female boxer puppy names

Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The Boxer is playful, exuberant, inquisitive, attentive, demonstrative, devoted, and outgoing; this dog is a perfect companion for an active family. Boxers can be stubborn, but are sensitive and responsive to commands. They may be assertive toward strange dogs, but are generally good with other family dogs and pets. Upkeep The Boxer needs daily mental and physical exertion. They likes to run, but their exercise needs can also be met with a good jog or long walk on leash. They do not do well in hot weather. Some snore. The coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: boxer cardiomyopathy, SAS, CHD Minor concerns: gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, corneal erosion, colitis Occasionally seen: brain tumors, degenerative myelopathy Suggested tests: thyroid, hip, cardiac Holter monitoring Life span: 8—10 years Note: Sensitive to heat. White boxers may be deaf. The drug acepromazine can cause severe reactions. History The Boxer derives from two central European breeds of dog that no longer exist: the larger Danziger Bullenbeiser and smaller Brabenter Bullenbeiser. Bullenbeiser means bull-biter, and these dogs were used to chase large game through the forest. This required a strong but agile dog with a broad powerful jaw and a recessed nose. In England, the Bulldog was the favored breed for the sport, whereas in Germany large mastiff-type dogs were used. Around the s, German hunters began a concerted effort to create a new breed, crossing their Bullenbeisers with mastiff-type dogs for size, terriers for tenacity, and, finally, Bulldogs. The result was a tough agile dog with a streamlined body and strong grip. By , an entirely new breed, the Boxer, had been established. Although the exact origin of the name Boxer is obscure, it may have been derived from the German Boxl. The Boxer was one of the first breeds to be employed as a police and military dog in Germany. By , the breed had become established as a general utility dog, family pet, and even show dog. The AKC recognized the breed soon after, but only in the s did the breed begin its steady rise to the top of the popularity charts, eventually peaking as the fourth most popular breed in America. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

Call Vic Kasser or Email! A French Bulldog is considered a small to medium breed dog depending on the Sire and Dam size and weight. One of the first questions anyone asks when considering purchasing a dog or puppy is how big will it get? This is a very relevant and important question considering your need to ensure your puppy is cared for appropriately in your home. Double Up: Generally, an adult dog will weigh about twice as much as he did when he was 4 months of age; giant breeds will double what they weighed at 5 months. Four Fold: The weight of your puppy at 8 weeks is a quarter of his adult weight. You can also obtain the weight of the sire father and dam mother of purebred puppies. Female puppies will weigh about what their dam weighs. Male puppies will weigh about what their sire weighs. Try Puppyweights. Factors Affecting Growth While much of a French Bulldog's growth is determined by genetic factors, early environmental factors also affect growth. Puppies who nurse frequently in the first weeks of life get better nutrition and are more likely to grow quickly. A healthy diet after your puppy is weaned can also affect her growth rate. Puppies who don't get enough food or who get low-quality food may end up smaller. Overfeeding can cause your dog to become obese. Medical conditions may also affect growth. French Bulldogs who are sick in the first few weeks of life tend to be smaller. Estimating Adult Size You can estimate your puppy's adult size by weighing her at eight weeks. Be sure to get the weight in ounces, since French Bulldogs don't grow very large and a few ounces can make a difference. Double this number and then double it again. For example, if your French Bulldog is 88 ounces at six weeks, double it to get ounces, then double the number again to get ounces. Divide this number by 16 to get your dog's weight in pounds. The ounce puppy will be about 22 pounds as an adult. Growth Rate On average, French Bulldogs tend to grow to their full size height at the withers and length from the base of their neck to their rear-end between the ages of 9 months to a year, and then they tend to "fill in" and bulk-up during their second year, fully maturing by the time they're around 2. During their growth stages, puppies can certainly grow to be heavy, and then they start getting leaner and more toned in their second year, so it's not unusual for a puppy to be heavier when they're under a year, and then drop a couple of pounds in their second year. Small-breed dogs, such as Chihuahuas, do not have room in their bodies for large litters, therefore they tend to produce only two to four puppies per pregnancy. Large-breed dogs, such as Great Danes, usually have larger litters, 10 to 12 puppies being common. Breed type also impacts the size of the newborns. Small-breed puppies are typically several inches smaller than large-breed puppies, regardless of the number of dogs in the litter. Small Puppies the Mother's Health Unusually small puppies are not a result of large litters. Instead, their size can usually be traced back to the health and nutrition of the mother dog before and during her pregnancy. Because the unborn puppies share the nutrition she takes in from her food, she needs an ample diet to properly nourish the puppies. Without sufficient food, the puppies will not reach appropriate size and may suffer health problems. According to veterinarian Kathleen Hefner, writing for the American Kennel Club, most puppies who die soon after birth were probably born from malnourished mothers. Litter Size Problems Even though litter size does not impact puppy size, large litters can cause problems for the mother dog and her new babies. If the mother's uterus attempts to carry more puppies than she can physically handle, her life and the puppies lives can be threatened. Also, large litters tend to produce more stillborn puppies and runts. With so many neonatal puppies vying for nutrition, those in the center of the womb often do not get sufficient nourishment, which can cause them to be born small or to die. Great Pyrenees breeder Catherine de la Cruz warns that large litters can trigger earlier-than-expected whelping, which can be a problem for the puppies unprepared human grandparents. Predicting Litter Size While accurately predicting the size of an expectant mom's litter is difficult, some other factors do contribute. Research shows older mother dogs have smaller litters than younger canine moms. Also, dogs who had their first litter at an older age will have smaller litters. The mother's weight can be a factor. Obese female dogs tend to have smaller litters than healthy-weight dogs. However, any pregnant mom can experience a large litter relative to normal within her breed. Dog litter sizes vary from one puppy to more than a dozen newborns. The recorded largest litter had .While litter size can impact many aspects of whelping and raising puppies, it does not actually impact the size of the individual puppies. The parents genes, the puppys breed, and the mother's health and nutrition determine the puppies size at birth. This is just a tool to be used along with observations of mom and dad weight, bone structure, previous puppy mature weights and more! However, we'll still link The file. French Bulldog Adults: Average Weight and Height On average, a full-bred adult French Bulldog weighs between 18 and 28 pounds and is 11 to 12 inches tall. Again, this can vary, and all pups grow at different rates. Everything you need to know about French Bulldog weight can be read here. Can I predict the size that my French Bulldog puppy will be? Double up: Typically, an adult dog will weigh twice as much as it did when it was 4 months old. This may vary. You can also compare your pup to the height of their mother for females or their father for males. Genetics As mentioned, genetics play a major role in the size of a puppy. A high-quality breeder will happily answer questions. A responsible breeder also ensures that the mother is provided with top-notch nutrition before breeding. Diet Like with plants and babies, puppies need proper nutrition in order to grow. Keep in mind some dogs show less interest in food and may not finish their entire bowls at meal times. Vets tend to recommend giving your dog a certain amount of time to eat. After a certain amount of time is up, you pick up the bowl with the remaining food. This is to train your dog that they need to eat all of their food at one time, or they will have to wait until the next scheduled meal time. Check out this complete guide to French Bulldog food. Mental Health If a French Bulldog is under stress or suffers from anxiety, it may show a loss of appetite. If you notice your pup being uninterested in meal times, try changing up its food. When is a French Bulldog full grown? Is my French Bulldog overweight? You can determine if your French Bulldog is overweight by noticing the following: Stand over your Frenchie and feel their ribs. You should be able to feel the ribs, but not see them. While Frenchies may show difficulty breathing due to being a Brachycephalic breed short muzzles can cause obstructive breathing , dogs of a healthy weight should be able to exercise at least for a bit without struggling. Of course, getting a second opinion from your vet is the best way to determine if your French Bulldog is overweight. Can I help my French Bulldog lose weight? Providing your pup with regular exercise and a balanced diet that includes protein, fat, fiber, and water and following the serving size provided on the nutrition facts is the best way to ensure your Frenchie is at a healthy weight. Wholesome food made with natural, high-quality ingredients like this can help your pup maintain a healthy weight. Less active dogs, like French Bulldogs, should eat about 25 calories per pound a day. So, if your pup is 20 pounds and eating about calories daily, its daily treats should consist of about 50 calories. Apple slices and carrots are nutritious, tasty treats. Is my French Bulldog underweight? Can I help my French Bulldog gain weight? When a pup gains too much fat instead of healthy fats combined with muscle, it can face health issues such as joint, heart, and lung problems. If your pup seems to be underweight according to the French Bulldog growth chart or it looks malnourished, certainly contact your vet. 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. Please keep in mind that these are estimates to give you a general idea of how tall your French Bulldog puppy will be. At what age is a French Bulldog fully grown? A French Bulldog will reach close to their full weight around eight to twelve months old and maximum height around nine to twelve months of age. French Bulldogs will continue to slowly fill out anywhere between nine to fifteen months of age. They are considered fully grown around 12 to 14 months old, but may continue to put on muscle until they are two years old. How big should a 6-month-old French Bulldog be? A male French Bulldog will weigh between 17 and 22 pounds at six months old and have an average weight of .A six-month-old female French Bulldog will weigh between 13 and 20 pounds with an average weight of 17 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand around seven to nine inches on average. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. French Bulldogs usually reach their full height when they are between nine and twelve months old. As short dogs, French Bulldogs barely double in height from three months of age to 1 year old. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, this is a telltale sign that they are still growing! What is the size of a full-grown French Bulldog? Most female French Bulldogs will weigh about 17 to 24 pounds, while male French Bulldogs weigh about 20 to 28 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand 11 to 13 inches tall and have a muscular, heavy-boned build. How do I make sure my French Bulldog is healthy? As a purebred dog breed, French Bulldogs are more prone to genetic health problems. In particular, French Bulldogs are predisposed to skin problems, ear infections, diarrhea, eye problems, spinal injury and respiratory distress caused by their brachycephalic syndrome. Brachycephalic syndrome causes them to have a flat nose and shorter esophagus, creating a heightened risk of breathing problems. The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that about half of French Bulldogs have significant breathing problems and .In addition to this, French Bulldogs are prone to obesity , which can lead to type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, disc disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and further respiratory issues. Pro Tip: Compare pet insurance plans to save on veterinary expenses and ensure that the cost of care never interferes with the essential treatment your pet deserves. Most French Bulldogs do well with a leisurely walk or active playtime. Be careful with taking your French Bulldog out in hot weather though as their brachycephalic syndrome makes them prone to overheating and heat stroke. As a general rule temperatures over 80 degrees should be avoided for French Bulldogs. As loving pet parents, we never want to think the worst could happen to our furbaby. However, we must prepare for both everyday costs, like vaccinations and veterinarian appointments, and emergencies. Dog Insurance is here to help you with emergency costs, as well as expected costs like veterinarian care see the wellness options many pet insurance plans offer. Only .Pet insurance can help you provide your pup with quality routine and emergency care. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Key Takeaways On average, French Bulldogs weigh between pounds at age one, with inches in height. French Bulldogs stop growing around months old, so pet owners should be mindful of weight gain after their first birthday. As a breed, French Bulldogs are exceptionally prone to obesity, which can worsen breathing problems and lead to a number of secondary health concerns. Use our French Bulldog growth chart to monitor your puppy's weight and ensure they stay within a healthy range. Pet insurance promotes positive veterinary care and offsets the cost of services should your Frenchie get sick or injured at any point in life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. The early months are critical. The timing is vital. Some apply to all dogs, such as distemper and rabies. If your French Bulldog is in contact with other pups, you should get him a kennel cough vaccine. Likewise, if you take him on the trail with you, consider getting him a Lyme disease vaccine. They are starting to learn social skills and how they fit in the hierarchy with their littermates. They are becoming more independent and starting to show signs of their unique personalities that will define them as adults. Socialization is critical at this age as it will determine how well he gets along with other people and pets. Anything is fair game for this pup. You can transition him to a dog food for pups at this life stage. A French Bulldog reaches his adult size at 12 months. Unfortunately, this pup has a relatively high tendency to gain weight. That puts him at risk for many chronic health conditions that can complicate the ones associate with him being a brachycephalic breed. That brings a host of other health issues that advisable to avoid. While breeding also can have adverse effects, keeping your pet intact may offer a viable option. More likely, stunted growth is the outcome. Growing up takes a lot of energy. The danger of stunted growth also extends toward so-called teacup varieties. These pups are at a greater risk for health problems because of their size. We recommend buying puppies from reputable breeders who understand the particular needs of the French Bulldog. The best way to gauge the weight of your French Bulldog is to look down at his body shape from above him. He should have a well-defined waist. You should also be able to feel his ribs. The feeding guidelines on the back of the package or can are not written in stone. Base his feeding schedule on his current weight and state of health. An online calorie calculator can help you plan his mealtimes correctly. Conclusion The cuteness of the French Bulldog makes it easy to overfeed him. His cute face begs for a treat. It will reduce his risk of chronic health conditions and improve his quality of life. After all, you want him to hang around as long as possible as your BFF. See also:. Injuries due to stresses on bones, muscles, and joints High blood pressure Signs that a French bulldog is underweight You should look at the chest region. However, when your Frenchie is thin or grossly emaciated, its bones are clearly visible. French Bulldog underweight health implications Being underweight could signal health problems as well. If your Frenchie is thin, it could have a parasitic infestation, a gastrointestinal disease, or a kidney problem. Upon observing your dog and reading the pointers herein, you could be wondering how you can get your Frenchie to either gain or lose weight. How to get my French Bulldog to lose weight? Exercise Although French Bulldogs are low-energy dogs and love sleeping all day, they should exercise and play around in order to remain fit. Daily minute walks or regular play sessions are ideal for keeping its weight down. Other than this vital measure, you can also undertake any of the following interventions. You could feed them dog foods that already contain all the nutrients that they need to remain healthy. However, you should carry out extensive research before deciding since not every feed can work for your Frenchie. Alternatively, you could prepare homemade food that contains proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins. You should reduce the portions but ensure that your Frenchie feeds multiple times a day. Disclaimer: Some dog lovers advise that you should give your Frenchie raw food meat-based diet as a weight-loss strategy. First, if you are an advocate of such, you should take care since fresh food could contain contaminants, e. To protect against this, you should freeze the raw diet that your dog will ultimately consume. Nonetheless, our investigations, after scouring through multiple studies available today, establish that this strategy does not hold any scientific basis. Instead, a raw meat-based diet presents both health and safety risks. Sensitize family members Your children could be overfeeding your Frenchie when you are away at work or giving it human food. Or they may fail to take your dog for a walk every day or even not have it accompany them as they go outside to play as you had instructed them earlier. Also, you should sensitize them on the dangers of overfeeding the dog and not taking it for a walk or allowing it outside to play. Exercise Most importantly, you should take your Frenchie out for walks and play sessions in order to facilitate weight gain. The vet might also advise the use of supplements. Diet If you have been feeding your Frenchie the correct amounts of food, but its weight has continually dropped, then the vet could advise you on what to feed them. Alternatively, you could try feeding them a different type of food other than what you usually give them. Also, the collective effort of the family is crucial in making weight gain a reality. Conclusion The average weight of French Bulldogs is 22 pounds 10 kilograms. The weight range for an adult Frenchie is between 18 and 28 pounds 8 and 13 kilograms , which means any figure above or below this range indicates that your dog is overweight or underweight, respectively. The indicators summarized above should help you identify either of these two states. In the absence of causes that emanate from underlying health conditions, maintaining their weight relies on a combination of diet and exercise. Be in the know and ensure you keep your French bulldog within the allowed threshold to avert health conditions that could dent your wallet unnecessarily. Unless your vet advises otherwise, you should try and keep your dog in the weight-range typical for his or her breed and gender. By analyzing thousands of data points, we created the real-life French Bulldog weight distribution chart. For a typical female, the weight ranges from 9. That is, .The chart presents the percentage of the population that falls in a specific range. You can see trends and identify any problems. You can set up the normal weight range for your pet and log different measurements over time. Monitor the weight of your pet Download the 11pets: Pet Care app now and start monitoring the weight of your French Bulldog. We have included a tutorial that shows every step of the weight tracking process. Download the 11pets app now More information from experts of your French Bulldog Care guide for the hygiene of your French Bulldog In our blog you can also find a care guide for the hygiene of your French Bulldog developed by a group of experts. It explains how often you should bath your dog, trim its nails, clear its ears etc.

