english bulldog mixed with boxer puppies for sale

We all know cats are typically the fur family members to use a litter box. But what about dogs? Are there any good arguments for litter box training your canine friend? A dog litter box? Or an artificial grass pad? So I rarely advise pet parents to skip this opportunity. That said, there are a few instances when using a dog litter box is preferable. Is it right for your dog? This is especially true if you have a small dog, or tiny tinkler as I call them, since they often have more difficulty holding their urine than bigger dogs. This leads to more accidents in the house and bigger frustrations, which puts a damper on your relationship. I wrote an entirely different article that goes into more detail about why your dog is peeing in the house. But if you live in an area that sees several feet of snow or is primarily paved and gets very hot, an indoor dog litter box might actually be safer for your pet. You or Your Dog Have Mobility Issues If you or your dog have mobility issues, dog litter box training might be a good idea. Some companies, like doggybathroom. All you need to do is change out the pads and keep the inside clean. This can be a good option for medium-sized dogs that raise their leg to pee. The downside is the cost. The pee pads are disposable and will need to be replaced frequently. If you want to use dog litter, the sides of the litter box should be low enough for your dog to easily step over but high enough to contain the litter. Now what about artificial grass pads? The initial investment for a grass pad like this one is minimal. Can Dogs Use Cat Litter? Yes, technically, dogs can use cat litter. However, cat litter can be harmful if ingested, which is a risk since our canine friends are known to eat strange things from time to time. Dog litter typically consists of larger, more absorbent pellets, which are safer if ingested. Some are also made with recycled material, like wood or paper. Pin me! Whether you choose a litter box or a grass pad, will your dog really use it? This is the million doggie bone question. Can pet parents actually get their pups to use a dog litter box? In many cases, the answer is yes, you can. Trying to contain a Bull Mastiff in a box while they do their business would be quite a feat! And large dogs tend to raise their leg to pee, so the sides of the dog litter box would have to be very high to avoid soaking surrounding objects. Step 1: Find the Right Spot When house training dogs, we usually bring them outside. Do this by getting a paper towel or pee pad containing a little of their urine and placing it where you want them to go. Step 3: Praise Them for Using the Right Spot Again, just as you would do if training a dog to go outside, be sure to give them lots of praise and some training treats when they do their business in the right spot. But with time, your dog will understand how to use their new pee spot. And of course, you want your home to be sanitary. Why Dog Litter Box Training Could Be Good for You and Your Pup One of the biggest differences between owning a cat and a dog is the responsibility that comes along with your pet needing to use the bathroom. Most cats conveniently use an indoor litter box that you have to clean once or twice a day, whereas dogs require being taken outside to do their business. So, what options are you left with? Fortunately, given how intelligent dogs are, they are more than capable of learning how to use a litter box just like their feline friends. Dog litter box training is very similar to cat litter box training; as the concept is the same, but the execution is different. Cat litter boxes are pretty standard across the board, consisting of a small plastic box, sometimes with a roof, filled with litter. The litter soaks up urine and creates a clump, and covers feces, making litter boxes much more pleasant to have in a home. Dog litter boxes, on the other hand, are slightly different. Rather than a box filled with litter, a dog litter box is larger and consists of a flat area covered in artificial grass. The goal is to replicate an atmosphere similar to being outdoors. Instead of litter clumping together in the area where the animal has relieved themselves, a dog litter box is designed to make any liquid flow through holes in the patch of grass into a plastic base underneath. Many litter boxes design the plastic base to act as a funnel, directing any liquid to a hole at the bottom of the box. This hole can either have a hose attached to it, or it can lead to an empty basin, which gathers liquid that passes through the box. Shortly after your dog uses the litter box, you should thoroughly clean it. To clean the box, just wet the grass with a watering can or cup. The water flushes through the grass and flows through the basin and hose. Dog Training Tips for Using a Litter Box The following tips can be applied to all dogs, from puppies to senior pets, to effectively train them to use the litter box. Find an enclosed area within your home that you can cover in either pee pads or newspapers. Give your dog a normal serving of water. Place your dog in their crate for minutes, and then let them out in the covered area for five minutes to see if they go to the bathroom. If they do, reward them with treats and time outside of the crate. If not, repeat the process again beginning with minutes in the crate. Encouragement and rewarding your dog for pottying in the proper place is crucial, as this will reinforce their positive behavior and allow it to develop into a habit. Benefits of Dog Litter Box Training There are plenty of benefits for both dogs and their owners when it comes to dog litter box training. First and foremost, it allows puppies to become familiar with the process of relieving themselves in the comfort of their own home. For a young dog, being able to relieve themselves whenever they need to and not having to wait takes any anxiety away from the process. Not being able to go to the bathroom when they need to can result in the development of various health problems. A litter box gives dogs a safe area in which they can go to the bathroom in their home and not be punished, which makes for a happier dog. It also provides flexibility for owners who work long hours or are unable to stop home to let their dogs out on a consistent basis. For dog owners who live in big cities with limited access to grassy areas, it provides a place for pets to conveniently take care of business on their own. Proper management and supervision are crucial to successful house training. Until your puppy is fully house trained, make sure your puppy is always either managed or supervised. Management can mean several things. The Frisco Tie Out Cable is useful for this purpose—just make sure to set it up so the puppy can only access a puppy-proofed area while tethered. Confined To help prevent peeing on the floor, confine the puppy in an area with potty pads. The potty pads are especially important if the puppy will have to wait a long time between potty breaks. Tile is easier to clean in case of accidents. You can also set up a free-standing confinement area using an ex-pen such as the Frisco Dog Exercise Pen. Wondering how to train your dog to use dog pee pads? Find out more here. Crated If you are going to crate train your puppy, make sure the puppy is comfortable in the crate. It should be just big enough for your puppy to turn around and lie down, but not much larger. If your puppy keeps scaling barriers, another option is to tether the puppy to an object in a puppy-proofed area, using the foot Frisco Tie Out Cable. See the best-selling and top-rated dog crates tested and approved by dog parents, like you. Outdoors some of the time Pottying that happens outside is an opportunity for positive reinforcement for going in the right place, and the more often you reinforce appropriate pottying, the faster your puppy will be house trained. The person supervising should be actively looking at and interacting with the puppy at all times. That gives the person much better odds of noticing if the puppy seems to need to potty or is starting to squat. Important Note on Crate Training A young puppy should never be crated for more than a couple of hours, except overnight. Your puppy might not be able to hold it very long. Keep crate time to a couple of hours or less, except at night. Take your puppy out at least once every 30 minutes. Take your puppy out on leash. It also keeps the puppy from running around and getting distracted by all the interesting things around them. Give your puppy five minutes, watching the whole time to see if the puppy pees or poops. Quietly watch the puppy. By standing still, you keep the puppy in a small enough area that they will get bored with exploring fairly quickly and focus on pottying faster. By keeping quiet, you help your puppy stay focused on pottying, instead of interacting with you. Praise and offer a treat if the puppy pees or poops outside within five minutes. Wait until the puppy has finished pottying. Take puppy to a confinement area for 10 to 20 minutes. After 10 or 20 minutes, go back to Step 1. After the puppy pees or poops, give the puppy off-leash fun time. Giving your puppy off-leash fun time once the puppy pees or poops teaches the puppy that pottying leads to more fun. Most importantly, avoid the common mistake of confining the puppy right after they potty. If you bring the puppy back to their confinement area right after a successful mission, they learn that pottying ends the fun. Then they may start to wait longer and longer to potty, which is the opposite of what you want, right? Repeat these steps throughout the day. Give your puppy lots of chances to potty in an appropriate potty area. Then use positive reinforcement treats, play, praise to encourage your puppy to keep pottying in those areas. The more times your puppy gets it right and the fewer times your puppy has an accident , the faster your puppy will learn the routine. Download our Puppy Walking Schedule printable , to help you keep track. Cheat Sheet Take your puppy to a potty area outdoors or indoors on leash at least once every 30 minutes while you are home and awake. At night, one or two outings are enough for most puppies. Stand still and quietly watch to see if the puppy pees or poops. Praise and offer a treat as soon as the puppy pees or poops outside. After the puppy pees or poops, play with the puppy outdoors, or give puppy up to 15 minutes of carefully supervised time in the house whichever the puppy prefers. Expert Tip Create a house training chart or use a notepad to keep track of when and where the puppy pees and poops, so you can learn their patterns Download our Puppy Potty Training Chart printable , to help you keep track. In time, the chart will help you figure out what areas should be off-limits for now and if you can skip a minute potty break here and there. In addition to regular minute potty breaks, take your puppy to the potty area at these likely potty times: After eating After five to 10 minutes of play or other vigorous activity Immediately after waking up from a nap Get your puppy on a feeding schedule One good way to get pottying under control is to put your puppy on a feeding schedule. In addition to pottying right after eating, many puppies potty again some regular period of time after eating. If you note a when you feed your puppy and b when your puppy potties between meals, you can start to find patterns. Use your notes to make sure your puppy always goes out to a potty area at the right times after eating. With a feeding schedule , you give your puppy regular meals, at regular times, rather than leaving the food bowl out all the time. Fixed meal times make it easier to set up a schedule of potty breaks. The right feeding schedule depends on age, size and more, so ask your veterinarian to help you figure out a feeding schedule for your puppy. Download our Puppy Feeding Schedule printable. What if my puppy potties in the wrong place? If you see your puppy having an accident, calmly take the puppy outside and then praise and offer a treat for going in the right place. Fight the urge to yell or scold! This is because puppies often misinterpret punishment to mean they shouldn't potty in front of you. The nuance that the punishment was about pottying indoors may be totally lost on them. Identify the spot and use a cleaner designed for pet stains, such as Nature's Miracle or Skout's Honor. After you clean, get on your hands and knees and sniff the area to make sure the smell is gone. Related Articles. A corner of the living room, dining room or other area where family regularly gathers is an ideal location. Crate location is particularly important at night, especially for young puppies who often need to go out for a potty trip at least once before morning. Keep one in the common area where your pup will hang out during the day, and one where they sleep at night. How to Crate Train a Dog: Step by Step One of the secrets to kennel training success is giving your dog plenty of time to feel comfortable inside the crate before closing the door and leaving them alone for the first time. Spend as much time as you need on each step to ensure that your dog feels content and stress-free. Ready to dive into crate training? You can also entice your dog with a busy toy stuffed with treats—anything to make that crate as appealing as possible! Stay happy and upbeat as your puppy explores the crate, making sure to give lots of praise when they go inside. At this stage, keep the door open. Practice this step as many times as necessary for your dog to get comfortable in the crate. At this stage, the choice to go into the crate is up to your pup. If your dog is hesitant to go inside, you can give treats to reward baby steps in the right direction, like if they glance at it or take a step towards it. These small successes will encourage your pup to keep it up! Then, provide a lightly stuffed busy toy for them to enjoy inside the crate. Stay nearby as they enjoy the goodies, and experiment with closing the door while your pup is enjoying the toys and treats inside. Let your dog out right after they finish the treats, or at any barking, whimpering or pawing at the crate that might indicate they want to come out. Again, keep at this step until your dog seems relaxed and shows no signs of stress inside the crate. Listen at the door for whines or barks that tell you your pup is ready to come out. But at this stage, your dog may surprise you by settling into the crate easily. In fact, if you time your play session, potty break and crate time properly, you might just return to discover a napping pup in the crate! If your pup remains content inside, try leaving the house for a short period of time. This is especially important for puppies, whose "hold time" is still developing. Doing so might