they are kept active. Ideally, a couple of hours a day being a good amount for a healthy adult. They love long walks with a chance to run and play off the lead. Many Labradors, unfortunately, become overweight because they are bought by families who want them for their reputation as the perfect dog with children, without realising that this is a working dog, who needs a lot of exercise and training to stay happy and healthy. As well as walks, a Labrador will revel in games and play with their owner, as they are highly social, and need to be involved in all family activities. Space Requirements The Labrador is a large, active breed who is at heart a country dog, and so needs a good-sized living space. As the Labrador size is large and their energy is high, they will appreciate a large garden and need access to the great outdoors for long walks. Nutrition and Feeding Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Labrador is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk. Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food. Proper nutrition along with care can contribute to a Labrador lifespan reaching 14 years. Grooming Labradors The Labrador grooming process is fairly easy as their coats are simple to maintain. Even though the Labrador size is large, their coat is thick and dense with a weather-resistant undercoat that can easily be kept clean with a simple brush through once a week, and more regular attention when moulting. However, they do love water and mud, and so they may need more regular grooming to keep them clean. Watch out for grass seeds in the summer as they tend to charge around the countryside! Training Labradors Labradors are generally a joy to train as they are both clever and biddable, and love working with their owner. Despite being generally unproblematic, they do still need training as they have a need to work and to keep their busy brains occupied. Plus, they can easily get overly-boisterous, and even destructive, if not given plenty of exercise, and an outlet for their hard-wired breed behaviours. Are Labradors Good Family Dogs? There is a good reason why the Labrador has a reputation as being, almost, the perfect family dog. This is a breed who loves everyone and everything. Their only drawback is that they need a lot of exercise, and so they need an active family who enjoy walking and games. All dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

So, is adding a second golden retriever to the family a good idea? But what are the pros and cons? If your golden has separation anxiety, another dog will really help them out. No more fighting about who is going to pet or play with them because now you have two. When your retriever has a buddy, it can make them feel more secure They will never be alone or lonely Retrievers are cheerful dogs and one of them can light up your life so can you imagine what two of them will do. If the first dog is well trained, the second dog will copy most of their actions and make training them on commands much easier The cons Cleaning up will be a pickle because now you will clean up after two which means more hair all over your place You will need to make more budget for their food and needs, there will be twice the vet bills as well. Your retriever might be the jealous type which will make adding a new retriever to the family harder. You will need more energy for exercising two energetic retrievers Training two dogs will be more difficult if the first one is not already well trained. If they are chewers then it means twice the damage control Also, two dogs mean twice the potty pickups Want to learn more about how you life changes with a second golden retriever? Read my post on why are golden retrievers better in pairs here. So here is how you should introduce your second golden retriever to both your family members and first dog. Step 1: let the dog approach the children and not the other way around because the new dog might feel threatened and will snap in self-defense. Step 2: tell your children to sit down while holding a toy to encourage the puppy to approach them. Step 5: prevent any hugs or cuddles till the dog is completely ready for them. Step 6: After the first meeting, ask your children to give the puppy some space so they can explore the new environment. Golden Retrievers get along very well with other dogs, and they almost always get together super well, so this will be quite easy, but you still need to do a bit of effort. Step 5: for the meeting take them both out for a walk never introduce them inside the house. Step 6: you should take your first retriever in front of you and the new retriever behind with the person who is helping you. While you are both walking, start slowly to work your way to get them closer to each other. Step 8: After a minute of sniffing, start walking again, you need to keep their first interactions short and nice. Step 9: repeat the whole walking and sniffing part several times until they are both calm. Step since they both seem calm, you can bring both dogs inside the house, let your first retriever enter first then allow him to welcome the new retriever. Step give your new retriever more space in the house so they can adjust and explore the house. If you have a backyard, you can let the dogs run around and play together but still limit their playtime and keep it short a first. Do not leave them alone together Important Tips for introducing your second golden retriever Give both of the dog love and attention equally Keep their feeding areas separated Keep them both active, for example, take them for a walk or find an activity that can be both fun and burn out all their extra energy. Watch out for any signs of stress or aggression, if you do notice any sign of stress, reduce their time together. Golden retrievers are the best family dog because they are great with both humans and animals, getting a second retriever will be great because they will be both super friendly, however, golden retrievers are rarely aggressive but if they get jealous they can display some unwelcoming signs to the new dogs. So the most important thing is to spend time with each one of them equally and love them both unconditionally. If you liked this article you can share it with your friends and family, they might be considering adding a second dog to their family and it can help them as well, also It would make me really happy and grateful. Related Questions Is it good to have two golden retrievers? Can you have 2 male golden retrievers? What is the best age to add a second dog? The best age to add a second dog is one year according to many behaviorists because it can take up to six months for any dog to adjust to their new home then they take six more months to bond in the right way with their owner and to learn your commands and house rules. Helpful Resources. Golden Retrievers: 0. First, you might choose to bring home two puppies at once, usually littermates. Or, you might opt to get one Golden Retriever and then later on add a puppy or another adult Golden. Perhaps the idea of separating your puppy from their family makes you sad and you think that bringing home two will make it easier for them. Maybe the breeder suggested that you take two puppies. Or you think the idea of having two puppies at once seems like double the cuteness and fun, and that you can just get the puppy stage done with both dogs all at once. Are any of these ideas true? What is Littermate Syndrome? Littermate syndrome is when two puppies from the same litter , or two puppies from different litters but similar ages, are raised together and develop problematic behavior issues. There are several main categories of undesirable behavior that are associated with littermate syndrome: aggression, separation distress, fear of novelty, and lack of human-dog bond. Aggression In some cases, you might see that two Golden Retrievers display aggressive behavior towards each other, or toward others, both dog and human. Often the aggression arises around the time of adolescence or social maturity 6 months to 18 months. The two dogs might start having more conflict, whereas before they got along without issue. One dog might start becoming a bully towards the other. Perhaps intense conflicts break out over toys or bones. Maybe fights come out of nowhere without any apparent provocation. This can be extremely distressing to witness as an owner, and obviously frightening for the recipient. Two dogs snarling, barking and lunging at another dog or a person is probably not what you signed up for when you brought home a pair of fluffy Golden puppies. Separation Distress Another common result of littermate syndrome is intense separation distress. This can start much earlier than the aggression discussed above, and even puppies three months or four months old can show distress when separated from their littermate. Puppies or dogs might start screaming or thrashing