All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Lay your contact paper out beforehand and measure it. Use a ruler to measure the contact paper and mark the measurements with a pencil. Cut the sections of contact paper using scissors. Remove any air bubbles in the contact paper by rubbing it with your palms. The self-adhesive contact paper should stick to the plywood itself. Even if the contact paper seems secure, it might lift up and the puppies could chew on it. Use the staple gun to secure the contact paper to the floor of the whelping box. Staple as close to the sides of the floor as you can. Place staples between two different pieces of contact paper if you want extra security. Aim the staple gun so the staple pierces the edge of one piece and the edge of another, binding them. Make sure you line the strips up perfectly with the floor of the box. These strips will form the 3 walls of the whelping box. When you're finished, the three strips should form a "U" shape along the sides of the floor. If you need to, have someone stand on the plywood floor and hold each wall as you drill the holes into the plywood. Drill holes at the corners of each wall and another hole in the center of each wall. Use your screwdriver and screws to secure the walls to the floor of the whelping box. Turn the screws to the right to secure them in place. Keep turning the screwdriver until it's very difficult to keep turning it. If they rattle or feel insecure, use the screwdriver to tighten the screws. You might need to drill extra holes between the middle screws and the outside screws in each wall if the walls aren't secure enough. Use the screwdriver to place the screws in these holes. Again, drill holes in the left side, middle, and right side of the doorway strip when you have it lined up with the floor of the whelping box. Use your screwdriver and 1. Here are some ideas for your small dog. Cardboard Box One of the least expensive whelping boxes is simply a cardboard box. Make sure it is big enough that your dog can stretch out in it. The nice thing about a cardboard box is that, once you no longer need the whelping box, you can simply throw it away. To make a whelping box out of cardboard, use these easy instructions: Find a box that your dog can comfortably lie down and stretch out in but not much larger than that. The sides should be at least to inches high. You want the sides to be too high for the puppies to climb over, but not so high your dog can't get over it when she wants a break. Smaller breed dogs will be fine with 12 inches, whereas larger breeds will need 24 inches. Cut a "door" into the side of the box for your dog to move in and out of the box. The width of the doorway should be about twice her body's width, and the edge should be high enough to keep puppies in but not so high she hits her belly on it. You will want to use some sort of covering on the cardboard to keep it from getting wet and to make cleaning it easy. You could line it with duct tape, plastic sheeting, tarps, or plastic drop cloths made for painting. Then cover whatever material you use with newspaper or old towels to make the flooring soft and comfortable. Plastic Storage Bin A plastic storage bin can also be used as a whelping box. You want to use the under-the-bed storage type so that the sides will be short enough for the mother dog to easily get in and out. If you decide to go this route, fold old towels on the bottom to ensure there is no chance that your dog will slip when she is moving around. Be aware that depending on the size of your pups, they may be able to get over the sides of the bin as they get bigger. In that case, you can extend the sides of the bin with cardboard. Ideas that will work for bigger dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers and Rottweiler dogs , include: Appliance Boxes If you have a mid-sized breed, you may still be able to find a cardboard box. Check with appliance stores and home improvement stores that carry items that would require bigger boxes. If you can't find one, you still have some inexpensive alternatives. The downside to using these boxes is once the puppies get large enough, they will be able to get over the sides, which they wouldn't with a traditional whelping box with sides at least inches high. Kiddie Pool A hard-sided plastic kiddie pool usually costs less than twenty dollars, and you can get them in several sizes. They are also easy to clean. These pools will last for several litters of puppies. However, just as with appliance boxes, the problem with the kiddie pool is that the sides may not be high enough to keep the puppies in as they get bigger. There are newer types of kiddie pools made just for dogs that have higher sides. Another option for larger dog breeds is to use a water trough , which has higher sides. They're much more expensive but very sturdy and can be reused for whelping, as well as an outdoor pool or bathing area for your dogs. To make a whelping box out of a kiddie pool, find a pool size where your dog can lay out comfortably with some extra room for the puppies. You can line it with a round whelping pad, old towels, newspaper, or even covers made specifically for kiddie pools used for whelping. An excellent safety precaution is adding a PVC pipe frame that serves as puppy rails to keep the mom from rolling over and crushing a newborn pup against the sides. Just be sure the puppies can't get stuck under or between the pipes. To keep puppies from getting out of the pool when they get larger, you can run x-pens or playpen panels around the outside of the pool. Make sure you leave a doorway for the mom to come and go! Whelping Box Plans If you want to build your own cheap whelping box but prefer a different style, you can find simple whelping box plans on the Internet. Here are some to get you started: Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. You can adjust the size for your own breed of dog. The plans are for a very sturdy box that is easy to clean and take apart for storage while standing up to a lot of usage. Supplies needed include two 4-foot by 8-foot plywood sheets, four 2-by-4s for the pig rails, polyurethane, and hardware, such as steel three-corner braces, tee nuts, and cap screws. You'll also need a table saw, drill press, router, screwdriver, and drill with several bits. While the website includes detailed plans and instructions, if you're not accustomed to working with tools and lumber, you may want to hire a contractor to build this box for you. How to Build a Whelping Box with Puppy Rails The PetPlace website provides a very detailed set of step-by-step instructions on how to build a whelping box using plywood, wood strips, vinyl flooring, hinges, and corner braces. You'll also need to be handy in order to build this box, as tools required are a circular saw and drill. The floor is optional, and the instructions allow for removing it to create a bottomless box. The puppy rails are made from the wood strips, although you could also improvise and make a set of puppy rails using PVC pipes and connectors. Building a Whelping Box Another excellent set of plans for a whelping box built with plywood and hardware is found in this YouTube video. The box described in this video has the puppy rails built into the sides as well as two shelf areas in the back for supplies and can be placed on cheap vinyl flooring tiles for easy cleanup. The box was made for a labradoodle , but you can adjust the dimensions of the plans shown in the video for your own dog's size. Cheap Whelping Boxes for Sale If you're not mechanically inclined and balk at the idea of building anything with tools and lumber, you can purchase a box. There are plenty of options if you're on a strict budget. Check with local seller websites such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to see if anyone is selling a box. You can also look on eBay. If you know of any breeders in your area, you could try contacting them to see if they might have a box they want to sell or possibly even rent out to you. It's made of plastic and comes with one whelping pad and PVC puppy rails. If you plan ahead, you can check out the websites of some major manufacturers of high-quality whelping boxes to see if they have sales. Easy to Improvise There are a number of less expensive, homemade whelping box ideas that will work for dogs of all sizes. You can improvise to create suitable whelping boxes that won't break your budget without too much trouble. Just spend some time looking at whelping boxes so you know how they are made and pick the most comfortable and safest style for you, your dog, and her pups. View plan 3. DIY Detachable Whelping Box A homemade whelping box will be much more cost-effective than buying one from the store or hiring an expert to build one for you who may or may not be familiar with your breed of dog. Whelping Box On A Budget! Gain new skills along the way: Working on a DIY whelping box project will teach you carpentry, painting, and construction skills — all while bonding with your pet! Easy DIY Whelping Box Be patient as you plan and build: Building a whelping box for your pup requires patience and focus — but it will be worth it in the end! Puppy Whelping Box .Whelping Box for Pregnant Dog .What Materials Do You Need? Building material There are many different options, such as plywood, cedar boards, cedar shingles, and so forth. Insulation Comes in many different types, including recycled newspaper, paper towels, bubble wrap, and so forth. Dogs love to feel cushioned when giving birth, and these items are easily found at most thrift stores. How to Assemble the Box: step by step guide 1. Cut them both from the same board. Stack them together and mark a line 3 inches in from each edge. Line up the marks on each side of the board and clamp them together, so you have a straight line down the center. Once clamped, use your circular saw to run down the line between each pair of marks, making sure not to go too deep into either side of the board. Constructing the Box Once you have your plywood cut, you can begin assembling your DIY dog whelping box. Be sure that all edges line up correctly the two pieces should fit together , and screw or nail them together using 2-inch nails or screws. Do both sides. Step 2 Put the other piece of cedar or plywood in the opposite direction, line up the edges, and then screw or nail them together. Step 4 Take a small scrap piece of wood and attach it to one of the ends. This will be used as a door for the whelping box. You may need to adjust the length depending on your door size, but be sure to measure twice and cut once. Step 5 Nail or screw in place with 2-inch nails or screws. Step 6 Now you have the frame of the DIY dog whelping box. Now we need to insulate and cover it with carpet or old rags. This makes for an inexpensive and simple DIY project, which will keep our pregnant dogs warm and comfortable during the birthing process. Step 7 After the insulation has been placed, get ready to put the rug or cloth on top. Using your staple gun, secure it around every edge. Step 8 Paint paint paint! Place plenty of food and water near the whelping box, as well as a litter pan if necessary. Conclusion A whelping box is a must for any dog owner who wants their pup to feel safe and cozy. Building the box yourself also saves money, which is always a bonus. To help support these efforts, this page may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission for qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Here I show you how I make a whelping box that is easy to take apart, move even up and down stairs and fairly easy to store. I prefer white or woodgrain. You would not need to have to store the platform, then. I prefer a raised platform and our puppies do, too. I also find it is really nice to add sheets of insulation between the support pieces to add warmth to the box. I measured the width of two of the shelving boards together and cut that amount off two of the boards. With the shelving boards cut, I started building the platform. I hope that makes sense! Screw all of your boards on. I took everything inside, wiped it down, and laid out my pieces. Note: I do not glue the vinyl down. I just lay it over the platform and put my side boards on top and it gets screwed down with the brackets. This way there are no glues to harm the puppies and I can throw it away after each litter. I then put it all together with the brackets. I use the flat brackets on the top corners. When the puppies are ready to get out of the box, by weeks of age, I remove one of the sides as you can see in the photo below. So, I do not have exact measurements, but I think most could figure it out. I build mine by first assembling the box, then I lay the PVC elbows in each corner of the box and one tee in the center. Cut the straight PVC pieces according to your measurements and put it all together. I do not use glue and do not seem to need it. The Little Blessings in their puppy room. These whelping boxes worked out fantastic for us and our needs. I hope this helps someone. A whelping box is a safe, enclosed space where a dog can give birth and care for her puppies. The box typically has high sides to prevent the puppies from accidentally falling out, and it is often lined with soft bedding material to keep the puppies warm and comfortable. The box may also include a heat lamp to provide additional warmth, and it may be equipped with a door that can be opened or closed for easy, safe access, and to regulate the temperature inside. A whelping box should be large enough for the mother to move around comfortably, but small enough to retain body heat and provide a feeling of security. It should be used from the time your dog goes into labor until the puppies are weaned. Once the puppies are weaned, they can be moved to a puppy pen or dog crate. By the way, a whelping box should also have puppy rails. Puppy rails, also known as pig rails, are secured inside the whelping box quite low around the perimeter of the box. This is a crucial safety feature, as it helps prevent the puppies from being crushed against the wall of the box How Does A Whelping Box Help? A dog whelping box is an essential piece of equipment for any dog owner who is expecting a litter of puppies, as it helps to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her offspring. A whelping box provides a safe, warm environment for your dog to have her puppies. This helps keep the mama calm during the labor and keep stress levels to a minimum while caring for the pups in a safe space. If you have other pets in the house, a whelping box ensures that they do not disturb or hurt the puppies. Using a whelping box also reduces the risk of the puppies becoming injured or lost. A DIY whelping box is an easy and affordable way to provide a safe space for your dog to have her puppies. Building a whelping box is a simple project that anyone can do. There are quite a few different ways to do that — most of them being very simple, quick, and inexpensive. Choose a bin that is large enough for your dog to move around comfortably, but small enough to retain body heat. If the sides are very high, drill or cut holes in the sides of the bin for ventilation. Finally, line the bottom of the bin with appropriate materials to absorb any mess. And there you have it, a cheap DIY whelping box! Find a sturdy cardboard box that is large enough for your dog to move around in. Cut holes in the sides of the box for ventilation. You should also cut an appropriate sized opening for the mama and puppies to get out of the box comfortably. Line the bottom of the box with comfy and cushy materials that absorb any mess. Cardboard is very porous and it can get flimsy rather quickly. However, you may want to opt for something sturdier and less porous instead. Bring Out The Kiddie Pool You can build a whelping box out of many different materials, but one of the cheapest and easiest options is to use a kiddie pool. To create a kiddie pool whelping box, simply clean the pool thoroughly, secure the puppy rails you can use pool noodles for this , and line it with towels or blankets. Place the pool in a quiet, draft-free room in your home and make sure that it is big enough for your dog to move around comfortably. But, a sturdy wood whelping box can be used over and over again, making it well worth your time. Of course, you should carefully consider which type of wood you use. For instance, the popular plywood is actually very porous, making it harder to clean. It also traps in dirt and bacteria, which could lead to infections and illnesses. Start by measuring your mama dog and the area where you want to place the whelping box and cut the wood to size. Be sure to make the opening large enough for your dog to comfortably enter and exit. In addition to that, you should also attach low rails inside the box. But why PVC? PVC is a strong, durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. And if it does get dirty, a quick wipe-down is all it takes to clean it. In addition, PVC is lightweight and easy to assemble, making it ideal for use in a whelping box. Many whelping boxes available for purchase are made from PVC materials thanks to all of their amazing qualities. But, as you may know, ready made PVC whelping boxes can be quite pricey. However, PVC pipes make excellent pig rails for that added safety and security. Obviously, you want to make the DIY whelping box as comfortable as possible for the mama and the pups. Some breeders also use heat lamps to keep the whelping box warm. Even though some people opt for newspaper or wood shavings, we recommend you avoid them. Another popular choice is using old bedding or towels. They may get trapped or accidentally crushed by the mother. However, if you manage to secure the blankets and towels in place, they should be safe to use. In addition to that, you can also opt for a specially designed crate pad that stays in place, provides warmth, and is safe for the puppies. Line the bottom of the box with absorbent material and change it often. Wash bedding in hot water and disinfect surfaces regularly. The bedding should be dry at all times, so whenever an accident happens, be sure to change the bedding as soon as possible. Where you place the box is just as important as the box itself. It should be in a quiet area away from the main traffic flow of your home, and out of direct sunlight. You should also keep it far away from potential hazards like open stairways or fireplaces. The whelping box should also be large enough to accommodate the mother dog and all of her puppies comfortably. The temperature in the area should be comfortable — not too hot and not too cold. If necessary you may have to get an additional heating pad or a heating lamp to keep the puppies warm. To build a basic DIY whelping box, you will need either a kiddie pool, cardboard box, or a storage bin. You should also stock up on bedding material like blankets, towels, or crate pads. Next, line the bottom of the box with your chosen bedding material. This will help to keep the puppies warm and dry. Finally, place the box in a quiet, private area where your dog can feel safe and secure. By following these simple steps, you can easily create a cozy space for your dog to welcome her new puppies into the world. PVC tubes are often used to create puppy rails, a. As we mentioned earlier, a dog whelping box should be big enough for the mama and pups to comfortably move around. Yet, it should be snug enough so that it retains body heat. The general recommendation is that a whelping box should be one foot longer than your mama dog. Only measure your dog stretched out, as the mama has to be able to move and stretch comfortably around the box while caring for the puppies. By the way, you can also get some hints from websites that sell different dog whelping boxes. Just take a quick peek at what sizes they offer! It provides a safe, warm environment for the mama and her pups, and helps to contain the mess. Building a DIY whelping box is a simple project that anyone can do. Do you have any tips for building a DIY whelping box? Share them in the comments below!