force them to soil inside. That means a 4-month-old puppy can hold it for about four hours. Remember, play and excitement can make your pup need to go out more frequently, too. For adult dogs, avoid crating them for more than four hours. That means that you should plan for a mid-day break if you'll be leaving your dog crated during the work day. Feeding your dog's meals in their crate with the door open can help to make it a positive spot. The crate should never be used for punishment. Check out our tips on dealing with dog separation anxiety and puppy separation anxiety in particular, and talk to your vet for advice tailored to your unique pup. Read More. Here at Parsons Place Stable, all our puppies are litter box trained. We start the puppies on newspaper around 3wks old, then by 4wks we offer a litter box or area with shavings or pellets, the puppies naturally figure out how to use it. In our whelping rooms the puppies have access to a doggy door, which goes out directly into a litter box. Dogs by natural instinct typically do not wish to eliminate themselves where they sleep, so the puppies go out the door and use the box. But, by the time the puppies are 8wks old, they have got it down almost perfectly! The main key to litter box training for puppies, is to keep their space very small. There should only be room for thier bed, food dishes and 1 or 2 litter boxes. As they get better their space is allowed to get larger. We recommend the puppies using a litter box after they go to their new homes. Puppies have no bladder control until after they are 16wks old. They typically need to go out to relieve themselves every hour. If you are like me.This is where the litter box training comes in really handy! If you can set up your puppies home space with a litter box, you will not have to worry as much about if they need to go potty. I have found no issues with housebreaking after using the litter boxes. We still take our puppies outside to potty as often as we can, this way they still get rewarded for using the bathroom outside. This is our whelping room. It is heated and cooled as needed. Each room has a doggy door that opens to the outside, for the mother to get a break from the puppies or as the puppies get older, a place for them to go potty. This is a view from the outside of the whelping room. These puppies are now old enough to go in and out and use the potty in their shavings. On many occasions, once the puppies are weaned we will move the puppies - to our new kennel. Here if the weather is bad outside, the puppies will learn to go only in thier litter box. This room is plenty large enough for the puppies to get lots of playtime outside of their kennel but not have to go outside in the cold. They also get TONS of visitors and attention from all our riding lesson families! Once you take your new puppy home, we recommend you set up something like this. In our home we use a 48" crate with a litter box and a dog bed. This way the puppy can still use the potty even if I can not get him outside. This not only keeps the bed clean, but gives your puppy something to lay on. As you see Pazley loves it up there! Keep the side height around or under 6 inches. If you have a very small puppy you may wish to cut a doorway into the box, as shown above in our crate. Please take your new puppy outside to potty as much as possible and reward them Greatly when they go!! Please feel free to call me with any questions!! The process of training a puppy or even an adult dog to learn the appropriate time and place to eliminate takes determination and patience. The key is to remember that successful potty training is based on repetition and positive reinforcement instead of punishment. So how do you potty train a puppy? And what if you have adopted an adult dog that is not potty trained? How to Potty Train a Puppy Potty training should begin with developing a schedule that both you and your dog can follow. Take Your Puppy Out Often New puppies, especially those under 12 weeks of age, should be taken outside every one to two hours. This high frequency is because puppies 12 weeks and younger are still developing their bladder control and are more likely to have accidents in the house. Feed your dog each meal at the same time each day. They will naturally eliminate shortly after eating, so developing a consistent feeding schedule can avoid confusion and accidents in the house. Use Crate Training as an Aid to Potty Training Crate training is a very effective tool to help not only with potty training your puppy, but also with creating a safe place for your puppy to call home. Dogs are naturally den animals, so their instincts will tell them to find a quiet place to eat and rest. Dogs do not like to eliminate where they sleep or eat, so training your puppy to be comfortable in a crate is a great way to prevent them from having accidents inside. The crate should never be used as punishment, but it should be used whenever your puppy cannot be directly supervised, and for naptime and bedtime. Choosing the correct crate size is extremely important, especially for large-breed dogs that grow rapidly during puppyhood. Keep in mind that your puppy should only have enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably—any more room will give your dog room to rest in one corner and pee or poop in the other. Many crates come with a divider that can be moved as your puppy grows. Each time your puppy eliminates outside, immediately reward them with verbal praise, treats, or a favorite toy. The reward should immediately follow the event so that your puppy makes a positive association with eliminating outside. Learning the clues or signals that indicate your puppy needs to eliminate will prevent unnecessary accidents in the house. Most dogs will sniff, make circles, wander off, whine, or sit by the door to indicate they need to go to the bathroom. Put Your Puppy on a Leash for Potty Breaks You should always put your puppy on a leash when you go outside for a potty break. This will not only help get them comfortable with being on a leash , but you will also be right there to reward the good behavior. After giving a positive reward, play with your puppy outside for a few minutes to avoid creating a negative connection with returning inside. Don'ts of Potty Training a Puppy You may have heard some conflicting advice on house training a puppy. Use Potty Pads Puppy pee pads should not be used as a substitute for going outside, unless you have a special situation such as living in a high-rise apartment or have limited mobility. This may slow down the potty-training process and should be avoided, if possible. Use Punishment Instead of Positive Reinforcement Punishment is never an acceptable or successful training method. Instead, punishment teaches your puppy to become fearful of their human parents or other people who try to punish them. Remember that potty training takes patience and kindness! Keep Inconsistent Schedules Failing to adhere to a consistent potty break and feeding schedule can create confusion for your puppy, therefore leading to more accidents in the house. The more frequent trips outside, the better! The more often your puppy is allowed to successfully eliminate outside, the more quickly they will become potty trained. How to Potty Train an Adult Dog Potty training an adult dog can be very similar to training a puppy, depending on the circumstances. Most adult dogs can be successfully potty trained in a month or less. If it has been over a month and you are still having trouble, you may need to speak to your veterinarian or a trainer for additional advice. Here are some more tips to potty train your adult dog successfully. Set a Schedule As with puppies, potty training an adult dog should begin with developing a schedule that both you and your dog can follow. This includes feeding your dog two meals daily at the same time each day. Adult dogs also naturally eliminate shortly after eating, so developing a consistent schedule of eating and potty breaks can avoid confusion and accidents in the house. This can be accomplished with baby gates or crate training. As your dog becomes potty-trained, you can gradually increase the amount of space that they have access to. Like puppies, they do not like to eliminate where they sleep or eat, so they will avoid eliminating in a crate they have come to call home. Again, the crate you use to train your dog should only have enough room for them to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down. While you are potty training, your dog should be crated during naptime, bedtime, and whenever they cannot be directly supervised. Adult dogs may take more time to adjust to a crate. If your dog is showing signs of stress or anxiety with crate training, contact your veterinarian. Each time your dog eliminates outside, reward them with verbal praise, treats, or a favorite toy. Just as with puppies, positive reinforcement will teach your adult dog that they get rewarded for going to the bathroom outside. Give the reward immediately after your dog eliminates outside so they make a positive association with that behavior. Just like puppies, adult dogs often sit by the door, whine, wander off, sniff, or make circles when they need to go to the bathroom. This ensures you will be close by to reward their good behavior. After giving a positive reward, remember to play with your dog outside for a few minutes to avoid creating a negative connection between eliminating and returning inside. This may slow down the potty-training process and should be avoided if possible. Never hit your dog with anything or rub their face in their excrement when they have an accident—these outdated tactics have been proven ineffective. Dogs that are punished will often become fearful of the people punishing them. Potty training can be frustrating, but remember to practice patience and kindness—no matter how old your dog is! Keep Inconsistent Schedules Failing to adhere to a regular routine can confuse your dog, leading to potty accidents in the house. The more opportunities your dog has for successful elimination outside, the faster potty training will go! She completed a certificate in.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Pin It Dogs have been living side by side with people since people were still nomadic. It seems equally unsurprising that studies have recently shown that dogs, on the whole, prefer women to men. Our modern lives have taken us out of caves, given us rabies vaccines, the 19th Amendment and introduced some new problems. Work hours are long. The night is dark. Weather can be inclement. Be that as it may, litter training works best for small breed dogs and puppies. The idea of a Great Dane using a litter box is comical but also a logistical nightmare if you think about it. The first option is the most obvious: a conventional litter box. A dog box is bigger than a cat box, has higher sides and no top. Most dog litter is made of recycled newspaper but there are also clay options. Next up is the pee pad holder. They have plastic undersides and are absorbent to soak up and contain any urine. They are designed for use during housebreaking and were meant to replace the tradition of puppies peeing on newspapers. The problem? Dogs love to shred them and scatter the bits through the house like gross confetti. I think my dog could figure it out. He loves puzzles. Plastic grate-style litter boxes will be the first one I try next time I have a puppy. When your puppy needs to use the loo they just hop up and do what they came to do. The solid waste stays on top of the grate so you can pick it up and do whatever you do with poop. Personally, I flush it. The urine goes down into the shallow box where it is absorbed by either a pee pad or litter, depending on the model. One of the more high-tech offerings is Fresh Patch, which made its debut on Shark Tank and is hydroponically grown grass in a box. Hydroponic means it was grown without dirt. No dirt means no digging. Your dog is supposed to pee and poop in it until the grass gives up the ghost and dies. Then you throw the whole biodegradable mess away. Dogs love it. It can get pricey depending on how often you replace the grass and the size of your dog. If you have one dog, the grass needs replaced every two to three weeks. The price is based on the size of the box, which is based on the size of your dog. Can you put a price on not stepping in a puddle? There are also synthetic grass options that you wash and reuse instead of tossing and replacing, which is more economical. Watch for signs the puppy needs to go, such as sniffing or beginning to squat. Puppies should be taken potty once an hour for the first week; then gradually increase the length of time between potty times. The puppy should also be taken potty 15 minutes after every meal until he starts taking himself. When this happens, praise your puppy like he just discovered gold in your backyard. A high-value treat helps, too. If your puppy has an accident, make sure you clean it with something designed to clean up pet urine, though, or this will be a recurring problem. Yelling at the puppy, rubbing his nose in the accident or hitting the puppy will do nothing but confuse him. The most important part is to be consistent and patient. Valid for any purchase, today! Set up an exercise pen and cover the floor inside the area with newspapers or potty pads. Give your dog dog broth to drink in order to get lots of repetitions and begin work on this over the weekend. Crate your dog, and then every 30 minutes place him in the pen for 5 minutes set a timer. If he "goes". If he doesn't "go", then back in the crate for another 30 minutes. Continue to feed your dog broth. Once he is pottying on the smaller area of papers or pads, transfer the papers or pads into the final potty area or "litter box". If your dog is comfortable now using the potty area, the next step is to leave the exercise pen door open and after you take him out of his crate, encourage him to go in by himself to potty. You are almost there! Now you can remove the exercise pen and take your dog out of the crate and watch carefully so that you can encourage pottying in the potty area. Now, move the potty area to it's final place and work on getting your dog to use it in that location. Once your dog is going to the potty area and "going" with your guidance, you can remove the crate and simply supervise of course rewarding any breakthroughs. A Male Wrap might be a helpful preventative for your boy dogs at this stage. You may need to encourage your dog to go to his potty area from areas in the house that are farther away. If there are any accidents, you will want to increase your supervision and decrease the amount of freedom your dog has. You can decrease freedom by keeping your dog in a small area such as a crate, pen or indoor tether.