around if separated even a short time or distance. You can imagine how hard this can make life for both you and the dogs. If one dog needs to go to the vet or have surgery, the other dog will be panicked. Crating or otherwise confining them separately might be impossible. Even trying to train them separately could be met with extreme anxiety from your pair of pups. Fear of Novelty This one sounds a little odd, but another way littermate syndrome can manifest is through the dogs showing fear of novelty, also known as neophobia. This can start when the littermates are young, and can worsen as they get older. They might show strong fear of new people or dogs, as well as new locations, environments or objects. Lack of Human-Dog Bond Because the two littermates spend so much time together, they may bond more closely with each other than with their human family. This hyper-attachment with each other can result in two dogs that care way more about each other than you, or what you have to say. Getting their attention might be a real struggle. They might blow you off when you call in favor of continuing to wrestle and play. Littermates may be so preoccupied with each other that they never really develop a social bond with you or your family. Your two Golden Retrievers may struggle to learn house rules and boundaries, and it can be harder for them to understand how to regulate themselves emotionally. Training can also be a challenge, as mentally, they are more focused on their sibling. Ask any experienced dog trainer, behavior consultant, or veterinary behaviorist, and they will tell you that littermate syndrome can happen when someone brings two pups home. And despite this breed being notoriously social, sweet and bonded with their humans, it can happen with Golden Retrievers. Bringing home two puppies does not necessarily mean they are doomed to experience littermate syndrome, but it is absolutely something to be mindful of and to proactively avoid it from happening. Want to potty train your Golden Retriever puppy fast? Click here to get the Potty Training Cheat Sheet! What Causes Littermate Syndrome? Again, there have not been formal studies, but there are some likely factors to which littermate syndrome can be attributed. You might know two people that have an unhealthy attachment, maybe romantic partners, a parent and child, or friends. The relationship impedes normal social, emotional, and mental development, and has a negative impact in other areas of their life. This is exactly what can happen with canine littermates too. They are missing out on some critical development due to this hyper-attachment. Behavior like aggression or separation distress may arise out of that unhealthy attachment. The thought is that they can entertain each other and tire each other out, which will make your job as the owner easier. The cost to this is that they are then spending a lot of time together, rather than getting one-on-one time with their owners, which is so crucial to properly raising a puppy. This lack of individualized attention may contribute to the dogs not closely bonding with their humans. Letting two pups spend all day every day together without enough solo time and attention could potentially lead to littermate syndrome. Lack of Training Training two Golden Retriever puppies at once is nearly impossible! It will be hectic, frustrating and confusing for both you and the puppies. In order to effectively teach anything, you will have to dedicate time to work with each puppy individually, which means double the time spent training. Some people might not have the time to train each puppy one-on-one, or may just not have the desire to put in double the effort. Training is also an excellent way to bond with your puppy, and so if training is minimal, you will miss out on a crucial opportunity to bond with each pup. Lack of Proper Socialization Socialization is critical to raising a confident, well-behaved dog. The prime time for socialization is before sixteen weeks of age. What your puppy learns and experiences during these first sixteen weeks of age can have a permanent effect on their temperament and behavior. Just like with training, socialization needs to be a one-on-one activity. Again, this means double the socialization, which is a huge time and energy investment for you. Each puppy needs to meet new people and new dogs away from the other puppy. Each puppy needs to visit new environments and have new experiences without their sibling. Each puppy will need to be walked individually. They may always need their sibling next to them in order to feel okay about the world. Lack of one-on-one socialization also leaves a gap in their relationship with you as their owner. Learning about the world with you as their guide creates a strong, positive relationship. Without that foundation, your puppy may choose to take their cues from their puppy sibling, instead of you, which can be very frustrating as they grow up. How To Avoid Littermate Syndrome As mentioned previously, littermate syndrome is not a guaranteed outcome if you do bring home two puppies. The idea that bringing home two puppies will make your job as their owner easier could not be more wrong. Properly training, socializing and raising two puppies at the same time is double the work. The obvious solution to preventing littermate syndrome is to only bring home one puppy. Life with a single Golden Retriever puppy is plenty busy and you completely avoid the risks associated with littermate syndrome. But if you are set on getting two puppies and fully understand the responsibility and risk associated with this, or you already have two, here are some ways that you can prevent littermate syndrome from happening with your pair of pups. This is absolutely crucial to building a strong relationship with your puppies. Play with each puppy one-on-one. Go on walks with each puppy individually. Romp around the yard with them separately. So to counteract any potential for hyper-attachment, commit to spending one-on-one time with each puppy. They may become very distressed if they are separated, which might include destructive behavior, barking, peeing or pooping , or even self-injury. When you work on this in addition to spending one-on-one time with each puppy, you set everyone up for success for the times where one dog needs to go to the vet and the other needs to stay home, for example. Train and Socialize Each Pup Individually While your pair of pups might be two peas in a pod, they are, in fact, two unique individuals, and should be treated as such. Each Golden Retriever puppy has their own distinct temperament, strengths, and weaknesses. Treating the puppies as a unit does them a disservice and might create issues as they mature. Perhaps one puppy can chill in their crate and practice their confinement skills while you work on training the other puppy. You will likely find that each puppy learns things at different paces, and what was easy for one puppy is harder for the other, and vice versa. Spending training time with them individually will help you learn about their unique personality so you can help them really shine. Likewise, socialization should also be done one-on-one. Socialization is a process of exposing your puppy to the world in a way that builds their confidence and teaches them how to feel and act in various environments. Introducing your Goldens to new people, other dogs, new locations, new experiences, new surfaces, new sounds, etc. For example, you take one puppy with you on an errand to a local dog-friendly gardening store. You notice that they are scared when someone else enters the store with a big dog. Your puppy cowers and bit and hides behind you. Ideally, you want each puppy learning how to confidently move through the world with you as their guide. You want them to learn that you are trustworthy and to look to you if they are unsure or scared. Double the Fun, Double the Trouble Bringing home two Golden Retriever puppies has the potential to be a highly rewarding experience, or a disaster waiting to happen. If you are dedicated to putting in the effort to help each puppy mature into a happy, confident, well-behaved dog, it can potentially have a positive outcome. You can always add another puppy to the family when they are more mature and well trained. This is generally a better way to go about it if you want to have two or more! Golden Retrievers. It allows you time to fully bond with your first dog and focus on their training and socialization before you get a second. Typically, things will go more smoothly by getting the two dogs with some time in between, but there are certainly considerations to keep in mind to set everyone up for success from the start. Now, no dog is perfect and they all have their little quirks, but if your current Golden loves to bark out the windows at every passerby, just imagine two Goldens engaging in that