The appearance of the first teeth. Changes in the puppy from weaning Digestive system: From weaning, their digestive system develops gradually, so it is not yet ready to assimilate large amounts of food, and it is difficult for them to digest starch properly. That is why it is necessary that his diet adapts to the needs that the puppy needs at this stage and that the food ration provided is the one indicated for his age and weight that he will have as an adult; this information can be consulted on the back of the product. Energy needs: French Bulldog Puppies have Twice as much energy as adult dogs. Bones: The greater amount of phosphorus and calcium to mineralize your bones. The best way to supply them is with Specific Nutrition since an excessive amount of calcium can compromise the normal development of their growth, and an excess of nutrients could make them gain more weight than normal. Formation of first teeth: At 3 weeks, the first teeth begin to appear, which will be replaced by the definitive ones at 5 months. At this stage, the puppy will have the need to bite objects; you can provide him with teethers and toys adapted to his age. Development of the immune system: From the 4th week of life, he will gradually lose the immunity acquired through breast milk, so he must develop his defenses. This process ends around the 12th week of life. Food: During this first period, the puppy goes from liquid to solid food. However, it should be a gradual change, moistening the food. Once this stage is over, the puppy will chew without difficulty, as long as the chosen food is appropriate. Puppy growth from two months During this second stage, the French Bulldog puppy will continue to grow at a slower rate, with less "spectacular" changes, but just as important. Muscles: Their muscles develop rapidly after the consolidation of their skeleton. To build your muscle tissue, you will need 1. That is why it is essential that his diet contains the precise level of calories for the development of muscles, it is recommended not to overdo it to prevent overweight during development. Digestive system: His digestion is still delicate, so it is important to provide him with the right food to avoid diarrhea or other digestive disorders. Tooth development: From 5 months, their permanent teeth are ready for a portion of food that encourages them to chew. The puppy will have to crush it before swallowing it. Doing so, slows down the rate of eating and decreases air intake and regurgitation. Leave a comment. Merles are primarily known for their unique markings, a genetic expression of the M-locus or Merle gene which causes random skin pigmentation and lightens their eye color. They come in a variety of colors and range in spectrums of white, grey and black, white and beige, dark brown, beige and white and mixes of greys and Beiges together. The lilac genetics are expressed in the flash of red in there light blue colored eyes and a combination of chocolate and blue base color in their coats. Black, tan and fawn make up the black Merle and they often have brown eyes or blue eyes. On occasion, a combination of both will express itself where you will see one brown eye and one blue eye or a streak of one color inside the other. Genetically they come from the black Merle whose color base has been diluted to create a blue hue. Health of Merle Bulldogs French Bulldogs like all other breeds have certain health risks. For a golden retriever it is hip displasia. For a french bulldog it is a vulnerable back that encourages good practices for their owners to have stairs in place always at sites where dogs should not be jumping from such as a high bed or couch. It has been rumored that Merle french bulldogs are less healthy than standard french bulldogs. This would only be true if poor breeding practices are exercised. That would be breeding one Merle dog to another. Common problems include blindness and deafness as well as chronic allergies, immune disorders, heart murmurs and hip dysplasia. A responsible breeder will tell you about this. Additionally to encourage better health throughout a dogs life Feeding your dog a raw diet and giving them NuVet supplements are required by our standards. In general a raw diet has been proven to lengthen life span. Also not spaying and neutering before the age of six and preserving hormones will encourage longer life. Merle is not a color, its a pattern. There are some patterns recreated by breeders that have become popular and also despised upon by other breeders. Merle French bulldogs are such dogs whose pattern has become very popular due to its rarity and the diversity of patterns. The gene alters the color of the dogs and creates patterns over patterns and this creates mottled patches in the colors of the litter. Also, the gene modifies the color of the eyes nose and the paw pads. Blue eyes are common in these dogs and also an odd colored set of eyes can also be present. No Merle dog will be the same as the patterns will always differ along with the color. There are three types of genes that the dog can carry. Breeders take advantage of the availability of French Bulldogs in up to 20 twenty different colors. They then create a rare, low maintenance dog. Merle is one of the most expensive colors of French bulldogs out there and one of the rarest. Merle French bulldogs are not pure breeds. The color is a mix of other patterns mixed together by careful selection and breeding. If the breeder messes up on the color combination, the puppies can come out unhealthy and weak with birth defects. No French bulldog has the merle gene and therefore, Merle French bulldogs are not purebred. Many dog breeds have this gene, however, Chihuahuas are used to introduce this gene in the French bulldog family. Some breeders can also crossbreed the puppies to create a purebred Merle French bulldog. The pattern depends on the gene dilution as there are variations in the pattern of these dogs. Blue, black, lavender are some of the colors which are diluted with the merle gene. These dogs are very rare and are sought out for all over the world. Color variations Blue merle French Bulldog Blue merle French Bulldogs are one of our most sought-after puppies of all the colors. They got their name after the blue patches on their light-colored coat, which are essentially grey with a bluish shine in the light. The shade of the grey parts may vary from very light to almost black, while their base color also ranges from a yellowish cream color to light grey. Lilac merle French Bulldog Lilac merle French Bulldogs are often mistaken for blue merle Frenchies, but they are much more unique and harder to come by. Lilac merle Frenchies have very light, almost ashy or silver colored patches on their light coat. To produce this rare and beautiful color, the parents have to carry the blue, chocolate and merle gene. Lilac merle French Bulldogs usually have light-colored eyes which are glowing red. Chocolate merle French Bulldog Chocolate merle French Bulldogs have dark brown mottled patches all over their light-colored bodies. Choco merle pups also have unique genetics so they are quite rare and hard to come by. Similarly to lilac Frenchies, they are the combination of blue and chocolate but their grey shade is more of a champagne color. Breeders have managed to mix in the merle gene as well producing the Isabella merle French Bulldog, but these dogs are extremely rare. Black merle French Bulldog Black merle French Bulldogs have black mottled patches often covering most of their bodies. Their base coat is also slightly darker than in other merle Frenchies, ranging from light grey to light brown. Fawn merle French Bulldog There are a number of different variations of fawn merle French Bulldogs, like blue fawn merle, lilac fawn merle or chocolate fawn merle. The dark patches these Frenchies have are less distinct looking than in other merles, as they are only a bit darker than their light fawn base color. One of these rare traits is their sparkling blue eyes. Since the merle gene affects the skin pigment as well, when a merle patch crosses the eye area the Frenchie will have bright forever blue eyes. Sometimes only one of the eyes will remain blue, which is a phenomenon called heterochromia. Because of how dominant the merle gene is, merle Frenchies should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owners. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a Merle Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. As you might expect, colors that are considered common for the breed have the lowest prices, while colors which are more unique and harder to produce are more expensive as well. When it comes to Merle French Bulldogs, they are already in a higher price range, but depending on the color variation their prices may further vary a lot. Permanent blue eyes also push the prices up a bit: we charge USD per blue eye. About me. Merle and tan French Bulldogs are probably one of the most distinct looking dogs in the Frenchie world! Their amazing coat has two of the rarest French Bulldog patterns, the merle and the tan. Their merle patches can make them even more unique ranging from black to blue and lilac in color. Merle and tan Frenchies often have sparkling blue eyes, which is a rare characteristic of the breed. We will have available merle and tan French Bulldog puppies for sale soon, contact us for more info about our upcoming litters! A Merle and Tan French Bulldog has a light base coat with darker mottled patches all around their bodies, which can be of various colors like black, blue or even lilac. What sets them apart from regular merle Frenchies is the light fawn markings on their paws, chest, bottom, cheek and eyebrows. To produce this amazing and rare coat in French Bulldogs the parents need to carry both the merle and the tan genes. Since the merle gene affects the skin pigment as well, when a merle patch crosses the eye area the Frenchie will have bright forever blue eyes. Sometimes only one of the eyes will remain blue, which is a phenomenon called heterochromia. Three good reasons: 1. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you smile. Sweet, cuddly, playful, fun, cute… the list could go on. They are impossible not to love! Frenchies are the best companions who get along with everyone Frenchies are very sociable who get along with all family members from children to grandparents, from other dogs to cats. They are insanely affectionate and become very attached to their owners. They would spend every minute of their time with their parents if they could! They are perfectly happy lying on the sofa all day and require little exercise during the day. All that makes them ideal companions for those who live in an apartment. Depending on the color variation their prices may vary a lot, for example black merle and tan Frenchies are valued less than lilac merle and tan Frenchies. Permanent blue eyes also push the prices up a bit: we charge USD per blue eye. Make sure to do your research and get your merle and tan Frenchie from a reputable breeder, and you will have a happy and healthy furry family member for at least a decade. Merle and Tan French Bulldogs are one of the rarest and most unique dogs in the Frenchie world. To produce this amazing pattern, the parents have to carry the tan and the merle gene as well. You should always get your merle and tan French Bulldog from a reputable breeder to make sure you have a healthy and happy pet for at least a decade. Once you do your research and select a trusted breeder, you will most likely need to get on a waitlist to secure a merle and tan Frenchie. Why choose TomKings Kennel? For the past more than ten years, we at TomKings have been working hard to breed the healthiest and most beautiful French Bulldogs on the planet and to find them the most loving homes all around the globe. As reputable and ethical French Bulldog breeders, we set very high health, genetic and wellbeing standards to make sure that all our Frenchies become happy, healthy and well-adjusted family members. Apart from being extremely selective about the health and look of the Frenchie parents, we make sure that the puppies receive the utmost love, care and attention. Instead of kennels or crates, we raise them in vast, green gardens with plenty of space to roam around and we let them sleep and rest in large family houses where our dogs can socialize with humans of any age. We believe that well-balanced puppies come from well- balanced family backgrounds.