To get started with BarkBox , I selected a monthly plan and then filled out a brief questionnaire about Pickles, which included providing her weight, sex, and applicable food allergies. Once I filled out the questionnaire, I was able to choose between picking that month's predetermined box theme March was SpongeBob SquarePants or leaving the theme up to the BarkBox gods. I went for the latter, which gave me a thrill, if I do say so myself. According to the BarkBox website, most boxes are shipped out and delivered within five business days, so after I paid, I anxiously waited to see what BarkBox had in store for me and Pickles. BarkBox also offers a Super Chewers box for dogs who require their toys to be a little more indestructible. I was pretty disappointed to discover there was no promotion or discount for first-time customers unless I signed up for a six-month or annual plan—a lot of other pet subscription services at least incentivize new customers with a little perk for customers to subscribe longer. Delivery and Packaging I will say that at first glance, the box was a lot smaller than I anticipated—a lot of the company's promotional photos show overflowing boxes with oodles of toys and treats to gawk at. I could hold the little box in one hand, and I have tiny hands. As someone who has treated herself to multiple human subscription boxes before, I was a little surprised. Maddie Topliff However, the delivery was great. My first BarkBox arrived right on time; I placed my order on March 22 and received it on March 27, right in line with BarkBox's five-business-day estimate that's featured on the company's website. The package was also in good shape upon arrival, and I appreciated the folded top design, which helped set up an exciting reveal more on that later. BarkBox ships deliveries in a standard cardboard box, so no problems with recycling it on my end. And if I had to cash in on BarkBox's percent satisfaction guarantee, I could easily relabel the box and send it back as is. Now to the fun part. Immediately after opening the box, I was greeted with a colorful insert that had the box's theme clearly spelled out, which really set the tone for the rest of the box. You can tell that the BarkBox staff works hard on graphic design, which was a treat to discover. Product Quality As hinted at before, I was a little underwhelmed with the number of products included in my BarkBox, especially for the price that I paid. I'm not a mathematician, but based on products I've bought Pickles in the past, I would estimate I spend less on the same amount of items during a normal shopping trip. When it comes to toy quality, both of the toys that we received—one Statue of Liberty bouncy ball and one soft Chinese takeout box—are tied into the cityscape theme well. In fact, they are two of the cutest dog toys I've ever seen. The Chinese takeout box had little dumplings inside, which almost made it function like a puzzle toy, and the Statue of Liberty bouncy ball had a little crown. But Pickles and I were both a little disappointed that each toy was covered in fabric. I wouldn't consider Pickles to be a Super Chewer, but she still likes to play tug-of-war and tear up toys from time to time. I've been hesitant about giving her the Chinese takeout box to play with, due to its soft exterior and squishy dumplings, and I'm not sure if it would last very long. I was pleased, however, to receive a variety of flavors in the edible items that came in my BarkBox. One bag of treats was savory lamb and cheddar cheese , while the other bag was on the sweeter side oatmeal and berries. The chew was right in the middle pumpkin and honey-flavored. But it should be noted that the treats didn't necessarily tie into the city theme, if that's important to you—no New York pizza slice treats in this box. Based on all this information, BarkBox chose the best toy sizes for our dog. Two days later, the box arrived. To my surprise, Gojira found the BarkBox before I could even get to it. Turns out the mailman decided to deliver it right to our backyard. Strange, but the mail works in mysterious ways. As if psychic, Gojira knew the box was his and was halfway through tearing it open in the backyard before I knew what was happening. He was pretty put out when he couldn't open it outside then and there! Despite the mailman's strange mode of delivery, I was pretty impressed while unpacking everything. The box design is fun and playful, the two dog toys were high quality, cute, and incredibly creative. The two bags of treats and the chew were in sleek packaging with tasty flavors listed right on the front. A booklet with instructions and an informational flyer came with it. Here's the breakdown of what arrived in our BarkBox: 2 Toys: The two toys that we received were incredibly cute! One was a fun alien squeaky toy and the other was a UFO squeaky toy. All four dogs agreed that the Cheesy Peasy Soft Bakes were their favorite! Instruction Booklet: The instruction booklet mostly went over what is included in each box every month 2 toys, 2 treat bags, and 1 chew and welcomed us to the pack. It was fun comparing which random toys we received versus what others were included in the themed collection! Given the chance, he would have torn the box completely apart right there in the backyard to get to the new toys and treats. Once it was in the house, Gojira watched with bated breath as the new treasures were unveiled. After a quick peek to see what was inside, I let Gojira pick a toy from the box. At that point, our other puppy Monster X peeked around the corner, curious as to what was going on. Both puppies grabbed a toy and like a bolt of lightning, they were off—sprinting down the hall at high speed, squeaking all the way. It was a magical moment to see them shocked and overjoyed, running through the house with their newfound toys. In all the excitement, the two older dogs in our home came over to see what was going on. Maxx was confused and curious, and even Shiloh who suffers from arthritis limped over to see what all the commotion was about. I felt guilty that there were no more toys in the box, but Maxx and Shiloh are much less toy-obsessed than the younger pups. When I pulled out the bags of treats, though… then I had their full and undivided attention. Even Gojira and Monster X paused their enthusiastic squeaking to run over and beg for treats. The verdict is: they were all delicious. Especially the Cheesy Peasy Soft Bakes. Some of the dogs were so excited about the treats that they nearly ate my hand in the process! It was so much fun for me and the dogs, though, and despite there being only two toys, all four dogs had a blast. Gojira made it pretty clear that he loved the new toys best of all. We could hear him squeaking for the rest of the night! I mentioned before that Gojira is an expert at destroying toys. These were no exception. True to his name, Gojira destroyed both toys within 24 hours. To be fair, he destroys almost all plush squeaky toys within 24 hours! Their early demise didn't put a damper on his fun, though. To this day, he still loves to play with their squeaker-less husks. They love the squeakers, especially! We even sewed the alien back together in an attempt to extend its life. Unfortunately, the UFO could not fit in the sewing machine. After 2 weeks, our older dogs had lost interest in the toys but were still enjoying their treats. Gojira and Monster X continued to play with both toys. As time went on, the special novelty wore off. That isn't to say they stopped enjoying the alien and UFO—but rather that they have become equal in interest to the pups' other toys. Getting BarkBox feels like splurging although who doesn't love to splurge on their dog? The monthly boxes are a bit spendy. But the 6-month and month subscriptions are significantly less per month and honestly, a good deal for the amount of stuff you get. I didn't get this by trying the month-to-month option, but if you opt for the 6-month or month subscription options they will put double the toys and treats into your first box. That really sweetens the deal! BarkBox Price: How much are you going to pay for it? BarkBox costs the same for dogs of all sizes, but the price does vary depending on your subscription length. BarkBox Reviews: What do other dog owners think about this dog subscription box? All in all, BarkBox gets pretty good reviews. Most people love the creative toy designs, the value for the price, and the delicious high-quality treats. The only complaints are for toy durability and the hassle of canceling a subscription. BarkBox Alternatives BarkBox isn't the only box you can buy for your dog. It comes at a similar cost, too. The main difference is that PupBox also takes into account your dog's age—specializing in puppy and senior boxes! It comes with more durable toys that can take a bit of abuse, and its customized boxes take size into account. It's also a similar price to BarkBox. Like the regular BarkBox, each Super Chewer box comes with 2 toys, 2 bags of treats, and a tasty chew. Only downside: the Super Chewer box is more expensive than regular BarkBoxes. RescueBox RescueBox is another great subscription option. It is similarly priced to BarkBox, takes size into account, and includes an option for cats! RescueBox also helps fund food for shelter animals! BarkBox toys are safe to cuddle and squeak. If your dog loves to chew, the Super Chewer option might be a better fit for them. Do BarkBox toys squeak? Yes, BarkBox toys squeak! Our dogs love squeaking them. Does BarkBox have a Return Policy? BarkBoxes cannot be returned. You can email their support team to ask for replacements or a refund, though. Can you cancel your BarkBox subscription? Yes, you can cancel your BarkBox subscription. According to them, if you log into your account, go to your account page, and then go to the subscription settings section, you can cancel right there. I had trouble with this but was able to cancel by email. Does BarkBox replace toys? BarkBox can replace toys. If something doesn't work out you can email their support team for help. Simply put, if your dog is an expert at destroying toys then the Super Chewer Box would be a better fit for them. A regular BarkBox has plush toys with squeakers inside. A Super Chewer Box has sturdier toys intended for rougher play. Where are the BarkBox toys made? Is BarkBox legit? As soon as the order was placed I was given shipping updates, and the box itself arrived quickly. Everything was accounted for and the dogs loved all of the toys and treats. The only tough part of the process was canceling our subscription. Are the BarkBox toys high quality? The BarkBox toys we received were of good quality. They were about the same quality you would expect from mid-priced dog toys at your local pet store. Is the BarkBox good for large dogs? BarkBox asks for your dog's size during the ordering process. They offer toys in three size categories: small for dogs under 20 pounds , medium for dogs 20 to 50 pounds , and large for dogs over 50 pounds. So, is BarkBox worth it? Seeing all four of our dogs brimming with excitement for new treats and toys that had magically appeared was worth the price alone. The convenience of having everything shipped to our door, the fun monthly themes, and the value for the price was spot on, too. And, judging from the way that all four dogs gobbled down the treats… I'd say BarkBox makes some pretty tasty treats, as well. So, was it worth it? From the human's point of view, it's a great deal and a ton of fun to unbox. And from the dog's point of view… according to Gojira, the toys are perfectly squeaky and the treats are downright heavenly. Plus, by the time the treats run out, it will be time for another BarkBox. For all my life, I've been in love with dogs and the written word. I grew up surrounded by incredible dogs, and share my home with four amazing Heeler mixes now. It was only natural for my two passions to combine, and I've enjoyed writing about dogs ever since. Similar Posts. Directly supports hungry shelter animals Gives you a premium assortment of products Still affordable considering the included donation Cons Subscription doesn't accommodate food allergies Why It Made the List Anyone who has a rescue or simply loves dogs is sure to appreciate The Animal Rescue Site's subscription box. RescueBox lets you spoil your dog every month while supporting a good cause in the process. With every RescueBox, you'll be sent five premium products, and The Animal Rescue Site will provide dozens of meals to homeless pets and shelter animals through its charitable partners located in the U. If you've been on the fence about splurging on a monthly dog subscription, RescueBox gives you the perfect excuse to do so. Subscriptions for small, medium, and large dogs are all the same price and include the same number of products. No other customizations can be made beyond dog size, but the treats, chews, and toys you receive are always carefully selected by a team of pet experts. The products also follow a monthly theme, so your dog will get to enjoy an exciting variety of high-quality goodies, and you'll feel good knowing that your subscription is helping pets in need. Yes Products Include: Treats, toys, and chews Final Thoughts If you want convenient monthly deliveries of different toys and treats for a price that doesn't make you think twice about spoiling your dog, a subscription to BarkBox gets you the most bark for your buck. Some subscriptions let you customize your plan based on your dog's needs and preferences, while others have experts that curate an assortment of goodies based on a new theme; BarkBox does both. You can expect a fun-themed variety of premium toys every month but can also customize your plan to your dog. Upgrading your plan to accommodate another dog or one who just goes through toys fast will increase your bill but will also qualify you for free shipping. It can be hard guessing whether or not your dog will like something you order online, but all BarkBox plans have a percent satisfaction guarantee. Free shipping isn't always included, but when it's not, you can often qualify for it by adding extra products to your order. None of the subscriptions on this list require committing to a certain number of boxes, though most plans are automatically set up for either 12 months or four quarters of recurring deliveries. You're always free to cancel whenever you want, and you never have to pay the cost of the entire subscription period upfront if you prefer month-to-month payments. Chewy's Goody Box is the only exception because unless you set up recurring shipping at checkout, every box must be ordered individually. Most dog subscription boxes contain bundles of both food and non-food items, but Pooch Perks , Bullymake , and Pet Treater let you adjust your plan to receive only toys. However, if accessories are the non-food item you prefer, BoxDog is the best option. While the subscription does include treats and toys, it also sends skin care products and lets you pick out accessories every month. The same applies to Bark Bright , which will supply you with a monthly supply of toothpaste and chews. Methodology To find the best dog subscription boxes, our team reviewed nearly two dozen services, evaluating each one on the following criteria: Average price Number of items per box Variety of products. Email Your pet wants you to read our newsletter. Then give them a treat. Sign up for product updates, offers, and learn more about The Wildest, and other Mars Petcare brands. Must be over 16 years to sign up. I'm In See our privacy statement to find out how we collect and use your data, to contact us with privacy questions or to exercise your personal data rights. That is, until now. No, please do not give your dog weed. Instead, BarkBox has devised a more appropriate and less dangerous solution to involve your dog in the holiday. The company which delivers monthly subscription boxes including toys, treats, and services is offering a greener collection this April. It unravels to become a full-size crinkle mat or you can roll a treat inside. Other toys available include the multiple-piece D OG Kush Nugs and Apple Of My High which mimics the coolest thing you saw in high school someone smoking out of an apple. Their Dank Noms are soft-baked biscuits made with real lamb and cheddar cheese. Disclaimer alert: This article is here to share information. But, much like pineapple on pizza, the topic may be controversial. Meaning, not all vets or pet professionals agree. Because every pet is a unique weirdo with specific needs.

Contact Us We have a beautiful litter of stunning chocolate labrador girl puppies available to only the best loving homes, born on 22nd July. Our dogs are championship show winners, and our puppies are bred from hip X rayed, eye tested parents of superb quality from long-established proven bloodlines, with wonderful temperaments. We would like potential Labrador owners to realise that it is a huge responsibility and long-term commitment purchasing a chocolate labrador puppy, which is going to mature into a large, strong dog requiring plenty of daily exercise. Homes where the puppy is to be left alone all day are unsuitable, as labradors require company, affection, house-training and exercise. It will be necessary to have a fully-fenced garden and, whilst our labradors are wonderful with small children, puppies should not be regarded as their toys and they must be very well cared and above all loved. Since then family life at Llanstinan has included a house full of Labradors, later to include blacks and yellows. The first litter was bred to give Lynda's 4 young children an insight into life with Labradors. All Llanstinan labrador puppies are insured, microchipped and have excellent pedigrees. They are sturdy chunky puppies with lovely heads and superb outgoing temperaments. They are always whelped in the house, are lavishly reared and are very well socialised with other animals and small children. Lots of relatives of the puppies are resident at Llanstinan, including mother, sometimes father, grandmother, and great grandmother, along with aunts and uncles who all welcome visitors giving a true labrador welcome. Puppies leave for their new homes after they have been checked by the Vet and micro-chipped. They leave with a full puppy pack which includes copies of both parents' health certificates, a 5 generation pedigree, contract of sale and a detailed diet sheet. A copy of Ann Britton's book 'Labrador Retriever' - understanding and caring for your breed, is also given to each new puppy owner. The author of this excellent book, Ann Britton has spent a lifetime with labradors. She judged bitches at Crufts , she is an international show judge and is a breeder of Champion labradors. She also has a weekly column in 'Our Dogs'. Her dogs, several which have Llanstinan breeding, can be seen on www. The children used to dress them up, sleep with them, play with them, and love them. Now the children are all grown up, their own children all have an endless passion for our gorgeous chocolate brown labrador puppies. Chocolate Lab puppy Gallery. Both parents come from a 5-generation pedigree. Mother is IKC registered. Grandparents and great grandparents are field trial champions. Father is a strong, chunky Labrador with an excellent breeding background, he was never registered but both grandparents were IKC reg. Both mother and father are cherished family pets, live together and can be seen. Parents are gentle natured, excellent with kids and have great personalities. Owners are vets themselves. This is our first and last litter as we are not breeders. We wanted to keep a line from both parents which was the motivation to have a litter. Our beautiful puppies are happy, healthy, and very confident. They have a fantastic temperament. Pups have been raised in our family home ensuring they have been well socialised with kids and other animals such as cats. These confident puppies are extremely intelligent and will be easy to train! They are already semi-toilet trained and have great re-call. Puppies are very affectionate and loved by all the family hence we are only looking for suitable home as a family pet or loyal companion. All pups are - Vet health checked - Vaccinated - Microchipped - Wormed at 2,4,6 and 8 weeks - Treated for fleas and mites. Pups will be ready to go to their forever homes from September 17th. For more information or to arrange to view the puppies please call or email me on or megandoherty00 gmail. If I do not answer please leave a message and I will get back to you. Thank you!