behavior. Dogs are social learners and they do learn from each other. You should feel overall comfortable with what your current dog might teach the newcomer. That terrible counter-surfing behavior might get way worse now that your attention is split between your dog and the new pup. You want to feel happy with where things are at with the current dog. However, it is generally a good idea to wait until two years old so that you have really formed a positive relationship with your first dog and have good habits in place. Is it possible to bring home another Golden Retriever when your first one is, say, one year old? Yes, but it might be more work for you. Every dog is different and some older dogs genuinely love interacting with puppies, while others find them to be utterly annoying. Some dogs just adore puppies while others find them repulsive. If your dog has positive, but more lowkey feelings about other dogs, then your process might move along at a quicker pace. Pick a Location First, decide on where the two dogs will meet for the first time. If your dog regularly has playdates at your house and is okay with sharing their space with other dogs, then setting up the first meeting at home might be an option. That way by the time the newcomer is in the house, your older dog is at least aware that they exist and knows their smell. Pick a Time Sometimes picking up your puppy from the breeder is an adventure in itself with road trips and flights involved. And that can mean your puppy might get home at a really odd time. Midnight may not be the ideal time to have your adult dog meet the new baby. Giving them a nice walk before they meet their new sibling can help your dog feel content and more relaxed when the meeting happens. You really need to know your dog and proactively set them up for the most possible success. You can put the puppy in the exercise pen and let them sniff and say hi through the pen at first, which can give you an idea of how both parties are feeling. Loose, wiggly, waggy body language is a positive indication. Signs that a dog is unsure or fearful include tucked tail, cowering, stiff body, hard stare, freezing in place, and growling or snapping. While this might seem sad, it can go a long way to keep everyone safe, and is a completely humane precaution to take. A basket muzzle allows dogs to pant, eat and drink, but prevents teeth from making any contact. If you feel a muzzle is necessary, you should also hire a professional trainer to help you facilitate the meeting process. Plus, getting professional help is never a bad idea. How to Integrate a New Dog with Your Dog Beyond the initial meet and greet, there is the whole process of integrating the new puppy into daily life with your current dog. Again, this requires some planning and strategy to ensure everyone is safe and happy. Management Tools It can help to let them drag light leashes around the house, at least for the first few days, so that you can easily redirect them if needed. This prevents you from having to manhandle your dog or puppy, which can sometimes make them uncomfortable and stressed. It is unrealistic to expect your dog and puppy to spend all day everyday together without issues. Your puppy will get overexcited. Your dog might be too exuberant and you will worry they will squish the baby. Use management strategies like crates , gates , leashes , and pens to give them separate spaces. Your adult Golden might not be too keen on this new punk puppy trying to lick up kibble crumbs while they are still eating dinner, so have a plan for keeping them separate during meal times to prevent any resource guarding issues. Similarly, things like toys and bones can become points of contention, depending on the dog. Or maybe they want to just sniff the toy your older dog is playing with. Keeping an eye out for these situations, and running interference when needed, can go a long way to get your two-dog household off to a good start. Play Times Always monitor play times to ensure that each dog is safe and having fun. You can call them over periodically for some treats and then give them a little down time before allowing them to go back to playing. Alone Time Any time you cannot be actively supervising the two dogs, confine them separately. Separate Spaces Provide them both with their own comfy places to relax. You might find that your puppy struggles to settle with your other dog around, or vice versa. Giving them each their own space, using a gate, crate or pen, can help them learn how to coexist peacefully without constantly erupting into play. Expect Some Bumps in the Road This can be a rocky process sometimes, and just know that is normal. You might find that your existing dog picks up a new bad habit when the puppy comes home. Remember that you have plenty of time to integrate the new pup into your home with your current dog. Do not rush the process! There is always the disappointing possibility that your current dog just cannot cope with another dog in the home. Some dogs truly do best being the only dog in the family. Getting help from a certified dog behavior consultant can help you evaluate your situation and process making a hard decision if necessary. Work on teaching the puppy new skills without your other dog, and then you can add them in as a distraction while you continue to strengthen their skills. Balance all this new attention on the puppy with some quality one-on-one time with your adult Golden Retriever. They used to be the solo light of your life, and now they are sharing you with a new puppy. While the puppy naps, perhaps you go for a walk at the park or hit up a favorite trail for a fun hike. Twice as Nice There is a lot to love about life with two Golden Retrievers. It can really help to have realistic expectations before you become a two-Golden family. Have a plan, and a plan B. The key is to be consistent with proactively avoiding negative interactions and unwanted behavior, while fostering positive interactions and behavior. Do you have two Golden Retrievers? Would you recommend it? Let us know down in the comments! And if you liked this article, check out the ultimate guide to raising a Golden Retriever puppy. Getting a Golden Retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Related articles:. If you already have a Golden, how about doubling the fun by getting another one? Are Golden Retrievers better in pairs? Yes, Golden Retrievers will do better in pairs. Due to their social nature, they will have each other for constant companionship throughout the day and anytime you are away or busy. On the downside, taking care of two Golden Retriever dogs will double your chores and expenses. 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! What if you can add another Golden Retriever dog to the household mix, and they could use some of their abundant energy wearing each other out instead? As you may already know, the purebred Golden Retriever was initially bred in Scotland around the s when breeders wanted a powerful hunting dog who could retrieve game from both land and water while running through the countryside all day long. Because of this, Golden Retrievers were bred to have abundant levels of energy. The rule of thumb with a Golden Retriever is you should take your pup for a minute walk at least 2 times per day more is better to keep him healthy and entertained. Between wrestling and chasing each other around the house, two Golden Retrievers will easily get their allotted exercise time each and every day. Note: While a second dog of the same breed is great, a Golden Retriever will be just as happy with a different breed of doggy companion. For the best level of exercise, however, another Golden or a breed with similar energy levels ie. Labrador Retriever would be best. This family picked out two Golden Retriever puppies right from the start! Why is this wrong? Having two dogs can be an excellent way to deal with spoiled behavior. When you go for walks, your dog will also learn to curb his urge to move around each time the other dog stops for a potty break. It Satisfies the Pack Instincts Regardless of the breed, all dogs want to live in a pack. They want to have an alpha leader to look up to, promoting their sense of overall security. It will also alleviate any separation anxiety that is common among Golden Retrievers. It Grants Your Senior Dog a New Sense of Purpose Like most large breed dogs, senior Golden Retrievers have a high risk of developing hip dysplasia, a destructive bone disease that limits their activity level. Getting a younger Golden Retriever can be the best way to rejuvenate your senior dog without demanding excessive physical activity. The older dog will teach the new member all the house rules, including where to do his business, how to react politely to visitors, how to play with kids without hurting them, and so forth. This really works! Not only did it give them a sense of purpose it seemed to make them feel more relaxed when we were away from home knowing they had a buddy in the house still. 