Articles Sit. Heal German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia Signs and Treatments Muscular, intelligent, and loyal, German shepherds are steadfast guardians and all-purpose workers. Highly trainable and obedient, German shepherds provide a range of services—excelling as show dogs and household companions, as well as military and search and rescue animals. Exuding confidence, this breed is royalty of the dog family. They are susceptible, however, to challenging hip and joint issues like hip dysplasia any time from puppyhood all the way through maturation. As with many large breed dogs, German shepherds are prone to canine hip dysplasia CHD , a dog skeletal condition that can be inherited or caused by a traumatic fracture or other environmental factors. CHD occurs from malformation of the ball and joint socket of one or both hips the hip joint is called the coxofemoral joint. If so, it maybe be because of breeding. The exaggerated hind leg angulation is often bred into the dog because of standards that dictate rear legs upper and lower thighs should come as close to a degree angle as possible. Along these same lines, a sloping back causes hindquarters to become more angulate and, thus, prone to lower back pain. These bent legs could point toward one of many health problems, one of which is hip dysplasia. Although irreversible, canine hip dysplasia can be monitored and treated to reduce chronic pain. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals , .The progression of it and the treatment options available depend on a number of factors, including the degree of misalignment and age of the dog. CHD has a range of signs, depending on the severity of the disease and degree of looseness in the joint. The severity also ranges from mild to extreme pain—some German shepherds even have to use a wheelchair. CHD Treatment Options Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium to large dogs can be expensive. If invasive surgery is not the best choice for your dog, look into non-surgical, conservative management options, such as dog leg braces, physical therapy, weight control, acupuncture, anti-inflammatories, and massage therapy. Ortho Dog specializes in flexible, adjustable, and affordable dog leg braces. Additionally, leg braces for hip dysplasia may slow the progression of this chronic issue. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Below are four common disorders of the hip and joint commonly seen in this breed: Degenerative Myelopathy As a German shepherd owner, you have likely heard of the fatal, chronic, and progressive disease called degenerative myelopathy that is most prevalent in this breed. Typically apparent between the ages of , degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord and muscle coordination, ultimately leading to paralysis of the back legs within months. CHD shares several symptoms with early stages of degenerative myelopathy, including difficulty rising and jumping, and progressive weakness of hind limbs. As with any signs that something may be off with your dog, contact your veterinarian for a full exam. Canine Myasthenia Gravis A rare neuromuscular disease, canine myasthenia gravis is a disorder of the signal transmission between nerves and muscles, resulting in progressive muscle weakness, and fatigue with mild exercise. This disease is not typically confused with CHD because the signs tend to show up on the face more than the hindquarters. This incorrect movement can put a strain on their hips, which causes them to walk with an irregular gait. Our Hock Holder brace offers stabilization and support to the hock to help relieve stress. Osteoarthritis Most often seen in senior dogs, osteoarthritis is the inflammation of the hip joints due to cartilage deterioration. You may notice your dog moving a bit more slowly and having trouble with stairs. With less cartilage, bones can grind against each other and cause inflammation. Much like a human wearing a wrist or hand brace for arthritis, the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace limits the movement of the joint, which helps with the pain. Helps with joint lubrication 4. NSAIDs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Just like humans, dogs can benefit from taking certain pain medications to treat their hip dysplasia. In particular, NSAIDs can benefit your dog by reducing some of the pain and inflammation that hip dysplasia causes. There are some great charts available online that show you how much your German Shepherd should weigh at various stages of his life. Hard surfaces can be especially painful for your dog to walk on, so avoid walking on asphalt and sidewalks and instead take him for a walk in a grassy park. Repair and Prevent Cartilage Deterioration We mentioned cartilage a bit earlier. When your dog moves, cartilage helps cushion the joint. But it can become damaged when your dog has hip dysplasia. Over time, this cartilage deteriorates, causing pain and inflammation. Another word for this cartilage deterioration? Fortunately, certain active ingredients can help maintain joint health and reduce the likelihood that the secondary condition of arthritis will form as a result of German Shepherd hip dysplasia. In particular, the active ingredients of chondroitin and glucosamine for dogs help maintain cartilage health. These two naturally occurring substances work together to not only repair damaged cartilage but also prevent it from deteriorating in the first place. Lubricate Joints Hyaluronic acid is another key active ingredient that benefits dogs suffering from German Shepherd hip dysplasia by improving joint mobility and reducing discomfort. In particular, hyaluronic acid may help reduce the pain your dog experiences as a result of hip dysplasia. And how does it do that? Well, hyaluronic acid is an important component of synovial fluid. So it stands to reason that making sure your dog has enough hyaluronic acid is a great way to ensure his hip joints can move as smoothly as possible. But fortunately, MSM, a powerful antioxidant and building block for healthy joints, can help reduce the pain and inflammation your dog experiences from hip dysplasia. And the great news is that this ingredient is often found in joint supplements. Additionally, MSM may become even more effective when used alongside glucosamine, another common active ingredient. Yes, that is indeed our product. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Hip dysplasia HD is a disease of the hip coxofemoral joints. Dysplasia means abnormal development. Both hips are usually affected Brass .It is a complex disease that results from a combination of genes that predispose a dog to developing hip dysplasia interacting with environmental factors that lead to its full development and expression Riser .It is characterized by hip joint instability which, if compounded by environmental factors, then results in secondary osteoarthritis and the clinical signs of hip dysplasia which include pain, lameness and disability Zhang et al .To fully understand hip dysplasia, it is necessary to understand the structure of the hip joint. The hip joint is the joint at the top of the hind leg, where it articulates forms a joint with the pelvis. It is described as a ball and socket joint, as in normal hips the ball-shaped head of the femur the thigh bone fits perfectly into a cup-shaped socket in the pelvis, the acetabulum. The head of the femur femoral head and the acetabulum are normally covered with cartilage which produces a smooth, low friction surface. Within the joint there is also a fine layer of synovial fluid that acts as a lubricant between these cartilaginous surfaces. This thin layer of synovial fluid, along with the round ligament a ligament that runs round the edge of the acetabulum — between the acetabulum and the femur , keeps the two cartilaginous surfaces together by creating a suction-like effect. The ligaments and the joint capsule also help to hold the ball and socket closely together. In newborn puppies, because the bones are soft and not fully ossified turned into bone as they need to grow and develop, they are still deformable if abnormal movements or stresses and strains occur in them. Riser suggests that, in a normal six month old individual, ossification of the bones and soft tissue strength the strength of the surrounding ligaments, joint capsule and muscles have developed enough to prevent hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is described as a biomechanical disease. The hips appear normal at birth. However, in affected individuals, the hips develop abnormally due, at first, to joint instability sometimes called joint laxity Riser .This means that the developing femoral head and acetabulum are not held constantly, closely together, and can move into abnormal positions relative to one another. This puts abnormal stresses and strains on the joint. Riser states this is due to the soft tissues, such as ligaments and muscle, not being strong enough to maintain congruity between the articular surfaces of the femoral head and the acetabulum ie the constant contact between the surfaces of the bones is not maintained. The pathological changes seen due to the joint instability are progressive inflammation and degeneration of the tissues that together form the joint. Brass details the following changes in the joint: The joint capsule can become thickened and the round ligament can become stretched or ruptured leading to additional, excessive movements. The synovial fluid increases in volume and changes in nature, due to inflammation, this pushes the joint surfaces apart. The cartilage on the bone surfaces gets worn away exposing subchondral bone the layer of bone beneath the surface cartilage. Unlike cartilage, bone contains nerve endings and such exposure will commonly cause pain. The rim of the acetabulum becomes damaged and flattened and later new bone starts to grow here as the body tries to stabilize the joint. The femoral head becomes deformed and flattened and also grows abnormal bone called exotoses or osteophytes. This changing of the shape of the joint with new bone growing in abnormal positions, and being lost in others, is called joint remodelling. The signs that are seen with hip dysplasia can vary hugely in their severity, the age at which they first appear and their progression. In mild cases dogs can be free from clinical signs for years; however, for more severely affected individuals, signs of pain can develop whilst they are still immature less than a year old Signs include acute pain, particularly after strenuous exercise or movement. This may show as lameness or reluctance to jump, to go for walks, climb steps or move at all if really severe. The pain may be worse in cold, wet conditions Brass .These signs may start intermittently, but over time can become constant. Muscle wastage is often seen in the hindlegs Brass .There appears to be little correlation between the severity of pain shown by the dog and physical abnormalities felt on examination by a vet or revealed on an x-ray Brass ie some dogs can be in severe pain but have few changes on x-rays and vice versa. This is typical of any joint disease. Controlling food intake during growth has been shown to decrease hip dysplasia in Labradors ie by reducing excessive energy intake and therefore excessive weight gain during growth Kealy et al .High calcium intake during growth has been shown to delay maturation of the skeleton and increase the risk of hip dysplasia in Great Danes Hazewinkel .It is thought that controlling the amount and form of exercise during development may also help Corr .Bennett and May suggest excessive exercise during development can lead to hip dysplasia. Treatment for hip dysplasia is complex; many surgical interventions have been developed to prevent signs appearing in young animals with high joint laxity and to treat dogs with severe osteoarthritis. All need specialist surgeons. Various medications to aid pain relief are also available, along with recommendations to reduce the effect of environmental factors. Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Though some dogs may be mildly affected, for many German Shepherd dogs with hip dysplasia, the impact of the condition is major and life changing. These animals suffer pain that is severe and debilitating, leading them to be in pain even with small everyday movements such as standing up. Their quality of life is severely affected so that they are unable to enjoy normal canine behaviours such as walking and running. It is not uncommon for dogs to be euthanased due to the pain and disability of arthritis associated with hip dysplasia. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Hip dysplasia is a progressive disease with signs seen from any age. For some dogs pain starts before a year of age. Signs may be intermittent to start with but often progress to be constant. Medical treatment and advice can help control pain and possibly slow progression, though a cure can only be obtained with major surgical intervention in dogs that are considered suitable candidates for such surgery. Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Hip dysplasia is the most common joint problem of large dogs Smith et al .UK VetCompass data for dogs overall, showed that 7. In this sample, diagnosis of conditions affecting the pelvis eg hip dysplasia did not significantly differ between purebred and crossbred dogs. Figures vary greatly for how frequently German Shepherds are affected by hip dysplasia, depending on the method by which they have been screened and the database reviewed. The frequency is likely to vary for geographically different populations of the same breed Brass .However, Paster et al suggested that the OFA population was biased, as it is not compulsory for radiographed dogs to have their x-rays submitted to the OFA scheme so some owners may have had dogs pre-screened and only submitted apparently non-dysplastic ones for consideration and scoring. In this study, German Shepherd dogs had a higher odds ratio of hip dysplasia occurrence than Dobermanns, Labradors and Rottweilers, indicating that the breed is at a significantly higher risk of hip dysplasia development. Return to top 5. Diagnosis For a young dog suspected of hip dysplasia, a diagnosis can be made on the clinical signs shown at home and on examination of the dog, including assessment of joint laxity and joint pain plus evaluation of radiographs x-ray pictures of the hip joints Corr .Assessment of the joint laxity and radiographs may need to be performed by a specialist vet who is used to checking for this condition. For a formal diagnosis, the radiographs are usually submitted to a panel for evaluation. There are three methods of assessing joint laxity. Radiographs and assessment of joint laxity need to be performed under heavy sedation or anaesthesia Corr .Return to top 6. Genetics Hip dysplasia in dogs is a polygenic disease; many genes are thought to play a role in its development. Most of these genes probably have small additive effects quantitative, polygenes and some probably have larger effects Zhang et al .Heritability estimates are used to demonstrate how much variation in a phenotypic trait is due to genetic variation among individuals in a population. Using hip scores published by the British Veterinary Association, heritability for hip scores of German Shepherd dogs was 0. Genes are not solely responsible for whether a dog with the genetic potential for hip dysplasia develops the condition. Environmental factors play an important part. They are discussed in the clinical and pathogenic effects section above. However, there are significant breed predispositions to this condition and the German Shepherd dog is one of the breeds affected. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? There are a number of breeding schemes around the world developed to decrease the incidence of hip dysplasia in dog breeds. These schemes assess potential breeding animals in somewhat different ways. All aim to give breeders and owners a strong indication of which dogs are likely to produce healthy offspring and which should not be bred. However, this is by no means straightforward for hip dysplasia as it is a polygenic condition in which the genetics are poorly understood and which is also affected by environmental factors in a major way. This lack of clarity has produced much debate over the best way to assess potential breeding dogs. A brief summary of the various schemes follows including some current evidence for their benefits. All dogs must be at least 12 months of age. There are nine radiographic features which are scored, including the Norberg angle NA - a measurement for hip laxity taken from the EHR and each dog is given a score out of 53 for each hip total of up to for both. A low score indicates healthy hip joints eg Greyhounds would score 0, as is not seen in this breed and a higher score indicates worse hip dysplasia. Breeders are recommended to only breed from animals with a score lower than the breed medianscore e. It is also based on an extended hip radiograph EHR , which is then graded by three independent experts to give an overall grade. All dogs must be over 2 years of age to be assessed. There are seven possible grades for the radiograph: excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate or severe hip dysplasia. Dogs must be between 1 and 2 years of age and the radiograph is graded by someone appointed by each breed club — they do not have to be an expert. Grades include: A- no signs of hip dysplasia, B — near normal hip joints, C — mild hip dysplasia, D — moderate hip dysplasia, E — severe hip dysplasia. Older dogs can be assessed but the likelihood of more secondary osteoarthritic changes is taken into account. Dogs from 4 months of age can be assessed. It involves the assessment of three different radiographic views of the hip joints called the distraction view, the compression view and the EHR. The radiograph must be taken by a vet who is registered with the scheme and the radiographs are assessed by vets at the PennHIP Analysis Center. Dogs with a DI lower than 0. Dogs with increasing DI values over 0. Advocates of the PennHIP method like it because it accurately identifies individuals who have hip laxity - the primary phenotypical abnormality that predisposes dogs to hip dysplasia. The other schemes only look at the EHR and though the NA can be measured from this, the NA has been shown to be an inaccurate method to assess hip laxity Culp et al .Much of what is assessed on the EHRs are secondary arthritic changes, these are not specific to hip dysplasia and are affected by many environmental factors. Recently, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have confirmed that the Distraction Index DI is a significant risk factor for the development of hip dysplasia. In other words, DI scores give a very good indication of the likelihood of osteoarthritic changes, due to hip dysplasia, developing in the future Smith and others , , , Smith , Runge et al .These and other researchers argue that the other schemes are not as good at detecting animals that have hip dysplasia as the PennHIP method and, despite older schemes existing for over 40 years, little improvement has been seen in hip dysplasia in the general pet population Corley , Kaneene et al , Leppanen et al , Paster et al .In fact, one recent study looking at a database of over 1,, dogs found an increase in the prevalence of hip dysplasia Witsberger et al .However EHR scores were found to have a much higher heritability 0. Heritability studies are difficult to compare between different populations with different environmental influences. To improve the gene pool, phenotypic traits that can be easily detected with strong links to the genotype genetic make-up of animals have to be found. Ideally, any potential pet would have had its hip joints assessed by one of the above schemes prior to purchase, although this is often unhelpful, as most pets are purchased as young puppies. Unfortunately, this does not guarantee all their offspring will be free from hip dysplasia. Certainly any potential breeding animal should be assessed prior to breeding using an appropriate scheme. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem Hip dysplasia is a complex trait which involves multiple unknown genes and environmental factors. Eradication schemes have been running in some countries for decades and still it is commonplace. Thus prospects for its quick elimination are low. In a recent study, Zhang et al suggested that using scores from four hip traits combined to create a breeding value for each animal would help speed up elimination of the condition. They felt that information on the single joint trait EHR eg the OFA scheme gave insufficient information to provide the basis for breeding decisions. The DLS is a measurement made from an x-ray taken in a weight-bearing position to measure the subluxation of the femoral head Farese et al .In this study on two populations of dogs where environmental factors were strictly controlled, heritabilities for all these traits were found to be relatively high eg heritabilities were 0. The researchers suggested these heritabilites were higher than expected due to the controlled environmental conditions. Zhang et al suggested an improved way for selectively breeding out hip dysplasia would be if breeders could be given breeding values derived from the four traits for each potential breeding animal, plus a measurement of the inbreeding of any potential mating eg the inbreeding coefficient. This way, they suggest, inbreeding can be avoided and only animals with phenotypes strongly indicative of healthy hip joint genes would be bred from. This scheme is a more organised form of others that have suggested using a combination of breeding values determined from pedigree information and phenotype score Ginja et al , Hou et al .As described by Bell , when breeders are prioritising raising dogs that have good hip dysplasia genotypes for future breeding the phenotype has to be used as a marker for the genotype. Although the diagnostic signs can be affected also by environmental factors such as feeding and exercise regimes. It is important that the puppies are raised in a standard and not excessively protective way. Otherwise, dogs that would normally have developed radiographic signs of hip dysplasia will have this masked and their genes will be perpetuated. Future development of genetic tests to help identify some of the hip dysplasia genes, along with more use of pedigree data that includes the health of ancestors and progeny for clinical signs of hip dysplasia and also for other inherited defects of German Shepherd dogs , may well help to improve methods used to eliminate this condition. Currently we have to continue to rely on choosing phenotypical traits which apparently indicate the presence of healthy genes. Return to top 9. If your dog qualifies for surgeries, you have even more options. Tips for Preventing Hip Dysplasia in German Shepherds Although not all cases of hip dysplasia can be prevented, a good majority can. Even if hip dysplasia is not preventable in your dog, you can use these tips to minimize pain caused by the condition. This can make a huge difference in whether your dog develops hip dysplasia. The best reputable breeders will even provide a screening for their puppies. After the screening, which can only be done after 16 weeks of age, you can know if a puppy is predisposed to hip dysplasia. From an early age, make sure to provide your dog with high-quality dog food specific for large breeds. For example, get a large-breed puppy-specific dog food when your dog is young, and switch to an adult dog food once the dog ages. Note that most senior dog foods are not generic, so your vet will be the best person to help you choose which product is best for your older German Shepherd. Only provide your dog as much food as they need, never under or over. Both malnutrition and obesity increase the risk for hip dysplasia development. If you are unsure how much to feed your dog, talk to your vet for recommendations. Right Exercise Exercise is another factor you need to consider carefully if you want to prevent hip dysplasia in your German Shepherd. Preventative Supplements Image Credit: ElenVik, Shutterstock You can begin giving preventative supplements to your dog to nourish their joints. One of the most popular is glucosamine. This supplement is prescribed to dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia, but you can use it for preventative measures too. Of course, preventative supplements will have a lower glucosamine count than prescribed medications. Final Thoughts If you suspect that your German Shepherd is experiencing hip dysplasia, please visit the vet right away. Luckily, most German Shepherds with hip dysplasia live long and robust lives. If they get a great treatment, you can expect your dog to be happy and carefree. By starting a well-rounded prevention plan from an early age, you can help your dog grow with minimal issues. Featured Image Credit: makeitclear, Pixabay Contents.

What is a mini golden retriever? On average, they weigh pounds. Our Mini Goldens are crossed with specific Poodle lineage to avoid health and temperament issues the other breeds can cause, and are hypoallergenic, shed less and live longer than Golden Retrievers. Occasionally, we have some that weigh more than 45 pounds, or even less than 30 pounds. They generally have more Golden Retriever in them, so they are a closer carbon copy than the smaller Comforts. They generally have a little more poodle, so they may have more hypoallergenic and reduced shedding traits. Occasionally, we get white spots abstract or parti-colors from the Poodle side. Sometimes, we produce curly coated Comforts. We classify our coat types based on DNA results, not on visual appearance. Shed levels are individual to the dog, so while we hope that the majority of our dogs are low shedding, there are those who are moderate to heavy shedders. There are many factors that influence shedding as well. Some of these include season changes, weather, stress, illness, and a puppy transitioning to its adult coat. What guarantees do you offer with your puppies? We provide a 2 year health guarantee for all genetic conditions for all of our puppies. An additional 2 year guarantee is available as well more info Where are you located? We are located on the beautiful countryside of Versailles, Kentucky. Happy Valentine's Day to all, both big and small! One word — cute! As a result, the Mini Golden Retriever is an ever-evolving combo of the Golden Retriever , Poodle, and Cocker As the American Kennel Club does not recognize this cross, breeding is unregulated, and therefore all sorts of Mini Golden Retrievers have come out of the breeding pot. Creating smaller versions of purebred dogs means dabbling with their genes, which is never a good thing as they can suffer from ailments like dwarfism. There is a small possibility that they might nip and bite, so they could inherit this characteristic from their parents. This is especially important if you have a young family, as there could be a few tears! What are the differences between a Mini Golden Retriever and a Goldendoodle? Goldendoodle source Both of them are crossbred with Poodles and have a lot in common. The Goldendoodle is a medium-sized pooch with curly locks that are quite high maintenance, while the Miniature Golden Retriever is small to medium in size and also requires daily brushing to make sure those glossy coats stay at their best. Both are good with families and very active! The only significant differences are their coats as mentioned above and also the fact that Miniature Golden Retrievers are incredibly easy to train. In a nutshell, they have more similarities than differences. As mentioned above they range from 20 lbs to 45 lbs 7 kg to 16 kg and 14 inches to 20 inches tall 29 cm to 56 cm. Though they come in similar-sized packaging, you can certainly see the difference between them. Mini Goldens tend to have fur that is sleeker, with waves rather than curls. Dwarf Golden Retrievers have a condition called dwarfism, a genetic defect affecting bone growth. However, Miniature Goldens will continue to grow past two or three months of age, whereas Dwarf Goldens will present with stunted growth and skeletal deformities. As they become more fine-tuned and purer, a clearer picture will more than likely emerge. As it stands at the moment, their weight ranges between 20 lbs to 55 lbs 9 kg to 25 kg , with a height of between 12 to 15 inches 30 cm to 38 cm. A fully grown Mini Golden Retriever is small, but it has plenty of love to give! Like their larger counterparts, Mini Golden Retrievers shed an undercoat seasonally to adapt to changing climates. They are frequently called hypoallergenic, however, because they shed less dander than some other, more nasally-irritating breeds. Their grooming is simple, and only moderate maintenance is needed as long as you stay on top of it. When petting your dog, you should be able to feel down to their skin all-over, with no hard masses of fur. All the breeds that contribute to this mix are high-energy dogs. If your idea of leisure time is being a couch potato, the Mini Golden is not a good match for your lifestyle. They like to be active, and they want to play—with you. Puppies, of course, have an excess of energy. Mini Goldens are so obedient that many of them serve as excellent therapy dogs. Their loving nature and natural intelligence, combined with their manageable size, make these hybrids perfectly suited to comfort people who may be intimidated by larger breeds. Is my new BFF going to tear up my home? A yard is preferable, but they could do fine in an apartment, given daily moderate exercise and tasks to keep their minds engaged. Doggy daycare is an excellent idea, although it should not replace the time you spend with them or the training you need to provide them. This small Golden Retriever crossbreed is usually not picky about the food you put in its bowl. You can feed your Toy Golden Retriever 2. Avoid going over this recommended amount even if your Mini Golden gives you the puppy-dog eyes; this crossbreed is prone to obesity. These small dogs may also suffer from some digestive issues as they grow older, thanks to their Poodle parentage. The short answer is: by some organizations! This is probably because Miniature Golden Retrievers are a crossbreed still in development. The answer is inconclusive , as no statistically significant data has been found to support either side of the coin. However, responsible breeders will more than likely have vets doing gene testing for them to weed out known genetic diseases of the crossbreeds. When purchasing your Miniature Golden Retriever, make sure to check the breed Each dog is unique, and your Mini Golden could suffer from the conditions that commonly affect its parent breeds. Hip dysplasia, lymphoma, and skin problems are commonly seen in Golden Retrievers , whereas Poodles often suffer from progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, bloat, and collapsed trachea. Cocker Spaniels , which may or may not be included in the Mini Golden mix, frequently display cherry eye, cardiomyopathy, allergies, and urinary stones. How long will we have together? As mentioned in the first paragraph the life expectancy of your Mini Golden is estimated to range from 10 to 12 years. This dog can have a wildly different temperament from what you expect. Golden Retrievers: loyal to a fault The Golden Retriever, as a breed, is one of the most popular for families in the United States today. The AKC describes them as intelligent, exuberant, and eager-to-please. Golden Retrievers are perfect for active families with children. Some even say that poodles are beauties without brains. Poodles, on the whole, tend to do well with children and get along with other dogs when supervised. The American Kennel Club describes Cockers as eager-to-please, gentle, and happy. If trained properly, Mini Golden Retrievers are good dogs: loyal, active, gentle, good with families, and overall happy chaps! They have some awesome qualities to keep you happy with your forever furry friend. Not only will you learn the skills you need to be successful, but your puppy will learn incredible manners and behaviors as well! Each puppy that comes from our kennel comes home with a beautiful Registration Certificate. Continuing this daily regimen is the easiest and best way to keep your pet on the path to perfect health! NuVet Plus is a lifetime product to help support their immune system and provide assistance to their optimal health. A strong immune system will protect them from environmental and food toxins such as back yard pesticides, hormones, germs from public places, and even toxic formaldehyde in furniture and carpeting. NuVet Plus is a full spectrum, immune system support supplement that contains over 30 different nutrient dense ingredients that well better equip puppies to get and stay healthy. She is already so comfortable here and so attached. She gets so excited every time she sees us. And she has such a sweet disposition Everything goes for her. She just rolls with it. She loves to play and has lots of playful energy when she chases behind a toy or plays tug of war. But she loves to cuddle too, and she can busy herself well too without complaint. Yesterday we left her home when we went on a walk and she never barked or whined and was fast asleep when we returned. She accepted her crate as if she had never known any other place to rest. She just crawls in there and rests when she is tired. And when she wakes up, she quietly plays until we take her out of the playpen. Her potty training is going well. A couple of accidents here and there, but most of the time we catch her before anything happens, and she always does her business right away when we put her on the grass patch we have on the patio. She is getting a treat when she does her business. So, she actually figured out that if she spares some pee and squats several times, she will get several treats. Only One treat for the first time, everything after does not get rewarded any more. Wow, I have never seen a puppy learning that fast. And loving to learn. Being really food driven helps. I could not think of a better quarantine buddy to brighten up our day. I think she will be an amazing therapy dog who brightens up the day if many more people. Oh, and did I mention she is absolutely beautiful? Thank you again for that gift, Michele. I hope you are all doing well and are coping with the many new puppies. Some stressful days ahead of you, I am sure. And you are the best puppy mom I have ever encountered. Lots of love to your whole beautiful family! Read the full disclosure here. Imagine everything you love about a Golden Retriever — their friendly temperament, absolute loyalty, and loving playfulness — but in a smaller size. Sounds pretty good, right? Enter the Miniature Golden Retriever, a dog who is exactly that. What are Miniature Golden Retrievers? They are a cross mix of different dogs instead of just a size variation on the breed standard. This is different to the Mini Husky, for instance, which is just a smaller version of the Husky. The idea is to create puppies that have the same wonderful character and temperaments of a normal Golden, yet in a smaller size. The latter is actually the trademarked name for the puppies bred by Kathy Burgess , who claims to have created the first Miniature Golden. This usually translates to puppies sold already neutered, microchipped, with an ID tag and a health certificate. While the aim of Miniature Goldens was simply to create a dog that was a companion-sized version of the standard Golden, there are a number of differences and similarities between them. This should be expected if you account for the Mini also having some Poodle characteristics. Mini Golden Retriever Size Standard Goldens usually weigh somewhere between 55 and 75 lbs with females at the lighter end and males at the heavier and measure between 20 to 24 inches in height. Miniatures, however, usually weigh between 20 and 45 pounds and measure between 14 and 20 inches in height. Exact sizes will differ depending on the proportion of genetic matter they inherit from their parents. Dogs who inherit a higher proportion of Golden genetics will likely be a little bigger, while those that have more Poodle genes will probably be at the smaller end. The lifespan of a Mini Golden Retriever The expected lifespan of the Miniature Golden Retriever is between 10 and 15 years while standard Goldens can expect to live between 10 and 12 years. Larger size dogs generally have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones as its thought that they age faster. Both the standard and Miniature Goldens face the risk of inheriting various genetic diseases such as joint dysplasia and eye problems. Always check that your breeder can provide proof of the good health of the parents before you buy a new puppy. Some breeders claim that their Miniature Goldens will shed less than a standard Golden thanks to the input of the Poodle genetics. Standard Goldens, mini golden retrievers are notorious for being heavy shedders and require daily brushing, so this is a major benefit of buying a Mini. Exercise and Training We all know that dogs are a long-term commitment. Not only do you have to keep them fed, watered, and sheltered all year round, but owners must also ensure that they get enough exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Mini Goldens are intelligent animals that need daily physical and mental stimulation. You will need to exercise your Mini for between 30 minutes to an hour a day, with plenty of time set aside for playtime, music, and attention as well. Training should also be a daily occurrence in order to make sure that their behavior and command responses are well-honed enough for them to fit into a family home. Before you buy a Miniature Golden Retriever, make sure that you have the time and energy to devote to their exercise and training. How about feeding Miniature Golden Retrievers There is no big difference compared to the regular golden retrievers. As miniature golden retrievers need high protein food that will help to keep their bones and joints strong. You need to keep in mind that they are highly active dogs and we need to feed them accordingly. The ideal meal can be 2. We also hear that the small mini golden retrievers have some digestive issues. While the classic golden retriever is a large dog, some families may have living situations that a smaller breed is wanted. The miniature golden retriever is a mixed breeding. However, many owners have found that miniature golden retrievers also known as many other terms such as mini, toy and more have many of the same characteristics that made the breed so popular in the first place, but in a smaller package. Super cute miniature golden retriever puppy! These dogs love being around people. This is especially true if you live near water—these guys love swimming! They pair well with poodles and cocker spaniels because of their size difference poodles and cocker spaniels tend to be smaller. Mixing these two breeds together will give you a great family companion who loves to play with kids and other pets. What could be better? Their genes come from a mix of breeds like Cocker Spaniels and Poodles. This mix keeps them from growing to be too big and makes them easier to train. They usually only have moderate seasonal shedding coats which means less cleaning up after your pup when he comes home! Sizing them down will also help reduce health issues like hip dysplasia, which may be prevalent in larger breeds due to their size How Large Do They Grow Miniature golden retrievers average between 8 and 16 inches in height, which is smaller than other golden retriever varieties that are inches tall at their withers their shoulder blades. This is partially due to a recessive gene pairing that determines whether they grow to a large size or remain miniature. They reach maturity at around 18 months and live about years on average. Breeders also consider health and temperament when choosing their breeding stock. Also, their mixed breeding can make them healthier than purebreds; as these dogs tend to inherit traits from both parents rather than just one. They require exercise at least two short walks per day and mental stimulation i. Also, if left alone for too long without proper socialization, these pups can become destructive in your home. That said, with proper care and training these sweet little guys can make great additions to any family! If you would like to see a list of low maintenance dogs please check out this list. Many people think that their personality is identical to that of a larger version of itself, but in fact, it can be a bit different! Some miniature golden retrievers have unique traits inherited from its poodle ancestors such as longer and finer hair. Some might shed less. Before purchasing a miniature golden retriever puppy, it might be best to contact local shelters in your area or rescue organizations that may have miniature golden retrievers available for adoption. If you do find a breeder for a miniature golden retriever, make sure to ask about health screenings and genetic testing these dogs can suffer from several issues that require specific screenings before finalizing your purchase. The dogs are closely monitored and have been through genetic testing and are feed an all natural and holistic diet, so they remain healthy. All of our puppies come from healthy and happy parent dogs that have been genetically tested. This allows owners to feel secure in the health and genes that your puppy comes home with. Find your new best friend.