Check them out on Amazon here. To learn more about what to feed your golden retriever puppy, check out this article here. Brush Golden retrievers are obviously very fluffy and need to be brushed often. Check this brush out on Amazon here. Check it out on Amazon here. Chew Toy Check it out on Chewy here he had the size small. Plush Toy This is a plush, squeaky toy that will keep your puppy busy for hours. Interactive Toy Interactive toys allow you to play and bond with your puppy, and are great for teaching or reinforcing commands like drop it, sit and stay. Bonus Items The above list is for the bare necessities of what your puppy will need to get started. Below are some extra things that, although are not necessary, have come in pretty handy. Food Storage Container This is great for keeping food fresh and in a convenient place. Since we get the pound bag of food, we get this container that holds 42 pounds of food. Note that this container does not come with a scooper, so we recommend one like this that has measurements on it. Check out the storage container on Amazon here. Exercise Pen Exercise pens are great for confining your puppy to a smaller area while giving them more space to run around in than a crate. Using a combination of baby gates, exercise pens, and the crate will help you keep them safe while also keeping them from chewing up the house. Get this baby gate from Amazon here. Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook Getting everything you need will help you physically prepare for your puppy, but you also need to mentally prepare for your puppy. This book will help you know exactly what to do before you bring your puppy home, how to handle the first month which is the toughest month! Get the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook here. That means get their crate set up, have their food and water bowls in their designated places, and have a few welcome home toys set out to help your new pup have a great experience in your home right away. Find a veterinarian. Locate the nearest emergency animal hospital. Find both the nearest hospital, and the nearest 24 hour hospital. Find a puppy kindergarten class. If you ask any trainer, breeder, or veterinarian how to have a well-behaved pup, nearly all of them will recommend joining a puppy kindergarten class. The socialization aspect alone is worth it. Puppy-proof your house and yard. Get down on your hands and knees to see what your puppy will be seeing remember this: whatever can be chewed will be chewed , and make sure there are no puppy-sized holes that they could escape through in your backyard. For more tips on how to raise your new golden retriever puppy, check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Life With Your Golden Retriever Puppy Although this might seem like a pretty big list, if you have it all when you bring your puppy home with you, it will make the transition time that much easier. Take lots of pictures and videos! Have a question about any of these items? Let us know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is getting a puppy and needs to see this list, please share this with them! Related articles:. By Susan B. Barnes Susan B. Barnes is a lifestyle, food and travel journalist who is as comfortable bicycling through Italian olive groves and sampling fermented shark in Iceland as she is taking her dog on miles-long walks and hanging out at the dog park. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on January 28, We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Though she's happy to snuggle and cuddle up with you, she's also an active dog who enjoys being outside, be that going on walks or hikes , to the dog park , or playing fetch in a fenced-in backyard. As a good dog parent, you want to be prepared for whatever adventures await the two of you, but taking a look at all of the products out there for dogs can be overwhelming. From the right collar, leash and harness setup to grooming needs, food bowls, road trip necessities, toys to burn off all that energy, plus a few goodies for the humans, this list has everything you need to take care of the most golden part of your life. Featuring a collar, leash, and waste bag dispenser, you'll be prepared for your walks and your golden will love all the compliments on how handsome she looks. This harness, with its padded chest and belly, is fully adjustable for a perfect fit with leash clips in the front and back. It comes in a variety of colors to coordinate with your dog's leash and collar, too. The adjustable height means the serving tray can grow with your golden, and the pads on the bottom prevent slipping while she eats and drinks. Place a mat under the bowls to catch any water droplets. The stainless steel bowls can be removed and popped into the dishwasher for easy cleaning. Not only will she have to slow down to find the food, but she'll essentially work out a puzzle which keeps her mentally stimulated, too. Choose to purchase just the cover and fill it yourself with old pillows, towels, sheets, or clothes, or you can opt to purchase their eco-friendly fill made from plastic bottles or their memory foam insert. The extra-large size is recommended for full-grown goldens. Not only does the shampoo leave your pup fresh and clean, but it moisturizes and conditions so that after-bath brushings are tangle-free. It's terrific for dogs with sensitive skin, too. With a dense outer coat and thick undercoat, it can take some time to brush out all the layers, but this undercoat rake makes quick work of their luscious locks. One Chewy reviewer wrote that the medium-tooth rake was "so wonderful to get my two golden retrievers' undercoat combed out. Also, the gel grip is quite easy to hold on to. The non-slip handle works for both right- and left-handed users, and ensures you maintain control to avoid any mishaps. One reviewer says: "I stumbled across these supplements while trying to find some joint relief for my golden, Sandy. After only a week I already saw some improvement in her movement and she had an easier time getting up into and out of the car, which was becoming a struggle. Her coat is also looking healthier and she seems to be less itchy. Not only does this fleece-lined coat fit snugly for maximum warmth, but it's waterproof and has reflective strips to stay safe during nighttime walks and winter hikes. They can also help older dogs find traction on slippery floors. Tip: use the printable sizing guide to measure your dog's feet before ordering to ensure a perfect fit. And send us videos of your dog trying them for the first time! This seat cover is not only comfortable for your pup, but waterproof, too. When it's time to go, simply lay the cover over the seat, loop straps around the head rests, push the anchors in, and voila—you're ready to hit the road! One way to do that is to use a harness that doubles as a seat belt: simply attach the harness to the seatbelt using a carabiner, and you'll both be on your way safely and comfortably. Fill the bottle, twist on the top that doubles as a bowl, and when your golden's ready for a drink, squeeze the bottle and water will fill the bowl. Release, and the water disappears back into the bottle. Pop some treats in the holes, cover them up, and watch your pup work her magic to figure out the puzzle and find those tasty rewards. Just like a ball you use to play fetch , this one flies through the air but when she retrieves it, she'll spend some time figuring out how to get to her favorite treats inside. When your pup drops the ball into the top of the launcher, it'll throw it 10, 25, or 40 feet; choose the "random" setting to keep her guessing. Buy Now Change up your game of fetch with this fun Frisbee alternative. This flying squirrel is made of a double canvas material that is durable enough to withstand rough play, yet still agile to spin and tumble in the air, keeping your golden guessing and enticed in play. Shop now: Chuckit! The sturdy sole ensures you'll stay on your feet, and the bone-printed liner is a fun and unexpected treat. Embroidered on percent cotton canvas, and if it gets a little dirty, simply pop it into the washing machine, air dry, and it'll be back on your furniture in no time. The rubber backing prevents slipping when your guests wipe their paws before stepping inside. It's hilarious enough to be a favorite gift for any golden lover on your list, too! Perfect for the dog park, running errands, around the house, or really anywhere you please! The design can also be used on totes, hats, and more. Food bowl There are endless options of food and water bowls. In addition, the bowl can prevent gagging, choking, vomiting, indigestion, bloat, GDV, and malabsorption. If you already have a dog bowl, you can simply add a slow feeder insert. Water bowl Ellie has an 8-cup YETI water bow l to keep her water cold for more extended periods and a 4-cup bowl for food. YETI allows you to customize each bowl with a name, initials, or image. Great as a gift! They help prevent your puppy from getting tangled up in the leash and provide better control. Make sure you check out their sizing guide for the appropriate fit. We added a crate pad for noise reduction and comfort. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. It is essential that the dog crate is never used as punishment — the crate must always be regarded as a safe and special retreat. Gates Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. Use a gate to limit access to certain areas of your home and reduce unwanted chewing or house soiling. Introduce your dog to small sections of the house at a time. We prefer the walk-through gate for easy mobility through the house. Toys and Chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with various items to see what interests your puppy most. However, the last inch of a bully stick can be a choking hazard if swallowed. This safety device allows your pup to enjoy the benefits of long-term chews while reducing the risks of choking. I typically give it to her for 20 minutes, rinse it off, and store it in the refrigerator until the next day, which prevents bacteria growth. Note you probably want to keep it separate from your food. 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! Read the full disclosure here. This comprehensive list covers all the essentials, plus some added extras. Food: Every dog needs food! See our puppy food guide for recommendations. Bowls: Your puppy is going to need something to eat that food from. Something to think about. Bedding: Your pup will need a comfortable bed to call their own. You can decide whether to choose a puppy-sized one or one that they can grown into. To avoid buying more than one crate, you can get one big enough to fit your adult golden and make it puppy-sized using dividers. Brushes: Get your puppy some brushes suitable for a longer-coated dog. The sooner you get pup used to being brushed, the easier it will be in the future. Toothbrush and toothpaste: These are daily essentials in your grooming routine. Be sure to choose a dog-specific toothpaste as the human stuff can be dangerous to canines. Treats: Essential for training. Pick high-value treats for when you really want to motivate your pup. Chew toys are essential to help direct chewing away from your belongings. Tug toys, balls to play fetch and treat-dispensing toys are also nice to have. Travel harness or dog guard: To keep your dog safe in the car. These are the main things you need to think about when puppy proofing your home. Put them up high or away in their proper place. Not only will it leave you out of pocket if your pup chews something expensive, many such items are also choking hazards. Be careful of plants: Make sure you remove any plants that are poisonous to dogs , both in your house and your garden. Common offenders include foxglove, wisteria and yew. Secure medicines and cleaning products: Both medicines and cleaning products can be highly toxic to dogs if ingested. Hide electrical cords: If a puppy sinks their teeth into an electrical cord, it can prove fatal. Try not to have electrical cords running across the room or out in the open where your puppy can get to them. If needs be, you can get cord concealers, cord wraps or even pvc pipes to secure them. Planning Appropriate Puppy Socialization Socialization, with both humans and other dogs plus other animals, if your new puppy is going to be around them , is one of the most important things to think about with your new puppy. A well-socialized puppy should turn into an adult dog who interacts well with all dogs and people, which makes your life so much easier as a dog-owner. It might sound a bit over the top, but it will stop your pup from getting confused or overstimulated and it sets some ground rules for the humans involved, too. Pick out regular meal times for your puppy and try to stick to them as closely as possible. Also take your puppy out into the garden on a schedule, as this will really help with toilet training. You can also schedule in training sessions, play sessions and, when your puppy is old enough, their daily walks. Learning How To Train Your Puppy You might think that training your new dog will be intuitive when you get them home, but dog training is a skill you learn, not one you just pick up as you go along. Once your puppy is old enough, group puppy training classes are an excellent idea. Not only will you learn more about training your pup, your dog will also get to socialize with other young canines. The ideal option is to have the puppy in the back seat in a car harness and have a passenger sit next to them, who can hold, pet and comfort them on the journey home. Some people forgo the harness altogether and have a passenger simply hold the puppy, wrapped in a blanket or towel. However, before you even get your puppy into the car, you should try to get them to relieve themself first , to avoid any toilet-based accidents on the journey home. Once you get your precious pup home, all that effort and preparation will have been worth it to give your new four-legged friend the best start in life. You May Also Like. We use the 8mm size for our dogs. Alvalley is a high quality brand for all lengths. For an adult dog, use an 8 mm or larger. For a young puppy, an 8 mm leash works fine, but I prefer the smaller 6 mm Alvalley Snap Lead one for ease of use when working at home. This size fits easily into the outside pocket of a treat bag. If going for a walk, use a more substantial leash such as the 8 mm Alvalley leash. For at-home use, a 6 mm collar is fine. I like to attach a snap lead permanently to a martingale collar for ease of use. The collar and leash can easily be slipped off and on as needed. Puppies and even some dogs like to chew the plastic ones. At 10 weeks of age, we are using very small bowls for ease of use during training. Golden Retrievers tend to act like they are starving and eat too fast, even at their correct weight. These bowls slow them down so that they will come closer to chewing their food than inhaling it. I like to use buckets instead of bowls for water. Puppies love to dig in their water which makes a mess out of it. Hang the bucket on the outside of the crate by the handle that is on the bucket. Then attach the clip for security by using only one side of the clip to attach the handle to the crate. Leave the other end of the clip just hanging. Never put water inside a crate with a dog. I recommend the 2-quart size for one or two big dogs. This size is also a good size for a puppy. I use two snaps to stabilize the bucket. Though wire crates usually have a divider so that you can size the crate down, we recommend that you go ahead and purchase a 24 inch wire crate along with the correct size for your dog when he is grown. Most puppies can use the 24 inch crates for about 2 months after they are weeks of age. It is also helpful to have a smaller crate when traveling. If you want this option with a Summer Brook puppy, you can have a small icrate shipped to our home address for you to pick up when you get here. The best size crate for adult girls is a 36X24X27 inch wire crate. For an adult boy, use either a 42X28X30 or 36X24X27 inch wire crate. We prefer wire crates in most cases because they give more ventilation and Golden Retrievers like it to be cool. Midwest Life Stages : These are heavy duty and come in both double or single door options. I prefer the crate with the double door because you will have the opportunity to use it turned sideways with the