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! If they should each need veterinary treatment at the same time, it can really add up fast! If you thought one Golden could eat through a expensive 40lb bag of kibble quickly, just wait untill you see two in action! Consider grooming, for instance. Since Goldens have long, wavy coats, you should brush them at least once per week. Because Golden Retrievers have floppy ears, they may also develop nasty infections without regular ear cleaning. If you let that go for a day or two your backyard will look like poopageddon! You May Not Have Enough Space If you already have a Golden, you probably know that they can grow taller than 25 inches 63 cm and heavier than 60 pounds 27 kgs. In that case, you could still reap the benefits of getting a second dog by opting for a smaller breed, such as a Pug, Basset Hound, Boston Terrier, or even a Miniature Goldendoodle. Check out the following tips to ensure that your dogs get along well, especially when first introduced. Pick Neutral Ground For Introductions No matter how friendly your Golden Retriever is, his territorial instincts could kick in if a new dog invades his personal space all of a sudden. Encourage them to sniff and play together, but keep an eye out for the following signs of aggression so that you can intervene right away if necessary: Growling. Naturally, one would assume that having two of a good thing is better than one! Owning two Golden Retrievers means twice the fun, cuddles, and love! Golden Retrievers are highly social, and owning two means that they would have each other to play with, and keep each other company while you are away or busy. But, there are many downsides as well, owning two means double everything! Golden Retrievers do best when they are in the company of their family. It takes time for your Golden to adapt and accept another Golden into the household. Owning two means they will become best friends. Well, having two means twice the fun, laughs, love and cuddles! One might be very sweet and submissive, while the other may be more assertive. A common dilemma that many owners face is whether to get a male or female Golden Retriever. In fact, many fellow Golden Retriever owners enjoy having two dogs of the same sex, without experiencing any issues like dominance or aggressiveness. But, also because your older Golden Retriever will be able to teach the younger one new tricks. Your older Golden will be a role model for your younger one, making things like potty training, basic commands, and rules of the house much easier and faster to learn. Since most dogs naturally go potty where other dogs have gone, potty training can be accomplished with fewer problems. But, having two Golden Retrievers, will alleviate some of your responsibility, especially because they will do most of their playing together. Two Golden Retrievers means plenty of wrestling sessions, chasing each other, tug-of-war, and tiring each other out. Con 1: Double Everything! Cost, Work, Hair, Etc. Owning one Golden Retriever is expensive, it requires plenty of work and devotion from you, and you certainly need a lot of patience. And one Golden Retriever produces plenty of dog hair and dog poop! But, owning two Golden Retrievers means double everything! Plus the time and effort it takes to brush and bathe two Goldens. Owning two dogs means that you will need to allocate time to spend with each one on an individual basis. This means extra time spent going for walks, training, playing and grooming. Can your couch accommodate two full-size Goldens laying on it, plus yourself? Or, will you find yourself sitting on the floor while your two Goldens occupy your couch? Owning one Golden Retriever means giving up half of your couch and your bed. But, owning two means you might have to sacrifice your own comfort or invest in twice the furniture! Having two Goldens means you need plenty of space, not only in your home but also in your vehicle. This is especially true when it comes to fighting over food, toys, and your attention. Adding a second Golden Retriever to the household, suddenly means your current dog has to share your attention, love, and food. It could lead to competition and jealousy between the two dogs. It certainly is devastating for you to have to say goodbye, but, it is just as devastating for your remaining Golden to lose a best friend. Owning two Goldens means eventually the time will come when one dog outlives the other. Some will whine and cry out for their best friend, become lethargic and depressed, and many will search their home, yard and neighbourhood for their best friend. The more bonded your two Goldens are, the more difficult it will be when you lose one. Many owners find that adding another Golden to the household helps the other dog heal, as well as themselves. Con 6: Bad Habits Can Form If your current Golden Retriever has some bad habits, you can guarantee that those bad habits will be taught to the younger one. Make sure your current Golden is fully trained and obedient, before introducing a second Golden to the mix. This, however, can be reversed as well. For instance, a younger Golden can teach your older one some new bad habits as well. Training sessions and spending equal amounts of time with each dog individually can help to curb some of the bad habits. Their current Golden is amazing, and they just want a second one. They feel their current Golden could use a companion. Here are some important things you need to consider beforehand: Your Financial Situation Can you afford to properly care for two Golden Retrievers? Adding a second Golden Retriever to your family will certainly pull on the purse strings! The cost of food and treats, toys, grooming, vet bills, pet insurance, training, and other expenses quickly add up. You need to be sure that you are financially capable of caring for two Golden Retrievers. Consider how your current Golden will feel about sharing his home, toys, and your love and attention with another dog. Very few Golden Retrievers accept a new dog into their household right away, usually, there is a lengthy adjustment period lasting a few weeks to a few months. There are also a few instances where adding a second Golden has not worked out. This usually results in having to rehome the new dog. Before making the commitment, be sure to evaluate your current Golden Retriever, and if they enjoy being around other dogs, their energy level, play style, and health. Sure, the two of them will keep each other company and play together, but, they will both want your attention as well. Your new Golden Retriever will require plenty of your time and commitment to train and bond with, and your current Golden will require your attention equally to prevent feeling neglected. Space Having enough space for two full-size Golden Retrievers is an important factor to consider. When fully grown, these dogs range in height from 51 to 61 centimetres and weigh anywhere from 55 to 75 pounds or more. Goldens can easily adapt to smaller homes, as well as apartment living. That is as long as they get plenty of daily activity in the form of exercise and mental stimulation. Some, however, enjoy being motherly toward them and taking them under their wing. Age is an important factor to consider. If you currently have a senior, a puppy might bring out the playfulness in him, but it could also wear him out and affect his health and mobility. Typically, the most compatible arrangement is having two Goldens of similar ages, at least 2 years apart, so that they will have the same energy level. It just means you might have to step in and ensure the puppy is not too rambunctious for your older one. Gender Most dog experts agree that dogs of the opposite sex get along better than dogs of the same sex. Plus, for many Golden Retriever owners, having both a male and a female allows them to enjoy both genders. While gender is an important factor to consider, it is more important to consider compatibilities, such as temperament and personality. Two alpha males and two alpha females are likely to have jealousy and aggressive tendencies. This is easier if you are bringing home a puppy, but can also be accomplished when bringing home an adult. You can rub a blanket, towel, toy, sock, or any other item on the puppy, and bring the item home with you for your current Golden to sniff. This way neither dog will feel like their territory is being invaded. Let both Goldens sniff each other, and become familiar with each other. Once both dogs are comfortable around each other, you can return the items. Many Golden Retrievers become territorial over food, and an incident can occur. Supervise Play For the first little while, and especially if you have a puppy and an older dog, you will want to supervise their