Some may have seen i wrote a post about my muppet the other days in regards to his appalling behavior when coming inside the house. .We have tried suggestions on there and he's still mental as ever but we're trying to remain positive and patient with him. .My other issue is this behaviour is now becoming more apparent than before both inside and outside the house.He was normally quiet calm, hypo at times like any lab but was content with his surroundings and listening to us. At the moment he is completely different, he's destroying beds just lost number 4 , he's pulling washing off the line while i'm standing there hanging it out which he's never done we have it guarded off normally , he gnawing on my arms, legs, feet and even his toys are copping it surely he can't be teething at 10 months , he's jumping way more than normal, won't listen to commands which he always has listened too and feels that every time we open the door to go inside he will ignore us and come rushing in and run away so we can't put him outside. The only way we have managed to put him outside is with a treat and slowly walk with him to the door and gentle push him outside, which i feel is praising bad behaviour. Nothing different has changed in our routine, we have breafast, he gets a bone, we go for a walk in early afternoon, have a game later than afternoon then dinner around 5. He also repeated all this bad behaviour at my parents house yesterday when he too pulled washing off there line, nearly knock my father over from jumping up at him and wouldn't listen even to a deep mans voice. .He is desexed, and is getting a good decent walk everyday, only thing i can put it down to is slight separation anxiety, yet there is no whinging or crying like he has when he was a small pup, or his brain is on holidays. .Any help would be greatly appreciated. Aggression towards people, other animals Hyperactivity Sadness, depression and being withdrawn Counter-surfing Digging …to name just the most common few! As previously stated, many of these are perfectly normal behaviors but unwanted when living with a human family. But some are real psychological or pathological problems that need to be properly researched and skillfully addressed, most likely by a vet or professional behaviorist. If the behavior problem is just one of normal canine behavior such as digging, barking, chasing small animals or pulling on the leash, natural behaviors but that are unacceptable or unwanted by an owner, then training alternative and acceptable behaviors in their place is the answer. This still takes knowledge of the particular cause and motivation of the behavior, knowledge and skill to choose and train an alternative behavior and patience and dedication to see the solution through. But these types of problems are solvable by the average owner and solutions for these problems will soon be appearing on this site. The sort of advice that can only really be given and be correct if offered by a qualified and knowledgeable professional. The first step is to see a vet to either identify or rule out any physical or pathological problems, and then be referred to a certified and reputable behavioral specialist. Many cases require a unique approach for which the only advice that can really be given is to seek professional help. We have to remember that Labradors were bred for a particular job and come with hard-wired instinctive and driven behaviors that we developed in them through many generations of selective breeding. Labs have needs and desires that have to be satisfied. They have traits and behaviors so deeply genetically ingrained that you simply cannot eliminate them. Although in most cases you can train alternative more acceptable behaviors. There are of course also more severe and worrying behavior problems, stemming from either pathological or deep-seated psychological issues. With understanding, patience, dedication, a caring attitude and a carefully planned scientific approach, almost all problems can be overcome or at least successfully managed. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. When learning how to decipher the different types of dog speak, you need to understand why your Labrador is barking so much. Labradors bark for many reasons, including alerting you of danger, such as a stranger. Here are some examples: A warning or alert bark will be quick and sharp and may become more intense. A Labrador demanding something such as food or attention will have a piercing and persistent bark directed at you. A bored dog will have a repetitive monotone bark. A Labrador suffering from distress such as separation anxiety, or panic, will have a high-pitched and highly repetitive bark. As the dog gets more stressed, the barking may become even higher pitched or howling. A fearful or suspicious bark will be fast and low. A playful bark will be high-pitched, more tonal, and modulated. Labradors are creatures of habit, thrive on routine, and are one smart cookie. So, if your Lab constantly barks at you, you may wonder why? Your Labrador will bark at you demand barking to communicate various things to you, especially when he wants to get your attention or get something specific from you, such as food, play, or to go outside. Dogs soon learn that they can get what they want, mainly if you usually give in. The secret is to try and understand why your dog is barking in the first place and prevent it from occurring, for example, by ensuring he is sufficiently exercised. When your Labrador barks at you, and notably, if he also stares at you — this is known as demand barking. He will eventually learn that when he is calm, he receives something positive. Is your dog keeping you awake at night? Other than occasionally needing a toilet break or if he is ill or in pain, if this has become a regular occurrence, you will want to put a stop to it — quickly! So, why does your Labrador bark overnight? Your Labrador might bark at night to alert you of a danger or if he is anxious, fearful, or purely wants attention. Here are some tips to prevent your Labrador from barking at night: Use a crate from the first night you bring your dog home. Choose something like the all-inclusive Midwest for Pets icrate from Amazon. It comes with everything you need, such as a divider and a removable wipe-clean tray. This one also gives you the option of a single or double door, which is handy. But should you let your Labrador Puppy sleep with you? You have to ignore him. It can be hard to do this on the first night you bring your new puppy home, but you will undoubtedly thank me for this advice! Ensure your dog is comfortable whether you leave him in a bed or crate. Have water and toys handy. Make sure your Labrador has been exercised enough throughout the day. Most well-exercised dogs are desperate to go to bed at night to enjoy a sound sleep! Why Do Labradors Howl? Most people will associate howling with the wolf-like Siberian Husky. But did you know your Labrador also manifests this wolf-ancestry behavior once in a while? Labradors howl for many reasons, such as to warn you about a danger they can sense or respond to another howling dog in the neighborhood. They may also howl when reacting to high-pitched sounds such as sirens or music, seeking attention, if in pain or distress, or if suffering from separation anxiety. Usually, howling is a form of communication that dogs use outside their usual barking, groaning, or whining. Unless it is incessant, you have a normal dog. If your Labrador is howling to get your attention, treat this behavior similarly to demand barking. You need to ignore him and teach him that howling at you will not work. When he goes quiet and stops howling for a few seconds, use positive reinforcement, such as treats, and toys, with lots of verbal praise. Why Do Labradors Whine? Have you ever taken your dog on a car trip and heard the most horrendous whining as you park up somewhere? You may wonder why your Labrador is whining. Consult your vet if stress and anxiety have become an issue for your dog, as anti-anxiety medication may help. Separation anxiety. Treatments include counterconditioning that focuses on developing an association between being alone and good things, like treats. Desensitizing techniques can also help, along with medication. Again, consult your vet or a professional animal behaviorist. Attention-seeking whining is similar to demand barking, as mentioned in the section above. You will need to teach your Labrador that remaining quiet will lead to a more positive outcome. Appeasement whining is normal canine behavior and occurs when your dog tries to appease people or other dogs when they perceive aggression or a threat. Never yell or physically punish your Lab, which only causes fear and resentment. Why Do Labradors Groan? My dog will often groan with pleasure after eating a meal and flopping down with a full belly! Sometimes, it can be really amusing. But why does your Labrador groan? Medical reasons can also be the cause, e. Behavioral groaning is of no concern and is normal canine behavior. However, consult your vet if you suspect your Lab is groaning due to a medical reason. Labrador Retriever behavior consisting of lying or sitting on your feet can be cute — but sometimes annoying! So what exactly does it mean? When your Labrador lays on your feet, it can mean a few things, such as seeking and offering protection, wanting attention, or initiating play. Other reasons are to seek or show affection, feel warm and cozy, or mark his territory by spreading his scent on you. Here are a few examples of why your Labrador may lay on your feet, sit on your feet, or even lay on you! Seek and offer protection. Your Labrador will lay at your feet to feel safe and offer you protection simultaneously. Among pack dogs, the alpha has a prominent position. So, laying at your feet shows that he recognizes you as the alpha. But he also feels safe and secure alongside you. To seek attention or initiate play. Seek and show affection. Your Labrador may lay on your feet or sit on you to seek affection or show you their devotion. Labs are very affectionate and friendly, have a warm temperament, and love to cuddle. For warmth. Have you ever wondered why pack dogs would lie close together, especially in cold weather? Most pack dogs would lie close to each other to keep warm. Territory marking. Your Labrador will communicate that he belongs to you by spreading his scent on you. So, laying or sitting on your feet, lap, or belly whenever you sit or lie down is his way of labeling you with his scent. A study of 32 dogs showed that dogs preferred to be closer to pleasant people. You may wonder why your Lab will circle his bed, an area of the carpet or rug before lying down. Dogs may also assess their laying spot for anything harmful, such as vermin, or could cause them injuries before making a comfy nest. Despite centuries of domestication, there is little scientific data to prove the above — except for the belief that dogs circle before lying down to make a comfy nest. This small study of 62 dogs suggested that dogs are more likely to circle before lying down when presented with a soft, uneven surface to make a temporary nest to sleep. OCD is a psychological condition that often has a genetic tendency. Stricken dogs will repeatedly perform normal canine behavior and often fail to respond to therapy. Dogs worried about predators and protected their bellies by sleeping on them in the wild. Sleeping belly-down also allowed them to get up quickly if needed. So why do Labradors sometimes sleep on their back? Labradors sleep on their back with their paws in the air to cool down or when they feel very relaxed with their environment and are at ease exposing their belly. This shift is the result of hundreds of years of dog domestication. One of the cutest sleeping positions of puppies is when they sleep upside down — they are just more comfortable sleeping on their backs! Adult Labradors that sleep on their back for a while are also adorable. They are trusting of you and will no doubt sleep anywhere. Labradors may roll on their back for many different reasons. This dog behavior might occur when your Lab is alone, playing with you, or when with other dogs. Labradors roll on their back when seeking attention from you, e. Or to groom or scratch themselves, mark territory, change their body smell getting rid of a shampoo aroma , show confidence or contentment, or regulate body temperature. A roll on the back is often interpreted as being submissive during dog play. However, research has shown that rolling on the back is a combat tactic, not an act of submission. Your Labrador may roll over when playing with other dogs for two key reasons: To avoid a bite on the side of the neck be defensive. To launch an attack be offensive. Labradors will often roll over to scratch their back — since they cannot reach it with their paws! This could be normal scratching, but it could also be due to a flea or tick infestation. How To Solve Scratching! Labs will roll on their back to get a rub or tickle on their tummy when playing. So, avoid it if you do not want him to always ask for it! Your dog may also roll on his back to cool down. Why Do Labradors Roll in Poop? This is one of the weird dog behaviors that we find a little difficult to understand — rolling in stinky things, such as fox and badger feces or bird droppings! Some dogs love to cover themselves in foul smells that leave you spluttering in disgust. So, why do Labradors roll in poop? Dogs like pungent scents, and they encourage rolling action. Wild dogs had to hunt to survive. Your Labrador is leaving his scent behind. Your dog might be trying to leave his scent, similar to marking or spraying behavior. Your dog is interacting with you, his pack! Other packmates would track the scent back in the wild, which helped with their hunting. So, now you know why your Labrador rolls in poop, how do you prevent him from returning with a foul, pungent stench? When out on a walk with your dog, stay alert and limit his poo-rolling activities. Learn to anticipate it right before it begins. If I notice my dog sniffing or tracking the ground with greater intensity, I know she can smell the strong scent of the fox. Excitement urination is mainly associated with puppies, and most dogs will grow out of this behavior. But why do Labs pee when excited? Labradors pee when excited due to becoming exceptionally excited during greetings and playtime. Other causes are incomplete housetraining, accidental reinforcement, genetic predisposition, or a medical condition such as urinary bladder dysfunction or incontinence in elderly dogs. I have a complete guide to potty training your Labrador if you need any help in that department. Once you have ruled out medical causes, there are some things you can do to prevent your Labrador from peeing when excited: Keep greetings low-key; stay calm and quiet. Greet your puppy outside when you return home. Take him outside to potty, and use positive reinforcement. Clean up the mess with an enzymatic cleaner. This is when dogs will pee to mark their territory. Do you find it funny when your Labrador chases his tail? Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs, and most behavioral issues stem from monotony and insufficient exercise. Healthy adult dogs need at least two hours of daily activity, consisting of various walking, off-leash running, fetch, frisbee, agility, or swimming — Labs love to swim! If you laugh every time your Labrador chases his tail, you inadvertently reinforce his attention-seeking behavior. Labs are eager to please you, and your encouragement acts as positive reinforcement. He will, therefore, keep doing it, especially if he needs you to notice him! Has your Labrador been keeping an eye on you? Do you sense him intently staring at you from the corner of the room? Some stares may be cute, others not so. Your Labrador stares at you to communicate with you. Examples are expressing love and devotion, seeking attention, or manipulating you to get what he wants, such as food or playtime. He may also stare at you to communicate displeasure, sense your mood, or when resource guarding. Here are some examples: Seek Attention. Labradors will stare at you to seek your attention. His stare serves to remind you that he needs his meal too! Manipulate you to get something. When your Lab stares at you with eyes of pity, he wants you to concede and let him have his way! My dog will sit in front of me every evening and intensely stare when she wants me to play. In the wolf world, staring is rude and threatening, and some dogs may retain that trait. So, if your dog stares at you intensely, without blinking, and has a stiff stance, he might be communicating some displeasure. And if the uninterrupted hard stare is directed towards a stranger, they should back away and not stare back! Resource guarding. This is often combined with a hard, aggressive stare where your Lab will guard his food or toys. Resource guarding is a behavior problem, and you may need to consult a professional dog behaviorist. Check out this article for greater insight into this topic, Resource Guarding in Labradors. Final Thoughts As you have now learned, there are many Labrador behaviors. Most are entirely natural and designed to seek attention, protect, show dominance or defensiveness, express feelings, show affection, or mark territory. However, some dog behaviors may be a sign of an underlying medical issue. But you should now be able to identify those concerning ones where you should visit your vet. Related Posts You May Like:. Of course, it all happens much faster in them though, because they pack it all into and average of just 12 or 13 years. Between 6 and 12 months old, they will enter adolescence. At a year old, they are a mature adolescent. Sometime between 2 and 3 years old they become physically and mentally mature. And at 9 years old, they start to become seniors. Labrador behavior by age: the first 6 months Infant Labradors are champion nappers, attached to their primary carer to the point of clinginess, playful, and impulsive. Sleep patterns Young Labrador puppies are growing and learning fast, and they need a lot of sleep to support their development. So, they make up for it by napping frequently during the day. Which is alright for them, even though it can be cripplingly tiring for us! But hang in there — most puppies are sleeping through the night at 14 weeks old. After that they will gradually start waking earlier in the morning too. There is a double whammy of reasons for this. Firstly, they are instinctively aware that they are still too small and vulnerable to survive alone. Secondly, Labradors have been bred over many generations to be innately people-focussed, since dogs who were naturally motivated to remain close to their owners made better workers. Playfulness Labrador puppies spend more time playing than at any other time in their lives. But lots of first time puppy parents are taken aback by exactly how ferocious puppy play behavior can be! Barking, growling, lunging, pouncing, and biting are all completely normal elements of puppy play. In the wild, they would be valuable practice for hunting in future, and the natural instinct to start practicing early lives on, even this long after domestication. Impulsiveness Puppies of all types are generally a chaotic presence. They have very little impulse control, so they rarely sit still for long, and they cannot resist temptation. Make sure those shoes are kept out of reach in the first place, and give your puppy plenty of suitable toys instead. The sweet spot There is a point when a Labrador puppy is roughly akin to an 8 year old child. They sleep well, use the toilet in the right place, understand instructions, and hang off your every word. A whole new stage of Labrador behavior is coming! If we think of it in terms of their wild ancestors again, they are no longer so vulnerable and reliant on the protection of adults around them. And time to start thinking for themselves, in anticipation of being an self-sufficient adult soon. You might start to discover that the little puppy who never left your side off the leash will suddenly cross soccer fields to say hello to another dog. These are all normal parts of growing up. During this stage, you need to protect your cues by not using them when your dog is likely to ignore you, and manage their opportunities to make unwanted decisions instead. For example, by using a long line, or exercising them in a secure field. Adolescence is also associated with the onset of sex differences in behavior. For example, unneutered male dogs tend to carry out more scent marking than either spayed or intact females, or neutered males. And unspayed female dogs will start going into heat every 6 months or so. As they become more independent, and stop relying on others to look out for them, they instinctively become more cautious about new and unfamiliar things as well. If this happens, the key is not to push them to handle more than they are comfortable with — given them space, and and gradually restore they emotional response to a positive one using treats. Labrador behavior by age: adulthood By the time your Labrador is 2 or 3 years old, their physical and emotional journey to adulthood is complete. Hopefully, if you socialized them carefully as a puppy, and trained them consistently until now, they have become all the things you dreamed of. And at last, they have reached a point where if you treat them consistently, their behavior will remain consistent too. The Labrador breed is famous for being friendly and easy company. They are exceptional at learning and remembering new cues, and famously food motivated, so teaching and maintaining good manners should be straightforward. But without enough exercise they might resort to unwanted behaviors such as chewing furniture, barking or digging in the garden. Factors which will affect the behavior of your mature adult Labrador include: The temperament of their parents Socialization they received as a puppy Training How much physical exercise they get How much mental stimulation they receive Diet How much time they spend alone Health factors Positive and negative experiences An example of how health factors and experience can affect behavior is if a Lab experiencing joint pain from hip dysplasia is jumped on by a playful younger dog. This could make them reactive towards encounters with other dogs in future, because they want to warn off another potentially painful experience. Labrador behavior by age: the senior years In veterinary terms, Labradors are considered senior from roughly 9 years old onwards. However, many Labs remain active long past this point. The average retirement age of Labradors working as gundogs is 10 years old , and this is more likely to be due to physical factors such as arthritis or deafness than not being mentally up to the job any more. But, old age is associated with a broad range of physical changes, and increased likelihood of illnesses, many of which can cause behavior changes. For example Senior dogs are more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes , and are less able to fight off infections like UTIs. Which means their toilet habits might change, including needing to get up in the night to pee again. Sensory changes such as sight and hearing loss mean they might become less responsive to your cues, or less confident in unfamiliar situations. Physical changes like loss of muscle mass and degeneration of their joints means they might slow down, and be less interested in things they used to enjoy, like walks or playing fetch. The older they get, the more likely dogs are to show signs of canine cognitive dysfunction CCD , which his akin to dementia in humans. CCD may include behavior changes such as night waking, forgetfulness, and becoming disorientated. Take your senior dog for regular veterinary checks to help manage these changes, and for practical advice on making their golden years as comfortable as possible. Labrador behavior by age — summary Labrador behavior by age can be viewed in terms of four distinct periods — puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood and senior years. Adulthood is the easiest, and thankfully the longest too! Whilst all the other stages present their own unique challenges, they are just that — stages, which will pass. Knowing what to expect makes them easier to manage, and realizing they are transient helps us appreciate the privilege of spending a lifetime with our Labs. Have you got any tips for surviving the puppy and adolescent stages? But as your kids approach the puppy, he starts biting and nipping them, causing a few surprised cries. The AKC says Labradors are an affectionate breed, treating adults, children, and other animals like family without causing any trouble. Labradors are easy to train and receptive to learning new commands since their main goal is to please their families. Do All Labrador Puppies Bite? As your new puppy settles into their new home, they are many stimulants, and he needs time to get to know your family, its new surroundings, and that not all slippers are a toy. Just as when people move to a new house, city, or country, your new Labrador puppy is exploring the world. This process will take a few weeks, so be patient. But what happens when he suddenly starts biting you and your kids? Every family that gets lab puppies faces this challenge. Although your puppy is only a few pounds, Labrador puppy biting is still painful. Many owners worry that the behavior will continue into adulthood, especially when biting becomes an ongoing issue. The good news is that there is usually a short time frame that you have to experience this. So in reality, Labrador puppy biting is primarily instinctual. Reason 1: Teething Puppies Sometimes, a Lab puppy biting is simply due to teething. Teething is uncomfortable, so your pup likely just wants to relieve that discomfort in any way possible. If that means biting a chew toy or your fingers, then so be it. Once your Lab puppy has its teeth, it might stop biting and nipping. You can help ease his comfort by offering him teething toys for puppies, like frozen chew toys. Reason 2: Excitement Biting Behavior Your new Lab puppy could get excited by just about anything: Your kids squealing, shouting, or crying, and adults shouting or being angry can set off your Lab puppy biting with its sharp teeth. The solution: Deter your puppy from biting you by redirecting him to what he can bite, like a toy. Reason 3: Biting for Attention Most Labrador puppies are receptive to conditioning and positive reinforcement. Dog lovers know that dogs crave attention from their families, but Lab puppies are extreme attention seekers. They love any form of contact with their families, whether playing, petting, or even just eye contact. So if your pup gets these responses from you while biting, he will interpret them as attention. The solution: Stop giving your puppy the attention he wants when he bites so he learns not to associate the two. When puppies are with their mom and siblings, the mom teaches them how hard they can bite each other without it being too painful through play fighting. Your Lab puppy learns how to calibrate strength based on his own family experience. Do Labrador Puppies Bite Children? One major adjustment is the play-biting: A small Lab puppy has a powerful bite and can cause pain, especially to such sensitive skin. The downside is that Lab puppies are more likely to bite children and teenagers than adults. It all comes down to learning how to interact with the puppy. Children and teenagers are inherently more confusing for a Lab puppy. The great news is that you can stop your Lab puppy from biting your kids through consistent training, but the training should be on both sides. Your kids also need to learn how to play and interact with the puppy, understanding its boundaries and playing just enough to keep them from overexciting. You plan to throw a chew toy into the yard for him to chase — but before you can throw it, he suddenly starts nipping and tugging at your hands while making odd puppy sounds that sound dangerously close to snarling. You might also be worried that you have a puppy displaying aggressive biting behavior. Most of the time, they mean no harm and just need a little training to control it! Without the proper guidance and education, many of these methods might be wrong: Instead of discouraging your puppy from biting, you could unintentionally reinforce it. Puppy Biting Tip 1: Discourage Play Biting Whatever stage of puppy development your adorable pup is in, he will always crave attention. If you encourage and reward play biting, he will associate it with attention, praise, and treats, causing him to do it more. So if your puppy has entered its biting phase and is displaying rough or aggressive behavior, stop yourself from giving any reaction. Simply follow rigid training steps, and it will eventually stop. Although that might be very hard to do because a Lab puppy is so adorable, you will thank yourself in the future for doing this. In fact, it might even make things worse. When you punish your Labrador, he might learn to fear you. This can worsen the biting and lead to your puppy developing more aggressive behavior as an adult. Some people also do a light swat on their puppies when they misbehave. When your pup starts biting, remain calm and follow positive training methods rather than negative ones. This is especially true when it comes to a nipping Labrador puppy. While a biting puppy is normal puppy behavior, without proper training and techniques, your Labrador might bite well into adulthood. Step 1: Teach Small Children Boundaries The first step in your training routine should be teaching your kids how to interact with the puppy. But if they start barking and biting out of excitement, you must stop playing with them immediately. Instead, pick up the toy and step away. Bite inhibition is when you teach your puppy how much is too much. After that time-out, you can return to the room and resume whatever activity you were doing. As your puppy learns to bite with less intensity, you can start training it not to put your hand in its mouth. This training takes time, so be patient, and you will see a positive result. Step 4: Reinforce with Additional Training You can also use other training techniques to reinforce positive behavior. Move your hand closer to the puppy and follow the same technique. If the puppy bites you, walk away from it. As you train the puppy to tolerate your hand getting closer to it without biting, you can finally keep your puppy calm and play safely without causing overstimulated biting. Puppies and dogs might go back to their bad habits if you change how you interact with them, so being consistent is crucial. Remember that children tend to take more time to learn training steps, so always reinforce the boundaries and supervise them during playtime in the early training days. Be patient and give your puppy time to learn. Seek help from professional trainers. Professional dog trainers are experienced in redirection, toy-play, and bite inhibition training to give you helpful tips and tricks. Take your puppy to puppy school. There are hundreds of puppy schools and programs that teach puppies good manners. Remember to never punish your puppy for biting. Invest in some good toys, such as different chew toys or Kong toys, so you always have something to redirect him towards. Conclusion Whether teething, scared or just excited, most Labrador Retriever puppies bite for various reasons. Unfortunately, those sharp little puppy teeth can hurt — so if you notice some unwanted biting from your Lab puppy, you should immediately start training him into different behavior. Learn more about what we do and check out our available Labrador puppies today! Share on. Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Around six months of age, labrador puppies often start to quiet down. In order for readers to understand when Labradors will start to get calmer, this article will present a summary of the important developmental stages of Labradors. The most effective methods for training your Labrador puppy and assisting them in developing into well-mannered adults will also be covered. In order to raise your Labrador puppy to be a happy and healthy companion, we will also go through how to exercise and stimulate their minds. Because of their limitless energy and eagerness, labrador puppies may be a real handful for their owners. There is however hope because Labrador puppies will eventually learn to control their behavior as they get older and enter maturity. So when might owners anticipate their Labrador puppy starting to relax? When Labradors settle down depends on a number of variables, including the personality of the particular puppy, their age, and the amount of structure and training they receive. Labradors typically attain adult size between the ages of 12 and 18 months, though they may continue to develop until they are two years old. Around this age, Labradors will start to quiet down, but they may still be very energetic and enthusiastic. Exercise is crucial for calming down your Labrador dog in addition to training and structure. Regular exercise aids in energy burn-off and can teach your puppy to concentrate and unwind. To help pet owners provide their Labradors with the guidance they need to become well-behaved and obedient companions, dog training courses have been designed specifically for this breed. These courses offer a range of training options, from obedience training to behavior modification, and are taught by experienced trainers Your Labrador puppy will remain calm and satisfied if you take him for regular walks , give him many of toys and hobbies, and engage in activities with him. Additionally, socialization is essential to ensuring that your puppy develops into a self-assured and adaptable adult dog. This may entail exposing kids in a healthy and controlled manner to various people, animals, and environments. Around six months old, this often begins, and it will improve over the following year or two. Labradors will learn how to obey directions and behave in various settings throughout this time. Your puppy will develop into a patient and kind companion with the correct environment and training. The best way to assist your dog get used to their new home is to establish a schedule. Your puppy will feel more at ease and confident in their surroundings if you keep them on a regular feeding, resting, and activity schedule. Additionally, giving your dog lots of exercises and mental stimulation chances will help burn off extra energy and prevent boredom. Use positive reinforcement to make sure your Labrador puppy understands and learns the right behavior. Treats, compliments, and other prizes can be used to promote desirable behavior and punish unacceptable ones. To strengthen the link between the conduct and the reward, rewards should