entrance on the side as well as the end. The Icrates are also two inches shorter and two inches narrower than the Life Stages crate. They are larger at the bottom than the top so they fit better in the back of an SUV or van. They are crash tested and have excellent safety records. These crates are a bit difficult to set up and take down so we only recommend them for those that want a crate that stays in a vehicle most of the time. They are perfect for families that take their dogs with them a lot and want a somewhat permanent fixture in their vehicle. This crate is very lightweight and sets up and folds down quickly and easily. We love these crates for motels and dog shows. Wood Crate Denhaus Townhaus : I recommend this crate if looks are important to you. This crate looks just like a nice end table. Though it was expensive, mine has held up well for several years. Crate Pad Primo Pads: These are my favorite crate pads. They are made of a heavy-duty vinyl and I have yet to have a dog chew one up. The vinyl is cool so that my dogs like them even in the summer. They come in a big variety of sizes so that they will fit your crate like a glove. These pads are not sold anywhere except from the manufacturer. Order your Primo Pads here. This is a raised cot-like bed that is cool and comfortable. There is a new Kuranda Bed that we have not tried ourselves but it looks amazing. It is a raised cot like the aluminum bed that we have loved for years but it is sized to fit perfectly into a crate! We have purchased both the aluminum as well as the less-expensive PVC Kuranda beds. Our aluminum beds still look brand new but our PVC beds are starting to warp a little after a few years. We like the Ballistic Nylon fabric which has held up for us for several years. The large is the correct size for both boy and girl Goldens. We have two of them and they are as comfortable as many human beds. We have the extra-large size but a large would be plenty big enough for a girl. At first, your puppy will have to be watched almost every minute when they are out of the crate or pen in order to establish good potty habits and also to teach them not to chew. Until you teach them otherwise, some puppies will try to chew everything, including the furniture and even the woodwork on the walls so I have found the pen to be a huge help. If you get a pen, you need to begin training your puppy not to jump on the sides right away. Never pet your puppy or let him out while he is jumping. Reward him for sitting. They open and close easily and in both directions. The Richell Pens look really super nice. They also can be set up as room dividers. We own at least a dozen sets of these pens and have used them in a large number of configurations. However, like most exercise pens, many puppies will eventually learn to climb or jump out of them. Families must be on top of training their puppy not to jump on the sides. Unlike the Richell pen, most, if not all pens have doors that open in only one direction. If you get one of these pens, set your pen up so that the door opens to the outside. If you are getting your puppy from a breeder other than Summer Brook, plastic pens are a good option for a 7 to 10 week old puppy. It is easier to house train if you start off not allowing your puppy in too large of an area. It also has the added convenience of being able to be easily removed by simply pushing a button that locks it in place. However, this gate must be mounted to the wall. Baby Gates that are Mobile Regalo Extra WideSpan Walkthrough Safety Gate : This gate can span a space inches For a pressure-mounted gate, the Regalo gates do very well and are a good simple solution if you only want a gate for a few months until your puppy is house-trained and can be given the full run of the house. However, understand that many puppies cannot be totally trusted in large areas until they are over 6 months of age. It takes some until they are close to a year. Doggy Door Why to Use a Doggy Door If you are able to put a doggy door in, this is by far the easiest way to house-train a puppy. Also, it provides an ideal way to leave a dog when they have to be alone. I teach our puppies to use a doggy door before they go home. In the last days before they go home, I section off a small area inside next to our kitchen with free access to a doggy door that leads to our side yard. When I keep a puppy past 8 weeks, I gradually increase the size area of the indoor area as they show dependability. I reserve the times when they are free in the house to the 30 minutes right after they have pottied. We highly recommend it. If you have a particularly aggressive chewer then I would buy the Extreme Kong but if your dog is average then I would use a Classic Kong. Bob-a-lot : You can fill this toy with a lot of food; the dog has to work at getting the food out by pushing it around. JW Pet has other great toys too. If you have a particularly aggressive chewer then I would buy the Extreme Kong but if your dog is an average chewer then I would use a Classic Kong. Puppies love them and they keep our puppies happy in their crates. Toys for Month Old Puppies.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New York Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New York? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New York? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Florida Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Florida? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Florida? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

Other costs include healthcare, toys, insurance, and the cost of any training, socialization, and canine sports classes you join. You can get wellness or preventive care plans to help spread the cost of some of these monthly fees. You can feed commercial or opt for homemade food, but if you do make the meals yourself, you will have to calculate protein, carbs, and vitamins and minerals to make sure your dog is getting everything it needs. If your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or general health problems, you may need special food that caters to these requirements. Labradoodles can have similarly high requirements. Some owners choose to undertake grooming and maintenance themselves while others book and attend regular grooming sessions with a professional. Which route you choose will ultimately determine the cost of grooming. A good compromise is to pay for professional grooming every 6 months and to brush, trim, and clip between professional sessions. If treatment and medication are not covered by pet insurance, you will have to meet these costs yourself. While this is true, insurance does offer peace of mind , as well as financial protection. If your dog is involved in an accident or does come down with an expensive illness, you may be hit with a vet bill of thousands of dollars. With pet insurance, the majority of this should be paid by your insurer, which means that you can decide on the best course of treatment according to how beneficial it is and not how expensive it is. If you have the kind of dog that gets through toys in no time, consider subscribing to a dog toy box. If yours gets bored of their toys, rotate new toys in and out of circulation, keeping old toys in a cupboard before giving them back after a few months. Your dog will treat it like a new toy. Image Credit: Mariusz S. It can be trained, enjoys working or taking part in canine sports, and does benefit from regular walks. Otherwise, the primary costs for owning one of these dogs will be food, insurance, and the cost of any professional grooming. The Labradoodle also benefits from being given plenty of exercise, but also mental stimulation. Canine sports, including agility, are a good way to provide the stimulation your Doodle needs, and these do cost money. If your dog develops behavioral issues that you are unable to fix yourself, there is a cost associated with training or canine behavioral work. First, consider adopting rather than buying, and if you do buy, do you really need a dog with an exceptional pedigree? You can save money on food by buying in bulk when the food is on offer, and ensure that you are getting the best value for money from the food you do buy. Insurance is another area where you can reduce regular costs. It is a good idea to have insurance but look at the level of coverage you get, as well as the excess and the copayment levels. For a slightly higher excess, you may be able to save some money on your monthly bills. Preventive care, or wellness, plans can also save you some money in the long run, but you do need to do the math and ensure that they really do represent good value for money or whether it would be cheaper to pay for each treatment individually. Grooming costs can add up , especially if you visit the groomer every month. Conclusion The Australian Labradoodle is considered a Breed in Development by the American Kennel Club and one should be fifth generation from the parent breeds, at least, to be considered a true Aussie Labradoodle. The breed is smart and intelligent, level-headed, and it gets along with family and friends while also tending to be friendly with strangers. Alpen Ridge does require that a puppy application be completed. Once your application has been received, you will be requested to pay a booking fee which applies to the purchase of your puppy and puts you on the waiting list. The remainder is due at 6 weeks old after their vet exam. Your puppy receives: age appropriate vaccinations, veterinary exam, worming and socialisation. Your puppy receives: registration certificate. Your puppy comes with: a 2 year genetic health guarantee, a temperament guarantee and continuing support. Our service to you does not end with the purchase of your puppy. Your puppy receives: a permanent ID microchip. You receive: a puppy info. Prices are in Australian Dollars and may change without notice. Australian Labradoodle Puppy Shipping Information We encourage customers to pick up their puppy anytime possible. If shipping is necessary, we will contact the shipping company for you to start the correspondence and they will contact you. All arrangements and payments are the responsibility of the buyer and must be made on time to insure the puppy leaves on time. International shipping is available for breeding prospect puppies only, unless a pet customer has family or friends in Australia that can house the puppy until old enough to fly. Labradoodles are a very popular mix-breed pet and they are highly sought-after because of their lovable personalities. However, the cost of an Australian Labradoodle can greatly vary across the board with some costing hundreds of dollars and many costing thousands. There has been a huge increase in demand for Australian Labradoodle puppies in recent years — with more people buying this breed than ever before. This is an amazing dog with so many great personality traits to offer a household — hence the popularity. An Australian Labradoodle originates from the Poodle and Australian Labrador dog breeds, which give this dog a very playful and affectionate temperament, as well as highly intelligent and clever. To add more dynamic characteristics to the coat, the pup is then bred with an Irish Water Spaniel. With that being said, Australian Labradoodles are often priced quite a bit higher than your average dog. There are a number of different factors that contribute to this and we need to carefully assess all of them to determine the actual price of an Australian Labradoodle. After extensively researching Australian Labradoodles, I have been able to gather enough information to determine the cost of this breed. Cost of an Australian Labradoodle An Australian Labradoodle is not your everyday breed and they can be priced quite higher because of it. They are priced differently based on how the Australian Labradoodle was bred — with reputable breeders charging the most. On the other hand, amateur breeders may sell their Australian Labradoodles at a much cheaper price, but you need to approach them with caution. We also need to consider that not every Australian Labradoodle has had the same upbringing. Although most people buy their Australian Labradoodles as puppies, some get theirs for specific purposes such as for therapy dogs. Cost to Adopt an Australian Labradoodle The most affordable way to buy an Australian Labradoodle is to get one from a shelter. There are a number of different rescue shelters that specialize in Labradoodles but you want to ensure that you choose your dog carefully if you are specifically looking for an Australian variation. That is why people often prefer to pay extra for their dog and get it as a puppy from a reputable breeder. Cost Factors of an Australian Labradoodle The Australian Labradoodle is quite dynamic and there are a number of different factors that influence the price of this dog. There are defining characteristics that certain owners search for when picking out an Australian Labradoodle and they are generally willing to pay more for them. High Demand In recent years, there has been a growing demand for Australian Labradoodles — and understandably so. These are loving, affectionate, and intelligent dogs that will fit right into any household. However, the increase in demand has resulted in prices becoming higher for these dogs. Breeders that work with Australian Labradoodles are intentionally increasing their prices due to the demand surge from customers. The demand for Australian Labradoodles in some regions has become so high, that many people are having to sit on waitlists. Reputable Breeder Depending on where you go to buy your Australian Labradoodle, you will see that their prices can fluctuate quite a lot. This usually has to do with the type of breeder that is working with the animals. A reputable breeder that has built credibility within the industry will charge more for their work. They are professional breeders who put effort into ensuring the health of their animals and the satisfaction of the customers — but it comes at a price. An amateur breeder or puppy mill will charge a fraction of this cost. However, there are a number of issues with getting an Australian Labradoodle from one of these breeders. It is easy to get conned and buy a pup that is not a genuine Australian Labradoodle — with an American Labradoodle sharing many of the same qualities. In addition, a reputable breeder will take steps to ensure the long-term health of your Australian Labradoodle. Not only are the dogs kept in safe and humane conditions but they will be bred to prevent future health issues. These pups are known to develop hip dysplasia — a common hereditary disease for the breed. Reputable breeders run tests on their dogs and only use those that have healthy hips, which greatly lowers the chances of the disease developing. Size Australian Labradoodles come in a few different sizes — standard, miniature, and toy. The reason for this is that these pups originate from the poodle, which can also be seen in these size variations. This can influence the price of an Australian Labradoodle quite a lot. In general, Australian Labradoodles that are small and toy-sized will have a marked-up price — sometimes costing double the amount. This is what you can expect to pay for an Australian Labradoodle based on its size. However, this also has to do with demand. A lot of people are more than willing to pay extra for a miniature or toy variation and breeders mark up the price because of this. These pups have three different types of coats — curly, wavy, and flat. In general, each type is known for being hypoallergenic and hardly sheds at all. For people with dog allergies, the Australian Labradoodle is one of the few breeds that they can buy, which increases the demand for these pups. Although each coat has hypoallergenic qualities, curly coats are highly-regarded for shedding even less than the other options. With that being said, an Australian Labradoodle with a curly coat tends to fetch a higher price, as people are willing to spend more for it. Professional and skilled breeders will work specifically with Australian Labradoodles that have curly coats for this very reason. In addition to coat types, we also need to consider that Australian Labradoodles have unique hair colors and patterns. A lot of this comes from the careful mixing of additional breeds such as the Irish Water Spaniel, which creates a dynamic and unique coat aesthetic. Australian Labradoodles that have rare hair