playtime. A young puppy can be too exuberant for a senior dog, as well as a bigger dog can hurt a puppy by accident. I have heard of too many close calls, from dogs almost being strangled because their collar got caught. But, realistically, you should expect there to be an adjustment period. It could take days, weeks, or even months for the two of them to accept each other. This short video demonstrates the adjustment period of Sterling and Colin, the same two Golden Retrievers we watched in the video above. However, there are certainly many factors to take into consideration such as your financial situation, and how your current Golden feels about sharing his home and you with another companion. Are you thinking of adding a second Golden Retriever to your family? Do you currently own two Golden Retrievers? Share your thoughts, experience, and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. That includes Puppy and Training classes, take them to a trainer that understands the inherent difficulties of raising two puppies together. Take them on separate nights hopefully to the same trainer. They can play together but only at strict designated times and for a period of no more than 15 minutes each designated play time. This regime will not be for life as the pups will, after a period of about 12 to 14 months have formed their own personalities and temperaments; at this age they will have become confident of their own individual abilities. Not as in most cases total inter-dependence to each other when siblings are raised, trained, and fed together. Without the total reliance on their sibling for constant support they will grow and blossom into much rounder and less aggressive and fearful individuals. I cannot stress how important it is to separate the siblings until they are older. It will produce two individuals rather than an impaired two parts of the whole. It is worth stating that it is not only siblings that have these problems. If you raise two young pups from different litters or even breeds, you can have similar problems. I always recommend my clients to wait till their puppy is 14 months old before purchasing another puppy this then allows you to concentrate all your efforts on that individual and hopefully it will take on some of the good traits of the older more experienced dog. I have no respect for a breeder that uses these tactics or that sell litter mates to one owner. If they are experienced and not a first time breeder then they are well aware of the pitfalls of these actions, and that the dogs will suffer for the rest of their lives. Post Reply Preview alsdengoldies btinternet. I'm so sorry, it must have been very hard. Post Reply Preview todd. For the first few years the vet bills will be rather straight forward, just beware as the dogs age you'll probably be faced with double the expense when the dogs reach the age of eight or so, which is when the health problems this breed is known for usually start to surface. Post Reply Preview alanckaye 13 years ago Hi, I'd just like to comment as I have only recently learned of "littermate syndrome" recently. Two years ago my wife and I decided it was time to give a good home to another golden. We lost KC to cancer after 14 years a few years prior. When we went to the breeder in Ocala, Fl. The girls were bottle fed. It was their mother's third litter which to me seems excessive since she was only six when she died. We had been told it would not be good to take two puppies from the same litter - for reasons I'm guessing mentioned above but our hearts went out to the sisters and we ignored the rules taking both home. KD and Karma are close, they play together but they also fight - one will wine for attention from my wife or I but aside from that they have both bonded with us remarkably well. Karma adores me and often positions herself in our home to where she has full sight of me or I have to step over her so she knows when I'm on the move. The only thing I have noticed is when we walk them together and one is out of sight of the other they begin to search for the other. One is picky with being friendly to strangers or strange dogs. The other will be friendly to any and all people and dogs. They were raised in separate crates in the same room as puppies and I take them for their morning walk separately. I suppose I'm lucky that I did not have to return the girls because we fell in love with them at first sight and they are a very important part of our life - especially for me as a retired law enforcement officer, I spend about 16 hours a day with them. I take care of all their needs, even to the point of expressing their anal glands when I notice they have become uncomfortable with full glands. This seems to happen mostly at night when I am ready for bed and I notice a subtle change in one girl and how she seems to be feeling not up to par. I appreciate this information as it does give me some insight into why they act the way they do at times but all in all this has been a very good experience for all - the sisters are together and do love each other and they love us as much as we do them. I guess my point here is that if you do get litter mates it doesn't have to turn out to be a bad thing. The puppies in the photo are adorable - it's a shame you had to return them. Post Reply Preview gabbi 13 years ago Thanks everyone for such a great discussion and willingness to share your experience and expertise. Like everyone here I am a dog lover! I have a 7yr old husky-sheperd mix. Very sad. Took me three years to get over it enough to be able to get another dog. So cute and can live up to the name Nightmare 2. I have always wanted and loved the look of the Bernese mountain dogs. So I ended up getting a puppy from there two.His name is Armegeddon. I read about how important it was to make sure they bond with etc. So I put in a lot of hard work.Walks, separate training from the same trainer. I'm also very lucky that I can bring my dogs to work. This I think made all the difference in socializing them to be their own dogs and further reinforce me as alpha. So like other people, I am having a positive experience. They are 13 monthes now. They were getting into fights for a couple of weeks.But I made sure to assert myself right away if I saw Nightmare's body language indicating he was gonna start something. Nightmare was the one starting it, so I would confront him with my body and walk toward him. So he would back away and be focussed on me instead of picking a fight. This nipped it in the bud. They have been good. I have no idea how this is going to work out. They weren't raised together, so I'm hoping this helps. To complicate matters, Cocoa is in heat at 13 monthes old. Both boys are neutered, but Nightmare is trying to mount Cocoa. Armegeddon is not, which is good. But he is not happy with her. They had a squirmish last night, so we will see what happens over the next couple of weeks. Any suggestions are welcome or ideas of where to find similiar situations would be great! Post Reply gouldj Posted 12 years ago. Edited by gouldj member 12 years ago We purchased two Golden Retrievers over 8 years ago, they were brothers. Sadly one of our Goldens just passed away. While they were both alive we never once experienced the troubles associated with "littermate Syndrome". To the contrary, our Goldens were best of friends and they were also best of friends to my wife and me. I had actually never heard of this syndrome until very recently and was amazed at the "issues" people were having. I am not sure what we did differently from other owners so I do not have any advice to share. I will not hesitate one second to get two Golden brothers again. They are sister and brother. I never knew of same litter syndrome, I just thought the problems with the dogs was a follow on from my circumstances changing. I lived alone but then shortly after getting the dogs I meet a guy with two kids we now all live together and recently had a baby myself. But the dogs have had three huge fights were they have been pulled apart before the male killed the female, but then when it has all calmed down they dont want to be seperated, even from another room the female gets anixious. They are together all day and sleep together. They love the kids but the female is shy and doesnt always want to interact. But yet she is great with other dogs and the male attacks other dogs feeding off her insecurity. I am booked in for dog training classes tonight one dog per session. I hope that something can be done eve though they are 3. I feel so bad I have left it go but in the case I was totally ignorant! Post Reply. Many people who have a dog often ask themselves whether they should get another. I did! I often asked myself; Does my golden retriever need a companion? He is a social dog and will not have any issues adjusting especially when he spent his puppy life in a multi-dog family environment. Many