be given right away after the desired behavior. Check out these healthiest dogs treat options for your adult or puppy labradors. If a correction is required, it should be given calmly and gently, and any positive conduct should be rewarded immediately after. Praise and awards should be given for desired behaviors, while corrections should be used sparingly. Your Labrador puppy will be well on their way to developing into a well-behaved adult dog with persistence, patience, and plenty of training. You probably anticipate a Labrador puppy you bring home to be enthusiastic and bursting with activity. Although that is undoubtedly the case, there are a few things you can do to get ready for when they do ultimately quiet down. Although none of this is simple, there are methods to make it less difficult for you both. Giving your puppy a lot of structure and training is the first step. They will get the ability to maintain their attention and manage their energy as a result. In order to prepare your Labrador puppy for adulthood, exercise is also crucial. You may help them expend some of their energy while also teaching them how to concentrate and unwind by taking them on frequent walks and giving them lots of toys and activities. Additionally, it will teach them to restrain their innate eagerness, allowing them to become more composed and submissive. The use of positive reinforcement is crucial when teaching your Labrador puppy. When discipline is required, it must be done calmly and gently, and it must be followed with a reward for good conduct. For desired behaviors, praise and awards should be given, while corrections should be used sparingly. Due to their slow maturation rates, labradors require patience and understanding from their owners. Your Labrador puppy will eventually calm down and develop into a well-behaved adult dog with plenty of training and structure. Among all dog breeds, lab puppies are among the most active. Since they are still developing as puppies, they require a lot of instruction, mental stimulation, and exercise to help them concentrate and maintain their composure. They have a lot of excitement and energy, which needs to be appropriately managed or they would get bored easily and act out in inappropriate ways. Due to their breeding as working and athletic dogs, labradors have a lot of energy that needs to be channeled properly. Giving your Labrador puppy plenty of exercises and mental stimulation will help them have the correct amount of energy and prevent boredom. Labrador Dog Positive Reinforcement Training One of the best ways to train Labradors is through positive reinforcement. Labradors can learn to concentrate and maintain their obedience by receiving rewards and praise for desired behavior. You can add more difficult commands and exercises, such as agility and chasing a toy, as your Labrador gets better. These exercises will teach children how to maintain their attention and manage their energy. For every good behavior, praise and incentives should be offered, and fewer corrections should be given overall. Exercise is a crucial component in Labrador positive reinforcement training. Giving your Labrador puzzle toys and games or exposing them to new experiences and places are two ways to stimulate their minds. Your Labrador can learn to concentrate and maintain obedience by being mentally stimulated, which will keep them entertained and involved. Although Labradors are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, they require regular reinforcement in order to retain their knowledge. Additionally, keep in mind that Labradors mature more slowly than other breeds, so exercise patience and compassion when dealing with them. In general, positive reinforcement training is a successful method for teaching your Labrador to remain attentive and submissive. You may aid your Labrador in developing into a well-behaved adult dog by consistently rewarding and praising desired actions, as well as by giving them lots of opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. When teaching your Labrador puppy, utilize positive reinforcement to help them acquire desired behavior and maintain concentration. Rewarding positive behavior with praise and minimizing negative behavior with gentle, calm corrections are the best practices. In addition, giving your Labrador a lot of physical activity, mental challenge, and engaging activities like agility and fetch can help them concentrate their energy. Your Labrador puppy will eventually mature into a well-mannered adult dog with persistence and patience. Due to their high energy levels, labrador puppies need a lot of training, mental stimulation, and exercise to help them concentrate and maintain their composure. You can help your Labrador focus their energy and eventually develop into a well-behaved adult dog by consistently rewarding and praising them for appropriate behavior and by giving them plenty of exercises, mental stimulation, and activities like agility and fetch. Your Labrador puppy will eventually learn to focus and settle down when necessary with time and effort.

You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting an English Bulldog, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to English Bulldogs". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Bulldog from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Bulldog puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many English Bulldogs young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Things to do with your English Bulldog Indiana is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Indiana that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Go Camping Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Indiana that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Indiana, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Indiana, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Indiana, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Indiana, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Indiana has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Indiana. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Indiana is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Indiana? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Cheappuppiesforsale is your go-to website for finding inexpensive, locally available, and registered French bulldog Indiana for sale. Our primary objective is to assist you in locating the appropriate French Bulldog puppy for sale in your neighborhood History of French Bulldog puppies French Bulldogs are considered one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and around the world. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities and are often kept as companion animals. The breed is a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was brought to France by English lacemakers. The French Bulldog was then developed by crossing the English Bulldog with local small breeds, such as the Terrier, to create a smaller, more delicate version of the English Bulldog. During the 19th century, French Bulldogs were used for bull-baiting and dog fighting. They quickly gained popularity among the upper class in France, especially in Paris, where they were considered a symbol of luxury and elegance. In the late 19th century, French Bulldogs were brought to the United States by American tourists who fell in love with the breed while visiting France. Temperament of Frenchies The temperament of a French Bulldog is generally described as affectionate, playful, and sociable. They are known to be good with children and other pets and make great companion animals. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them easy to train and manage. French Bulldogs are very loyal to their owners, and they have a strong desire to be close to their family. They have a playful nature, and they love to play and interact with their owners. French Bulldogs are known for their expressive personalities, and they are known to be very vocal. They are known to make a variety of noises, including grunts, snores, and snorts, which can be quite endearing. They are also known for their sense of humor and their ability to make their owners laugh. One of the most striking characteristics of French Bulldogs is their easy going nature. They are known to be adaptable and easy to live with, which makes them great family pets. They are also known to be relatively low maintenance, as they do not require a lot of exercise or grooming. Meet Carlie! She is a French Bulldog looking for her perfect companion. This amazing gal is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, plus the breeder provides a 1 year genetic health guarantee. She is super social and is being raised with children that play with her daily. Her momma is Suzanne. Carlie is ready to brighten all your days with kisses. Sex: Female.

Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! The French Bulldog is prone to some health issues such as brachycephalic upper airway syndrome BUAS , allergies , and obesity. Feeding them appropriate nutrition is important in keeping our Frenchies healthy. Read further to learn how to choose the best food out there for your canine friend. French Bulldogs have similar nutritional needs to other dogs. They need to be fed high quality protein and a good source of vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. Protein is the building block for muscle and gives your dog energy. Feeding Puppy French Bulldogs Puppies need regular feeding, usually, three times a day as their stomachs are small. French Bulldog puppies grow rapidly in the first 6 months of their life and need the appropriate diet in order to grow properly. They need regular feeding, usually, three times a day as their stomachs are small. As puppies do a LOT of growing, their diets should be high in calories to give them fuel for this. Their diets should have high quality proteins with no high carb fillers or preservatives. It should be an easy-to-digest food with human-grade ingredients. Check the back of the food bag to see how much your puppy should be eating and ask your vet for advice on feeding when they get their vaccinations. Your French Bulldog puppy can start eating adult food from months of age. There are so many foods out there on the market that it can be really confusing trying to pick a food for your dog. We have some pointers when it comes to picking good quality food for your dog. First of all, look at the ingredient list. The ingredient list should be easy to read with recognizable whole food ingredients. The list should be relatively short as long lists can indicate unnecessary high carb filler ingredients. The ingredients should be high quality and clearly stated e. The diet should be free from preservatives and high carb filler ingredients like potato, rice, oats, barley, pasta, corn, or wheat. Dog foods are available in many forms such as dry food, wet canned food, dehydrated food, raw food, and lightly cooked human-grade diets. Some ingredients in certain foods can be harmful to our pooches, including excessive carbohydrates, preservatives, and poor-quality ingredients. These include excessive carbohydrates, preservatives, and poor-quality ingredients. Along with those, some human foods are harmful to our dogs too. You should avoid feeding your Frenchie these foods; Onions. Regardless, it is best to feed your puppy their old food for at least two weeks if you can. Then, you want to swap the proportions. After a few days, you can give your puppy only the new food. The most common is diarrhea. It might be worth a trip to the vet if your pup starts throwing up their meals, refuses to eat, or has allergic reactions to the new food. French Bulldog Puppy Diets French Bulldog puppy diets may consist of kibble, wet food, raw food , or homemade food. Each of these has pros and cons. Some pet owners go all in and make their own dog foods. This can get complex, as, with raw or homemade food, you have to be sure to give your dog all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. It is also typically more expensive than prepared meals kibble or wet food. However, the benefits might be important if done correctly. You know exactly what your dog is eating, no questions asked. Frenchies often have allergies and sensitive tummies. So you should avoid foods with too much protein but make sure meat is still the first ingredient! Also avoid or limit grains, soy, and wheat, as these are common allergens. The number of calories your puppy needs will depend on their age, weight, and exercise levels. Different types of food will also have different calorie levels. For example, they will generally need to eat more wet food than kibble for a balanced meal, because canned food has fewer calories. At the start of the day, weigh out the right amount on some scales and divide it between five bowls. Four of these will make up regular meals spread throughout the day, the final bowl is for you to put aside to use as training treats or to reward good behavior. This will help you to resist the temptation to use higher carb training treats. Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy Kibble The most affordable option, when considering both your time and money, is kibble. The most time-consuming and expensive are raw and homemade diets. You can find it easily at the store, and your only prep time will be to open it and pour it into a bowl. The biggest con is that there are some low-quality brands of kibble out there. As in any business, some are just in it for the money. However, these disadvantages can be overcome by choosing a high-quality brand. Look out for formulas specifically tailored for French Bulldogs. Specialized recipes are carefully shaped to help them out. Another good thing about wet food is that it keeps your dog hydrated. However, due to the water in wet food, it has fewer calories. Your pup will need to eat more wet food than dry food, making it the more expensive of the two. Wet food is also messier than dry, especially if your pup is a messy eater. It also takes time to prepare as you will need to buy the ingredients individually, and prepare the meals. Raw food also requires more clean-up time than any other food. Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy a Homemade Diet Feeding a puppy a homemade diet has many of the same pros and cons of feeding raw. Homemade food with properly cooked meats is less risky than a raw diet. It will still be costly and time-intensive though. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings! French Bulldog Puppy Weight Chart Your French Bulldog puppy should eat more protein and less carbs The French bulldog is a breed of dogs prone to various health issues because of their genes. To help them live a better life, it is important to provide them with nutritious meals that include all the essential things that their body needs. Frenchies are classed as a brachycephalic breed of dog, which means that they have a very short muzzle and are flat-faced. This shape of the face makes it really hard for them to breathe, so they have to be fed a diet that is high in protein and low in carbs. French bulldog puppies need food that contains protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Frenchies can potentially suffer from a condition called brachycephalic airway syndrome, or BASS. BASS can lead to a variety of health issues. Commercially prepared food seems to be the most convenient but be wary about the ingredients and chemicals that are mixed in this food. In choosing commercially prepared foods, watch out and avoid preservatives like ethozyquin, butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , and butylated hydroxytoluene BHT that are common to mass-produced food. They may also contain lots of sugar that is also not good for your Frenchie puppy. It is up to you to choose whether you go for commercially prepared food or if you want to create a healthy homemade meal for your Frenchie. Combine quality meat, vegetables and some sources of vitamins and minerals. You can prepare either a cooked dish or a raw meal for your Frenchie. Food Allergies Of Your French Bulldog Puppy Food allergies are also quite common to Frenchies so you have to be very careful with what to feed them and be very observant about the allergy symptoms. They may come from products such as beef, chicken, fish, corn, wheat, soy, lamb, and eggs. The only way to know what your Frenchie is allergic to is through trial and error. To cope with the growth spurts that the Frenchies experience, frequent feedings is best. Owners need to feed their puppies with a well-balanced meal, 3 times a day. They should also be properly hydrated to ensure continuous and healthy growth. Remember that it is not enough that your Frenchie is eating, the quality of food you feed also greatly affects their health. A great option is to feed them wet food as well as dry food. Feeding your French bulldog is essential for their health and well-being. They need a well-balanced diet to prevent health problems like obesity and diabetes, which can shorten their life expectancy. Pups do not need to eat very often; however, they should be fed at least once every 12 hours. Always have fresh water available and consider purchasing a water fountain for your dog that can also dispense tiny treats. When it comes to feeding your puppy, many people wonder what should be in their food. The answer ultimately depends on the type of puppy food you buy.