colors and patterns can often be seen sold at a higher price. Labradoodles are intelligent dogs and enjoy playing games and playing with a variety of toys. Australian Labradoodles may benefit from a monthly subscription to a dog toy box because they can get bored easily and will most likely appreciate a fresh set of toys. Additional Costs to Factor In Make sure to include a budget for unexpected or occasional care items. Sometimes, your Australian Labradoodle can get into an accident, or you might require pet-sitting or boarding services if you plan to be away from home for more than a day. Many Australian Labradoodles also benefit from obedience training classes or one-on-one sessions with a professional dog trainer. If you live in an apartment or condominium, you may need to start paying a pet fee. Some buildings require an annual pet fee or a one-time fee. You can cut down on your budget in practical ways by making smart choices with the products you use. For example, you can always request cheaper alternatives or generic brands of medications from your veterinarian. Also, be wary of pet food brands that use fancy word choices to make their products sound more appealing. Make sure to check and compare ingredient lists. There are some occasions when a premium food brand and a more budget-friendly brand share similar ingredients. Saving Money on Australian Labradoodle Care You can save on costs by finding a good balance between purchasing high-quality products and generic products. You can also find discounts if you choose subscription options. Many pet food brands and pet supply retailers offer discounts if you sign up for monthly shipments of food and toys. Conclusion Overall, you can expect to pay a couple of thousands of dollars on initial costs for an Australian Labradoodle. You can expect to pay a couple hundred dollars more if you include pet insurance, pet sitting or dog walking fees, and professional grooming. You can experience some savings by looking for discount opportunities and making smart pet supply purchases. Featured Image Credit: litthouse, Pixabay Written by Jessica Kim Author Jessica is a freelance writer who spends most of her day researching and writing while her fluffy Cavapoo, Nora, naps beside her. As a dog mom, she understands the special connection that pet parents have with their pets. So, she loves sharing helpful information that people can use to better understand their pets. When she isn't writing, you may find her walking dogs, tending to her plant babies, or drinking her nth cup of coffee.Read more Advertisement. Visit our store! Prices Now that you have seen our Australian Labradoodle puppies and want to see what is available visit the available puppies page or if you arent ready right now visit the f uture litter page. If you what to see what more of my Australian Labradoodles look like, visit our photo gallery. I am sure you are wondering what they cost. The price of Australian Labradoodles or American Labradoodles can vary greatly amongst breeders, generations, and types of Labradoodles. A breeder that does not put any time or money into caring for their dogs and puppies or does not spend any money on health testing will have the ability to sell puppies cheaply. Is it cheap when you get a puppy with a bad temperament, shedding coat, or health issues? Your puppy comes with: Microchipped with application and Tag Current vaccinations and worming Day trail Pet Insurance from Trupanion note: must be activated within 24 hours of adopting your pooch Spay-Neuter contract required Puppy certificate for registration with the ALAA. We only feed our dogs top-quality dog food. This ensures healthy skin and coat. It also ensures proper growth and nutrition from the balance of various vitamins, proteins, and fats. Information on how to care for your new puppy, potty training, feeding, grooming, etc. A lifetime of continued customer support There is no price difference for gender. Both males and females make great family pets. Payments can be made in the following ways: You can email us for an invoice or select the Buy NOW buttons below. The amount below reflects a convenience fee included. Puppy Reservation Fee. Like both their parents, these dogs are smart, friendly and fairly active. Can we meet in person? Have they been socialised? They are highly intelligent, super friendly and easy to train. We have a perfect litter of 5 Labradoodle pups. Both parents have been DNA tested and cleared of any genetic diseases. Mum is our much loved family dog. Dad is a handsome stud red moyen poodle. They will be low shedding and roughly labrador height or smaller. They have been raised in a country family environment in the beautiful Macedon Ranges. They are also crate trained and have started toilet training. The have grown up with children playing with them, 3 adult dogs and already use a doggy door. Our puppies are lovingly raised by our family as well as their mums up to the day they leave for their new forever homes. Puppies will be vet health checked, vaccinated and microchipped at 6 weeks of age. They have been wormed regularly. We can also assist with interstate travel arrangement if required. Will not reply to generic messages. Don't message me wanting me to email you. Mature kilos. References available. Video calls welcomed. Pictures of pups, siblings. Microchipped and vaccinated. She's such a pleasure and has brought me so much joy so far. I've had smart dogs b4 like a Belgian shephard and a border collie, but she is the most intelligent dog by far. You did such a fantastic job and have her the best start in life and it really shows how much time and love you put into your puppies. So thank you for that. I'm so grateful for her. She loves to play indoor soccer and dance with me that's with two legs! He loves to fetch, find and jump. They are my pets. Both DNA tested and cleared of genetic diseases by Orivet. Results are available. Puppies are wormed at 2, 4, 6, 8 weeks, and then monthly. They are raised indoor. They will grow up to be large dogs between kg, cm tall. They are playful, affectionate, friendly, loyal, and intelligent. Crate and potty mat training commenced at 3 weeks old. At 7 weeks old, they have learnt to sit and wait for me to say "eat". They receive daily hugs and kisses, and physical and mental stimulations. Fed Advance or Black Hawk kibble. Fleece coat with low shedding. Coat colour may change as they age. Each come with a toy, blanket, and a bag of kibble. Please call only. Happy to do Facetime, Google Meet, or Zoom. Hau Labradoodle puppies for sale I have seven F1 Labradoodle puppies looking for their forever homes. Labradoodle puppies are a great option for those who suffer from allergies as they shed much less hair than most other dogs. DOB: 16th June puppies will be ready to go to new homes from 12th August, Both parents have had full breed specific DNA testing through Orivet and are cleared for passing on any congenital conditions. Reports are avaliable upon request. Dad, a Standard Poodle weighs approx. Puppies are expected to reach somewhere in between once fully grown. Girls will be on the smaller side. Mum and Dad are family pets and are available for viewing upon request. Happy to assist with pet transport interstate if required additional charges apply Please contact me to arrange a time to come and meet these beautiful treasures. I am a member of the Responsible Pet Breeders Australia-my membership number is .Our puppies have non shedding and allergy friendly coats that are easy care for. Please phone send me a message or email discholl icloud. We are happy ,playful healthy dogs,we are family dogs ,very friendly and easy to train due to blood line of Labrador in the breed. I want to make sure these puppies are going to good family home where they will be treated like family member. For more information please contact me and we can organise to inspect the dogs. Both parents are Orivet-tested F1 Labradoodles clear of genetic diseases - affectionate, intelligent, loyal and active family pets both looove playing fetch and weigh just under 18kg. They also share life with a 10yo Rhodesian Ridgeback. The pups are well socialised already and accustomed to all the usual happenings around the home mowing, blower, etc and other dogs. Non-shedding, sweet and playful! Mother is a Labradoodle, father is a Groodle. Standard size between kg. Both male and female pups are still available. Bred in our family home, lots of love, cuddles, and playtime. All puppies will have had de-worming, microchipping, and vaccinations up to date. Looking for loving families, price negotiable to a suitable home. Laura Cooper Gojo I was gifted a this puppy but due to how busy I am, I would like to find him a new home that will care for him and give him the attention he deserves. I will provide the toys, lead and collar I have already brought him Sebastian Brown Double Doodle Groodle x Labradoodle pups 8 weeks Boho Oodles has 2 beautiful Double Doodle Groodle x Labradoodle female puppies ready for their fur-ever homes. They can be collected from Brisbane or transported interstate additional cost. She is very sweet and affectionate and would be great for a family with small children or someone looking for a companion. She will be ready for her home mid Sept after she has completed 28 days of puppy training. Please enquire if you'd like more information on what it means to be a Boho Guardian family. Looking for forever home. Fun loving family pet great with kids. Minimum shedding. They have been microchipped and vet checked. Vaccinated and wormed every 2 weeks since birth. Will grow to aprox 15kg. Looking for family home with lots of cuddles. Great loyal companion dogs. Mum is a pure chocolate Labrador and Dad is a pure black standard poodle. Well socialised at home with children, being handled daily. Toileting on puppy pads. They are all vet checked and are in good health. Located in Burpengary, also happy to help with transport. Unlike a multigen, F1 Is the initial cross between a purebred labrador and purebred poodle. F1 labradoodles are usually a low shedding dog. Our dogs: Mabel, our beautiful Dam, is a purebred golden labrador with a loyal, loving and gentle temperament. He boasts gorgeous parti colouring and a sweet and beautiful temperament. Puppies will be medium sized dogs. Available puppies: 1. Black boy 3. Chocolate boy 5. Black boy 7. Black boy Inclusions: Microchipped, wormed, vaccinated. Soft toy, Australian made collar by Native Collars, natural fibre blanket. Puppy growth history and vet report, puppy rearing information. Meet and greet from 4 weeks of age. Mable is a special part of our family and these puppies are handled daily, well socialised and loved. They will be weaned and ready for their new homes on Friday 7th July. Meet and greet available from 8th June. Our puppies will not be desexed. We choose not to desex until 9 months of age due to the important role that hormone production plays in the long term health of a dog. It is our recommendation that you consult your vet to discuss appropriate timing. We are looking for loving, forever homes for these precious pups, matching the puppies personality to you, as they will become part of your family. Please send us a message telling us about yourself and we will be happy to answer any questions. Mum has also been hip and elbow scored. Available in the litter are : 1 x chocolate female, 1 x black male3 x black females. Our puppies are well socialised and handled extensively every day to ensure they make great family members. Pups will be microchipped and vaccinated, as well as flea and worm treated. They will come with a Puppy food pack as well as 6 weeks free Pet Insurance. Ready to go from 17 June. Pickup is in Mudgee NSW, puppies can be transported across Australia through jet pets or I can meet in a surrounding suburb close to Mudgee. Litter of seven large medium to standard size black Cobberdog Labradoodle puppies, as per photos. Remaining pups are ready to go NOW! They were microchipped, vaccinated and health checked including full physical by our vet on .If you believe you can provide a wonderful forever home for one of these beautiful puppies, please message with your email contact details and we'll send you an application form. Application forms need to be completed in full in order for you to be considered. Mum and Dad are our forever pets; we are not in the dog breeding industry. Dad has since been desexed and Mum will be as soon as pups are fully weaned, therefore this is a one and only opportunity to share your home with one of these stunning babies. The pups are being sold as pets only and a desexing contract will be required. They are expected to have fleece coats and mature around 8 - 15kg. Mum is a black labrador and dad is a 5kg black and white parti poodle who carries the dominant curly coat gene which he passes to his pups. We've sourced our dogs from all over Australia, tested their DNA and conduct regular vet testing. We take breeding healthy pups really seriously and spend all our time making sure both pups and parents have the best environment possible. You are welcome to visit and meet the pups or they can be delivered to Canberra airport for interstate travel if required airflight to be organised by buyer. We are an experienced breeder with over 15 yrs of breeding experience. We are also a vet audited member of RPBA which means we have passed very strict and comprehensive criteria for the care of our animals. Our dogs are part of our family. There are lots of pictures on their to show what these pups' siblings have looked like when grown up - We are very proud grandparents! We have medium and small second generation girls and boys. Colours available are red, black and two-toned phantom. Puppies coats will be fleece or wool. Minimal shedding and hypoallergenic. They will go to their new homes vet checked, microchipped, vaccinated, wormed and with a puppy pack. We are located in Port Stephens which is 30 minutes from Newcastle or 90 minutes from Sydney. Please contact us to arrange a visit or FaceTime for interstate buyers. They will be toilet trained on artificial grass. Labradoodles are great for living indoors or outdoors and are very low shedding. They come with a puppy pack including toys, puppy food, blanket with mums scent on it for an easier transition into its new home etc. Will also been socialised with people and other pets to help them with social skills and playtime. We live on 5 acres and have lots of room for parents and puppies to run around and play I can help with organising interstate transport and we do video calls to help you find your perfect furbaby. We are looking for loving homes for our gorgeous puppies where they will get the attention, love and training they need. Please feel free to call or message me for more information, or if you would like addition pictures. We take great pride in producing and providing high quality puppies for families looking for their new furbaby. We are situated on 5 acres and have lots of room for our dogs and puppies to run around amd grow up in. Puppies are all socialised with people and our other pets and different noises to help them adapt to this new world they live in. We offer 6 weeks free Pet Insurance, desexing voucher and a 12 months genetic health guarantee. These puppies will be medium size with very low shedding, this makes them great for any family and also great for indoors. They suit any type of family, older families and even families with younger children. The great thing about Bordoodles is that they can be out and about walking and exercising with you or they are happy to chill out at home. They are the perfect family member. They will be toilet trained on artificial grass and they will come with a puppy pack including toys, food, blanket with mums scent on it for an easier transition into their new loving homes and other goodies. We are happy to do personal viewings or video calls and for interstate buyers we can also help you organise transport with our breeders discount. Viewings for prospective forever homes will be conducted at our home when puppies are 4 weeks old. Puppies will be vet checked , vaccinated , wormed and microchipped before going to their new homes. Pups will be weaned onto Blackhawk premium puppy food. They are bought up in our home around humans, cats and general household noises. Pups are wormed, vaccinated and microchipped and will come with a puppy pack. Book your appointment for a visit now.