fellow Golden Retriever owners say that having a pair of Goldens is a good thing. Golden Retrievers are known to be very social dogs, and always get along well with other Goldens. Before bringing a new puppy or adult Golden dog into your home, it is important to evaluate your current Golden and carefully assess if having a second golden dog will be beneficial. Here are ten things you may want to think about when asking yourself if getting a second dog is a good idea. Dog ownership cost has to be a top consideration. Food, vet bills, dog care supplies, and pet insurance can add up to a hefty amount. It is important to make sure your household budget can cater to owning a second dog. Everything works out if you plan well. How will your dog feel? It is crucial to consider how a second dog will make your first dog feel. Your first dog is used to being the only companion and might act upset or jealous and develop anxiety. So, consider a thorough assessment evaluation of your current dog before adding a second dog. Another Golden Retriever is the best companion dog for your Golden Retriever. However, Golden Retriever also gets along well with most other breeds of dogs. If you are considering a different breed, read up on their different character traits and behavior to make sure it is a good match. To further your dog breed education, consult your veterinarian and connect with other Golden Retriever owners who currently have a two-dog household. Gender Matters: Male or Female Dog? Gender plays an important role in whether your second dog will get along with your current dog. And, many experts tend to agree on this as sometimes bringing a same-sex second dog into the home can create problems: Female dogs can often display jealousy to each other, and male dogs may show aggression to each other. In our case, we did not follow this rule and decided to welcome another male dog into our household. No aggression and jealousy occurred. Is it better to get a puppy as a second dog? A puppy is always a temptation, but it may not be a good idea especially if you have an elderly or sick older dog. Do You Have the Space? Having adequate space to play and for comfortable living, eating and sleeping is another important factor. Golden Retrievers are considered big dogs but can definitely live in a small home as long as you provide adequate exercise, mental stimulation, proper training, and routine grooming. Do You Have the Time? As much as two dogs can keep each other company, they will still want a piece of you. So before you decide whether you should get another dog, make sure you can provide both dogs the energy and attention they both need; especially the new dog that will require a lot of your time. A good play routine for each dog is one way to stay on top of this requirement. Make sure you have your first dog fully-trained before introducing a second dog. Any new dog will learn from the older dog. Remember you will have to contribute a lot of your time and energy to this process also. So be honest and ask yourself — Do you have the ability to commit to all the responsibilities for another dog? Is a second dog really the right decision for your family? Having a second dog is double the joy if it is done for the right reasons. Does your family want a second dog? Make sure to include your whole family in making decisions. Owning dogs involve a huge commitment. Are you in for the long haul? When life changes occur unexpectedly, your family must be able to continue providing the best life for your dogs. No matter what, bringing a dog into your home will change your life. There are lots of responsibilities to having two dogs, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. Two dogs mean double the fun, love, and will definitely keep you active. Be prepared to plan your life and your time around your dogs. Adding another dog to your life is a big decision and will definitely enrich your life. Hopefully, the above points will help you to decide if getting a second dog is a good idea. But one thing is for sure if you do it right — two dogs equal twice the fun, happiness, unconditional love, and enjoyable companionship for everyone around. Related Posts:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. But if you do find yourself doing it, there are things you can do to ensure a greater level of success and happiness within your household. So, you head down to the breeder or the shelter to choose a new puppy to adopt into your family. But when you get there, you see two adorable sibling puppies together. Hello Little Golden Puppy! Plus, they will be able to play with one another, which will make everything easier. No joke this happened to me before I got my first puppy, Linus. When I went to the shelter there were two cute little Australian Shepherd Lab mix puppies. That is just not the case! There are a lot of things inherent in the way that sibling puppies respond to one another that makes it harder to integrate two of them together into the same home at the same time. But, for whatever reason, if you do find yourself getting sibling puppies, there are a few things you can do to raise them successfully. Read on as we explain why sibling puppies are such a challenge, share our top tips on how to raise sibling pups together, and walk you through how to side-step some of the problems inherent to raising two puppies from the same litter. Sadly, no. The main problem with adopting sibling puppies is that they are going to bond with one another over you. This is a problem because the bond they have with one another can diminish the bond they have with you. This can make them much more difficult to train. Add to this that they are pack animals, and in addition to bonding you can expect them to fight, as it is common to fight for dominance within the pack. The two siblings will very often gang up on the third dog, and it is not unknown for them to seriously injure, or even kill, a third dog introduced into the home. This is not only for the health and happiness of both you and the dog, but many sibling dogs soon find themselves back in a shelter because of the difficulties associated with raising them. When I went to obedience class with Linus there were sibling Husky mix dogs in the class. They literally could not be 20 feet apart. They would whine and yelp until they were back together. Before You Get Sibling Puppies Ask Yourself… So you should seriously consider whether you are prepared to raise sibling puppies before agreeing to take them home. Ask yourself: Are you going to be able to look after them financially? Twice the food, twice the toys, twice the vet trips? Do you have time to give both dogs the individual attention they require? Are they a sociable breed that is more likely to get along with other dogs, or are they a problematic breed? You can learn more about picking the right dog breed for you here. Do you have a family member who can take on responsibility for one of the pups? Also, consider the gender of the puppies you are adopting. Puppies of the same gender are much more likely to fight as a result of their pack instincts. If you get a male and a female puppy, you have the risk of them breeding unless you choose to have them spayed and neutered. Suffice it to say, there is a lot to consider before taking on this kind of responsibility. Here are the things we think are the most important: 1. Invest In Crate Training Crate training is one of the most effective training tools. While some people consider it cruel to confine a pup in this way, this is looking at it from a human rather than a dog perspective. Not only does the crate contain them, but it also gives them a secure place to call their own, where they can retreat when things get stressful. They are also less likely to get stressed out by you overreacting to any accidents or mishaps. So, in this way, the crate can make you both feel better. It also means the puppies can be near you, inside their crates, when they also have to be restricted. Crates one each are the most effective and human way to keep the puppies apart without causing them serious anxiety. We purchased this crate for our first puppy, Linus, over 15 years ago and still use the exact same crate today. It is adorable! But when you bring your litter puppy siblings home, that needs to come to an end. Sleeping together forms a deep and unbreakable bond, which is lovely but will make them impossible to control when they are together, and undermine their ability to bond with you and the other members of your household. Sibling puppies should sleep separately. You might not want to do this from day one. Being introduced to a new home can already be a challenging and scary experience, so ripping them away from their sleep buddy at the same time just seems cruel. But you should have them sleeping separately within two weeks of bringing them home. If they are sleeping in crates, as we recommend, you can start with the crates next to each other and then slowly move them further apart. Rip off the band-aid. Some puppies will bark in the crate on their first night while others do just fine from day one. We got our most recent puppy, Elsa, from a breeder and she started the process of separating her pups in crates at 5 weeks old, several weeks before puppies went to their new homes. This will only reinforce their strong and exclusive bond with one another, and make it more difficult for them to bond with you and other human family members. While you will certainly do things together, you will also want to do things alone with each of them. You should maintain this until they are at least one year of age, and probably long beyond this. This means walking them separately, playing with them separately, taking them to the vet separately. This is why sibling puppies are a huge time investment. They should also have their own possessions. They should never share leashes, bowls, or toys. You should even feed them separately, in separate parts of the home, or one at a time with the other waiting in the crate. Invest In Professional Training Training is also something that should be done separately. Not only will the professional trainer be able to guide you on a thorough training process, but the act of being in the class with other dogs will be an essential part of the socialization process. If at all possible, the sibling pups should not be part of the same class. If they are, they should be kept separate and cared for by two different family members, both during the course and when doing homework exercises. You can read other puppy training tips here. Use Their Names If you want your dogs to be able to distinguish which one of them you are calling, it is very important that you use their names from day one. Monitor Domineering Behavior You will need to monitor the bonding that is happening between your pups, as there will be a tendency for one to try to dominate the other. You can limit the likelihood of domineering behavior by ensuring that you treat the puppies equally. Socialize With Older Dogs It is not uncommon to hear people say that puppies will socialize and teach one another. But this is a case of the blind leading the blind, and usually reinforced negative behavior. So you just end up with two misbehaving pups. However, pups do learn good habits and socialization from older dogs. So, do what you can to let them spend time, separately, with older dogs. Raising two sibling puppies at home can be easier if you already have an older dog, who is likely to take on a parental role and occupy the position of leader. You can keep sibling puppies together, but it is generally not advisable. This is because the sibling puppies have a tendency to form a close bond that undermines their bond with the human members of their household. This makes it much more difficult to train and control them. Also, while having two puppies means they always have a playmate, rather than keeping one another out of trouble, they are more likely to egg one another on and get into even more trouble. It is challenging to raise two puppies together because their natural tendencies as siblings can make it more difficult for them to integrate into a broader household. While you might think that it is an economy of scale raising two together, this is not the case, as they will need everything to be separate and double: twice the food, twice the gear including everything from leads to crates , and twice the veterinary bills. Why Do Sibling Puppies Fight? Dogs are pack animals, so it is natural for them to bond—and also natural for them to fight for dominance. While sibling puppies will play-fight, they will also fight to be the dominant member of their pack of two. This is much more common when the two puppies are of the same gender. For this reason, if you are adopting sibling pups, it is advisable to get a male and a female pup, as long as they are neutered and spayed to prevent breeding. Can Littermates Eat Together? They should either eat in separate places in the home or at separate times, with the other dog waiting in the crate. This is essential for teaching the dogs the difference between their food and that of their sibling. It is probably best to maintain this practice for about the first year. After this, you may be able to place their bowls alongside one another, but you will need to monitor this for the first few weeks. Yes, puppies from the same litter need lots of individual attention. This is about them forming a bond with you. If you want the puppies to bond with you, they are going to need to do this without the distracting attention of their sibling nearby. So, it is a good idea to take dogs out for walks and play separately for at least the first year, and probably longer. Yes, it is better to have two dogs of the opposite sex. This is because dogs are pack animals and will naturally vie to be the alpha male or female of the pack. Therefore, two dogs of the same gender are much more likely to fight. However, if you get two dogs of opposite genders, you need to consider how you will prevent them from breeding unless you are planning on having at least one of them neutered or spayed. The ideal age gap between dogs is about two years. This means that the first dog has been fully trained and is settled in the home, but is still active and energetic and so will be able to keep up with the new puppy addition. My first puppy Linus stayed young and energetic and loved playing with younger puppies right up to his final days. By that age, he was done playing with energetic puppies and would rather rest on his bed. The Verdict It is generally not advisable to take home two puppies from the same litter. This is because their special bond represents a challenge that will make it more difficult for them to bond with you. This makes it harder to train them and gives them a tendency for disobedience. However, if you do decide to take home sibling puppies, there are things you can do to make a success of it. The key to this is managing their tendency to become involved with one another to the exclusion of all other things and to foster their bond with you. And the key to this is giving them individual attention, and keeping them separate at important times such as when eating and sleeping. While it is certainly challenging, it is rewarding to see two happy pups successfully integrated into your family. Have you ever raised sibling puppies? Were you successful or did they form a close bond with each other rather than with the family? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. Aside from forcing you to get more active, having a canine friend can reduce stress for people of all ages. For starters, vaccinations start at weeks old and should be spaced out every two weeks. Golden retrievers have a reputation for being some of the best dog breeds for families. Are you looking to bring home a golden retriever puppy? Read on for an in-depth golden retriever guide to prepare you for your new best friend for life. Are Golden Retrievers Good Dogs? Of course, all dogs are the best boys and girls and deserve all the belly rubs in the world! However, when people ask if a golden retriever is a good dog, they want to know if the breed is a good fit for them. Some dogs also require extensive maintenance and can be too much for a beginner dog handler. For people wanting to make sure a golden is good for their lifestyle, the quick answer is yes. Golden retrievers are an all-around versatile breed for all kinds of people and are the best dogs you could ask for. Golden retrievers are amazing with kids and make for great family dogs. Goldens are a gentle bunch, and their intelligence and patience are often under-appreciated. They can handle household noise and curious toddlers with the patience of a saint. As a breed, they are well known for their loving, patient, gentle, and fun-loving nature. This is largely a result of upbringing and conditioning, as any dog can become aggressive if mistreated. If you want a friendly golden retriever, do your part and give them the love and care they need. Golden Retrievers Are Affectionate Goldens are affectionate and are sure to get along with any dog or person they meet. This is why you often see them excelling as therapy, comfort, and emotional support dogs. Golden Retrievers Have Wonderful Personalities There is nothing to not like about the personalities of this breed. They love to have fun, but they also like going with the flow. Given their history as hunting dogs, golden retrievers are curious and will go often go exploring if you let them. They also have plenty of courage and work ethic, making them great working dogs. Golden retrievers will always want to greet strangers and sneak a chance at some playtime. This makes them a poor choice to defend your home, as they might befriend