She graduated from the University of Glasgow in with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed , times. Labrador retrievers are an adorable and popular dog breed that can make a great addition to your household. Aside from a physical examination, you can do a professional DNA test on the dog to check its genetic makeup. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Does the fur appear short, and have a thick texture? The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Did you know? There are silver labs, but silver is not an acceptable color in the breed standard as this color is believed to have come from a cross with the Weimaraner. However, dogs with this coat color may still be registered with certain kennel clubs. If the dog is a yellow or black lab, check that the puppy has brown eyes. In the case of chocolate labs, check for brown or hazel eyes. Check to see how long its legs are; while a Labrador should have longer legs than a Dachshund, its legs should be shorter than a Husky. Purchase a dog genetics test, which will give you a specialized testing kit. Some DNA tests will look for genetic markers, while cheaper tests focus more on the different breeds. Tip: Try to keep the puppy from sharing food or playing rough with the other dogs, as this might hurt the integrity of the saliva sample. Package the saliva sample according to the instructions given by the company. Seal the envelope or package carefully, so the sample is completely secure while it travels to the lab. Generally, you can find the test results listed by breed, followed by a percentage; however, this might differ, depending on the company. If this is possible, use a cotton swab to collect saliva samples from 1 or both parents. Store these samples carefully, so you can send them to a professional company. Seal the envelope or package carefully to secure the sample, and keep it safe in transit. Go to source Seeing a CH or confirmation champion title on the pedigree certificate means that the dog is close to the ideals in the breed standard and is related to a dog that was able to win over other dogs at a show with at least 15 conformation points. Go to source A dog with this lineage can make a great candidate for showing. If your dog has documented parentage with the American Kennel Club, you can search their database and purchase a certificate that affirms this. You can also register your dog through the American Kennel Club once you have proof of their pedigree. Go to source Fees for pedigrees very depending on the type. It serves important functions like communication, balance, and coordination. It comprises vertebrae, with larger bones at the base and smaller ones near the end. These individual segments are separated by soft discs — similar to those found in spinal columns — providing flexibility for movement. This natural curl helps them maneuver effortlessly through water or tight spaces during adventurous pursuits. Labrador puppy tails are built with strength and adaptability. It allows them to communicate emotions efficiently or swiftly navigate through tricky situations. Labrador Tail Types Labrador tails cannot be explicitly divided into different types. However, the tails may appear different from one dog to another. The reason for what they were bred can make a difference. Show dogs are bred to match the distinct breed standard. Dogs not bred for appearance can have a distinct look. A working lab can have a thinner, longer, shorter, or curly tail. Every other dog of this breed may not have the same thick tapering tail. Two dogs can have tails with slight variation. A black lab tail, a yellow lab tail, or a chocolate lab tail can be slightly different. It serves as a way for dogs to express themselves, whether happy, scared, or nervous. If a Labrador Retriever wags its tail rapidly from side to side with excitement when greeting you, it indicates happiness. If their tail is tucked between their legs while cowering away from something or someone, it shows that they are fearful or anxious. These dogs were originally bred for fishing and hunting. Their powerful tails were essential for diving into icy waters and retrieving fish from boats. Their tails were also selectively bred for balance, coordination, agility, and communication. The thick base provided strength while swimming or moving about in the water or on rough terrain. The thin tail tapering toward the tip enables nimble movements on land or water. When your Labrador wags its tail vigorously while jumping around, it reflects excitement. A slow tail wagging signifies uncertainty or confusion, while a tucked tail between the hind legs shows submission or anxiety. Dogs communicate with their entire body language, not just their tails alone. They use subtle cues such as ear movements, eye contact, posture, vocalizations, and tails to express feelings. Balance, Coordination, And Agility The thick base of their tail is a counterbalance when running or jumping. It allows them to make sharp turns and sudden stops easily. When swimming, the tapering shape of the tail helps generate thrust in the water. Ensuring your Labrador gets plenty of exercise and playtime keeps their tails happy and maintains good muscle tone. Swimming And Water Activities Labrador Retrievers love water, and their thick tail is a powerful rudder. The breed was originally developed to retrieve from water bodies, making it an integral part of their DNA. It provides balance while standing or moving on slippery surfaces like rocks or boats. This painful condition causes the tail to become limp and flaccid. It can occur suddenly, usually after intense physical activity like swimming or overexertion. Most cases of Limber Tail Syndrome resolve themselves within a few days. Supportive care like rest, heat therapy on the tail base using a warm washcloth , and anti-inflammatory medication help. Limber Tail Syndrome is not life-threatening but can be very uncomfortable for your dog. A wagging tail may look harmless, but it can be quite powerful and easily hit hard objects, causing injury. Fractures and dislocations are more common in dogs with short or thin tails. Treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and sometimes physical therapy. Mast cell tumors, including Labradors, are the most common type of tumor found in dogs. These tumors originate from white blood cells and can manifest differently depending on their location. If located near the base of the tail or spine, it may cause pain or discomfort. Regular visits to the veterinarian detect any potential health issues early on so they can be treated promptly. Provide exercise for proper circulation, and ensure adequate nutrition with supplements like fish oil or glucosamine. Keep the fur around the base of their tail trimmed to avoid matting or tangling. Use a dog-friendly shampoo to wash their tail when needed. Trim any long hairs on their tail using sharp scissors or clippers, careful not to cut too close to the skin. Check for any signs of injury, such as cuts or bruises, and seek veterinary care if necessary. Swimming, running, and playing fetch are all excellent ways to keep your dog active while promoting a healthy tail. Give your furry friend plenty of opportunities to swim in open water or a pool. Water activities help strengthen their powerful tails as they paddle through the water. Running on soft surfaces like grass, sand, or dirt keeps their joints healthy and reduces the risk of joint problems. It can affect their tails over time. A balanced and nutritious diet includes high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. Fatty acids maintain healthy skin and dense coats, promoting healthy tails. Hydration is crucial for a happy tip-tapping tail! Provide clean water at all times so they remain hydrated throughout the day. The ideal Labrador tail should be thick at the base and gradually taper toward the tip, with no signs of kinks or knots. According to AKC breed standards, a wagging tail can indicate friendliness. But excessive wagging or stiffness can denote fear or aggression. Docking or altering their tails can cause unnecessary pain and discomfort, leading to long-term health issues. With proper care comes better communication through body language signals. Labrador tail is medium and not longer than the hock per breed standard. However, some tails can be different from the standard. However, a labrador tail does not curl up over its head. Yes, golden retrievers can have curled tails. This is not a breed standard, but it is not uncommon either. Some golden retrievers may have a slight curl in their tail, while others may have a more pronounced curl that goes all over their back. What is the otter tail on a Labrador? The otter tail in a labrador is a thick rounded appearance. The thick look comes from the thicker coat. The tail has a small c-shape, is pointed downward, and is fairly straight. What does a Labradors tail look like? Labradors usually have a thick tail base that tapers toward the tip. It is free from feathering and is medium in length. It is thick with a short and dense coat surrounding it and gives an otter-like appearance. What does a lab tail mean? A stiff lab tail held high reflects confidence and dominance. It means your labrador will not back down. A low tail tucked between the legs indicates fear. Labs have thick and sturdy bodies with broad heads and long otter-like tails. The tail helps them steer in the water and reflects their emotions. Labrador retrievers have about 15, hairs per square inch of skin. This means that a full-grown Labrador retriever with an average surface area of 20 square feet would have about million hairs on its body Why does my Lab puppy have a curly tail? A lab can have a curly tail due to genetic variations. It can also occur when a lab is bred with another dog breed with curly tails. The happy tail syndrome can also cause a curly tail. Genetic traits determine the specific tail shape of a dog and can vary from straight to curved or curled. This variation results from natural selection, historical environmental factors, and selective breeding practices. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You can read about Labrador History here. Breeders use the standard as the blueprint in their breeding programs, as the ideal dog to aim for, to ensure the purity, continuation and future of the breed. Conformation judges use the standard as a guide to score against when judging Labradors in the show ring. The standard dictates what everyone in Labrador circles should adhere to. These differences mostly come down to just the use of language and the depth of the description within the standards. Some of the standards are quite short and concise, whilst others are very long and wordy. However, they all describe the same animal and agree on how a Labrador should look and on its characteristics and temperament. For my descriptions below, I shall quote the original UK Kennel Club breed standard with additions from some other standards where I feel it aids the description. Excellent nose, soft mouth; keen love of water. Adaptable, devoted companion. Well known for its kindness, confidence, intelligence and willingness to please, a lab should display all these qualities. With regards to body weight, sadly I see so many overweight Labradors in the UK. As a working breed, they must be agile and athletic. The excellent nose, soft mouth and love of water are all in the standard due to the breeds working nature. If he is to retrieve fallen game, he needs the ability to sniff out where it has fallen, perhaps to retrieve from water and especially needs the ability to bring the bird back without crushing or damaging the bird within its mouth. Kindly nature, with no trace of aggression or undue shyness. A Labrador is confident and eager to please due to being a working breed that spends a lot of time working with and for humans. A Labrador is also highly biddable so it can be easily trained for the work that is desired of it. It would be too hard to train and unreliable when working. Intelligence, kindness and willingness to please is hard to judge in the ring, but breeders especially should take note of this requirement. Jaws of medium length, powerful not snipy. Nose wide, nostrils well developed. Neither long and elongated, or short and stubby, it is in proportion to the strong yet agile looking body. Kind of square, but in keeping with the athletic yet kindly look of the breed. Although not explicitly expressed in the standard, whilst looking at the head of a Labrador, you can definitely sense the intelligence and kindness of the breed. This should be instantly recognizable. The color of brown and hazel is almost certainly just down to aesthetics and suits the overall color and look of the breed. The ears not being too large or heavy prevents the ears being out of proportion with the rest of the animal or making the Labrador look a little too much like a hound. Larger ears would also more easily snag on bramble and branches when traveling through dense cover, so making the dog more easily injured whilst working. Stating the ears must be hanging close to the head prevents the breeding of animals with pointed ears that would be out line with the look of the breed. Forelegs well boned and straight from elbow to ground when viewed from either front or side. Level topline. Loins wide, short-coupled and strong. Strength and stamina are important characteristics of the breed. The well sprung ribs refer to the Labrador look having a chest that extends out from the spine and nicely curves down into the belly giving a nice, filled out strong-looking shape. A Labrador that has a narrow chest and appears flat down its sides is not typical of the breed. Hocks well let down, cowhocks highly undesirable. The hindquarters are the engines for movement and provide much of the force for power in movement. May be carried gaily but should not curl over back. Not having a tail that curls over the back is useful in a breed that may have to crawl through thick cover, avoiding any chance of snagging on bramble or branches. The legs should not splay outward, nor splay inward There should be no weaving, bobbing, toeing out in the forequarters or elbows sticking out during motion. The Labradors effortless and graceful motion is essential in a breed that should be able to work all day. Any inefficiencies in movement will only hinder its working performance in high activity pursuits. The top coat provides a tough protection for a dog that has to wade through thick undergrowth and grassland areas. The undercoat provides a dense weather and water-proof layer allowing the Labrador to work in cold conditions and be able to swim in somewhat unforgiving cold waters. The undercoat is usually lighter in color than the overcoat but does not show through it. You can see the undercoat by running your hand against the lay of the fur. Yellows range from light cream to red fox. Small white spot on chest permissible. Approximate weight of dogs and bitches in working condition: dogs 65 to 80 pounds; bitches 55 to 70 pounds. The size is written into the breed standard to prevent attempts at selectively breeding Labradors into toy or giant sizes. The Labrador is a medium-sized dog. Linda has bred labs for many years as well as traveled the world extensively whilst judging them and really knows what they look for in the ring. Conclusion You should note that the four main areas that make a Lab a Lab, are the three physical attributes of its head, tail and coat, but with high importance also placed upon its temperament. The physical attributes described allow the ease of movement and stamina to work long days and the strength and balance required to carry heavy loads over reasonable distances in its mouth. A Labradors temperament of being loyal, biddable, intelligent, eager to please and highly adaptable is what makes the Labrador such an excellent working animal, but also dearly loved as a family pet. Are you still yearning for more information about Labrador Retrievers? One of our favorite books is Your Labrador Retriever Puppy. It has tons of information about our favorite breed. Labrador tail injuries Lab tails are thick and tapering, covered in the same dense hair as the rest of their bodies. Labrador tails are also practical, helping them to steer quickly through water in their original retrieving role! Some Labs may have shorter or thinner tails than average, which is considered a fault in show dogs. Happy Labrador puppies wag their tiny tails! The traditional Labrador Retriever tail is thick and gradually tapers towards the tip. Unlike some other retriever breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, Labradors have little to no feathering on their tails. Instead, their entire tail is covered in dense fur, like the rest of their body. However, some Labrador tails fall outside of this standard, being shorter, longer, or thinner than average. Instead, it follows their topline the line from their neck to tail. Giving them the overall balanced appearance that we know of this breed! Labradors can use their tails to help with swimming, as a powerful rudder. Labs communicate through their tail — like other dogs. Some Labrador tails curve upwards although not over their back , and others may be dead straight. Labrador Tail Types There are no real different Labrador tail types. But, Labrador tails may look slightly different from one dog to the next, depending on what they were bred for. For instance, Labs bred for show are bred to fit the strict breed standard. Dogs who are not specifically bred for appearance can differ a little more. So, you may find working Labs with thinner tails, shorter or longer tails than average, and even tails that curve upwards a little more than you expect. Of course, many theorize that the otter tail shape also helps Labs with their working ability. Some may have a thinner tail, or one that does not taper so gradually. Lab Tail Colors These variations can happen in Labs of any color. Labrador Tail Injuries It is possible for your Labrador to injure their tail. The most common problem that affects Labrador tails is limber tail. Other than limber tail, this condition is also called water tail, swimmer tail, limp tail, and more. If your Lab has limber tail, their tail will hang lifelessly, or may jut out a little before hanging limp. But, fortunately, there are ways to help a Lab suffering from limber tail. Potential risk factors for limber tail include swimming, high latitudes, and even genetic predisposition. If your Lab seems to be suffering with limber tail, you should take them to your veterinarian straight away. In the first 24 hours, anti-inflammatories can be given to shorten the length of the flare up. And, your vet will be able to give your Lab dog-safe pain relief, if nothing else. This could take anywhere from a few days to over a week. Do you have a Labrador with the popular, classic otter tail? Has your hard-working retriever ever suffered from limber tail? Find Out More. The tail is constructed in a way that supports the dog in its role as a retriever, especially in water. Otter showing the otter tail shape of a Labrador Retriever tail Pixabay How many bones are in a Labrador tail? It depends on the length of the tail, but it will be between six and 23 bones or vertebrae. The medial artery together with two caudal meaning near the tail or rear arteries runs up to the end of the tail. Nerves can get damaged and affect the functioning of the tail. Dogs use their tails to communicate , so it is important that the nerves do not get damaged. Nerve damage usually occurs due to excessive strong pulling on the tail. The tail of a Labrador is also used in their swimming and retrieving actions, so if your Labrador suffers from a limp tail , it is advisable to consult a veterinarian immediately. Why do Labradors have thick tails? The tail is thick at the base, muscular, flexible, and taper to a point. The Labrador uses its thick tail to help propel and steer it when swimming and to keep balance when chasing or playing. What should a Labrador tail look like? Can a Labrador Retriever have a curly tail? The only deviation from this standard occurs when the dog is in action and moves its tail as needed to function effectively. A tail that hangs between the hind legs or curls above the back, is not acceptable and may even indicate that the dog is not a pure-bred Labrador. It should be in line with the head and rest of the body as prescribed by the breed standards. See the previous paragraph. The tail hair is dense and wrapped tightly around the tail. It does not have a feather-like appearance like other breeds such as the Golden Retriever. Most Labrador lovers prefer the twizzle as a logical culmination of the wrapping of the hair at the end of the tail. Limber tail The cause of limber tail is unknown Limber tail is a painful condition where the tail of mainly large working dogs becomes flexible or limp. Limber tail occurs in Labradors and is mostly self-correcting.

We have a rainbow of colours, two different styles and sizes to suit almost any woofer. Click here to grab one while you can. Why we love Puppia harnesses.We love Puppia harnesses because they're high quality while also being lightweight, breathable, quick drying and machine washable due to the air mesh fabric. They're recommended by vets because they reduce strain on your dog's neck during walks. Any force caused by your dog pulling on their lead is spread over their body when wearing a harness compared to just attaching a lead to a standard dog collar. Your dog's neck and trachea are delicate and can be damaged by the pulling associated with just using a dog collar and lead for walks. Style A or Style B? Style A is the Puppia original shape dog harness and is the most adjustable style of the two we offer. To put it on your dog you place the top of the harness over their head, just like putting on a jumper. Next, place their left leg into the harness and finally secure the harness around their back with the simple clip. The neck size of a Style A is fixed so you will need to make sure it can pass over your dog's head easily, but the waist clip is adjustable to ensure the perfect fit. Style B, which we often call 'the vest harness', is perfect for any dog who doesn't like the A shape harness going over their heads. The Style B is better suited to dogs with longer narrower frames, such as Dachshunds and Chihuahuas. The vest style of this shape of harness gives more coverage than the Style A and some find it is more secure as it has a wide velcro band as well as a clip. Which size? To find the best size for your dog in either Style A or Style B you will need to carefully take two measurements using a soft tape measure - neck circumference and chest girth all the way around their body, behind their front legs. If you don't have a soft tape you can always use a piece of string and then measure the string against a builders tape measure to get the measurements. Once you have both measurements compare them to the charts below to find your dog's ideal size. It is important to note that most dog's are one size larger in the B Shape harness than the regular A Shape. The breed examples given in the charts are just examples and your dog may be a different size even if they are the breed listed. More help? We're always happy to help with advice about style or size for your four legged friend - please contact us via email or phone .If you're local to Nottingham you are welcome to bring your dog to our shop at Sneinton Market Avenues for a fitting - please see our homepage for the most up to date opening hours. Superior Comfort A Safety For Small Dogs 5 Four of my dogs are huge beasts that have special harnesses that they wear when I take them for a walk; it allows me to feel confident that they are under control especially if they see a cat roaming around and I know that even if they start pulling on the leash they aren't going to get the air choked out of them. For my small dog I needed something that he wouldn't be able to wiggle out of; he is a true escape artist and this harness is the only one that he has never been able to get out of when we've been on walks. It is soft and comfortable on his body and he still has a full range of motion when it is on him; getting it on and off of him takes about a minute if he isn't jumping around and excited when he sees me pull it out of the hall closet. One of the best things about this harness is that I don't have to take his neck collar off when I put this on him; he still has his registration and vet tags on him so if he should happen to pull a disappearing act at least I know that if someone finds him they will know that he is indeed a pet and not a stray. I originally got this in gray but opted to get a second one in orange so that he is easier to spot if we go for a walk in the evening. If I am walking to the store in the evening I usually put the orange one on him so I can see exactly where he is in relation to my feet so I don't accidentally step on him. The harnesses are machine washable and have help up perfectly since I got them. I know that when he is wearing one there's almost no chance that he will be able to wiggle his way out of it and that when he starts pulling on the leash when he gets excited he isn't putting undue pressure on his neck or throat.

Baths are a part of life for furry friends, just like for humans. How often you wash your Frenchie depends primarily on the coat type. You do not have to wash your French Bulldog regularly if it has healthy skin and coat. But daily activity also plays a major role. Why Wash Your French Bulldog? The purpose of a wash is to prevent grease and dirt from building up in the fur and to prevent skin pores from becoming clogged. Of course, regular baths with also give your Frenchie a fresh and shiny coat to keep them looking nice. While brushing your French bulldog can remove some dirt from the coat, a thorough wash from time to time is necessary for proper coat care. It is important to choose the right shampoo tailored to the type of coat and skin that your dog has. When brushing, you remove loose hair, dirt, and parasites. Brushing also stimulates proper blood flow. This will help maintain a healthy, shiny coat for your Frenchie. And, of course, the dreaded shedding — Frenchies are fabulous, but they do shed some. Regular brushing can help decrease this. Make sure you use a brush for short hair dogs since French bulldogs have short, thick, or silky hair. Then, you could use anti-tangling spray during the brushing session. Special tip: brush against the direction of hair growth while spraying some anti-tangling spray over the fur for optimum results. Regardless of which breed or type of dog, brushing should be done much more often than washing. Both short-haired and long-haired dogs must be brushed from time to time. Really, the more you do it, the better. Too much washing is not good because the skin can become dry and irritated, but a wash every three months is a good number never less than this. Bath frequencies also depend on daily activity. Does your Frenchie play outside regularly? If so, you should wash your pup more often. It is not harmful to wash your dog as much as every few weeks if they need it, but be sure to use a gentle shampoo. French bulldogs with white or light-colored coats will probably need to be washed more often than darker-colored coats. The choice below is another excellent natural, gentle shampoo. Okay, just kidding! After your dog is brushed, set up the bathing area to keep it as comfortable and clean as possible. A bathtub is typically a good place to bathe your Frenchie. Wear comfy and casual clothes, of course. Have a cup for pouring water onto your dog, shampoo, and a couple of absorbent towels Fill your bath with lukewarm not too hot or cold water just a bit. Maybe give them a treat to feel a little happier about bathtime. Put your dog into lukewarm bathwater. Ensure that the water is not too high, of course. Put some shampoo into your hand and gently rub his fur, massaging shampoo well into the coat, just like your stylist does at the salon. Let the shampoo work in for a couple of minutes, and then rinse everything thoroughly. Make sure that all remains of the shampoo are washed out and that nothing is left behind. Shampoo residue can cause skin irritation. Let him shake his coat well. Most dogs will gladly do this. Good thing you have your casual clothes on! Thoroughly dry your freshly washed baby with an absorbent towel or two if needed. Comb while using a hairdryer. Drying your dog off well is very important. Comb your dog using the anti-tangling spray if needed. Burt's Bees dog spray conditioner helps loosen tangles and is an excellent leave-in curly coat dog hair conditioner that is as easy as spraying down your pooch daily No. We aim to be your favorite natural dog company We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. You may notice your Frenchie quickly starts zooming around full of energy after bathtime. Well, this is completely normal and actually has a scientific name. FRAPs is frenetic random activity periods. After being contained to a bath, your pup has built up energy to get out, so they may act a little crazy for a bit after bathtime. Puppy Bathtime To get your Frenchie used to bathtime and to ensure healthy skin and coat from the start, begin by bathing your puppy soon after bringing them home. Again, this should be done at least 4 times a year and more if needed. Use a special puppy shampoo as they are more gentle and tear-free, ensuring that their eyes will not be irritated. It can be tricky to wash a dog if your dog hates bathtime. A few tricks can help make bathtime a little less dreadful for your Frenchie. Bath grip: Put a bath grip down in the tub to prevent them from sliding and to make it more comfortable. Tire them out: Take your dog on a walk before bath time, so that they have less energy to put up a fight. More on walks here. Be efficient: If you use the steps above to prepare for bathtime, then the process should be quicker. Treats: Treats make everything better! Life is busy, and bathing a dog is very time-consuming. No rinse is needed. This can be done between baths. A bath with shampoo and water is still needed 4 times a year at a minimum. Fresh and Clean There you have it- the scoop on maintaining clean and healthy skin and fur for your Frenchie. When you wash a dog, it very well may feel like a chore. But remember, your furry family member deserves to feel fresh and clean just like you do. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. Pin1 1 Shares Washing and bathing are one of the biggest concerns new Frenchie owners have. How often should you bathe a French Bulldog? Ideally you should bathe a French Bulldog no more than 5 times a year to avoid drying out their natural skin oils. However, this is very impractical in most cases, so the rule of thumb is to bathe them when they are smelly and very dirty but using the right cleaning products. Well, let me give you a personal example. We take Claude for his walks every day, and for half of the year that means a lot of mud. He loves to cool down in muddy waters as you can see in this photo and will always get mud caked up his legs and under his belly. We need to bathe our French Bulldog more often than we would like due to his playing habits! Now, do we then want that muddy Frenchie in our living space and on our bed? No, of course not, so we do have to bathe our French Bulldog more often than we would ideally like. And I am sure that will be the same for you. So, how often do we bathe our French Bulldog in reality? Well, for us, probably a couple of times a month. You spray it on their coat, then wipe them down with a towel — meaning no bath or shower needed. You can see the dry shampoo we use on Amazon. But what does this mean exactly? Well, Frenchies have oils in their skins, just like all dogs do. It keeps their coat healthy, and their skin healthy too. We need to bathe as French Bulldog Claude as often as twice a month — not ideal, but needs necessitate regular washing. What products are best for bathing your Frenchie? With that in mind, we know that the reality is you will be bathing your Frenchie more often than 5 times a year. So, what cleaning products should you use that will help to not just keep their natural oils in check, but also alleviate any itchiness or allergies? It needs to be something that ticks these boxes: PH balanced. How often should I bathe my French Bulldog puppy and what are their grooming needs? French Bulldogs sport a short and smooth coat that should be relatively fine to the touch. You do not want to over wash your Frenchie and dry out natural skin oils. We bathe our Frenchies on an as needed basis which is generally once a month , but we regularly spot clean them with wet washcloths or wet wipes unscented and for sensitive skin. Their behinds occasional need to be wiped clean as well, as does any other breed. The bottom line is that they should be washed as needed, and if your acceptance level of what is appropriate cleanliness is different than ours, it should not be a problem. There is quite a range of latitude in bathing frequency. There are many good dog shampoos on the market and it is really just a matter of personal preference. They can be purchased at any pet store, Walmart, etc. Years ago, when we owned a Yorkie, our vet recommended using baby shampoo because Yorkies tend to frequently get goop around the eyes; and, the baby shampoo allowed us to clean the area around their eyes without irritating them. We still use baby shampoo with our Frenchies since they have lots of folds on their faces that require regular cleaning. If you decide to go with a dog shampoo, choose a mild formulated shampoo for sensitive skin; your vet may have some good recommendations. French Bulldogs are short-haired and have a single coat; so, fortunately, they do not shed as much as most breeds. Brushing their coat regularly with a rubber brush will remove any dead or loose hair — which in turn, will reduce the amount of shedding. The are prone to becoming damp and this is where infection can result. They also can collect dirt and food causing infections also. Utah has a very dry climate, so for us it is sufficient to regularly clean their folds with baby shampoo and then thoroughly dry them with a dry cloth. The frequency of maintenance varies from Frenchie to Frenchie, as well as climatic conditions. Frenchies with large, ropey wrinkling in a hot, humid environment would require the most attention; whereas, a lightly wrinkled Frenchie in a cool, dry environment would require the least. It is recommended that you clean the wrinkles out at least once a week initially and then vary your schedule based on the requirements of each Frenchie. Tear stains appear more prevalent on the lighter color Frenchies. There are many products on the market which claim to remove and or prevent tear stain removal, but the most commonly referred to method is the use of Desitin yes, the same ointment used for the treatment of baby rash. The ointment is spread along the length of the stain and after two or three weeks of application the stains should have disappeared. Care must be taken in both cases to assure that neither gets into the dogs eyes. The nose can be susceptible to drying out. The best way to remedy this is to regularly apply a smear of petroleum jelly Vaseline to the nose. This keeps the nose dark and moist. Our vet also recommended vitamin E just squeeze a little of the capsule , which we have found to work very well. Some people do not feel comfortable clipping their dogs nails and will take them to a groomer or vet. However, if you want to save time and money, it is a fairly simple task that takes only a few minutes. There are two types of of clippers: a guillotine or a scissor type. The guillotine is the easiest to use. The instructions that come with the clippers will guide you on how to use the instrument. Light claws are easier to cut than dark claws as the blood vessels and nerves that supply the toenail, called the quick, is easier to see. Cut the toenail to within approximately 2 mm of the quick. If you cut into the quick, the toenail will bleed and the dog will experience pain — nothing serious, but they might not sit too still the next time you undertake this task. When cutting dark toenails, it is better to cut just a little off at a time. Some Frenchie owners, who have dogs with dark toenails, cut them once every week or two so that they only have to cut off a little at a time, avoiding any fear of cutting into the quick. If you do accidentally cut into the quick, no harm done. Bleeding generally stops within a few minutes it helps to apply pressure with a paper towel. Have More Questions?