the intruder instead. If you want a guard dog, a golden retriever may fall short of its responsibilities. They Can Be Mischievous This one should be obvious for anyone scrolling social media. Goldens have a penchant for tomfoolery and mischief, which can often be hilarious. Golden retriever puppies are particularly notorious for this. Part of this stems from their natural curiosity but also their relaxed and loving nature. While temperament is often a genetic arch-type and can differ from dog to dog, most of it is solid. This is a huge factor for families with multiple dogs or a cat. They May Have Trouble Behaving in Public Because goldens are so friendly, they sometimes have trouble behaving in public. Their temperament naturally pulls them toward new potential friends. You can work on these through socialization and by going slow. Take them to less crowded or busy places first, and work your way up until they get the hang of it. Keep an eye out for body language and physical contact. As we said, some of this comes built in, but you also have to work on it. There are two major things you need to do. If you want to ensure your golden has that loveable personality, start socializing them at a young age. Training is a must, and golden retrievers are usually eager to please. It also helps to get a puppy from a reputable breeder, not from any pet store or puppy mill. At My Golden Retriever Puppies , we breed and raise our puppies with the love and attention they deserve. Golden Retriever Traits Aside from personality and temperament, goldens have great traits. These include their trainability, intelligence, and energy levels. It also includes behaviors to watch out for, like chewing. For a quick dive, keep reading. Golden Retrievers Are Smart Golden retrievers are much more intelligent than people give them credit for. A great example is how the police love using them as sniffers and tracking dogs. As long as you put in the work, your golden will be able to flex its stuff. This has a lot to do with their intelligence and obedient and loving personality. Golden Retrievers Need Exercise Despite being pretty flexible with their energy levels, Goldens still need to exercise. Examples of this include frequent zoomies around the house or getting into messes. They Can Be Chewers Goldens can be chewers, and this stems from adolescence. Teething golden puppies will chew anything they can get their hands on. A great way to handle this is training and exercise. Goldens need stimulation. Playing tug of war or fetch is a great way to address that bad chewing habit. They are cute and smart, easy to train and grow up to be fantastic family dogs. Visit us today to bring the newest addition to your family home. A golden retriever is happy, loyal, affectionate, non-aggressive, and almost always friendly. They get along with almost everyone, including kids, strangers, and other animals. Do Golden Retrievers Bark a lot? For example, your puppy may boop things with their nose or use their paws to communicate. Are Golden Retrievers Well Behaved? Golden retrievers are some of the most well-behaved dogs out there. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Golden Retrievers are wonderful, right? Well then, of course everyone should have one. Either way, it is vital that you examine your own lifestyle, needs and wants to see if a golden is right for you. And, conversely, you need to evaluate if you can meet the needs of a golden retriever. If you can, we can attest to the fact that owning a golden is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have! They are addicting and people seldom have just one in their lifetimes. Here are a few things to consider: Size Goldens are medium to large sized animals. The standard size for males range from 23 — 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh proportionally from pounds. Females stand around .They normally possess extremely active tails making clean sweeps of coffee and end tables. Quite simply they need room. Uncluttered houses are a must! A fenced in yard is especially important in providing the dog enough exercise. Another option is a fenced dog park or walking trail. You must have a plan to give your golden enough exercise on a daily basis or both of you will be miserable. The younger the golden, the more exercise they generally need. Velcro Dog Goldens are faithful companions. They are usually always by your side, many will follow you from room to room. They will lie in the kitchen while you cook and at your feet while you watch TV. They must be near their humans to be happy. Be prepared to do a lot of hands on petting with your golden — they love it. Some goldens are downright needy in their desire for attention from their humans. Leashes You may have visions of letting your dog play fetch in an open field or running free on the beach. As a sporting dog they are easily distracted by birds, animals or moving objects; they must be kept leashed when being exercised outside of a fenced yard to keep them from running off. Shedding In Florida, goldens shed moderately all year long. Brushing every other day is to your advantage. If you require a fastidiously kept house, a golden is not the dog for you unless you like to do a lot of cleaning. You will always have dog hair around, especially in rugs, on furniture, and OH YES, occasionally even in your food. With a golden in your house, hair becomes a condiment. Oh — and you will have to vacuum much more often than before — or little fur balls will accumulate along your baseboards! Make sure you have a really good vacuum cleaner that you love using before bringing a golden into your home. Health Goldens are prone to allergies, skin problems, cancer and hypothyroidism and you may have to spend a fair amount on vet care over the life of a golden. Common inherited health issues are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various eye problems and heart disease. That is relatively cheap compared to if your dog has a health issue and requires veterinary care which today runs as much as human health care. Setting aside a monthly amount for a future emergency is a must. There are also quality pet insurance programs available. Goldens must be fed a high quality premium food to prevent costly skin problems — which means you will not be able to buy your food at the grocery or discount store — and will have to make a special trip to the pet supply store. There are other expenses such as toys, collars and leashes, brushes, shampoos and soft cozy beds. A well cared for dog, like its human counterpart, is happier with regular checkups and daily care. Grooming Goldens can be adequately groomed at home without expensive equipment. Grooming includes brushing, bathing, trimming hair from the pads of the feet, light trimming on ears, tails and back legs when necessary, and trimming nails. Neatness Goldens are easily housebroken and make great housedogs. They tend to be messy drinkers, dripping water on the floor after they take their drink. You might even encounter a little slobber. Training Goldens are usually easy to potty train and make great house dogs. Many owners wish to make their goldens into good canine citizens. Moreover, goldens tend to be sensitive or soft in many training situations. They must be handled carefully with a loving, firm, but gentle approach. The end result is a well-mannered dog that is a joy to be around. Small Children People automatically assume goldens are the perfect dog for a family with children. Golden puppies quickly grow up to be rambunctious, strong bundles of energy that easily can play too rough with young children, especially when they are 6 months to two years of age. Though they may bark and growl defensively, when it comes down to brass tacks — they will gladly hold the flashlight for the burglar and give them a big kiss. Outside Dogs Goldens make poor outside dogs. Especially in Florida, they develop skin problems and flea allergies if kept outside. They frequently develop thunderstorm anxiety. As sporting dogs they are easily able to dig out of a fence or sometimes climb over it when left outside for long periods of unsupervised time because they want to be with people. They also are frequent targets for theft if left outside in a backyard when the owner is away from home. Goldens are very social and are pack oriented. They frequently develop behavior problems when they are kept separated from their families. A happy golden is an inside dog. Male or Female? Many people are fixated on getting a female golden, thinking that females are more laid back and affectionate than males. This is not true. Male goldens are blessed with loving personalities. Many people call them big teddy bears and even prefer male over female goldens. Well, there you have it — the inside scoop on owning a golden. Goldens Rescued Since .However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped!