german shepherd and rottweiler mix puppy
For the complete list please see our Listings of Boxer Breeders page. This price is not too high and it will depend on the age of the puppy that you choose. Typically older puppies will cost more than younger puppies. Always check with your local Boxer breeders to see what they are asking for their pups before agreeing on a purchase. The price does not include any necessary veterinary care such as vaccines and medical treatment if needed, so always remember to factor these expenses into your financial consideration when shopping around for boxers. The cost will vary depending on the breeder, the lineage of the animal, and location in Kentucky. Breeders could charge different prices based on what type of lines their dogs are coming from. If your dog is registered with the AKC American Kennel Club , this could increase its worth significantly when selling to another person or purchasing it. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Kentucky Finding a responsible boxer breeder in Kentucky can be very rewarding, but it can also be difficult, time-consuming and stressful. There are many things to consider when looking for a reputable breeder. The first thing that you should do is research. Search online for reviews to see if the person or business has had any issues with previous customers or breeders. If they have, contact these people and ask them about their experience. The more positive reviews you find, the better the chances of finding a good breeder. Also, check out local message boards and Facebook groups — there might be something posted where other people in your area talk about their experiences with different breeders or share information about their favorite breeders to help give insight on who could be a good option for you. If the breeder has a website, look at their site to get a feel for what kind of person they are and how much information they share with their customers. Their website should have pages about their facilities, photos of the dogs and puppies, health guarantees offered on their pups, and more. Remember that it is important to find an ethical and responsible breeder who cares about the dogs and that will guarantee their health. Stay away from calling and asking about prices and availability on the phone. The breeder should want to meet with you and talk about their puppies before giving any kind of price quotes or discussing what is included with the cost of one of their pups. Visit your chosen boxer breeder in person at their location. Talk to the people who work there and ask questions about the dogs and even about themselves You can tell a lot just by talking to people and asking questions, so use this opportunity to learn as much as you can about the breeder. Visiting your potential breeder will also give you a chance to see their facilities and to meet the parents of any puppy that you may take home with you. Look around carefully and ask questions about the animals and what is required of future owners. The breeder should be knowledgeable about the breed, health-conscious, and willing to answer your questions. This includes emailing back and forth or even using video chat so that you can see where the puppies are kept and how other people who have bought from this breeder interacted with them. Price should not be your first priority when looking for boxer breeders in Kentucky. A responsible boxer breeder in Kentucky should be able to give you the names and phone numbers of people who have purchased puppies from them. The best breeders are usually focused on making sure that their pups go home with loving families, so they want to make sure that anyone who buys one of their dogs is responsible. When you do call these people up, ask about the process of buying their pup. If they had any issues or concerns with the breeder, this should be brought up during your conversation. If you follow these steps, you should have no problem finding the right person or place to buy your new puppy from. Meeting past customers will give you a chance to talk to people who have already bought their boxer from this breeder. Talk to them about the process of buying their puppy, and ask if they had any concerns or issues with the breeder in question. There are many Boxer breeders in Kentucky that care about their animals and will only sell their pups to ethical homes. Do your research before you visit anyone, make sure you visit the location of the puppies if possible or speak over video chat , and make sure that all references are checked before agreeing on a purchase or payment. You should ask your breeder the name of the veterinarian they use. You may call and ask for a reference from that vet if needed. A board-certified veterinary surgeon or specialist is a good choice for a dog with orthopedic problems. Hip dysplasia is common in dogs and often requires surgery. It may seem like an off-the-wall question at first because you are just looking for a Boxer Puppy but remember that this dog will be part of your family for many years to come so it is important that he is healthy. The cost of having your Boxer examined by a Veterinarian should not influence your decision on where to buy your puppy from. Although you are excited to welcome your new family member into your home, spending a few hours preparing will ensure that both you and your pup have a safe and comfortable environment in which to play. If you already have a crate at home that you use for traveling or other purposes, this would be an ideal time to introduce him to his new box. While in the cage, give him some toys and treats so he will get accustomed to spending time inside until he gets older. It will also give him a place to call his own and create a den-like environment inside the crate. Try acquiring different types of toys like fuzzy stuffed animals or rubber balls that he can easily pick up in his mouth. Of course, make sure not to leave any type of chew toy unsupervised because accidents can occur if they are eaten by mistake. Since puppies often like to sink their teeth into something during playtime. If the area where he will spend most of his time is accessible to him, such as a bedroom or living room, this would be an ideal place to begin. Remember, patience is a key element to successfully training your Boxer puppy. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. A breeder for over 10 years we take pride in what we do and offer the best possible care for our dogs and expect you to as well. If you fit the required adoption criteria then you will be offered a spot on our waiting list for a pug or boxer puppy. No Deposit Required. They are more than just dogs, more than companions, they are Family. If you choose to add a pug or boxer puppy to your family then once on the waiting list you will be notified weeks in advance of when the puppy will be available for pickup. Pug colors range from Fawn, Black and Apricot. Boxers are Fawn. All puppies will be wormed and up to date on shots upon pickup. Dew claws removed. Parents are all onsite in the event you wish to see them at pickup. There is absolutely no doubt that upon arrival you will immediately fall in love with your puppy, but under any circumstances if you are not completely satisfied with what you see you are under no obligation to take it. To be placed on a waiting list please call .Each new litter of puppies will be displayed on the New Arrivals page. Any questions at all feel free to give us a call Pugs Pugs are the clowns of the dog world. Carefully bred generation after generation for their flattened faces, curled tails, and wrinkled foreheads by people with far too much spare time on their hands, today's pugs are perpetual puppies. Pugs are classified in the "toy" group by the American Kennel Club. The breed's only purpose is to be a constant, loyal, devoted, and exceptionally silly companion to the people who love them. Pugs remain playful and puppyish all their lives. They are curious, demanding and have a distinct sense of humor. A male can stand as high as 25 inches at the shoulder; females run smaller. Their muscles ripple beneath a short, tight-fitting coat. The dark brown eyes and wrinkled forehead give the face an alert, curious look. The coat can be fawn or brindle, with white markings. Boxers move like the athletes they are named for: smooth and graceful, with a powerful forward thrust. Boxers are upbeat and playful. Their patience and protective nature have earned them a reputation as a great dog with children. They take the jobs of watchdog and family guardian seriously and will meet threats fearlessly. Boxers do best when exposed to a lot of people and other animals in early puppyhood. Spacious living quarters, large outdoor runs, released daily into pasture for play time! Check Us Out and Like on Facebook!
Also I have two females in the whelping pens and should have pups in the next few weeks if youd like to contact me. Since your puppy is not to be bred I will furnish a complete 3 generation pedigree with a complete record of shots and worming.NO reg papers. You can see the Parents and in most cases the gr-parents when you come to pickup your puppy. I believe we should try and keep working ability and health foremost when breeding any animal. I do not understand why anyone would breed a working breed of dog primarily for show. Our dogs receive nothing but the best of care. Rest assured the quality of our Borders is above average for Borders bred in the U. Adults from U. DNA tested,all adults microchipped. We do not belong to any Border Terrier clubs or clicks. So far we have had no complaints on our dogs and Kennel from our clients and visitors. Lots of people have returned years later to purchase another pup. Please visit first then judge us. We have never had a puppy returned for health reasons. Some of those Bittys tell folks that we havent had our dogs checked for this or that. Truth is we've never had a reason to in over twenty yrs. However, we do realize that a few of our puppies will go to pet homes. All of our Borders were either imported from the UK or are from Borders that were imported. Our plans are to use only imported bloodlines. We are in no way competing with American show-Border breeders. The conformation and health of our Borders are what a hardy, working Border terrier should be. We have not had any of the health issues that we hear sometimes appear in the American lineage of show-type Borders. Will be happy to provide references upon request. All of our puppies are de-wormed and vaccinated before leaving our kennel. We have a veterinary technician currently working with us ensuring the best of care is provided. After you purchase a puppy from us and have any questions we are here for you. We do not sell to pet stores, dealers or puppy mills and are highly opposed to that sort of practice. I will furnish you with a 3 generation Pedigree on their parents. ALL shots and worming will be up to date when you come to pickup your puppy. Please CALL and let me explain how all this works. Some people say they are sending deposits and I never get them. .However I will work with you if you are on my list and cant take possession of your pup when I contact you to pick it up. However after two different attempts I will drop you off the list. I encourage you to do this. I like for people to visit if possable before they put down a deposit. ALL the critics we've had are from people that have never visited our place and seen our operation. We wont talk down to you. BUT Remember.If YOU want to dress em up thats your business. I personally think thats silly and dogs do not like it. Take em to the field and bond with them hunter to hunter. Thats what they like.Dogs are not children and shouldnt be thought of as such. They are pack animals and only want to be treated as a member of your pack. I must be notified immediately by your veterinarian once the problem has been discovered. If you contact us during the first twelve months with a specific problem that may improve over time,the guarantee can be extended if mutually agreed. We will require full medical history to honor the guarantee,and the dog will be returned at the buyers expense. All vet fees are to be paid in full by buyer before the dog is returned. This guarantee applies only to the orgional buyer and is null and void if the dog was purchased under false pretenses,abused or bred prior to being returned. We have been breeding Borders for several years now and have never had a dog returned. Our dogs are not American bred show dogs so we havent seen the problems they say are in American bred Borders. My opinion Border Terriers should DO what they were orgionally bred to do. .I might be the only man in the USA that is trying to breed them that way. Border Terrier Mixes Hybrid breeding programs have been a part of companion and working canine breeding since the start. So many beloved purebred dogs today owe their existence to early strategic crossbreeding. Affenpinscher Border Terrier Mix A. This dog sheds year-round and seasonally and needs regular brushing to keep tangles and mats at bay. Expect a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Alaskan Malamute Border Terrier mixes definitely shed year-round and seasonally. Both parent dogs are known to be very good with kids, which can make this mix dog a great choice as a family pet. This dog sheds year-round and seasonally. This merry, happy and companionable mix dog is a great choice as a family pet. This dog definitely sheds year-round and seasonally. This dog is particularly energetic and requires lots of activity to stay out of trouble. You can expect lots of brushing and lots of shedding with this pup! This adaptable, social, and mannerly pup sheds somewhat year-round and seasonally. Your Boston Border is likely to be affected to some degree by the brachycephalic flat muzzle type contributed by the Boston Terrier parent dog. Bulldog Border Terrier Mix A. This friendly, brave dog sheds year-round and seasonally. Your Border Bulldog will likely inherit some degree of the brachycephalic flat muzzle shape from the Bulldog parent. Cairn Terrier mix breeds can be very pretty little dogs. This dog inherits the classic terrier double layer, seasonally shedding coat from both parents. These dogs are all about spending time with their family on laps as well as on the lawn. Chihuahua Border Terrier Mix A. This dog is typically too small and fragile to make a suitable pet choice for families with young children. However, for adults and older children who know how to handle a small dog, the Chihuahua is a lively, personable canine companion! You will likely have a fabulous family watchdog with this mix dog as well as a sociable and affectionate family pet. You will also be treated to year-round and seasonal shedding, courtesy of both parent dogs! The Corgi Border Terrier displays the shortened legs characteristic of the Corgi purebred breed. Dachshund Border Terrier Mix Dachshunds today are bred in three sizes, which means your Dachshund Border Terrier may weigh anywhere from 10 to 32 pounds. The average lifespan is 12 to 16 years. This dog may or may not have an undercoat and go through a seasonal shed depending on which parent dog their coat most takes after. The Dachshund Border Terrier mix will inherit a Dachshund dominant gene for shortened legs, which is linked to intervertebral disc disease in later life. This mixed dog has the traditional terrier double layer coat that sheds somewhat year-round and seasonally. Expect this dog to live 10 to 15 years. Their typical lifespan is 12 to 16 years. Because the Pinscher in particular can be wary of strangers, you will want to get started socializing and training your puppy right away. The average lifespan is 10 to 18 years. The Poodle is a favorite in hybrid breeding programs because of their non-shedding coat. However, along with that comes a lot more brushing to keep tangles from forming. Due to their extremely small size, the toy Poodle is known to be somewhat skittish with too much noise or rough play. Miniature and standard Poodles hybrids are better suited for a family with children. Both parent dogs are known to do well with family members of all ages. The Miniature Schnauzer Border Terrier mix should make for a quick student and an eager playmate. Your pup will inherit a coarse double layer coat from both parent dogs, so you will have ongoing brushing duties plus a seasonal shed to look forward to. Pomeranian Border Terrier Mix A. You can expect quite a bit of coat brushing and maintenance grooming if your dog takes after the Pomeranian parent! Pug Border Terrier Mix A. This dog will be stocky and quite friendly. You will see some shedding year-round and seasonally. The Pug parent contributes the flat-faced brachcephalic muzzle shape that is known to cause ongoing respiratory , eye , dental, digestive and other health issues. They might also contribute a screw tail and hemivertebrae to their hybrid offspring. Owing to these health factors, we recommend choosing a mixed breed from this list with a healthier shape. This dog can live 10 to 18 years. This dog is likely to make an excellent family pet since both parent dogs are famously good with children. While Yorkies in particular tend to look like dainty lapdogs, both of these Terriers are keen, natural athletes. Some puppies will inherit the silky coat of the Yorkie, and others the wiry coat of the Border Terrier. The health of your pup is essential. But the Border terrier is relatively healthy and will mix well with a number of dogs. Always consult with vets and potential breeders before adding any new dog to your home! We hope you find the dog that fits your lifestyle and becomes a life long friend! We hope you have had fun learning about all these wonderfully diverse and unique Border Terrier mix dogs! Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Height: 11 - 16 inches at the shoulder Weight: 11 - 15 lb. Lifespan: 12 - 14 years Border Terrier Poodle Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This should be a very friendly dog that is rather small. It will make an interesting mix of energy levels. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Border Terrier Poodle mix might be prone to: Addison's, bloat, Cushings, LCP, Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, skin problems, eye problems Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. This mix will have shorter hair that needs groomed. Both of these dogs have higher grooming requirements with their wiry hair. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Like all dogs they will do better if they get plenty of exercise. This will be a moderate energy dog as the Border Terrier is known as a couch potato and the Poodle has much higher energy. Plan on exercising them daily to keep their energy level down. He might be bouncing off the walls so get ready. A tired dog is a good dog. What are the training requirements? Though intelligent, it might be stubborn and demanding. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. It is a small-sized Doodle breed. This designer breed is also referred to as a Borderpoo or Border Terrier Poo. Here, farmers and shepherds developed swift and agile terriers to pursue and dispatch the clever sheep thief: the hill fox. He also was named after hunting with Border Foxhounds. In early paintings, you can spot the Border bringing up the rear of the hunting party; his sturdy legs got him there just in time for the action! In addition, as a working Terrier, he has a naturally hard, wiry outer coat and a dense, short undercoat [4] btcoa. The physical and mental qualities of the Border result from generations of breeding and enable the Border to do his job with the least amount of injury to himself and with the greatest efficiency possible [5] borderterriercanada. What makes the Border Terrier different from other terriers? Four main traits set the Border apart: its hide, temperament, length, and legs. It allows him to work his way in and out of narrow openings underground and protects him from scratches and, no doubt, fox bites! Moreover, the breed standard confirms that you should be able to grab a fistful of pelt anywhere along the back. Border Terriers have a strong prey drive. The length of the Border also sets him apart. His long body allows him to maneuver underground through narrow and twisted holes. Prominent ribs, bulky shoulders, or too short of legs are considered handicaps. Moreover, the Border Terrier is friendlier toward other dogs. This is because they were expected to run peacefully with foxhounds. Breeders purposefully made him less dog-aggressive than other Terriers who hunted primarily independently. Lastly, the head is the most visible difference. This was because hunters initially bred Poodles to retrieve waterfowl. Even though Poodles remain excellent hunters, today, they have become popular as companion dogs worldwide. They are brilliant and easy to train, which makes them great pets for people who want a dog that can learn tricks and perform well in obedience competitions. Plus, they are known for being hypoallergenic, which is a huge plus for people who are allergic to dogs but still want to own one. But the biggest reason for their popularity is their unique appearance. Interesting fact: The Poodle cut was meant for function, not fashion! Less hair made the Poodle a more efficient swimmer but more vulnerable to the cold. To find a happy compromise, Poodle owners left puffs of hair on the head, upper torso, and ankles for warmth [7] akc. Appearance The Border Terrier-Poodle mix has a fluffy, round face, otter-like eyes, and a slightly prolonged nose. The body has modest proportions, yet a somewhat longer body and legs.
Also known as the Bull Pug, this medium-sized dog has a stocky and muscular build that is brought about by crossbreeding. Oftentimes, it is referred to as a miniature Bulldog because it is the spitting image of its parent. Note that this is just a nickname. This Pug Bulldog mix is the offspring of two popular dog breeds. You may be familiar with the English Bulldog and Pug because they are unique in terms of their physical appearance. English Bulldog History You probably know the English Bulldog as it is quite remarkable because of its wrinkled face. This medium-sized Mastiff-type dog traces its roots back to England, as its name suggests. Originally bred for bull-baiting in the s, the naturally nice English Bulldog was forced to be aggressive to fit this extreme sport. In bull-baiting, a dog is pitted against a bull inside a ring. After the ban of this sport in , breeders changed their attitude towards this breed and started to care for English Bulldogs so they may be good canine companions. Fast forward to the present, the English Bulldog is now known as a sweet and dependable dog great for families and children. Gone is its former aggressive reputation. Pug History The Pug is just as remarkable as the English Bulldog because of its similarly wrinkled face and sociable and charming temperament. Known as the pampered pets of Chinese rulers, the Pug breed was brought to Europe in the sixteenth century. This breed was equally treasured by nobles throughout the Western continent. It was popularly bred with one goal: to be a companion dog. To date, it is still a popular companion dog as it was centuries before. One thing is for sure, though. Putting together its two parent breeds was intentional, thus making it a designer breed. The English Bulldog and Pug were so popular that breeders wanted to have the characteristics of both breeds in one canine. The result of this crossbreeding is a playful companion dog with a wrinkled face which is known as the Pug English Bulldog mix. Some breeders and dog owners also wanted to have an English Bulldog that is smaller in size. One way for breeders to develop smaller versions of purebred dogs is to mix them with a smaller breed. Other examples of this crossbreeding practice are the miniature Rottweiler and the miniature Collie. Many names have been given to this hybrid like the mini Bulldog and Bull Pug and they are recognized by canine organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and Designer Breed Registry. As I mentioned earlier, the English Bulldog Pug mix is sometimes called a mini Bulldog and one look at this pup will tell you why. Most Bull Pugs come with a round head, broad shoulders, and a muscular and stocky body like that of their parents. In terms of its face, it has the signature wrinkles of both parents, a medium muzzle, and eyes that are black and shaped like almonds. It falls under the brachycephalic breed group which means that because of its skull, it will have a flat face and squished nose. This mix may even come with an underbite! The English Bulldog is medium-sized, typically 14 to 15 inches in height, while the Pug is around 10 to 13 inches. Putting these two together will give an offspring smaller than a regular Bulldog but bigger than a Pug. Your English Bulldog Pug mix may grow as tall as 10 to 14 inches and as heavy as 20 to 45 pounds. It does not need much space to move around. For as long as you take it on walks, it is good to go. These are coat color traits they inherit from their parents. A litter of five to seven can have a mix of these coat types. Fawn is light tannish yellow that may manifest in a wide range of shades. Dogs with this coat color may have a light shade like pale tan, dark shade like deep deer-red, or other shades in between. There are crossbreeds with fawn coats that have black areas around their muzzles like that of Pugs. There are also Pug English Bulldog mixes that have black coats. Mixed dogs with black coats typically have a solid black color throughout the body. The usual patches of piebald Bull Pugs are white with a red or fawn backdrop. There are dog owners who use the term piebald to refer to two-toned or bi-colored coats. The crossbreed that inherits this coat from the English Bulldog parent has a colored base with a striped pattern that resembles tiger stripes. Usually, brindle coats come in color groups like black and fawn, white and red, and other combinations. Both parent breeds of the English Bulldog Pug mix are great for families, making their crossbreed offspring a perfect family dog. Playful, affectionate, and sweet best describe the English Bulldog Pug mix as it enjoys being in the company of its loved ones. If you are a dog owner of this crossbreed, expect to have a loyal companion who loves having you around. In fact, it can go on without getting any attention from you for a certain period of time. If you have a laidback and sedentary lifestyle, this pup is for you because it does not move around so much. While it can get playful and energetic especially during playtime, this dog also enjoys chilling on the couch with its fur parents. Take a look at this video of a Bull Pug playing calmly with a bug: English Bull Dog Pug mix playing with Bug When it comes to children, this mix is also a good choice. Its English Bulldog parent has a reputation for being aggressive. However, this is just a misconception due to its bull-baiting history. The truth is that the English Bulldog is sweet-natured and gets along with kids. The Pug breed is also sociable which makes their mixed pup good with the little ones. Aside from kids, the English Bulldog Pug mix also enjoys mingling with other dogs. To ensure that your dog will be as friendly, start introducing other people and dogs even at a young age. Early socialization can help them turn into nice-mannered dogs. This pup may need a little bit of time for adjustment, though, when meeting strangers. Its parent breeds handle stranger dogs and humans differently. The English Bulldog may be wary of strangers and exercises caution when being approached. Quite the contrary, the Pug is friendly, sometimes to an extreme level. How your pup will react will depend on its training and the inherited temperament. Your crossbreed pup may get more temperament traits from either of its parents, but rest assured, you will get a pleasant-tempered pup that is a perfect addition to your family. To give you a peek of what an English Bulldog Pug mix is like, here is a video compilation done by a fur parent. English Bulldog Pug Mix Lifespan and Health Issues As fur parents, we all want our beloved pooches to live healthy lives and spend more years with us so we should be well-aware of the health risks that come with their breed. Several health issues concern the English Bulldog and Pug which their crossbred offspring might inherit. Most conditions are related to the respiratory system, bones and joints, and skin. The result is a pain in the limbs which may cause your dog to start limping. Patellar Luxation: Another orthopedic issue, patellar luxation concerns the patella or kneecap. Dogs with patellar luxation experience discomfort in their knees and in some cases, loss of function. This is because during knee-flexing, the patella rides outside the femoral groove. Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome: The Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome is a common health problem in brachycephalic or short-nosed dogs. Both parents of this mix have this flattened skull so they are prone to this. Symptoms include difficulty in breathing, vomiting, and loud snoring. Pug Dog Encephalitis: The neurological disease called Pug Dog Encephalitis happens when brain tissues are inflamed causing pups to experience seizures, behavioral changes, disorientation, and more. This usually hits Pugs that are two to three years of age but may also occur as early as six months or as late as seven years old. No known cause has been found for this kind of encephalitis. Cherry Eye: Dogs have a third eyelid called the nictitating membrane. Diabetes: Diabetes is a common problem in dogs, but there are more incidents in Pugs. Because diabetic dogs are unable to regulate sugars in their bodies, they need insulin shots to help them do so. Canine Atopy: Getting allergies is common to Pugs and in some cases, they have a hypersensitivity reaction when exposed to allergens called canine atopy. Affected areas are usually the paws, abdomen, face, ears, chest, armpits, and flanks. Basic needs for canines are food, shelter, grooming, and training. However, these needs vary from one breed to another. What the Chihuahua needs may not exactly be the same as what your English Bulldog Pug mix needs. Knowing what your pup needs allows you to give it the best care possible. Feeding and Diet To ensure that you have a healthy pup, only give good quality dry dog food to your Pug Bulldog mix. On a daily basis, this crossbreed needs about calories to be served in two split meals. You may also consider giving homemade food. Cooked vegetables like spinach, carrots, asparagus, and sweet potatoes are good for your crossbreed dog. You may also give fruits like bananas, apples, and mangoes. Always remember to remove pits and seeds before serving. Besides giving your English Bulldog Pug mix the right kind of food, you should also monitor its food intake. Both parents are prone to obesity. While a chubby pup looks very cute, it is not healthy and may lead to many problems and complications. If you are starting to notice that your pup is getting underweight or overweight, consult your vet to get a diet recommendation. Cleaning and Grooming Short coats can be seen in both the English Bulldog and Pug and the same for their crossbreed pup. Use a soft brush to keep the coat beautiful and healthy and to avoid hurting your dog. Aside from its coat, you should also pay attention to the wrinkles on its face and body. Bacteria may start to build up when left unclean so be sure to wipe and bathe when necessary. This is also to avoid infections and allergies which they may be prone to. On top of that, regularly trim the nails and clean the eyes and ears. Brushing is also important and should be added to your grooming routine. Doing all these will help prevent infections and keep your dog healthy and happy. Training and Exercise English Bulldog Pug mixes are laidback and chill. If you do not enjoy too much physical activity, this crossbreed is for you because its exercise needs are not too high. A minute walk is already enough for this mixed breed plus enough playtime and bonding. Early morning and evening are said to be the best time for walks and exercise. Remember that both parent breeds are brachycephalic which means their offspring will be too. They cannot handle heat well and are prone to overheating. When walking, ensure that you have drinking water ready. In terms of trainability, this mix can learn tricks and commands. However, you need to have patience during training as it can get a little too stubborn. This is probably a trait inherited from its parents. Be firm when you train your pup but also not too strict. Have fun and consider training as bonding time. Do you know that the secret to successful training is positive reinforcement? Dogs listen and obey more when they are rewarded for good behavior. Prepare those treats for your training time! There may also be more expensive ones especially when you buy from a reputable breeder. Factors that may affect cost include size, health, breeder reputation, and lineage. There are also mixes from champion bloodlines but prepare to shell more. When choosing a breeder to buy a mixed pup from, consider a lot of things such as the affiliation of your breeder. Puppy mills are everywhere and they have poor practices and little care for their dogs, thus, low prices. Avoid them as much as possible. Caring for a pup entails other expenses aside from the cost of the dog itself. Prepare for one-time costs such as a leash, harness or collar, bed, toys, and the like. You also have regular expenses such as food, treats, and grooming items. For new pups, you have to spend for neutering or spaying, vaccinations, and deworming. However, they are also not highly common so you have to check the availability of this crossbreed: Greenfield Puppies — Fur parents have been trusting Greenfield Puppies since .They connect reputable breeders with interested soon-to-be owners and carry both purebred and mixed puppies. Adoption is also another option for those looking for an English Bulldog Pug mix. There are mixed breeds, puppies and full-grown dogs alike, that need a home. They have been saving Pugs and Pug mixes and helping them find a family that will give them the love they deserve. This group also provides education and guidance to adoptive families. Adoptable breeds include Pugs, English Bulldogs, Frenchies, and their mixes. Petfinder — With their vast database of dogs and cats, Petfinder can link you with animal shelters and adoption organizations so you can find your furry companion. Before buying or adopting a Bull Pug, you must know what you are getting into. Caring for a dog is hard work but more than that, it requires love and attention. Check out these dogs that you may want to consider. Frug: The name may sound funny but the Frug is an actual crossbreed. Both crossbreeds share some physical characteristics and low exercise requirements. Puggle: A mix of the Pug and Beagle, the Puggle is a smart crossbreed that likes playing. It is also good for families because it gets along well with kids. Unlike the Bull Pug, the Puggle does not enjoy staying put and is highly active and energetic. Poxer: The Poxer is the offspring of a Pug and a Boxer. This medium-sized designed breed is charming and lively. Fit for those with active lifestyles, this crossbreed loves physical activities. Both parent breeds of this mix are brachycephalic which also makes this dog one. Since a mix can take on any combination of traits from their parents, you want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. Should an English Bulldog Mix take after their Bulldog parent, they will be sweet-natured, affectionate, and playful dogs that love being with their families. English Bulldogs are companion breeds that are known for being sweethearts. As long as they are socialized properly, they tend to be excellent with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although watchful, they are even agreeable to strangers once they have been introduced. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent as they are likely to introduce their own quirks. Meeting the mother in person can give you an idea of her temperament and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started some training and socialization, it is your responsibility to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home to ensure they grow into a well-rounded, well-behaved dog. Although English Bulldogs adapt to most living situations, they are sensitive to hot and cold, and are particularly sensitive to heat. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed could introduce some traits that affect adaptability so you do want to ask the breeder about them. A mix could inherit conditions common to neither of their parent breeds, one of them, or even both of them. From the English Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Bulldog Mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Entropion, and Cherry Eye. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to prevent passing issues to puppies, so make sure you are asking about the health history of both of the parents. Although English Bulldogs can be stubborn, they are generally eager to please and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels and respond well to consistent training that is focused on positive reward and praise. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. The other parent breed could also introduce the potential for an English Bulldog Mix that is more difficult to train. Mixed-breed dogs can inherit a coat that is a carbon copy of one of their parents or they can end up with a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should an English Bulldog Mix end up with a Bulldog coat, they will shed moderately year-round, require brushing a couple of times a week, and the occasional bath. If they have face wrinkles, you will need to make sure they are clean and dry regularly to prevent skin irritation. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful ear cleanings as needed helps prevent ear infections. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste is ideal dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. English Bulldogs tend to be lower-energy breeds that only require daily walks and some playtime to be happy. But, they will be energetic when they play and might be up for more activity if you are. The other parent breed can affect this. If they are a low-energy breed, then you can expect an English Bulldog Mix to be the same. If the other parent breed requires more daily activity, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in an English Bulldog Mix puppy. Because they may still be a brachycephalic dog breed, they can overheat, so you want to be careful of overexertion. There are many safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to help your English Bulldog Mix get the exercise they need. Fully-grown English Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. An English Bulldog generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an English Bulldog Mix. Featured English Bulldog Mix Article. The Bull-Pug is dependable, sensitive and great with children. This dog strongly attaches to people, is very well-mannered, and has a sensitive nature. It is a breed that does not do well when left alone for long periods of time. The Bull-Pug relishes attention from its owner but also has a willful side. Bulldogs are known for being strong-willed, so you need to begin training as a puppy — and the best type of training for this breed is using positive reinforcement. As long as you maintain a firm and gentle hand in training, your Bull-Pug should learn quickly. Discover more about our Bull-Pug puppies for sale below! Temperament Bull-Pugs have a lot of energy as puppies but calm down a lot as they get older. They can be messy eaters: they tend to slobber and even snore, but these are traits that bulldog owners usually find endearing. The Bull-Pug will make a great family pet as they are wonderful with children and do well in apartments since they only have a moderate need for exercise. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Hybrid Club.
What do you call a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix? The easiest way to refer to this cross is Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix. However, these dogs can also be referred to as a Malinois X. Other names include German Malinois and Shepinois. The breed is thought to have been developed in the late s along with the Tervuren, the Groenendael and the Laekonois. They were developed by trainers and working competitors which perhaps explains why Belgian Malinois make great service and working dogs within our society. An ex-German military capital Max von Stephanitz set about attempting to create his perfect working dog. He encountered a dog named Hektor Linksrhein at a dog show in which left such an impression that he bought the dog immediately. He renamed Hektor to Horand von Grafrath, becoming the founder member of the dog breed. German Shepherds are often used by the military, police, drug detection and much more due to their high IQ, impressive obedience and ability to learn. German Shepherds have an identical height range of 22 to 26 inches but they usually weigh a little more between 49 and 88 pounds. So we can deduce that a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix can grow to between 22 and 26 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 90 pounds. Their coat color is reflect of both breeds, with incorporating shades of black, brown, fawn, blue and white. A Malinois X should have a muzzle that is relatively long with a black nose. Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix will have a double coat which sheds. The German Malinois are athletic, good-natured loyal and protective, which are all personality traits that both Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds have. Belgian Malinois have an innate desire to protect their family members, which can make this hybrid a good family pet. However, Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix will require socialization and training from a young age. This gives you the best chance to have a happy, level-headed and well-balanced dog. Although there is no such thing as a per cent hypoallergenic dog, the American Kennel Club outlines that there are some breeds that shed less. Malinois X owners will be required to brush their dogs at least twice a week to remove debris and dead hair. This will help to maintain the health and quality of their coat. Most members of the cross breed will blow out their coats twice a year at the changing of the seasons. Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix exercise requirements German Malinois are high energy dogs, so owners will need to ensure their pet is getting sufficient exercise in order to prevent destructive or unwanted behaviour due to frustration. Dog walking service provider Wag recommend up to minutes a day for a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix. That equates to around 10 miles per week. German Shepherds, on the other hand, can live to between nine and 13 years. The average price of this mix can vary. Other Potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, grooming, vet trips and much more. You can inquire about the availability of this cross. Alternatively, you could contact Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd dedicated rescue organisations for further help. Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd Mix to follow on Instagram If you want to learn more about the cross breed, you can always head to social media to find out more. Dog owners will usually be quite forthcoming with advice and information to followers interested in learning more about the breed. Lifespan Sociability Like any dog, the cost for these pups can vary depending on the breeder and the pedigree of the puppy. Although this is not one of the most common hybrid dogs, there is always a chance that you will be able to provide a wonderful home for a dog in need. This is especially so in the case of any German Shepherd hybrid since they have been bred to be some of the most trainable, obedient dogs known today. The German Malinois can be trained much earlier in life than most other dog breeds. The German Malinois is a cross of two incredible obedient, level-headed dogs. It is because of these traits that their astounding intelligence manifests much earlier. Training can start with these pups much earlier than is typical. They have often completed house training as young as three months old. Many new owners appreciate this aspect of the breed when it comes to purchasing a new puppy. Both the German Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois are experienced police dogs. German Shepherds were first developed in the s by the Germans. They were bred with several different breeds to try and obtain the most trainable dog at that time. The result was successful, and the German Shepherd still stands out today as one of the most trainable dog breeds. Their temperament was another significant facet of their breeding. The goal was to have a level-headed dog that was obedient and protective. Since the beginning, their breeding may have changed their bone structure and stature slightly, but they still act similarly to the way that they were initially bred. They have become the second most popular dog breed in the U. The Belgian Malinois was bred at approximately the same time as the German Shepherd. The Belgian Malinois has a slightly more confusing timeline because their breed was first recognized as the Belgian Shepherd. Then, the breed was steadily split into three separate dog breeds, with the Belgian Malinois having a short coat and fawn coloring. Both dogs, especially since being imported to America, have been actively and consistently used in the police force. They have the perfect temperament for reliability, a balance of aggressiveness and obedience, and medium to large stature. The German Malinois has a high prey drive. Since both of the dogs involved in the parenting of the German Malinois were bred to be herding dogs, the German Malinois has the drive in their DNA. Watch out for their urge to herd beings smaller than themselves. It is a behavior that you can train out if they are primarily a family dog. If you have any cats, small mammals, or other smaller dogs, make sure the German Malinois is trained, so they know how to behave around these other animals. Unlike small puppies, most would not describe them as energetic dogs because they are also quite serious and controlled. To be content in their living situation, they must have plenty of space to run around in. Beyond their activity levels, they are highly intelligent dogs. Both the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd are incredibly smart, with the latter being ranked for intelligence right after the Poodle and the Border Collie. These pups have a strong desire to please their master or trainer, which is a large part of their acknowledged obedience. Occasionally, they exhibit more difficult tendencies in training, such as stubbornness or overexcitement. However, this is relatively rare and may signify a change in training style is needed. The German Malinois can be aloof toward new animals and humans. Their protective instinct is sometimes too strong for them to have the capacity to accept anything into their trust readily. This feature makes them an excellent guard dog and watchdog. Watch out for any unwanted aggressive behavior, particularly between two male dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? The reason for this is their heightened prey drive from years of being a herding dog. The German Shepherd side of them is generally good with kids, whereas the Belgian Malinois often is not as friendly, especially if they are pushed or pulled around. Keep a close eye on them around little kids. Due to their overall attitude concerning new animals and humans, it is best to get them accustomed to strangers by having them visit your home or go to the dog park. This will teach them how to act around others appropriately. Although these dogs are quite reserved, they are also social creatures. For the best behavior, it is good to adopt two at once, or at least another pup with these dogs. They need 3—4 cups of food each day. They should have a balanced diet to make sure that they are receiving plenty of nutrients and calories to sustain them. Instead, feed them two or three meals a day. Stick to feeding them during your mealtimes. They can snack a bit in the middle of the day. Make sure that they receive plenty of calcium each day to offset these issues for as long as possible. They need at least 45 minutes of highly engaging activity each day but prefer to receive a mixed amount of exercise for minutes every day. Keeping this in mind, German Malinois are not good dogs to keep in an apartment unless they can go out with you for most of the day. Paired with their high level of intelligence, they pick things up quickly and happily, with few repetitions. They have a high desire to please their trainer, especially if the trainer has positively established dominance. Training is an excellent time to do two things at once, such as working a training session into an agility course. They are quick, with fast reactions and a quicker mind. Either way, they do shed frequently and even more so during changes in the seasons, particularly into spring and autumn. They need to be brushed daily to reduce the amount of hair getting everywhere. Avoid bathing these dogs too often, as the water strips them from natural essential oils produced by their skin. To avoid dental issues, brush their teeth every day. Since the German Shepherd is known to have many spinal and joint issues, it is best to verify. Minor Conditions. The positives include intelligence, determination, and loyalty. At the same time, German Malinois can be standoffish, potential to be aggressive, and less suited for young children, much like the Belgian Malinois. With this in mind, you need to weigh whether or not a German Malinois is right for you very carefully. If you are debating getting this unique breed, keep reading. In this article, we help you decide if this dog is right for you, or if you should opt for a less energetic dog. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. German Malinois Puppies Image Credit: Alina Ziabrieva, Shutterstock German Malinois puppies are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them a popular choice for those looking for a highly active and intelligent companion. German Malinois puppies are full of energy and require plenty of physical and mental stimulation to help them reach their full potential. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop into confident, well-rounded dogs. In terms of appearance, German Malinois puppies can resemble either parent breed, and their coat color and pattern can vary. They typically have a muscular and athletic build, with a medium-length, dense coat that requires regular grooming. Feeding a high-quality diet and providing plenty of exercise will help them grow into healthy, active dogs. With proper care and attention, German Malinois puppies can grow into loyal, loving companions that form strong bonds with their owners. German Malinois is not suitable for many homes, especially homes with young children. These dogs are also not great for homes that already have other pets. Are These Dogs Good for Families? German Malinois tend to take after the Belgian Malinois, making them a bit more aggressive, but their temperament can be unpredictable. This is why socialization at a young age is important. Some German Malinois can be less tolerant of young children due to their intense herding and hunting instincts. At the same time, other German Malinois take after the German Shepherds, making them relatively calm and tolerant around young children. Because this breed is unpredictable and their tendencies are not shown until they are adults, it is best to avoid getting a German Malinois if you are considering having children or already have young children. Older children will be fine with this breed since German Malinois get along just fine with adults. Although certain German Malinois can be okay with children and other family members, most are not compatible with other pets. Their herding and hunting tendencies mean that they want to herd or hunt small animals, including cats. With other dogs, they can be aggressive and incredibly territorial. This is especially true if both dogs are males and were not introduced to one another at a very young age. For these reasons, a German Malinois is best as the sole pet in the household. Its high energy means that it is best suited for homes with large yards and people who are very active. For this reason, you should feed your German Malinois about 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day. Select a dog food specifically for large dogs and dogs of its specific age group. This breed has a high activity level, meaning they need about 14 miles of walking a week and minutes of playtime a day. Incorporating mental activities into their playtime can make a huge difference. For example, playing fetch, retrieving, and tracking can be a great choice for keeping your German Malinois active. If you are unable to commit to minutes of playtime a day, do not get a German Malinois. This breed needs a whole lot of activity. If you do not exercise it properly, the dog can become mischievous and bored, making you an irresponsible dog owner. The best way to train a German Malinois is by using positive reinforcement but having a strong and firm voice at the same time. By integrating positive reinforcement with a firm voice, the German Malinois will start to listen since you show the dog you mean business. Since this breed is eager to please, using the right technique can make training a breeze. These dogs have coarse fur and shed. This dog breed often develops too much earwax, leading to infections and other ear issues. Cleaning out the earwax frequently will prevent these issues from occurring. As a result, German Malinois are really healthy too. These dogs can live quite a few years and live so healthily. Providing your German Malinois with proper exercise, food, and grooming will help prevent the most common health conditions for this breed. Minor Conditions. They share aspects of their temperament, working style, and physical characteristics. You can think of them as one dog for all intents and purposes. Belgian Shepherd vs. They both possess similar drives and instincts on an instinctual level, but how they express them can vary greatly. For example, the German Shepherd is more prone to being territorial and protective of their family and property. Appearance: The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a beautiful dog that has a lot of characteristics of both the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd. They can weigh anywhere from 40 to 80 pounds and have a height of 22 to 26 inches. They have a long, silky coat that can be black, tan, or red and black. They are also known as Belgian Shepherds. Life Span: Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes can live for anywhere from 10 to 15 years on average, depending on their genetics and any health problems that they may develop. Training And Exercise Requirements: As with any dog, training and exercise are key to a happy, well-adjusted Belgian malinois german shepherd mix. Because of their high energy levels and intelligence, these dogs need a lot of both. Daily walks or runs, plenty of interactive playtimes, and structured obedience training are essential. Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, they may become destructive or hyperactive. They will need moderate exercise, between 30 and 60 minutes per day. This could include walks, runs, or playing in the yard. Without enough exercise, they may become destructive or hyperactive. Working dogs, these energetic breeds need jobs to do. Owners of Belgian malinois german shepherd mix often use their dogs for competitive obedience or herding. If a family is spending a lot of time in the yard or at home doing chores. At the same time, the dog is left alone in the backyard, looking into other good breeds with kids but not quite so high energy! The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a beautiful dog that makes an excellent family pet when given the proper training and exercise. These dogs can be a wonderful addition to any family with the right home. Grooming Requirements: For a dog with a dense double coat, the Belgian malinois german shepherd mix sheds fairly little. Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep their coat in good condition. They need occasional bathing and ear cleaning, as well as nail trimmings every few weeks or so. The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix has a dense double layer coat that requires some grooming attention! Daily brushing is required at a minimum. The nails must be trimmed about every weeks for proper foot care, and a professional groomer should give the dog a bath every few months. Ear cleaning is also necessary every weeks to keep those long ears healthy! Health Problems: As with most purebred dogs, common health concerns for the Belgian malinois german shepherd mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye disease such as distichiasis where eyelashes grow inwards towards the cornea or entropion where eyelids roll inwards. They are also prone to diseases that affect similar breeds like epilepsy and urinary stones. However, because these dogs are so intelligent and learn commands quickly, they can often be easy to train and manage when it comes to basic health care. As mentioned above, Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes are often used as working dogs. As such, they may be more prone to health problems that develop due to their frequent activity and high-energy lifestyle e. As well as this, make sure your dog gets plenty of regular check-ups and exercise throughout his life to help prevent these conditions from developing in the first place! Living Conditions: The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a hearty breed that can adapt to most living conditions. However, they prefer moderately active families who will take them on plenty of walks and runs. They are not suited for apartment living and should have a large yard to run. These dogs are fairly active and do best in homes where someone is around most of the time. If left alone for extended periods, they may become destructive or hyperactive. However, some generalizations can be made about the temperament of this crossbreed. Belgian Malinois mixes are often high-energy dogs who love to play and need plenty of exercise. They are also very intelligent and eager to please their owners, making them relatively easy to train. On the other hand, they can also be quite independent and strong-willed, so it is important to start training early and be consistent to ensure good behavior. In general, Belgian Malinois mixes are good-natured and affectionate with their family. Still, they may not hesitate to defend themselves in case of a threat. They can also be somewhat protective around strangers or other animals, so socialization is important when they are still young. Since both breeds are highly energetic and very intelligent, Belgian Malinois Shepherd mixes need physical exercise every day. It is also important for them not to get bored; it is recommended that you give them plenty of mental stimulation and their physical activities. This can be done through obedience training, puzzle toys, and plenty of interactive playtimes. However, shelter dogs are also often available for adoption; they may be even cheaper if you can find one in your area! Also, bear in mind that some breeders or shelters may not allow you to adopt or purchase a dog under certain age limits e. Nutrition Requirements: Belgian Malinois and German shepherd mixes are active dogs that require a balanced diet that is rich in protein. Dogs of this breed mix should have a diet of at least 25 percent protein. This can be found in both plant and animal-based proteins. Some good sources of plant-based proteins include beans, lentils, peas, and quinoa. Good sources of animal-based proteins include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. In addition to protein, Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd mix also need plenty of carbohydrates. Complex carbs such as whole grains are best for these dogs. Vitamins And Minerals: Vitamins and minerals form an important part of a healthy diet for these dog breeds. Vitamin-rich foods include meats, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth, while potassium helps with heart function. Magnesium aids in blood circulation and energy production, while iron supports red blood cell health. Zinc assists with growth and wound healing, while copper supports the proper production of red blood cells. Other Dietary Requirements: In addition to a balanced diet containing plenty of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, the Belgian Malinois and German shepherd mix also needs clean water as well as quality exercise to remain fit and healthy. An inadequate diet can lead to health problems such as allergies, brittle bones, digestive issues including diarrhea or constipation, dental problems like plaque buildup or gum disease, eye problems that include cataracts or glaucoma, obesity-related diseases such as diabetes mellitus or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI , heart conditions including dyspnea shallow breathing or cardiomyopathy weakening of the heart muscles , neurological problems such as epilepsy or seizures, respiratory issues including pneumonia or kennel cough, skin conditions like mange or yeast infections, urinary issues including cystitis inflammation of the bladder and stones in the urethra to name a few. Socialization: Belgian Malinois German shepherd mix is a great breed for those who want to have a working dog. They are very active and need a lot of exercises. They also require good socialization. Proper socialization will help your dog be well-adjusted and friendly with other people and animals. It is important to begin socializing your Belgian Malinois German shepherd mix puppy as soon as possible. Start by introducing him to many different people, dogs, and places. Expose him to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells. Be sure to keep interactions positive and rewarding. Puppy class is a great place to start socializing with your pup. If you have an older Belgian Malinois German shepherd mix, it is never too late to socialize him. Just be sure to take it slowly and always keep things positive. You may want to consider enrolling him in a training class or taking him for walks in different areas. Potential of Belgian malinois german shepherd mix as a family pet: Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a potential family pet because of its friendly nature and intelligence. They can learn commands quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement. These dogs also have high energy levels and like to be active, so they need plenty of exercises. Suppose you are looking for a companion that will keep you active. In that case, a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix may be the perfect pet for you. When considering whether or not to adopt a Belgian Malinois german shepherd mix, it is important to remember that they can be quite destructive if left alone for long periods. They may chew on furniture or other belongings if they become bored. Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes also require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats. However, as a general rule, these dogs are very active and high-energy. They require a lot of exercise and plenty of stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes are also very intelligent and trainable dogs. They are often used as working dogs in various fields, such as law enforcement, search and rescue, and military operations. With the right training and plenty of exercises, Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes can make great family pets. As with all mixes, this is not set in stone and can be somewhat different depending on which traits are more dominant in each individual dog. The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a very smart and highly trainable dog. They are built for high-energy performance activities, thus their temperament is also driven to achieve much. This makes them a strong candidate as working dogs because of their strength at such a young age, but it can also be their biggest downfall. Working with your dog from an early age will teach ideal behaviors that you desire from them, whether they are obedient or perform work-related tasks. Families with small children or elderly members should carefully consider whether a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is the right pet for them. Pros of having Belgian malinois german shepherd mix: 1. They are highly intelligent and can be easily trained. They are very loyal and protective of their family and home. They are active and need plenty of exercises, making them great companions for outdoor activities. They have a high energy level and are always ready for a good game or a walk. They are good with children and make great family pets. Cons of having Belgian malinois german shepherd mix: 1. They require a lot of attention and training, so they may not be the best choice for those who work long hours or cannot spend enough time with their pet. They can be quite territorial and bark or growl at strangers or other animals. They need a lot of exercise and can be quite destructive if not given enough activity. They are not always suitable for households with small children due to their large size and active nature. They can be quite expensive to purchase and maintain. So, whether you are thinking about getting a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix as a pet or are just curious about what they are like, these are some of the things you should know. They make wonderful companions and are sure to provide many hours of enjoyment for their families. Still, they do require a lot of care and commitment. If you think you can meet these needs and provide a loving home for a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix, then they may be the perfect pet for you. The most common colors for this mix are yellow, black, tan, and red. This is a relatively new breed of dog; it was developed in the late s by crossing German Shepherds with Belgian sheepdogs. These dogs were originally bred to herd cattle and pull carts filled with milk, which they could do very efficiently due to their superior instincts towards herding and working with humans. Belgian malinois german shepherd mix dogs have a high rate of intelligence. They are quite easy to train, making them prized by many dog owners. Belgian malinois german shepherd mix dogs often become very attached to their families and protective of them, which can cause problems if someone is attempting to harm the family in any way. These breeds require a great deal of attention from their human companions. However, they can still be left alone for short periods every day so long as they receive enough training and exercise to keep them happy during their time by themselves. Although this breed does enjoy playing with other animals, it is recommended that even well-mannered Belgian malinois german shepherd mix dogs not be allowed to mix with other animals. At the same time, they are still puppies, as this can lead to fighting and injury. Despite their working heritage, these dogs are comfortable in almost any kind of environment; they do very well in hot or cold climates both indoors and out and enjoy spending time alone or hanging around with the rest of the family. Belgian malinois german shepherd mix-breed dogs have a high prey drive and should not be left unsupervised around smaller pets that might look like prey, such as rabbits, hamsters, mice, guinea pigs, etc. While training is important for every dog breed, it is especially important for Belgian malinois german shepherd mix puppies so that you can ensure they develop good habits and understand their place in the family hierarchy. This is a great breed but does require a lot of attention and training. With the right preparation, you and your Belgian malinois german shepherd mix can live happily together for many years to come! Final Thoughts: Overall, Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes are great pets. They are intelligent, active, and loyal, and they make wonderful companions for people of all ages. However, they do require a lot of attention and training, so be sure you are prepared to commit to taking care of one before bringing one home. They can be quite expensive to purchase and maintain, but the benefits of having one definitely outweigh the costs. If you think a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is right for you, then go ahead and adopt one today! FAQs: Is a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix the right pet for you? However, remember that these dogs can be quite large and powerful, so make sure you have enough space for them and that everyone in your household is prepared to handle training and exercise them properly. Are German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois a good mix? The Malinois X hybrid canine, being the result of breeding a Belgian Malinois with German Shepherd Dogs, has made this loyal dog one that will fit into any lifestyle. Post navigation. We chose the Shepinois name for it's simplicity. But they are truly the best of both breeds. They typically have the physical characteristics of the Malinois, they tend to be flat coated with a fawn or mahogany coloring with a a dark overlay. The weight for a female is typically pounds and a male is pds. They have the extreme good health and orthopedics of the malinois as well. They have the athleticism of the Malinois, but not the extreme drive. They are good natured and have the general disposition of a German shepherd. They tend to be a little more level headed like the German shepherd. They are not as overly active as the malinois and they are much easier to live with as a house pet. They make for an excellent family dog and companion, but also a great protection dog or competition dog. They are a loyal and devoted companion. They are good with children; they do well with other animals. They are very affectionate and love to be the center of attention. They thrive in a family environment and are very protective of their home and family. They love to travel and be a part of any activity that involves their family. They are very quick to pick up anything and tend to train at the level of a malinois. They are more like the malinois in their training ability and pick up any type of training very quickly. They also have the tenacity of the malinois and can work for long periods of time without becoming winded. They need daily exercise not only to stay healthy, but to burn off energy. The Shepinois needs exercise daily, not just once a week. The Shepinois is quick to alert you of any strangers or visitors making them excellent, loyal Protection dog. We feel that the overall genetics behind both breeds in very important to making sure this cross turns out the best of both breeds, although the malinois breed does not tend to have hip and elbow problems, we still do the hip and elbow certification on all of our dogs and by doing so we hope to continue to produce the best quality of both breeds as well as this new cross. At Camelot Shepherds we believe in orthopedic soundness, solid nerve and overall temperament. We want your family companion to live a long and healthy life and to bring you many years of love and dedication. Here are some pictures of the previous Shepinois puppies: About. Life Span Did You Know? The Malinois originated in Belgium in the late s and was bred to guard and herd livestock. The Belgian Malinois is one of four different types of Belgian sheepdogs, including the Tervuren , Laekenois, and Groenendael. Of the Belgian sheepdogs, the Malinois is the most common and widely recognized. Although they were originally bred for herding, the Belgian Malinois excels as a military or police dog. The Belgian Malinois was used for military purposes as far back as World War I with many soldiers bringing their Malinois dogs home to the States after the war ended. Following that time, the AKC saw a large increase in registrations of this breed. Today, the Malinois is more commonly found as a working breed. Some facts about Belgian Malinois are that they are versatile working dogs and popular military dogs. These dogs are exceptional at finding explosives, narcotics, and tracking fugitives attempting to avoid apprehension. The Malinois is a protective and highly intelligent dog breed. As one of the most active dog breeds , the Malinois is a hardworking dog that may be serious when on task, but will also likely exhibit a puppy-like playfulness and energy until around the age of three. As long as they are properly socialized and trained, Belgian Malinois tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Because of their protective instinct, they will be initially wary of strangers. But, if they are well-socialized, they will tend to warm up once introduced. They tend to bark to alert, which can become a nuisance if you unintentionally encourage the behavior or do not train your dog to stop barking early on. The Belgian Malinois is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Although they can adapt to apartments if enough time is dedicated to daily exercise and mental stimulation, they are better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run. They do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat and are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Because they bond closely with their families, have a lot of energy, and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Belgian Malinois include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, and thyroid disease. 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 ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As one of the smartest dog breeds , the Belgian Malinois picks up on training quickly and is generally eager to please. However, they are also energetic, get bored easily, have a strong herding instinct, and can be strong-willed. First-time owners are encouraged to enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a trainer. Belgian Malinois have short, waterproof coats that will shed a little year-round and will shed heavier as seasons change. Brushing weekly or a few times a week and the occasional bath are usually enough to keep them comfortable and their coat looking great. Cutting nails once or twice a month is usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal dental care for dogs. Belgian Malinois are high-energy working dogs. They need a lot of daily activity and a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are usually enough, but they will also usually be up for more activity if you are. These dogs are versatile and athletic. Once puppies finish growing and their bones are done developing, you can try a variety of activities with them. Playing frisbee , running, hiking, swimming, and more can all be fun activities to do with your Mal. Fully-grown Belgian Malinois usually stand inches tall and weigh between pounds. Belgian Malinois generally live for years on average. The Belgian Malinois is a world-renowned military service dog. A life-size bronze statue of a Belgian Malinois is featured in the memorial to military dogs in Fayetteville, North Carolina. There are also many dog movies featuring them, like the film Max, which features a great and heart-touching story about a former U. Marine Service Dog. Featured Belgian Malinois Article.
We are passionate about these little treasures and our small breeding program. We are a busy family with 4 children ages .Our dogs are part of our family and live with us, in our home, and under foot. The Miniature Golden Retriever, also known as the Petite Golden and Mini Golden, is a Designer Breed that has been crossbred to produce a healthier dog with the happy people-loving temperament of the Golden Retriever, the small size and sweet cuddly personality of the King Charles Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel, and the intelligent temperament and low shedding coat of the Poodle. Our Miniature Golden Retrievers range in size from pounds. Occasionally we may have smaller puppies maturing at closer to 15 pounds and larger puppies maturing closer to 50 pounds. We will do our best to make an estimate of the adult size of your puppy, but ultimately we can NOT guarantee adult sizes. We breed for temperament, health, and size. Our dogs are DNA tested and annually health screened by our vet before breeding. All our puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. Start the adoption process today!!! Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Their popularity makes Labrador Retriever puppies easy to find. Each breeder on this list specializes in the traditional yellow, chocolate, and black Labradors. A few even breed the less common silver color. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Washington 1. Familiar with people, other animals, machinery, and a variety of other situations and noises, these dogs are loyal, intelligent, and trainable. Trainable and friendly, these Labradors come in black, yellow, or chocolate and are regularly screened for health issues. T, a program run by the American Kennel Club. Spokane Labrador Retrievers Visit Their Website Spokane, WA Family-owned and operated, Spokane Labrador Retrievers pay attention to the personality, genetics, and characters of their dogs to provide you with the perfect companion. Instead, they focus on keeping their stock manageable and paying attention to choosing dogs with the perfect mix of personality, intelligence, and longevity. These Labrador Retrievers are available in the traditional chocolate, yellow, and black, along with chocolate-nosed yellow. With their careful breeding program, these dogs are perfect family pets, hunting companions, service dogs , or search-and-rescue partners. Desert Wind offers shipping for families outside of Washington and a 1-year health guarantee. Free of hip dysplasia and eye defects , these dogs are intelligent and great problem solvers. Settled on 38 acres, Silver Bow specializes in chocolate and black Labradors. All the dogs are fully vaccinated, wormed, and AKC registered. Shipping for buyers living outside of Washington is available for an extra fee. With just over 2 acres to explore, their dogs are both active and happy to cuddle. Carver Labradors make sure their puppies are vaccinated, wormed, and examined by a veterinarian before heading to their new home. Their dogs make good family members and therapy or service animals. The puppies are socialized with children and other animals from chickens to horses, and they are friendly and loving. Ready to join their new home at 8 weeks old, the dogs are health checked, vaccinated, wormed, and accompanied by AKC registration papers. Next on your reading list:. All our puppies have new homes! Be first in line for your new puppy! Get on the waitlist for Silver Labs and Golden Retriever Puppies due beginning of October Past litter of male puppies Looking for a puppy to add to your family? Golden Retrievers Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labs Silver Labs Meet The Puppies These are gorgeous, and energetic dogs who: require daily exercise and are perfect for you, if you love being outdoors and living an active lifestyle are easily trained and very intelligent, making them great family companions. We are located just 60 miles outside of Seattle on a 50 acre farm that's been in our family since my grandfather purchased it when he returned from Europe after World War II. Our dogs love it here. The mamas will even hop in the back of the truck to go help us feed the cows or play in the grass while we're tending to the horses. Our puppies are well socialized as they spend time with our family and with regular visits to the vet you have our assurance that not only are they cute but healthy. Golden Retrievers Silver Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labrador Retrievers Healthy Your puppy is ready to go home with you at 8 weeks old, with AKC registration, a healthy puppy vet check, their first shots, and age appropriate wormings. Adorable You will literally have your pick of the litter depending on who the mama is. Whether it's an English Style Silver or Chocolate Lab or a beautiful Golden Retriever you are sure to find the puppy that steals your heart. Raised With Love Our dogs are our family pets and are a part of our everyday lives. They spend their days with us and you may find them roaming the farm or on a trail ride. They are raised with chicken, cows and horses. Our puppies also spend lots of time playing outside so they are well socialized, great around children and other pets. Have questions? We are a phone call, text or email away! Testimonials Meet Boone What a wonderful, friendly, dog loving, farm home to buy our beautiful Silver Lab, Boone, from! We were able to make trips to visit Boone while he grew, Wendy was always accommodating and super nice. During these visits we also became more acquainted with Boone's mom and grandmom, they are both loving and gentle souls. These are qualities we were looking for in our next dog as we have young grandchildren that will be a big part of Boone's life. We have had Boone for two weeks now. And he surprises us daily with how smart he is. We could not be happier with the start in life he had at Wendy's, his breeding, and HIM!! And I haven't even mentioned how absolutely beautiful Boone is! We collectively decided on getting a dog. We wanted a happy, smart, loyal breed that could fit in and grow with our kids. With those criteria we started looking for a Labrador Retriever. We soon drove to the farm to pick out our puppy. From that moment, until today, we have been so happy with our choice! Our silver lab, Rumble Rainier, has been value added to our home. He is perfect with our sons, he learned our routines quickly, and he keeps us smiling every day. Say Hi to Boomer.They were amazing to work with thru the whole process. We first picked him out in January and we got to visit every other week to watch him grow and get him familiar with us. He was the cutest little brown fur ball and it was fun to see him interact with all his siblings and his mom. He was also very loved and handled by their kids during the times we could not visit. He is a year old now and a very healthy and beautiful lab. He loves being outside, playing fetch, playing with his soccer ball, or being anywhere our 12 year old daughter is. He has been a great addition to our family! They really love their dogs and know how to breed healthy, well-adjusted dogs. Our Boomer loves all dogs, adults and children because of this. We are so thankful to Green Valley Pups and Paws for this whole experience! Amber McKinney. I'm Wendy, and my husband, Rafael and I have four children that we are very fortunate to raise on the most beautiful farm here in Olympia, Washington that has been in our family since World War II. I was raised here by my parents who bought a portion of the land from them. Now I own this little piece of paradise. Our Golden Retriever and Labradors Retriever mamas and their puppies are a part of our family life. We spend a lot of our time outdoors. Whether we are doing chores, working, riding horses or taking walks, our dogs love being with us. The great thing about all of our puppies besides them being so cute is that they are socialized at a very early age, not just with the other dogs, but with cats, horses, cows, chickens, and lots of kids. We are all able to enjoy the fresh air and open spaces to run around in! You end up with a puppy that can get along with your other pets and will be great with your children as well as around friends and family. We make it easy to come and spend time playing and bonding with your puppy in the eight weeks before they're ready to go home with you. Thinking about an addition to your family? Click here to see the puppies. Image already added Ready to find out more? Call, email or text.
Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors are amongst the most popular family pets in the UK thanks to their loyalty, gentle nature, and intelligence. Like most dogs, they thrive with regular exercise, keeping them healthy and happy. How much exercise does an adult Labrador need? A healthy adult Labrador generally needs at least 80 minutes of high-quality exercise per day. Of course, when setting exercise goals for dogs with existing health issues including obesity , you should consult your vet first. What types of exercise are best for Labradors? When we say high quality, we mean just that. Try and incorporate off-lead time into their exercise routine and take a ball or toy to play fetch with — running will help to raise their heart rate and burn off more calories. How much exercise does a Labrador puppy need? For their first three months, your puppy will get enough exercise from tearing around the house, playing and causing chaos. How much exercise does an old Labrador need? At an advanced age, your dog will have less energy in general and be more likely to suffer from health issues that may limit their mobility. Be observant — being the loyal companions they are, Labradors will push through a lot of pain to keep up with you. Watch for excessive panting, changes in their movement, and exhaustion as signals that they have overstretched themselves and adjust their activity accordingly. Can you over-exercise a Labrador? Labradors have the capacity to build up incredible fitness that will see them on the go all day long, but for most, there is a limit on how much they can do. Gradually increase their activity levels, using a PitPat to check in on their progress. How far can a Labrador walk? A working Labrador could be expected to cover many miles every day through the undergrowth and even water. However, your pet Labrador will have slightly different stamina, depending on how much exercise they are used to. Getting out and about with your Labrador keeps them happy and healthy and can be a highly rewarding experience for you both. Download our app for free to see if PitPat is for you. You might also like Single page Single page Top 10 most active dog breeds Got energy to burn? Single page Single page 10 ways to exercise your dog indoors Whether you find yourself stuck indoors because of the weather or for any other reason, your dog still needs plenty of exercise. Here are our top tips for exercising your dog indoors. And just like us, their cardiovascular system becomes more efficient the more its used. The benefits of exercising your dog are many. Exercise helps your Labrador grow more blood vessels and effectively oxygenate his body, as well as build muscle and strengthen his bones. It also helps with weight control to a certain extent. Firstly, he will tend to get bored and will be bursting with pent up energy. Your lab will expend all that energy by resorting to destructive behaviors like chewing and digging, and barking excessively. So, how much exercise does a Labrador need? Generally speaking, however, a healthy, adult Labrador needs an hour of exercise every day. If your dog is the relaxed kind, 45 minutes will do, while a really energetic dog could work out up to 1. Labradors, like all dogs, love to explore. Even a quick hike or walk around a nature trail will be great exercise. Just make sure you have the right hiking gear for your labrador. Just their normal playtime will tire him and give him enough of a workout. This is five minutes of structured exercise per month of age, until your puppy is grown. And that should be enough to keep him fit and burn off excess energy. There are plenty of games you can play with your dog which double as exercising. Tug-of-War is a great form of play and exercise. This can be played indoors—as long as you have enough space—or outdoors. A couple of tips to keep it safe. And if your Lab especially a puppy grabs any part of you or your clothes, stop the game for a time before trying again. Another good idea is upgrading a rubber ball to a Frisbee. Balls tend to sink and roll away, but Frisbees hold air much longer, making them a very fun toy for your Labrador. See if you can teach your Lab to jump and grab the Frisbee midair for even more of a workout. A low impact game which is a great brain teaser for your Lab is finding the treat under the cup. Start by having your dog sit and show them a piece of their favorite treat. Hide it under a plastic or Styrofoam cup right in front of them. Once your Labrador has gotten the idea of how it works, rub a piece of treat over three cups to keep your dog from cheating with his nose. Then place the treat under one of the three cup and ask your dog to find it. Labradors were bred to be full of energy and want to work. They need lots of regular exercise. These tips will also help you to advance your dog so that, eventually, you can trust them to be off the leash in a safe area. Don't release your dog until they can demonstrate knowledge and obedience on the long leash and in many different settings. To begin with, walk them in the house and in the yard. Dogs learn 'contextually and by repetition'. These hints will help you to become the pack leader. Be certain that this is only reason that your dog will follow you. Make time to walk your dog Whether you walk your dog in the morning or evening will be influenced by your program. Whenever you exercise your dog, the walk should allow for 'focused time' and 'free time'. Two leashes will facilitate this. If they are under 12 months old, take some water with you. Also take a back-pack and a treat belt available on Ebay. I recommend no more than thirty minutes of walking in total for a dog under 14 months old as their growth plates are not set until this time. Be careful of overly vigorous activity, particularly if you have an older but playful dog. I don't recommend running for more than very short bursts for the same reason. Healthy hips and elbows are critical for a healthy, active and long life. Use two leashes - a long leash approx 7m and a short leash approx 1m Start your walk with the labrador pup on a short leash. The short leash will help you to direct and guide the dog. This allows you to maintain full control over your dog. Set up your walk for success. Start by getting the dog to sit or at the least be stationary and under your control. As you begin, keep your dog behind your body alignment. Be patient and encourage your dog. Do not show aggressive frustration. This will only cause confusion and fear or aggression. If your dog is not complying, stop and reset. You are the master Walking in front of your dog demonstrates that you are the master or the pack leader. You should be first out the door. The dogs should exit the compound only at your command. This is essential whether you are walking 1, 2 or more dogs. If your dog controls the pace and direction of the walk, they are the pack leader. Your dog should be beside or behind you during the walk. Dogs learn contextually The next two hints are important training essentials. Firstly, labradors learn contextually and their training in not immediately transferable to a new environment. Using the same disciplines and routines, train your dog the same way in different settings. This will entrench your expectations. Correct immediately Secondly, a labrador has about a five second retention of information. After five seconds the dog has lost any association between your assertiveness and their behaviour. If they disobey you, you must correct them within five seconds or not at all. If the dog is disobedient or simply does not understand, reset and start again. The long leash I'm a big fan of the long leash. A long leash will help you to correct bad behaviour at a distance. After a period of training with the short leash, remove it and connect the longer lead. Keep the leash in your hand, releasing it slowly and progressively. As they master this, you can back away while the dog is 'sitting and staying'. Reward your labrador pup with vigorous affection and a treat. After this, you should allow them to wander and sniff around. All this time you will keep your dog on the long leash and under your control. Be sure that the free time is less than their focus time. During the socialisation phase, 8 - 16 weeks, you will need both leashes as you expose your labrador pup to other dogs. As you walk your dog, you will come across small and large dogs that are aggressive. Walking on either leash will give your complete control. And it will ensure safety at all time. You new labrador pup has no innate road sense. Walk them, getting close to roads. Expose them to vehicles so that they do not panic. Reward your dog for good behaviour. Remember that dogs register tones and frequencies, not words. Use higher tones to affirm, reward and encourage. You approval is the greatest reward for a Labrador. Direct eye contact without high vocal affirmation will be interpreted as aggression. Use lower growling tones to reinforce disapproval. Try to avoid 'No' as a command. It is too general and therefore confusing to the dog. Always reward and reinforce obedience to specific commands. Use food treats to begin with, however you must gradually phase them out. Your vocal affirmation and affection should be your longer term goal. As your dog maintains the proper behaviour, reward them with treats. Reward your dog after the walk I recommend that you reward your labrador pup after the walk. Let them have a drink firstly then give them a portion of food that is less than a meal but more than a treat. It will not take long for your dog to anticipate the whole experience. When you appear with the leashes, they will become very enthusiastic. If you adhere to these eight hints and maintain the discipline of your training, you and your dog will value and enjoy the experience. Finally, remember to pick up after your dog. Don't go on a walk without your poop bags on hand! Find a vet you can have confidence in. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. While naturally athletic and full of energy, they need to be well exercised in order to expend their high energy. Labrador needs to be trained and exercised from the time they are puppies, otherwise, they can become destructive and difficult to control. A well-trained and healthy Labrador can also excel as service and guide dogs. In fact, the military and the police consistently use Labradors in search and rescue, hunting and as performance dogs. To realize the full potential of a Labrador they should be exercised regularly and correctly as puppies. In this article, we will show you how you can exercise your Labrador puppy so that it grows into the perfect companion for you. To learn more about this fascinating field, be sure to check out our in-depth article, Labradors as Service and Therapy Dogs. They were ideal for the task as they can run chase and swim in some of the most difficult conditions. This quality, combined with their strong sense of smell and sturdy body structure, makes them ideal for demanding physical work. While currently, they are the most popular choice as indoor family dogs, they are genetically programmed to handle high-energy activities. Their bodies crave lots of physical activity and if they are not given opportunities to expend their high energy they can become destructive. Labradors Gain Weight Easily Labs are strong and sturdy dogs and, consequently, tend to be voracious eaters. A lack of exercise can easily cause them to put on the extra pounds. An overweight Labrador is prone to all sorts of health problems and excessive weight may lead to issues like heart problems, hip, and joint damage, increase blood pressure, etc. An obese Labrador cannot be a helpful member of your family, nor can it achieve its full physical potential. To have your Labrador mature into a good companion and be of service, he must be in good health. Involving your Lab in activities that fit his genetic makeup is the key to keeping him in good health. Hyperactivity and destructive behavior A lack of activity can cause your Labrador to become bored and can result in hyperactive behavior. If they have not been exercised well from the time they are puppies it may lead them to become disobedient and uncontrollable as mature dogs. Their naturally pleasant personalities can turn sour with excessive barking, restlessness, and hyperactivity. Most owners become puzzled when their Labradors exhibit personality problems, unaware that the cause of this is rooted mostly in the lack of proper exercise and properly expending energy as puppies. Loss of Muscle Mass Since Labradors are genetically muscular and well-built, lack of exercise can harm their natural body shape as they lose muscle tone. This can also lead to impaired organ function and can also have an impact on their nervous systems. After their first three months, however, you will need to provide avenues for expending their ever-increasing energy. After 3 months of age, a puppy needs a minimum of at least 45 minutes to 1 hour of exercise per day. As the puppy matures, you can gradually increase his activity levels. At 4 months old, begin with 5 minutes of planned, regular exercise per day. After that, increase his exercise gradually by 5 minutes for each additional month of age. When your Lab hits its first year, you can also consider a well-planned exercise regimen in addition to his daily natural playtime. This dedicated exercise time will become increasingly necessary as your Labrador moves into adulthood. With his increasing levels of energy, it may become increasingly difficult to control him. Walking is a low impact exercise and can easily be done almost anywhere. No equipment is necessary and most owners can engage in this activity along with their puppies. All puppies enjoy running. It may be too early for the puppy to run with you but you can certainly do a few minutes of running a day with the puppy so that he gets used to it. While most dogs are on a leash you will also see that some owners manage to train their dogs to run beside them without a leash. This is achieved by training the dog when it is a puppy. So some early running is advisable but not too much in the initial months. It is an excellent activity and is loaded with lots of adventure for your puppy. Regular hiking trips on a mountain trail or through forested areas can bring great joy to your Labrador puppy as there are a lot of interesting scents and scenes that are exciting for them. Just be aware that may be difficult to keep them on the path at first as they will be eager to chase after anything that moves. Labradors are natural swimmers and their bodies develop excellently if swimming is added into their exercise regimen. Swimming is a full-body exercise and strenuous enough to expend all the energy of the puppy. Initially, you should limit the swim time in order to ensure that the dog does not overtire itself. Swimming also cools down the puppy and they get a lot of pleasure playing in the water. Related: But is it true that all Labradors are naturals when it comes to water? Playing fetch. Lab puppies love to play fetch. All Lab owners inevitably find this out and it is often the most preferred type of play for your dog. Labradors, with their natural retrieving trait, usually take to this game early on. All you need is their favorite toy to throw and a lot of space for the puppy to run and fetch the toy. Usually, owners use toys like balls or sticks but the beauty of the activity is that almost any object can be used for this game. Agility training. This exercise is more for puppies whom the owners would like to prepare for competitions. Agility training involves activities such as the puppy going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. This requires a proper agility training course and the puppy has to be trained to engage in the activity. It is advised that Labrador owners wait until the puppy is at least one year to start agility training activities. It is a common sight to see dogs and owners playing Frisbee, in playgrounds and yards. Frisbees is an exciting activity for your puppy that engages all his muscle groups. It includes jumping, leaping and running, all of which are important and healthy activities for a Labrador. This also involves their favorite pastime, retrieving, which Labrador puppies will enjoy. Ensure that the Frisbee is light and flexible as it can harm the puppy if thrown with force. How to Exercise Your Lab Puppy Indoors While most owners can take their puppies outside for exercise, some may not be able to do this. This could be due to extreme weather conditions like rain, snow or heat, or just the lack of accessibility to open areas, such as if you live in an apartment complex that does not have a pet-friendly facility. It can be difficult in these cases to ensure that the puppy gets the exercise it needs but there are ways to get around this inconvenience. Here are some ways you can exercise your puppy indoors. Use a treadmill. While it may seem surprising for many, a puppy can be trained to use and enjoy a treadmill. While it may not happen immediately, you can get the dog used to the treadmill slowly. Start with getting them used to the sight and sound of the treadmill in action. Briefly put the puppy on the treadmill. Try this for only around 5 minutes at first and then increase the time gradually. Once the puppy gets adjusted to the activity you can increase the pace for an adequate workout session. Play fetch. It can be tricky when you play fetch indoors as space is constrained and there could also be accidents and breakage of valuables. So it is best to prepare a fetch course for the puppy. Clear out parts of the house so that there is a clear path for the puppy to run without breaking or hitting anything. You may not have enough room in your place to create a long running path but that is okay. It may be difficult to do for one hour and may become boring for the puppy. It can be combined with other indoor activities to provide adequate exercise time and fun. Obstacle courses. Since an indoor exercise area can be limited you can maximize your indoor space to do more with it. An ideal way to accomplish this is with an obstacle course. You can create an obstacle course with everyday objects and supplies found around the house. For example, old tubes and cardboard boxes for tunnels, chairs for jumping across, stools for climbing, etc. Plan out your own course in a way that makes the puppy to crawl, jump, run and climb. Initially, the puppy may not get the idea but with effective use of treats and encouragement can help it learn. While not necessarily the best exercise for the puppy, it is certainly good for the overall strength and muscle building. The neck, jaws, legs, and torso get a good workout with some intense tug of war activity. It is also great fun for both the owner and the pup. A good way to start a tug of war is to wait until the puppy is biting or chewing a non-food object — anything that will not encourage the puppy to chew on inappropriate household items. Hold on to one end of the object and start pulling. The puppy usually cannot resist pulling off the object from your hands. This will lead to a tug of war and the more you engage in it the puppy will find it thrilling. Hide the treat. This is another fun activity and will keep your puppy active. You can take any treat that the puppy likes, have them smell it, and then quickly run with it and hid it in hard to get a place like under the rug on a slightly high chair or table or behind a door. When you hide it does ensure that it is not impossible by slightly difficult to reach. If it is impossible to reach the puppy may lose interest in the game. Also, ensure that you do not place in areas that can be potentially risky of the puppy. Other than these you can come up with many fun games to keep your puppy active, like playing with bubbles or playing hide and seek. The two puppies will naturally play and exercise with each other. Depending on the age you can have longer durations but do not engage in any exercise before the first 3 months are completed. In the fourth month, you can start with 5 minutes of playing, throwing the ball, or walking. Walking is easier if the puppy does not yet know how to do fetch. Continue doing this at approximately the same time each day so that the dog is accustomed to and ready for the activity. Choose a schedule that works best for you and that you can keep consistently — such as after you come home from work or early in the morning. In the fifth month, you can increase the time to 10 minutes. Do not worry if the exercise is not continuous in the beginning. Maybe you can get the puppy used to the leash and lightly jog along with it. In the sixth month, you can increase the time to 15 minutes with a greater intensity of activity. By this time you will also notice that the puppy has gained a lot of energy and can do the activities with vigor. Following this pattern, you can increase his exercise time a few minutes each month so that by the fifteenth month the puppy will be getting an intensive 1-hour exercise daily. Choosing Activities for Exercising the Labrador Puppy Most new Lab owners are unsure about which exercises to choose for the puppy. The best course is to initially try out a variety of exercises. Maybe you can switch activities every three days. Try walking a few days, the other days jogging and then throw and fetch. As you progress and the puppy engages in more activities you will find a few that the puppy enjoys the most. When that is identified try to include those more. Always remember that mental stimulation is equally as important as physical activity, so come up with interesting activities and add variety every once in a while. Do not force the puppy to do activities that they dislike. Also, if some days the puppy does not seem energetic or is sick you can skip those days. The activity should be tiring but not exhausting; a good way to gauge this is to check if the puppy is enjoying the activity and is fully involved. If its interest seems waning them maybe it is time to stop or change the activity. Keep It Fun Puppies only want to have fun. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. Also, include an ample amount of both physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will be the result. If the puppy seems ill or in pain, it is best to not exercise that day. You can choose a milder form of activity like a leisurely walk if you are unsure. Slow and steady is a good rule to follow. Have the right equipment for exercise whether it is a toy or a leash and take adequate safety precautions While swimming is an excellent exercise, do not force the puppy into water. Let him get used to the water gradually before making him swim. Initially, if the puppy cannot swim, a life jacket or any floatation device could be used for safety. Do not take the puppy outdoors if the weather conditions are extreme. Avoid exposing the puppy to any extreme weather condition be it rain, heat or snow. Do activities indoors on those days. In warmer seasons, early morning and late in the day are ideal for outdoor activities. Try to take the puppy for outdoor exercise during those times to avoid overheating. Keep plenty of water available if you are engaging in outdoor activities. Take frequent breaks, especially if the activity is too strenuous or is new to your puppy. Check the puppy for scrape and bruise after the activities. In the activities, if the puppy hurts itself take necessary steps for its care. Check with the vet before you start on an exercise regimen and keep the vet updated on your observations If you have the puppy on a leash try to not jerk or pull on the leash suddenly. It can hurt you as well as the puppy. Do not pull on the leash too hard to curb the puppy from going towards any object or animal, instead, you can physically pick up the puppy and move away from the distraction. When running or walking on remember that the paws of the puppy may need time to toughen up and may hurt sometimes. Pavements can be very hot on summer days even after the heat subsides, so be alert to how the puppy reacts. Because puppies are covered in fur, watch signs of excessive panting or wet paw prints sweat glands tend to be near the paws Try to have softer surfaces for walking or running like a lawn or soft sand. Too much of anything is never good — including exercise. There is an active debate going about the optimum amount of exercise for puppies. While everyone agrees that exercise is necessary the limits have not yet been clearly defined. It is better to err on the side of safety. A good 15 minutes to one hour depending on the age of the puppy is recommended. Beyond that, it depends on the fitness and endurance of the particular puppy and the activity itself. It would also be better to split up the time between morning and evening. This will ensure that you do not overtax the puppy. Do remember also that the puppy will be active during the day too so too much activity may tire out the puppy and lead to injuries as well. There is no easy approach or any hard and fast rules. It is better to let common sense influence your decisions in this matter. Also, talk to a vet and get his or her opinions as they will have greater insights into the condition of the puppy. No, if you are feeding a balanced and nutritious diet then the exercise alone does not warrant increasing its food intake. In fact, this may have adverse effects and lead to unnecessary weight gain. It is better to also seek advice from your vet in this matter before changing anything. If a Lab owner is unable to properly exercise their puppy then it would be better to hire someone to do this. While the owner is the best person to exercise with the puppy, life situations and work-related inconveniences can lead to an inability to exercise the puppy. In such cases, someone who will properly care for your puppy, like a relative, a family friend, or an agency that offers such services can be given this responsibility. Exercising your Labrador puppy can be a fun activity but what also matters is the bonding and enjoyment that result from this activity. A good exercise regimen benefits the owner as well as the puppy. So commit today to exercise your Labrador puppy and watch it grow into a good-natured, happy, and healthy dog. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Whether young or old, big or small, yellow, black, chocolate, from field lines or show lines, your Labrador needs exercise. It will keep their heart and muscles strong, their mind stimulated and their weight under control. But how much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors Are a High Energy Breed The Labrador Retriever is a high energy working breed, initially bred for very physically demanding work retrieving game for hunters. This would involve all day hiking, running and swimming in sometimes difficult conditions. So Labrador Retrievers were bred to have lots of energy and be very active. And though their main role in life today is as a family pet, they still have those same genetics that made them suited to their original role. Dog Ball Thrower. Yes, you can throw a tennis ball extra far with the Chuckit, but two reasons why I love it: 1. In this state they will often resort to destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing…and will often be very restless, may bark excessively and try to escape your home and garden at every opportunity. Insufficient exercise can also lead to weight problems with Labradors. Excess weight is a problem because it can lead to all sorts of problems such as damage to their joints hips and elbows , heart disease, increased blood pressure and increases the risk of diabetes. So a lack of exercise leads to behavioral problems, hyperactivity and possibly an assortment of health problems. However, as a general rule of thumb, a normally healthy adult Labrador Retriever will need 1 hour of exercise every day. The more relaxed Labs just 45 minutes per day, the more energetic 1. This can be made up of running, swimming, playing fetch , jogging alongside you…anything that goes beyond a gentle walk. But if the first consideration is your Labradors age, how much do puppies and the elderly need? Nice for long runs with your Lab. If you have older dogs or children, the puppy may well try to keep up with them and over-exert themselves, playing to exhaustion and damage their developing joints. So keep an eye on them and interrupt play if need be, to give them plenty of rest. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer. The 5 minute rule should be sufficient to keep your lab puppy fit, burn off excess energy yet not over-exert them and cause possible developmental issues. Continue the 5 minute rule until your puppy is at least one year of age where you can then begin to exercise them more vigorously. This is highly dependent on your labs overall health and can vary wildly from one Labrador to another. Some labs may need to slow down from the 7th year onwards, while others remain extremely active beyond their 10th year. As Labradors get older, many develop arthritis, dysplasia and other health issues that can prevent a Labrador from enjoying or needing exercise as much as they used to when young and healthy. They will likely still try to chase a tennis ball all day and hike mountains just to please you, even if it may be doing them more harm than good. Try not to put them in this position. As your Labrador ages, you need to be more observant , looking for changes in their movement, excessive panting, slowing down, feeling tired. And during grooming sessions and massage, check for any painful spots indicative of sore joints or other problems. We noticed Linus was stiff getting up in the morning and decided to try adding glucosamine to his diet. We saw a noticeable difference a few days later and an added spring in his step. If your Labrador tears around your home like a tornado. If your Lab displays any of the restless and destructive symptoms described above, try increasing their levels of exercise for a few days and see if their behavior problems improve. However, if you have money burning a hole in your pocket you might want to check out PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher. Over-exercising very young and elderly Labradors can do more harm than good. For your adolescent and adult Labrador, exercise them well. As a general rule of thumb, aim for 1hr per day and scale this up or down depending on your Labradors individual needs. This could mean 45 mins for the more sedate and elderly, or 1. And at the end of the day, think of it like this: You have the best exercise machine to rival that of any gym to keep you fit and healthy yourself. And hey, what fun!!! What better motivation and need is there to keep yourself in shape? Do you mostly agree with the above? Please let us know in the comments section below. 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. Just like us, Labradors need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Whether you have a young or old dog, they all need to get the blood flowing to stay healthy and live long happy doggie lives. Regular exercise with your Labrador is very beneficial for you both. Exercise stimulates neuron growth in the brain, encourages the production of endorphins with a known mood-boosting effect , helps strengthen your bones and muscles, improves blood pressure, and can significantly help with depression. Are you having a hard time figuring out how much exercise your lab needs? Answers vary drastically from one dog to another. The amount of exercise to give your Labrador depends mostly on the age of the dog. The key to taking your Labrador puppy out for exercise is to be patient. Some labs are athletic, and thus need more exercise than others. Also, certain Labradors are genetically programmed to be energetic and have high metabolism rates, whereas others are more laid-back. Here are some exercise guidelines a new lab owner can follow to make sure their dog gets the right workout. With older dogs or children, a lab puppy may well try to keep up with them and exhaust themselves before they reach their adult size and stamina. Hold off on structured games and other forms of heavy physical activity for the first three months. This will set the stage for long-term, healthy exercise habits. This rule states that you should take your Labrador puppy out for at least five minutes of exercise per month of age up to twice a day until he or she is fully grown. This can be anything from a walk around the block to a run in the dog park. How old your dog is will make a difference in their stamina. To determine how much exercise your dog needs, first take their age into consideration. Labs that are four years old and above need between one and two hours of exercise per day. The truth is Labradors can lead a perfectly healthy life with just an hour of daily active playtime. The Labrador Retriever was bred to retrieve game for hunters. That means they naturally love to play fetch. All you need is a toy for playtime and room for running around. Tug-of-War is less cardio-oriented but helps with muscle mass and body structure in growing dogs. Plus, they love it! It requires that you prepare your puppy with a proper agility training course. Agility training is great for completing a total-body, structured workout, while also providing mental stimulation for your labrador. This involves activities such as going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. You will need to train your lab to engage in the activity and this involves proper instruction. Find one that fits his size and abilities, as well as your own personal comfort level. Either due to space or having a small yard, it may be difficult to get their puppies out every day. The good news is that, with a little creativity, indoor exercise can be just as viable and fun! Here are a few ideas you can try at home. Try Treadmill Training Sessions With Dogs A dog can be trained to use a treadmill and enjoy it, but the experience will take time. Build an Obstacle Course for Your Labrador Use everyday things found around the home or office to create an obstacle course. It also boosts their energy levels and problem-solving skills. For example, you might use old boxes and trash bags to make a tunnel, chairs or stools to jump across, and other furniture for your puppy to climb. At first your puppy may not catch on, but with effective use of the treat and lots of encouragement, you can help it learn as it goes. Hide-and-Seek With a Treat! Hide a treat around the house, and let your puppy work to find it. As you hide treats around the room, remember to make sure they are not hiding somewhere that is unreachable. Tip 2. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. All dog breeds respond positively to lots of physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will flow. Tip 3. Make an Exercise Routine and Schedule for Your Dog Lab owners, take note: maintaining the health of an adult Lab is all about consistency. And this starts with walks at a young age. Take regular walks with your dog, no matter the weather conditions. Walk at the same time each day in order to create an exercise pattern that both you and your dog can stick to. Maybe you can get the puppy used to a leash and casually walk through your neighborhood with it. That way, you can vary the activity occasionally. In six months, increase the amount of time your dogs are running to 15 minutes. This keeps their energy high and stops weight gain as they mature. Conclusion As a dog owner, your foremost responsibility is protecting the health and safety of your pet. Insufficient exercise causes health problems in dogs , like hip dysplasia especially those already prone to hip or joint problems. Share on. Tweet on Twitter Puppy exercise requirements vary between different types of dog, and as a puppy grows the exercise they need will increase. It is possible to give a puppy too much exercise so I will give you a puppy exercise chart, as a guide to how far a puppy can walk at different ages. Taking your new puppy for a walk We all look forward to the day we can take our new puppy for a walk. For many people, daily dog walks is a huge part of why they bought a Labrador in the first place. Others already take quite small puppies for quite long walks and are surprised to discover that many experts believe this to be a bad thing. So just how much exercise does a puppy really need? How much exercise does a puppy need? This rule of thumb says that a puppy should have no more than five minutes of walking for every month of his age. So that would be fifteen minutes a day maximum for a three month old puppy, twenty minutes for a four month old and so on. This concern about excessive exercise has arisen because it is widely believed that exercise is a factor in the development of serious joint disorders. Especially in larger breed puppies such as Labradors Breeders are particularly concerned about hip dysplasia, a serious and complex disorder of the hip joints, that is believed to be influenced both by inherited factors passed from dogs to their puppies and by environmental factors In addition to factors influencing growth rates, the stresses and strains placed on the vulnerable growing joint by excessive exercise are believed to be a contributory environmental factor in the development of inadequate hip joints. It seems likely, that a puppy that had inherited a tendency for poor hips, could have its soft and still forming hip joints made a good deal worse through prolonged or hard exercise. It is also possible that a puppy that has inherited excellent hips, will come to no harm whatsoever through hard exercise. On the contrary, a certain amount of free running exercise is a good thing Running off-leash A Norwegian study published and which included labradors, showed that puppies given the opportunity to exercise off leash in a park before the age of three months were less likely to develop hip dysplasia HD , not more. Stair climbing The same study showed that puppies that had to climb stairs on a regular basis during the same period were at increased risk of HD You can read about this study in Science Daily. So what does this study tell us? Well, it is only one study, but it suggests that playing in a natural way, with other pups or simply running about at their own speed is probably going to benefit a small puppy Strenuous exercise Whereas more strenuous activity such as climbing hills and stairs, may not be such a good thing at a very young age. Another study has suggested that running hard for a retrieve, may not be great for joint health either. And some breeders also prevent dogs from jumping for the first twelve months to reduce impact on the shoulder and elbow joints. This may be especially important for some of the heavier breeds of dog, and those that are slow to mature. How far should my puppy walk? But how does that translate to distances walked? If you like to think in distances rather than time, a mile is around steps for an adult human and takes about twenty minutes at a moderate walking speed. So a maximum walk for a four month old Labrador might be about a mile. And of course if you are walking out and back again, that means not taking the dog more than half a mile from your home or car, whichever is your starting point. With young puppies, you need to keep a balance. Think about the overall energy your puppy is expending rather than focusing on walking alone. Walking is only one form of exercise and is no more valuable or important than games or training exercises. If you have been to visit a friend with your five month old pup and their dog has played for half an hour in the garden with yours, your dog does not need a walk as well. It is the total exercise that counts. How much exercise is too much? And you are bound to know of someone whose puppy had far more exercise than this and came to no harm. However taking a puppy for long walks or asking him to negotiate very steep or uneven surfaces when he is little, is probably a bad idea. Beware of letting a puppy play for too long with an older dog that does not want to stop. And keep an eye on children who may inadvertently exhaust a puppy by encouraging him to play when he needs to sleep. Crating your puppy when he is tired or overexcited, will enable you to make sure that your puppy gets some well deserved down time. Summary Young puppies need the time and space to run about freely, and free running exercise is beneficial. You do not need to attempt to prevent puppies playing in the garden, trotting about the house or playing with another young puppy for a while. Provided that the puppy is free to stop and rest whenever he wants. As far as we know at the moment, formal exercise — walking on a lead — for example, is probably best restricted using the five minute rule as an approximate guide. And strenuous exercise such as stair climbing, and chasing balls should be limited or avoided altogether in puppies under three months of age. Remember, an adult dog can become an amazing athlete, but like all athletes, fitness and stamina are best built up in gentle stages if injury is to be avoided. Do talk to your vet about exercise at your first appointment with your puppy. We are still learning about hip dysplasia. Research is ongoing, knowledge increases all the time. Your vet should be up to date with the latest information regarding the optimum amount of exercise for your new puppy. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was originally published in and has been extensively revised and updated for References Slater et al. Diet and exercise as potential risk factors for osteochondritis dissecans in dogs. Am J Vet Res. Sallander et al. American Society for Nutrition. Krontveit et al. Risk factors for hip-related clinical signs in a prospective cohort study of four large dog breeds in Norway. Learn more » While Labrador Retrievers are a popular companion dog worldwide, they were initially bred as sporting dogs and have retained a lot of their working prowess even after the shift to companionship. AKC compliant breeder Ruffwood Labs emphasizes that exercise is not a value of time exercised but exertion. Puppies According to Ruffwood Labs, Labrador puppies need to be walked for around 5 minutes for every month of life. So, a minute walk would be appropriate for a four-month-old puppy. However, not all walks are equal. Take into account the terrain that you will be walking on eg. The most important part is not the length of the exercise but the quality of it. Puppies are being walked to help with socialization and lead skills rather than a need for exercise per se. Let them guide the activity- sniffing and investigating or running around madly for a few minutes. They will usually stop and sit or lie down if they need a rest, let them do this. Additionally, Ruffwood Labs warns against overexercising your puppies. Hip dysplasia is multifactorial and genetics, diet and exercise all play a part. Ruffwood Labs recommends that Labrador puppies not be vigorously exercised and kept away from stairs to avoid causing damage to their delicate, growing joints. Once they are mature, by 18 months, they will be able to engage in more vigorous exercise and start to go jogging with you if you wish. Your average labrador would enjoy around 1 to 2 hours of exercise a day but this can be divided into manageable time slots. Exercise also includes brain stimulation such as training and scent work. So your morning and evening walks can be supplemented with training sessions at home too. Labradors love to swim and this can be a great form of exercise for them. Get creative, play games, use puzzle feeders and have fun together building your bond. If you see any of the following signs while exercising your Labrador, stop the activity and let your dog rest. Damage to the Paw Pads Some dogs get so absorbed in their play that they accidentally put excessive strain on the paw pads. Even though paw pad injuries are typically painful, some dogs will ignore the very clear sign that they need to stop to continue playing. Soreness or stiffness will typically become visible once your dog has rested up following their play session. Image By: SeventyFour, Shutterstock Behavioral Changes If your dog is not quite themselves or behaving oddly, especially around the time you would typically exercise, this is a good sign that something is wrong. Your dog may be feeling under the weather, or maybe you went a little too hard the day before. If the problem persists, contact your veterinarian to rule out any medical diagnoses. Injury or Heat Intolerance If your dog is injured during play or starts showing signs of heat sickness , you should halt play immediately and bring them to a veterinarian. Prompt treatment is of the essence with these kinds of situations. Final Thoughts Exercising your dog is a critical component of being a dog owner. So, it makes sense to learn as much as you can about how to properly keep your dog healthy before you get one. So, keep that in mind before bringing your new dog home. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Your Labrador Retriever is an active and high-energy animal. They love to exercise and spend as much time as they can in the outdoors. Exercise is an important part of living a happy healthy life and along with a proper diet and good veterinary care will lead to a dramatic increase in their quality of life just the same as with people. In this state they will often resort to destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing…and will often be very restless, may bark excessively and try to escape your home and garden at every opportunity. As with everything in life the answer is that it depends. For most people the first thing people think of with exercise and a dog is taking them for a walk. That is a good first step but exercise for your Lab is more than that. Some dogs can even do without being walked as long as they receive their exercise and other stimulation in other ways. Walking is of course good exercise for both the dog and their human and if a Lab does not receive their exercise in other ways it is a good idea to spend at least an hour or more walking them every day. The simple act of walking benefits their hearts and lungs and it is easy on their joints since walking is a natural motion. For the full benefits of a walk a Lab will need to walk faster than a human so they will need to be let off their leash and that may not always be practical. Not all walks are equal. A short walk over a more strenuous route can provide as much exercise as a longer walk over an easier route. If your dog is able to exercise in other ways, like in a fenced in backyard, or has another dog to play with this can be lessened and they may not need to be walked at all. Of course there are other ways to get your Lab the exercise it needs. That can start with their own name. Your Lab is great at retrieving things and doing so can get them a good workout. You do not need to be a hunter or sportsman to do this but it may take some planning and a good location. Your Lab also will love to play. This can be stereotypical canine activities like a game of fetch, catching a Frisbee or playing tug-of-war with someone. Much of this should be done off of their leash so it can be done in a backyard or at a local dog park. These activities will give your Lab a great workout and exercise muscles that a walk simply will not and can last as long as both the human and canine are interested. For those of you with Labrador puppies they have different needs. Puppies should not be over-exerted so walks should be kept to a minimum and should not be stressful. Experts recommend walks last about 5 minutes for every month of age of the puppy, so a four month old puppy should be walked for 20 minutes. Puppies should not be walked until they are at least three months old and they should be vaccinated before they are taken out. Also overexerting a puppy can bring serious joint issues in larger breeds of dogs. There are other ways than a walk for a puppy to get exercise. They will probably love free running around a house and this will lower the chance of developing bone and joint issues. Your puppy should not climb stairs until they are older as climbing the steps creates an increased risk of joint issues. Strenuous issues should also be avoided as it can also lead to joint issues. Many trainers do not let Labs jump for their first year of life to avoid joint damage. As with humans there is another very important component of exercise that is very important but can be easily overlooked and that is rest. All dogs need rest to help rejuvenate and heal themselves and this is particularly important with puppies. When outside with your dog it is important to look for signs of fatigue or overheating and to know when to stop and rest. If you dog is playing with other dogs it is also a good idea to keep an eye on them for fatigue as your dog will not want to stop even if they are tiring. Your Lab loves the stimulation that comes with exercising and being outside and will not want it to end so human management is important to prevent them from over exerting themselves. Your British Lab puppies and adult Labrador Retrievers are naturally gifted athletes and they will want to spend as much time as they can exercising and spending time in the outdoors. If you take advantage of that you can get some exercise too and that is a good thing, but know when to stop.
Crate training is the ideal next step in potty training a puppy. It should begin when a puppy is about eight weeks old. If you still have the puppies when they are eight weeks old, crate train them so they will be even better potty trained by the time they have new owners. The crate will be like the den the puppy was in with its mother. With crate training, you will be teaching the puppies to spend long periods of time in their crates. Make the crates comfortable by putting blankets on the crate floors and placing sturdy food and water bowls in the crates. Also, put some toys in the crates so the puppies can stay busy. The puppies may go inside the crates on their own, or you may have to encourage them. Encourage them by placing treats near the crate entrance, then just inside the crate, then further back in the crate. When you take the puppies out of their crates to go outside, they should go to the bathroom in the same place each time. If you have a backyard, take each puppy out to the yard, one at a time. Let the puppy select the potty area. Once your puppy goes, give it lots of verbal praise. Don't just let the puppy out and walk away. Stay with the puppy and watch them, rewarding and praising them when they toilet in the right place. With multiple puppies, the puppies will likely choose their own little spots in the yard to go to the bathroom. Each puppy will leave its scent in its own potty area. Very young puppies cannot hold their bladders for very long. As a rule of thumb, a 1-month-old puppy should be let out every 1 hour, a 2-month-old every 2 hours, and so on. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source First thing in the morning After playtime After eating or drinking water Before bedtime. May 23, Susanne Shelton We never could have predicted the enthusiasm for our litter box training protocol, and now after years of raising litters with our method, and teaching it to other breeders, we have converted this blog into a fully updated, media rich, course for breeders and fosters. We even designed a detailed, step by step, house training course for those who purchase puppies raised with our Poop School methods. If anyone had told me I could raise a litter of German Shepherd puppies from birth through 10 weeks in my home without going stark raving mad, I would never have believed them! Too big! Too many! Too much poop! Prior to Puppy Culture, we raised puppies inside our home for the first six weeks. Good enough, right? We thought so, and indeed this worked okay for many years. But times, and paradigms, change. While our older model worked well, we missed out on a lot — our puppies AND their new owners. There was so much more we could accomplish if the puppies were inside the house. We could spend our time on more than just poop patrol! We had been doing good, but Puppy Culture showed us how much better we could be doing. I became dedicated to figuring out and perfecting how to teaching my puppies what they needed to know to live inside with us the full nine to ten weeks. With less time spent cleaning messes, I would have the time to really work through the Puppy Culture protocols. If I was going to keep a bunch of little poop machines in my house for weeks on end, I decided they would have to be litter box trained. Litter box training is covered in Puppy Culture, but what worked for me is just a little bit different. As an unexpected bonus, our puppies were significantly easier for their new families to house train. Talk about a win-win! First toilet! On the other side I place a small bed. So, sleep area and toilet area, baby version. What I used: 1 Durawhelp to line the whelping box. I remove the whelping box and put the larger toilet where the whelping box toliet was, along the western wall of our dog room. In front of the new toilet is a slightly larger play area. On the eastern side of the pen I put in a row of small puppy beds during week 4 and small crates week 5. Once the puppies are moving off their bed area to urinate, I add the crates. By now the puppies poop in the toilet most of the time, but they still miss as much as they hit with pee. Part 2: Removed Puppy Pads and added litter boxes with pellets. During week 4 the puppies rarely make it all the way to the toilet to urinate, they are just not mature enough. This tells me the puppies are learning to move away from their bed and play area to potty, which is an important skill. From the moment we move the puppies to the weaning pen, we start to carry each puppy to the litter box immediately after eating. Someone watches them to make sure they actually hit the toilet when they void. During week 4 we are often placing the puppies in the toilet when we know they need to poop. SOME of the puppies will start going to the toilet to poop during this week and by the end of week 5 we hope that most of the poop will be in the toilet. Part 3: Pen expansion, added crates. They are not adults, we are just looking for an effort to reach the toilet to tell us the puppies are learning and trying. Footing: EZ Whelp Pads. Crates: One Vari Kennel, Three 24 x 17 inch wire crates. Doors are removed or front panel folded down. Please take a look at my crate conditioning blog for more info on crates. I have learned that keeping the toilet in the same place speeds toilet training. Now, I always have the toilet on the west wall of their pen, even starting as early as the whelping pen pad, and THAT was really helpful. On previous litters I experimented and moved the toilet around often, that really made it harder for my puppies to have success. My suggestion is that you decide before the litter is born how you will build out from the whelping box, to the weaning pen, to the toddler pen. Plan in advance, so your litter box will stay in the same area the entire time. The now expanded weaning pen, the litter box is in the same position, the play area is larger to meet the needs of our growing puppies. Week .At the end of week 5 we enlarge the weaning pen. The puppies are now using the toilet most but not all of the time and their pen is enlarged to make room for more exercise and passive enrichment. At this point you can also see the door is available left to their puppy patio outside. The crates are still on the wall opposite of the toilet, and our crate conditioning plan is in full force. The pen opens into the kitchen and living room right , and outdoors left. We are still using the three pan toilet for these two weeks. Please note, there are still plenty of pees outside the toilet, but most of the poop is inside the toilet. We continue to ensure the puppies either run to, or are carried to, their litter box after each meal. By this age we are feeding the puppies in their crates, so after each meal the crates are opened and the puppies encourage to their toilet area to void. What I added: Larger 24 x 36 inch crates not visible here. Week For the last two or three weeks the puppies are with us, we expand the weaning pen until it takes up the entire dog room. I found my puppies do not like to touch poop, and will choose to poop outside of the box if they must touch poop to void inside the box. Not a problem during the day when we pick up constantly, but at night the box can get poopy. Our largest litter box area, we use this at night for large litters in weeks 7 and 8. This photo shows the boxes reversed! This largest toilet helps the puppies succeed in getting fully into the box to void, even if there are some poops in it. Puppies are now taken outside for potty breaks as often as possible, through their exterior door and onto their puppy patio outside. They still need and use their litter box however, and there is the occasional accident on the EZ whelp pads. By now we are encouraging the puppies to void outside. They have a doggie door that leads to their puppy patio, so they can go outside often on their own. We found by starting early, creating an environment designed for success, and not expecting perfection we have been able to enjoy having our puppies in the house with us with far LESS work than ever imagined. This has freed up even more time to implement Puppy Cultures core protocols, active enrichment, training, socialization and teaching puppies to be enrichment seekers. If you would like more in depth methods and personal coaching on litter box training for breeders, please check out my NEW course — Poop School: Litter Box Training for Breeders and Fosters. Throw us a bone? The above links are affiliate links. These are products we have used and loved. We get a few coins for purchases from these links but you never pay more. Sign up to keep up! Sign up to keep up with all our stuff! Litter and breeding announcements, new blogs, product recommendations, and new courses. Plus my garden, dinner, and other country life updates. Here at Parsons Place Stable, all our puppies are litter box trained. We start the puppies on newspaper around 3wks old, then by 4wks we offer a litter box or area with shavings or pellets, the puppies naturally figure out how to use it. In our whelping rooms the puppies have access to a doggy door, which goes out directly into a litter box. Dogs by natural instinct typically do not wish to eliminate themselves where they sleep, so the puppies go out the door and use the box. But, by the time the puppies are 8wks old, they have got it down almost perfectly! The main key to litter box training for puppies, is to keep their space very small. There should only be room for thier bed, food dishes and 1 or 2 litter boxes. As they get better their space is allowed to get larger. We recommend the puppies using a litter box after they go to their new homes. Puppies have no bladder control until after they are 16wks old. They typically need to go out to relieve themselves every hour. If you are like me.This is where the litter box training comes in really handy! If you can set up your puppies home space with a litter box, you will not have to worry as much about if they need to go potty. I have found no issues with housebreaking after using the litter boxes. We still take our puppies outside to potty as often as we can, this way they still get rewarded for using the bathroom outside. This is our whelping room. It is heated and cooled as needed. Each room has a doggy door that opens to the outside, for the mother to get a break from the puppies or as the puppies get older, a place for them to go potty. This is a view from the outside of the whelping room. These puppies are now old enough to go in and out and use the potty in their shavings. On many occasions, once the puppies are weaned we will move the puppies - to our new kennel. Here if the weather is bad outside, the puppies will learn to go only in thier litter box. This room is plenty large enough for the puppies to get lots of playtime outside of their kennel but not have to go outside in the cold. They also get TONS of visitors and attention from all our riding lesson families! Once you take your new puppy home, we recommend you set up something like this. In our home we use a 48" crate with a litter box and a dog bed. This way the puppy can still use the potty even if I can not get him outside. This not only keeps the bed clean, but gives your puppy something to lay on. As you see Pazley loves it up there! Keep the side height around or under 6 inches. If you have a very small puppy you may wish to cut a doorway into the box, as shown above in our crate. Please take your new puppy outside to potty as much as possible and reward them Greatly when they go!! Please feel free to call me with any questions!! Pin It Dogs have been living side by side with people since people were still nomadic. It seems equally unsurprising that studies have recently shown that dogs, on the whole, prefer women to men. Our modern lives have taken us out of caves, given us rabies vaccines, the 19th Amendment and introduced some new problems. Work hours are long. The night is dark. Weather can be inclement. Be that as it may, litter training works best for small breed dogs and puppies. The idea of a Great Dane using a litter box is comical but also a logistical nightmare if you think about it. The first option is the most obvious: a conventional litter box. A dog box is bigger than a cat box, has higher sides and no top. Most dog litter is made of recycled newspaper but there are also clay options. Next up is the pee pad holder. They have plastic undersides and are absorbent to soak up and contain any urine. They are designed for use during housebreaking and were meant to replace the tradition of puppies peeing on newspapers. The problem? Dogs love to shred them and scatter the bits through the house like gross confetti. I think my dog could figure it out. He loves puzzles. Plastic grate-style litter boxes will be the first one I try next time I have a puppy. When your puppy needs to use the loo they just hop up and do what they came to do. The solid waste stays on top of the grate so you can pick it up and do whatever you do with poop. Personally, I flush it. The urine goes down into the shallow box where it is absorbed by either a pee pad or litter, depending on the model. One of the more high-tech offerings is Fresh Patch, which made its debut on Shark Tank and is hydroponically grown grass in a box. Hydroponic means it was grown without dirt. No dirt means no digging. Your dog is supposed to pee and poop in it until the grass gives up the ghost and dies. Then you throw the whole biodegradable mess away. Dogs love it. It can get pricey depending on how often you replace the grass and the size of your dog. If you have one dog, the grass needs replaced every two to three weeks. The price is based on the size of the box, which is based on the size of your dog. Can you put a price on not stepping in a puddle? There are also synthetic grass options that you wash and reuse instead of tossing and replacing, which is more economical. Watch for signs the puppy needs to go, such as sniffing or beginning to squat. Puppies should be taken potty once an hour for the first week; then gradually increase the length of time between potty times. The puppy should also be taken potty 15 minutes after every meal until he starts taking himself. When this happens, praise your puppy like he just discovered gold in your backyard. A high-value treat helps, too. If your puppy has an accident, make sure you clean it with something designed to clean up pet urine, though, or this will be a recurring problem. Yelling at the puppy, rubbing his nose in the accident or hitting the puppy will do nothing but confuse him. The most important part is to be consistent and patient. It teaches the dog that there is a designated spot to potty making it easier for the new owner to potty train their new puppy. Contrary to some beliefs, potty training a puppy should start with the breeder very early in life. It is very important at 3 to 3. It is not really a natural thing for a dog to pee or poop in his crate. Wolf mothers are meticulous about keeping the "nest" very clean. This causes an aversion to poop and pee. When this is done right, by the time the buyer purchases the pup, he will already be ready to not pee in his crate or bed, as they do not pee or poop where they eat or where they sleep. So believe it or not, what goes on from the time of birth to the time you buy the pup plays a big role on the young life and what a buyer will be faced with. This in return not only helps the breeder keep the whelping area clean, it makes the puppy easier to housebreak once they go to their new homes. A win-win for everyone.Within these pages she explains step-by-step how the method works. This means there are a designated potty area, a place to eat and play, and a place to sleep. You can see that I have now changed the room around, and have made it bigger. The potty area should be the farthest away, as when you enter the room, they all jump at you, and want up, and you do not want them jumping in their poop. The bed area should be nearest to where you enter the room. The pups decide to take a nap and many of them, on their own, gather into the sleeping area. If you look to the left, on the paper , you can see that many have gone over there to pee before going for a nap. After puppies eat, they naturally feel the need to eliminate. What a good puppy! This is the first step toward potting training a puppy. Potty training should start with the breeder. Puppies raised using this method are easier to housebreak and have fewer accidents in the house, as you are distilling the concept of housebreaking to them at a very young age. They learn from the start there is a place to sleep, a place to play, a place to eat and a place to eliminate and they will carry this concept with them after they leave the breeder. Puppies who are raised in cages where the areas are not separated do not understand this concept. They learn they can eliminate anywhere they wish at any time they wish. Then, after you take them home, you suddenly expect them to understand they cannot pee and poo in the house. Above, puppy pee. The potty area is lined with long sheets of paper that can be rolled up for easy cleanup. This is roll ends of newsprint. Newspaper does work, but the ink can transfer onto the dogs and for white pups this is not good. I like to wait till they are four to five weeks old. For large-breed dogs, pine shavings work, but not for the small breeds. For small breeds, paper or puppy pads are best and you may need to weight it down, so they don't shred it, and if they try and shred it, you just have to say "NO. I cover the poop with a small piece of paper so the others do not walk in it. The place where you sleep and the place where you play are not the same place you poop and pee. As a result, the owners of these pups will have an easier time housetraining their new puppy. A brief summery of the Misty Method.Make sure the lip is low enough so the dam doesn't have to blindly leap in, but can aim her step in, and high enough so pups do not get out and get chilled. Kind of like removing the den door. THEN, you can move the potty area farther and farther away from the bed. Pups like it at opposite end. When they are 3 to 4 weeks, they will come out of their bed and pee right away, sometimes they only get their front feet out. After they are more mobile, you move the potty away from the bed area. I will line a litter box with paper, but not litter. Ideally at 6 to 7 weeks old, you will have an 8 x 10' area for small breeds or a larger area for large breeds with a bed in one corner, and food and potty at opposite sides of the pen. Note: The stools should never be soft, and never be mushy. If they are soft or mushy pudding-like ask the vet for enough wormer to worm all the puppies and mom. Take a stool sample in for testing. The stool shouldn't smell horribly bad. If the stool is not solid and it smells horrible, you want to check for stool Coccidia coccidiosis. Loose stools also make the job of cleaning up after your pups ten times harder. Stools should be like little chocolate bars. It is normal to have bouts of soft stool, but do not let it continue on an ongoing basis. Find out why, and get them solid again. Otherwise, they will run through it, and it becomes a real mess as they track it everywhere. About 8, 9, 10 weeks After about 8, 9, 10 weeks of age, or when the puppy arrives at it's new home, the dog should be taught to go potty outside. Do not have paper or potty pads inside your home. Peeing is for outside only, or you are teaching your new pup it is okay to potty inside your home. Take advantage of any early training the breeder hopefully has already done. Teach your pup to potty on a designated spot outdoors, making him think. After you bring home your new puppy the first thing you need to teach the pup is to walk to the door. Do not carry it. Make the puppy walk or it will not learn to alert you. Do not use treats when potty training as it takes the dog's focus off of the business at hand and puts it on the food. You do not want the dog's brain to be on food when it is time to relieve itself. This often causes a dog to not completely finish eliminating because the dog is looking and waiting for food. The dog will often come back inside the home and go to the bathroom again after just being out. Keep the focus on the task at hand. Dogs can feel when the humans are happy. This method is only for pups 3 to 8 weeks of age who have not yet left the breeder. Sleep area should NEVER have feces in it, you have to start changing that bedding every hour if needed. If a puppy poops, you cannot just pick it up, as the smell will remain. Also, if they walk in the poop, and then walk on their bedding, they have put feces smell on the blankets, so I also cover the poop with a small piece of paper so the others do not walk in it. Mom continues to eat the elimination matter and my pups are four weeks old, is this normal? Yes, this is normal. Some dams quit the second you start to feed the puppies; others can continue for a week. When the pups actually use the potty pads in the potty area, they step in the feces and track it all over the pen.This is why I personally do not use pee pads. I use un-inked roll ends of paper, and every time a puppy poops, I cover it. For large breeds I use the shavings, because if a puppy gets feces on his feet, and tracks that smell into the bed or play area, another puppy will smell it, and eliminate there. A WEEK of constant supervision and you have them trained, and if you do not, you have weeks of overload work ahead of you. I would put in a couple crates with clean bedding, and have the rest paper. NO play area on the first day of potty training. Then slowly make a play area, each day making it a little bigger.A couple of the pups actually sleep ON the used potty pads.I cover the used ones up as fast as I can. You want the potty area to smell like a potty, yuck for a few days, and you want bedding area to smell clean. Just a guess of what is happening is this: pups eliminate on a pee pad and step in it, and then track the smell to play area and bed. I am looking for one of those weaning bras for my dog and can't find them anywhere. Where do you get them? For small dogs you can use a human baby onesies suit. For the bigger dogs, you need to get a t-shirt, fairly large, and then you buy a bed sheet clamping holder sheet straps. They are about six inches long, and they sell them in the store, to put on the corner of flat sheets in order to turn them into fitted sheets. They are elasticized. They have the clamps on the end, like ladies used to wear to hold their stockings up. You just cinch the t-shirt on with them, but it may be hard to cover the bottom two teats. At six weeks, the puppies do very well eliminating where they are supposed to MOST of the time. However, they don't have a complete aversion to mess. I routinely see them spending time in the potty area sleeping or chewing a toy or playing with another puppy that is in there to "go. It is portable and I put it over the paper. It acts as a paper weight, so they cannot drag the paper and when they are playing, they run, and hit the wall, and don't play on the paper. And by 6. It works awesome. Still the odd one goes in there to play. I have four-week-old puppies. How long does it take them to figure out to go to the pee pads? I have had it there for five days and it is hit and miss, still peeing on sleeping area. You don't want them to pee on their sleeping area. Ideally you catch them before they start, and then it takes about three or four days of being extremely consistent and changing the bedding as soon as one has a boo-boo. After three days of fresh-smelling bedding and paper that smells like pee, they get it. I do not have much luck with pee pads. They don't work as well as the un-inked paper. I find, with the un-inked paper, you can cover the paper with another piece of paper, and cover the poop and pee, leaving the scent of pee, without them tracking it back to their bed. BUT, if you put a pee pad over a pee pad, it masks the scent. If you can get a pee pad with just pee, and pick up the poop but leave skid marks, it may work. I just find that leaving the bed smelling fresh and the potty area clean but smelling of pee helps for the first four days, just till they get it; they do not pee in their bed, and if they step on the pee pad and it is saturated, and their feet get covered in pee, they track it too their bed. Wake them up every couple hours and put them out on the paper: don't let them back into the bed area until they pee ON the paper. I have 5. They are really, really noisy at night lately. Is there anything I can do? They literally yell for what seems like hours. They are likely hungry and mom is likely not wanting to go feed them at night. She should but they have teeth, so you need to give them a big meal at bedtime, and a good late play. Then to bed. The lights out with no stimulation. This is the harder stage and a reason puppy mills and backyard breeders want to let the pups go at 5. This is a learning stage for them. The play area stays during the day and you slowly make it bigger, but you can take it away at night to teach them night is for sleeping. I started at 2. They are five weeks old now! I had a whelping box in the area until yesterday. I wanted the puppies that are getting crate trained to get used to crates so they were not scared when they go to their forever homes. I used many tips of yours throughout Sasha's pregnancy and whelping.
This fact alone makes it difficult to judge whether or not your pug is going into labour. Because dogs can't verbally communicate the changes in their body or the feelings they're experiencing, owners of expectant female dogs must be vigilant in observing the physical signs of impending labour. While the signs that a pug is about to have puppies can vary from dog to dog, there are several telltale signs of labour common across all dogs that pug owners can watch for. A pug can't tell you what's going on with its body. Consult your calendar. Pugs are pregnant for an average of 63 days from the date of conception, but this varies from dog to dog. Pugs can give birth anywhere from 50 to 75 days after the date of conception. Become more alert and observant of your dog around the 50th day of gestation. Check your dog's temperature. The average temperature of a pug when taken rectally is between .A dog's temperature drops below degrees approximately 24 hours prior to labour. Look for vomiting over a period of two to three days. Hormonal changes and the need for an empty stomach during birth encourage an upset stomach and vomiting in pugs two to three days prior to labour. Monitor your pug's food intake. Expectant pugs will typically reject food the day before going into labour. Watch for signs of nesting. Expectant dogs seek out isolated spots to give birth to their puppies. Dogs in nature, including pugs, are den animals. As such, they search out quiet, comfortable, protected spots to go into labour. Pugs about to go into labour may drag blankets, socks, shirts or other fabric items to their chosen spot prior to giving birth. Observe any changes in behaviour. Pugs about to have puppies may follow you around and stick close to you at all times. Other expectant pugs may become snippy or slightly aggressive prior to the birth of their puppies. Pugs become extremely restless and uncomfortable a maximum of 12 hours before having puppies. Note any odd actions. Pacing, panting, whining and shivering without provocation are signs that the pug is entering the first stage of labour. Look for a gush of straw-coloured fluid coming from the pug's vaginal canal. This is a sign that the placental water sack has ruptured. The first pug puppy is usually born 10 to 30 minutes after this occurs. WARNING Seek emergency veterinary medical attention immediately if your pug does not start labour within 24 hours of a significant drop in body temperature, appears to be in a great deal of pain or takes more than a four hour break between delivering each pup. These signs are indicative of a complicated labour that could have deadly consequences for your dog or her pups. Understanding what to expect will make you more useful if an emergency arises. Pugs have heads that are much larger in relation to their bodies than many other breeds, and this genetic trait can cause a higher risk of complications and the need for a caesarean section. Your veterinarian will supervise your pug's pregnancy and decide on the safest delivery option. The entire process may only require you to stand by and watch, but be ready to step in and assist or call for professional help as needed. Take your pug to the veterinarian for confirmation of pregnancy. Your vet will determine the necessity of a caesarean section depending on your dog's conformation. Later on the pregnancy you can have X-rays done to determine the size of the litter. Keep your pug up-to-date on its vaccinations. Ensure that it has been dewormed and is checked for the Brucella bacteria, which is infectious to humans and can cause abortion in canines. Proper nutrition and prenatal care is important. Gradually change your pug's diet to a high-quality food that promotes growth and is targeted toward pregnant and lactating dogs. The whelping box should ideally be easy to clean and provide easy access for the mother but securely contain the newborn pups. Place the whelping box in an out of the way area that is warm and quiet. Get the mother used to the whelping box by placing it in the box regularly and giving it a treat there, so it develops a positive association with the box and knows to go there during labour. Pugs have a strong natural instinct to nest before giving birth, and their temperament and love of treats makes training them to use the whelping box easier than other breeds. Create a whelping box for the mother composed of wood, plastic or even thick cardboard. Body temperature will alert you to imminent labour. Normal canine body temperature is .A mother about to go into labour almost always experiences a drop in body temperature to .As labour draws even nearer, your pug will begin to become restless and possibly vomit. At this point, place the mother in the whelping box. Labor should begin shortly after this. The puppies' large heads prolong labour, which typically lasts six to 12 hours. If your veterinarian recommended a caesarean for your pug, it will probably be scheduled in advance. Make sure it is a side and not a central cut, to expedite nursing. If you have planned a home birth, stay close to your pug to make sure all is well. If labour seems not to have made any progress in two hours, or your pug has not begun whelping within 24 hours, contact your veterinarian for assistance. When the day of birth draws near, begin taking the mother's temperature twice a day. The first puppy should be born within two hours of the beginning of labour. If not, contact your veterinarian. Usually, the mother will begin a period of rest up to four hours after the first puppy is born, but sometimes will have immediate subsequent births. After the delivery of each puppy, the mother will also deliver a placenta. Visible contractions signal the start of normal labour. Count the placentas and puppies and make certain there are an equal number of both. Undelivered placentas can make the mother dog dangerously ill. She should chew through the umbilical cord as well. The mother should lick and chew the puppies out of the amniotic sac as soon as they are born if they are still surrounded by it. Due to their short snouts, pugs can have problems tearing the sac or chewing through the cord. If the pups or mother are unable to break the sac, step in and tear it yourself by rubbing the puppy gently with a clean, dry towel. Immediately after the birth of each puppy, the mother should vigorously lick and clean it. If it does not start breathing, suction mucous from its nose with an infant-sized suction bulb and keep rubbing it. If the mother is unable or unwilling to chew through the umbilical cord, you need to tie off the cord with silk thread and cut it with a pair of clean scissors. Check the status of mother and puppies every hour or so. Pugs are notoriously bad mothers, so make sure that the mother has accepted all the puppies and that each is nursing well. Help your pug to find a comfortable nursing position. Depending on her maternal skills and postpartum condition, you may have to do everything for her, from feeding to cleaning the babies. Do not leave the mother alone with her babies until you're confident she's recuperating well and able to take good care of the puppies on her own. Line the whelping box with fresh bedding and give your pug a light meal and plenty of water in the immediate postpartum period. Introduction Pug giving birth for the first time can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. It can also be quite a challenge, so it is important to be prepared. Before the birth, you should talk to your vet to ensure your pug is healthy and ready for labor. During labor, you will need to be present to help ensure a safe delivery. After the birth, you should check on the mother and the puppies to make sure they are healthy. With some preparation and care, you can help ensure a safe and successful delivery for your pug and her puppies. What to Expect When your pug gives birth for the first time, you should expect an exciting yet challenging experience. Preparing beforehand is key to making sure you and your pug are ready for the big day. During labor, your pug will need your support and the birth process can take several hours. Make sure to keep your pug comfortable and monitor her health, and for the puppies, make sure they are eating properly and are growing well. With the right preparation and care, your pug and her puppies can have a successful first birthing experience. You should also get the birthing crate ready and make sure you have a thermometer, towels, and hot water bottles on hand. During labor, you should stay with your pug and help her out as much as possible. Make sure to contact your vet if you have any questions or concerns. Make sure your pug is in good health and up to date with vaccinations. Have all the supplies you need ready and at hand, including some extra food and a few blankets. Contact your vet to make sure they are available in case of an emergency. Familiarize yourself with the birthing process so you know what to expect. Your vet will be able to answer any questions you have, and give you advice on what to expect during the birth. They will also be able to administer some medications to help with labor and delivery, if necessary. If your pug has any underlying health issues, your vet will be able to advise on how best to keep them safe and healthy during their pregnancy. During Labor During labor, your pug may display signs of restlessness, pacing, panting and discomfort. If the labor process seems to be taking longer than expected, contact your vet for advice. During labor, keep your pug comfortable and provide encouragement, but let her do the work. Offer her food and water in small amounts as she may not have much of an appetite. If it seems too slow or too fast, contact your vet for advice. Birth Process Once your pug enters labor, expect her to deliver her puppies within hours. It is important to be patient and monitor your pug during this time. Ensure she has access to food and water and plenty of clean bedding. Note any unusual discomforts your pug expresses and take her to the vet if necessary. During the birth, it is important to stay with your pug and support her. Check the puppies for any signs of distress and help to move the puppies from the birth canal if needed. Be prepared to provide assistance with the delivery of any stuck puppies. Be patient and remain calm and comforting during this process. After the puppies are born, be sure to check and record how many were born, the gender of the puppies and any other signs of distress. Keep a watchful eye over the puppies and make sure that the new mother is adequately caring for them. Congratulate yourself for a job well done! Make sure the area is kept warm and that the mother is able to nurse the puppies. Monitor the puppies regularly and keep an eye out for any complications. Make sure to check the puppies for any deformities or health issues, and keep them clean and free of fleas. Bathing them can help keep them healthy, as well as helping to prevent fleas. Feeding them a high-quality puppy food will also help them develop properly. Keep the puppies in a quiet, safe environment, and make sure they have access to plenty of toys to keep them active and engaged. Socializing them is also important; spend a little time each day playing with them and getting them used to human contact. This will help them become well-adjusted, friendly adult pugs. Recovery Recovery is an important stage of the birthing process. For the mother, it is the time to replenish strength and energy after labor. She will also need to rest and stay in a quiet area to ensure she recovers well. To ensure a smooth recovery, provide your pug with a comfortable nesting place, clean bedding, and plenty of fresh food and water. For the puppies to thrive, their mother needs to be in good health. Offer your pug plenty of love and attention, as emotional support is just as important as physical care. You may also need to help her with feeding her pups until they are able to eat on their own. It is important to keep the puppies and their mother in a clean and safe area. Make sure to keep the puppies warm, as they are unable to regulate their own body temperature. Look out for signs of infection or illness in both your pug and the puppies. After delivery, it is normal for the mother to be exhausted and weak. It is also normal for her to lack appetite. She may also feel disoriented and be in pain. Make sure she is given a warm, clean place to rest. Keep a check on her temperature and monitor her urination and defecation regularly. Make sure she is well-hydrated, and give her meals that are rich in vitamins and minerals. If your pug is having trouble recovering, contact your veterinarian immediately. If you notice any signs of distress or unusual behaviors, keep a close eye on her and, if necessary, seek professional help. Monitor her activities and make sure that she is not straining herself. With proper care and attention, your pug should make a full recovery. Make sure the mother has plenty of food and water, and keep the puppies safe and comfortable in a warm and clean environment. You should also be aware of any health issues the puppies may have. Check their eyes, ears, and fur for any signs of infection, and be sure to handle them with care to avoid any accidental injuries. If you notice any unusual behaviors or signs of distress, take them to the vet for further examination. Take some time to socialize your puppies with other animals and people, so they can become comfortable with them. Post Views: .Pug Dog Pregnancy Overview Whether you are purposefully breeding or your Pug may have accidentally become pregnant, this page will guide you through the basics of what to expect, how to know a Pug is pregnant, the labor process and care. Signs that a Pug is Pregnant You might be wondering if your Pug is pregnant and perhaps you can not get an appointment with the vet immediately. A dog's pregnancy is a fast one compared to humans; therefore a dog will show signs of being pregnant very quickly. The following are signs and symptoms that a Pug is pregnant: Week 1 - At this early stage, there will usually be no signs. Towards the end of Week 1, some dogs may have slight nausea that causes a decreased appetite. Some will be minimal, causing you to question if there are truly changes: She may be more tired than usual Her stomach may seem slightly swollen She may clean herself much more than normal Her nipples on her tummy seem larger than before During Week 2 there may still be some 'morning sickness' that causes nausea. This is often fleeting and a stronger, more heartier appetite will emerge as she transitions into Week 3 Week 4 - Signs are now very clear: The Pug's stomach will be distended, clearly showing that she is carrying a litter Her nipples will be enlarged and darkened as her body prepares for nursing; some that were previously flush with the skin will now be popped out. For those that have had been bred before, nipples may hang down as they fill with colostrum She will have strong nesting tendencies, wanting to prepare for the impending birth. Her appetite will have increased greatly. Pregnant dogs often eat up to twice as much as normal at this point. Weeks 5 and 6: Nearing the end of the gestation period, a Pug may shows the following signs: She may tired out very easily now The Pug often wants to remain at home and will usually be less social. This will be comprised of not just the pups each will be under one pound, weighing only mere ounces but also will fluids water, amniotic fluids and tissue amniotic sacs that surround each fetus. Wubbzy after giving birth - nursing her newborns Photo courtesy of Laura Velez Pug Pregnancy Facts A Pug will be pregnant for an average of 63 days, a range of 60 to 65 days is considered normal If your Pug is pregnant for more than 67 days, be sure to bring her to the veterinarian The average sized litter for Pugs is 4 to 6 puppies, though this can vary from 1 to 9 and still be considered normal. An x-ray ultrasounds are not typically done performed after 6 weeks the fetus's bones are not calcified before then will show you how many puppies there will be - this is very important so that you know that all came out during the birthing process Possible Risks 1 Since a Pug dog has a large head in comparison to its body, there is a chance that the dam will need to have a cesarean section. As soon as you know your dog is pregnant, you must have your veterinarian keep a close eye on her progress. Her hips and pelvis will be evaluated and judged if there is enough width for a natural birth. Your vet may choose to plan a C-Section or wait to see if there are any warning signs that the pups will not fit through the birth canal based on how many fetuses there are and their predicted size at the time of delivery. Their appetite will increase around week 3 or 4. Do not be concerned about feeding her too much at this time; she will crave the necessary calories needed for her pups and it will be your job to supply them. Everything that your Pug eats will be transferred to her growing puppies; therefore she should be allowed to eat as much as she wishes, when she wishes. Do please be sure to keep these meals and snack on the healthy side. While pregnant dogs do need a bit more fat in the diet, the goal is to increase nutrients while keeping food wholesome and healthy. Following home cooking suggestions, adding fresh raw baby carrots or steamed potatoes can be nutritious add-on ingredients to her diet. Supplements- There is no need to offer her additional vitamins and mineral supplements; and in fact doing so can cause health issues to both her and the fetuses. Do not give her extra calcium - This has been shown to: Increase her odds of developing eclampsia - a dangerous, life-threatening condition involving seizures and high blood pressure More difficult delivery Joint abnormalities in the puppies "Tiny little newborn Pug puppy" Tinkerbell Photo courtesy of: Laura Valez Activity - Unless there are any exercise restrictions set in place by the veterinarian, you will want to continue to walk your Pug daily at a nice pace; albeit perhaps a bit slower. This will allow her to stay fit and becoming sedentary can lead to a sore joints and muscles. Do not allow her to jump down from the sofa or any other height that would cause a jarring this should be the rule for all Pugs. During the final 2 weeks - depending on how many pups she is carrying - she may have trouble maneuvering around and walks can be put on pause at this time. Comfort - If your Pug has been sleeping in your bed, she will need her own personal space now. Her instinct to nest will be strong and the pregnancy will cause her to want to retreat to a 'nest' to rest. A quality canine bed with one or two soft baby blankets these are a good size for a dog to use as nesting materials , set in the corner of the family room will do just fine. Be sure to not set her up too far away from the 'action' as this will cause her to feel isolated and stressed. Other Dogs - If the sire is in the house, separate the two dogs starting at the beginning of Week 5. He can re-join her when the pups are 4 weeks old - with your supervision. Once they are fully weaned, he can have full access. If your pregnant Pug seems to be bothered by the presence of other dogs in the house male or female , surround her resting spot with portable baby gates. Your Dog Giving Birth At Home If it is determined by your vet that your Pug is able to give birth at home, you can prepare for this by sectioning off a quite corner in a room or creating a whelping box by placing a large canine bed inside a good-sized cardboard box with one side cut out for access. The bottom of the whelping box can have plastic layering placed down, followed by layers of clean newspaper; as the papers become bloodied and soaked with fluid, they can be quickly removed, revealing fresh paper. Supplies In the prepared room, be sure to have all supplies close at hand. If possible, have an assistant with you since this is not a job that one should handle alone. The items that you should have are: -Clean towels. Pug pregnancy symptoms and early signs Pregnant Pug symptoms We understand how difficult it can be to determine whether your Pug is pregnant or not. Luckily, there are several early signs of a Pug pregnancy. Below is a list of pregnant Pug symptoms and early signs: A pregnant Pug will not eat as much as before. At times, she may not want to eat her meals at all. This usually happens around 2 weeks or 14 days after being inseminated. Instead of being energetic and playful, a pregnant pug starts to feel lethargic and tired. These symptoms and early signs are just a few we listed. Many veterinarians and Pug breeders will perform a series of tests and exams to fully confirm that your Pug is pregnant, including blood work, ultrasounds, and x-rays. How can I tell if my pug is pregnant? Here, we will explain two main methods that will provide you with full proof that your Pug is pregnant. Pug ultrasound 25 days after conception If you suspect your Pug is pregnant, call your vet and bring your Pug to the vet. At the vet, a Pug ultrasound will be performed. Usually, the ultrasound can be done as early as 3 weeks or 21 days after partnering. There are pros and cons to using the ultrasound method. While it should be painless, it can also be uncomfortable for the pregnant Pug. Some Pugs may tense up and feel vulnerable with the vet touching their belly. All of this can stress out your precious Pug. Pug ultrasound can also be costly to owners on a budget. Blood test at 35 days 5 weeks after conception Another way to fully confirm that your Pug is pregnant is by having a blood test. The blood test is vital to confirm whether your Pug is pregnant or not because it can help to detect pregnancy hormones in Pugs. There are also pros and cons to getting a blood test. The con is that if the blood test is done too early on, it may not always be accurate. Take a Pug that is less than 5 weeks or 35 days pregnant as an example. If blood work is done, it may show a negative result even though your Pug is in fact pregnant, albeit at the early stages. Save Big On Dog Essentials! Welcome to our pack! What is the most reliable Pug pregnancy test? While the Pug ultrasound is more expensive than the blood test, it is definitely the most accurate way to confirm that your Pug is indeed pregnant. Keep in mind that it is best to wait 25 days post-partnering to get the ultrasound done or else the ultrasound scan might be a complete waste of money as it may give you an incorrect result. The ultrasound scan images can also show you how many puppies your Pug is expecting. How long are Pugs pregnant? How long are Pugs pregnant for? By the third week of the pregnancy, your pregnant Pug will start to show signs of pregnancy we mentioned before such as not eating as much, skipping meals here and there, stomach getting bigger, and feeling more tired and lethargic than before. In addition to these early signs, you can also expect the following in your pregnant Pug: Your Pug may have canine morning sickness. Instead of eating less and losing appetite that occurs earlier in the pregnancy, your Pug is now gaining back her appetite and may in fact eat more than normal. Your Pug may not want to walk, play, or exercise as much as before. Seeking comfort and care during the pregnancy, your Pug may want you to pet her more and cuddle with her more. During the 4th week, you may notice a clear discharge from your pregnant Pug. Again, some pregnant Pugs may experience one of these symptoms while others may experience all of these symptoms. No two pregnant Pugs are alike so the pregnancy symptoms will vary. Since this is just the early stages, it can be hard to tell. Month 2 Things get more exciting and interesting during the second month. This is when the signs of Pug pregnancy really start to speed up. For instance, between the 32nd day to the 35th day, the fetuses will start to have toes and eyelids. The pregnant Pug is in for a ride because the fetuses are developing very quickly during month 2. On the 50th day, we highly recommend that you bring your pregnant Pug to the vet for an X-ray. This X-ray will inform you of how many puppies your pregnant Pug is expecting. This information is crucial because it helps you as the owner or breeder to prepare and plan according to the litter size. This is normal behavior that pregnant dogs naturally exhibit because they are trying to look for a comfortable and safe spot to give birth to their puppies. We recommend that owners and breeders add comfortable and soft cushions and bedding for their pregnant Pug. This will help the Pug feel more safe and secure during her pregnancy and leading into labor. At this stage, here are some signs of Pug pregnancy you can expect: Eating more than her usual amount. Around the 45th day, your pregnant Pug will lose her appetite for food again and eat less than usual. A significant weight gain due to pregnancy. Urinating more often than usual. Month 3 The third month is both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially for first-time owners and owners that did not expect their Pugs to become pregnant. At this point, you know your Pug is definitely pregnant. During month 3, the Pug will be giving birth to her puppies. Here are some signs to look for during month 3: As the puppies inside the pregnant Pug move into position, her waist will get slimmer than before. As the pregnant Pug prepares for pregnancy during days 61 and 62, she may not want to eat as much as before. Instead of lethargy, your Pug will start to circle around, become restless, and may even get agitated. We will share a bit more tips so that you are prepared and know what to do while your Pug is pregnant. How long do Pugs stay pregnant? Pugs will stay pregnant for about 58 to 68 days. You can expect a Pug to be pregnant for an average length of about 63 days and this is from the date of her conception to the date of delivery. Owners and breeders can expect both behavioral changes as well as physical changes. Pregnant Pugs does not want to see or socialize with other pets or dogs in the house. It may seem that your pregnant Pug is lethargic, but she may in fact be calmer than usual and less tense than before. Try to keep her space nice, tidy, and comfortable. Expect your pregnant Pug to sleep more often and in different places around the house. How to prepare for a Pug pregnancy Preparation is key when your Pug is expecting. Puppy kibble is great because they are nutritious that would be helpful to the developing puppies inside her. Expect your pregnant Pug to feel lethargic and tired and may not want to walk or exercise as much. This is natural so owners and breeders should not over-exert their pregnant Pug. Your pregnant Pug may also have a difficult time breathing and may pant heavily so avoid over-exerting your precious pregnant Pug. On month 3, start preparing and make her crate comfortable and secure. Pug pregnancy and birth: How do Pugs give birth? Your vet will help you determine whether C-section is the best option. C-sections can be costly for those owners on a budget. Before the C-Section, the vet will administer the anesthetic first. This costly birthing method is one of the reasons why Pug puppies are so expensive. Natural birth So, can Pugs give birth naturally? Yes, if after consulting with your vet, both you and your vet agree that the natural birth is fine. By this time, her nest should be ready for her to give birth in. She will then lie down and pant heavily as if she was just running. This is normal. She is breathing heavily and her heart rate starts to increase. Labor can be strenuous and long. Sometimes the first puppy may not appear until 12 hours into labor. Once she has delivered her puppy one at a time , the mommy Pug will immediately nibble at the sack and lick the gooey sack away from her puppy. This is important because it allows the newborn puppy to breathe. Some mommy Pug may start to eat away at the umbilical cords and sack. Final thoughts If you suspect your Pug is pregnant, try your best to figure out when your Pug first became pregnant. This way, you can prepare and feed her accordingly. If you have a pregnant Pup, I hope this article was helpful and I wish you both all the very best! No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
The Labradoodle has these qualities too. This makes them the perfect family pet. Unfortunately, not all breeders care about producing healthy canines or matching their dogs with suitable owners. Here are five signs to look for when searching for a breeder. Look for a breeder that breeds only one specific kind of mix—like the Labradoodle. Choose a breeder who is unwilling to meet or speak with you about their dogs. They should be eager to answer your questions over the phone and via email. Check out each dog yourself before leaving with a pup. Avoid breeders who keep their dogs in cages or kennels. Dogs kept in these conditions can become neurotic and destructive. Beware of breeders who offer puppies at a very low price. This could signify that the breeder is not breeding for quality but profit. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Bel Air Maryland and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. Then, consider reaching out to Autumn Lane Doodles for puppies raised in a healthy, loving environment. Teresa Gillis and her socialize every individual puppy with other people and animals without confining them into a kennel. In addition, the puppies get temperament checks at seven weeks of age to determine which applicant families would suit them best. Like most Labradoodle breeders in Maryland, Teresa lets applicants take the puppies home after eight weeks with their most recent veterinary records. The puppies start their crate and potty training at about six weeks. Knowledge of the Breed Seasoned breeders should have extensive knowledge and experience raising Labradoodles to produce healthy litters that meet breed standards. Consider asking your breeder lots of questions if you need some insight on how to keep your dog in top condition. Breeders with connections to several Labradoodle organizations, like the Australian Labradoodle Association of America, should also give buyers a great impression of their passion for this designer breed. They Prioritize Application Evaluations Responsible Labradoodle breeders in Maryland should evaluate each submitted application and screen potential owners to see if their home is the right fit for their pups. Approved applicants usually hear back from breeders via email or a phone call within a few days. Limited litters allow breeders to dedicate equal attention to each puppy. Lifetime Support The best Labradoodle breeders in Maryland can keep in touch after new owners take their pups home. Warning Signs of Puppy Mills Since Labradoodles are a popular mixed breed for avid dog lovers, some people prioritize breeding litters for profit instead of health or quality. As a result, puppy mills keep their breedable mothers in cramped, dirty living conditions while churning out one litter after the other. Some common red flags to look out for include: Refusing to answer your questions Selling their pups to pet shops Selling Labradoodles that are less than eight weeks old A breeder with limited knowledge of the breed Giving the puppy to you in a distant, disclosed location How Much Do Labradoodle Breeders in Maryland Charge for Their Puppies? When comparing your top options for breeders offering Labradoodle puppies for sale in Maryland, you might notice that their price ranges vary. Several factors can impact A collar for each puppy. For instance, Labradoodles with a multigen lineage, rare coat color, and excellent health coverage can cost less than first-generation dogs with common coat colors. On the other hand, you may also try to find an available puppy from nearby places. Check out our lists of reputable breeders from neighboring states:. We only breed Australian Labradoodles. We are intentionally small, exclusive, and family-owned. It is our focus to protect the health and future of this breed. Our carefully planned breeding program is dedicated to quality, not quantity. We have a limited number of litters a year and take great pride in breeding these outstanding family companions, for a therapy dog temperament and a teddy bear personality. They are intelligent, intuitive, allergy and asthma friendly, with non-shedding coats. They are affectionate, lovable and make devoted family members. Our puppies are born in our home, in a warm and loving environment with many hands to help. Puppies have started potty-training and crate training before they go to their new families to help with a smooth transition. Puppies are well socialized with children and other dogs, playing, romping and exposed to many different stimuli, so they are emotionally well adjusted. All puppies are vet checked, dewormed, vaccinated and microchipped. Puppies are placed with temperament testing to ensure the best match with each family. Our dogs live in our home or with our trusted guardian families, living their best lives. In addition, they also have their DNA profiles run for positive identification. All our dogs live in our home or with our trusted guardian families. They all achieve the Canine Good Citizen award by 18 months of age. They are our constant companions, well loved and living their best life as we think they should. These admirable qualities among many others make them perfect family pets. They are active, smart and desire to be engaged with the humans they love and live with. They are very eager to please, making them well suited as spoilt family members, therapy dogs and assistance dogs. They are very loving, smart and the make best friends ever. Their eagerness to please and soulful nature makes them ideal as a family pet or for therapy work. They are full of cuddles, fun and faithful. They display a keen intuition about the emotional state of family members. They are non-shedding and allergy-friendly. Coats can be wavy, straight or curly. Our Guardian Program Our breeding dogs are the heart and soul of what we do, and to ensure we are doing the best for them, we want all our dogs to live in wonderful happy homes as treasured members of the family. Our guardian program is a partnership between us and chosen families which allows our dogs to live freely in loving homes with their forever people. Sonali took the time to get to know our situation and make suggestions that ultimately turned out to be right on target. Our family received very personal attention so that our dream puppy could become a reality. We love that big fur ball so much! He has been really easy to train, listens well, and has adapted to our family very nicely. Our experience with Cornerstone was flawless. Olive is such an incredible puppy and we are so blessed to have her. The puppy preparation info and class were very helpful.
german shepherd and rottweiler mix puppy - If that describes your next ideal pet, then take a look at our Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale! Known as a designer breed because it is a cross between a toy or miniature Poodle and a Golden Retriever, Mini Goldendoodles combine the best of both breeds. Mini Goldendoodle puppies have the friendliness and affection of Golden Retrievers combined with the intelligence and hypoallergic traits of Poodles. If you want a Mini Goldendoodle for your home, then purchase a Mini Goldendoodle puppy today! Click here to view our standard Goldendoodle puppies for sale or Mini Poodle puppies for sale. If you want to learn more about the general Goldendoodle breed, you can also read our Ultimate Guide to Goldendoodles. Friendly: Mini Goldendoodles love both humans and other animals. As a result, they do not make good guard dogs and sometimes get separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. Affectionate: Even though they are friendly to strangers, Mini Goldendoodles still have a special bond with their owners. They quickly become attached to people they spend a lot of time with, and they never tire of being with their owners and family. Small Size: Mini Goldendoodles are a smaller size and weight which makes them better suited for apartments and small homes. Sociable: Mini Goldendoodles love spending time with humans, and they play well with the family and children. No matter what the family is doing, Mini Goldendoodles want to be a part of the action! Trainable: With their friendly temperament and intelligence, Mini Goldendoodles are one of the easier breeds to train. They respond well to training that is done consistently and properly, and they soon become accustomed to house rules and expectations. Adaptable: Mini Goldendoodles can adapt well to different living environments, including apartments or houses with yards. However, they still require regular exercise and mental enrichment to thrive. They are quick learners and can excel in obedience training and various dog sports. In the mids, breeders began crossing Poodles with several breeds, the most popular being Labrador Retrievers and Cocker Spaniel. The resulting breeds, known as Labradoodles and Cockapoos, became popular in the United States, and especially among families. As a result, Golden Retrievers were bred with miniature and toy Poodles in the late s to create the Mini Goldendoodle breed. Mini Goldendoodles are still a relatively young breed, and many today are first-generation Mini Goldendoodles. As a result, the breed is not recognized by any major breed registry. While Mini Goldendoodles vary in size based on the size of the Poodle used, Mini Goldendoodles are an average inches in height at the shoulder and weigh pounds. Most Mini Goldendoodles live years. Because it is a hybrid breed, the exact coat markings and features do vary from puppy to puppy. However, most Mini Goldendoodles do favor the Poodle side of the breed and will often have the curlier, shorter hair of the Poodle. Even though they favor the coat of a Poodle, Mini Goldendoodles still require regular care and grooming. Their coats and skin usually create natural body oils, and this results in regular baths not being required unless the body is unnaturally dirty. Because they are still a young breed, not much is known specifically about the overall health of the Mini Goldendoodle breed. However, there are no known health risks, and if you choose a reputable breeder, your Mini Goldendoodle puppy should not have any significant health issues. Because of their long, floppy ears, it is also important to regularly check the ears for signs of infection. Whenever your Mini Goldendoodle gets wet, make sure the hair inside the ears completely dries out. Like all dogs, Mini Goldendoodles are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia. Hip and elbow dysplasia occurs when the leg or hip becomes weakened, and it can result in arthritis or lameness if not addressed. One of the best ways to prevent this is by keeping your dog from excessive running on hard surfaces. This is especially vital when they are a puppy. While Mini Goldendoodles are popular for being more hypoallergenic than Golden Retrievers, it does not mean they are entirely allergen-free. Allergens are caused by dander, which is dead skin cells. These skin cells are shed by any animal, including humans. Mini Goldendoodles will typically shed less than standard Golden Retrievers, but this does not eliminate dander or allergens. If you have a family member with allergen concerns, it is always good to consult with your family physician. A Standard Goldendoodle weighs lbs, whereas a Mini Goldendoodles weighs lbs. There are also Medium Goldendoodles, which are in between Standard and Min. Is there such a thing as a Toy Goldendoodle? Toy Goldendoodles are just really small Mini Goldendoodles and weigh 20 lbs or less. There are also Teacup Goldendoodles, which weigh less than 13 lbs. Are Mini Goldendoodles nicer than Standard Goldendoodles? However, their small size makes Mini Goldendoodles more manageable for many families, especially those with small children. Are Goldendoodles recognized by any major breed industry? Since Goldendoodles are a mixed and relatively new breed, they are not recognized by any major breed industry. Many breed agencies, such as the American Kennel Club, do not recognize designer breeds - breeds when a Poodle is mixed with another breed. Are Mini Goldendoodles yappy? Not usually. Mini Goldendoodles are occasional barkers, but not incessant yappers. They will warn you if someone is at the door, though. Do Mini Goldendoodles have an odor? In general, Goldendoodles are low-odor dogs, a trait they inherit from their Poodle parents. If you keep your Mini Goldendoodle trimmed and clean him regularly, you shouldn't have too many issues with odors. Are Mini Goldendoodles hyper? Mini Goldendoodles are not hyperactive. However, they are moderately active dogs and need daily play and exercise. Puppies are usually more hyper than adult dogs. Are they hard to housetrain? Mini Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and are usually fairly easy to train. Are they high maintenance? Mini Goldendoodles are fairly low maintenance. However, they are moderately active, so they need daily exercise. Also, their coats mat easily, so they need regular brushing. Which is better to own: a male or female Mini Goldendoodle? Some say that male dogs tend to be more stable and less prone to emotional swings than female dogs. However, personality varies from individual to individual, and both male and female Mini Goldendoodles make great companions! Similar Breeds. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Columbia Missouri and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Life Span Did You Know? Although this breed is very popular, it is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. As long as they are well-socialized, Miniature Goldendoodles tend to make excellent family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they will alert you of strangers at the door, they tend to warm up quickly as they are more interested in making friends and receiving attention. Mini Goldendoodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their smaller size makes them a great fit for apartment living or for bigger homes with yards where they can run. As long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well. These little dogs tend to do well in just about any climate. However, like any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their smaller size, you may need to gear up with some dog-friendly winter gear when temperatures start falling. Because this dog breed is loyal and people-oriented, they love to be in your company and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. This means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it early on. Instead, make sure your new Mini Goldendoodle puppy has an active role in your life. If you do need to leave them alone for a bit, make sure they have some comforting toys or challenging puzzles to keep them from getting bored. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests and clearances that have been done. The Mini Goldendoodles is a highly intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. They tend to be sensitive to tone of voice as well. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, a Mini Goldendoodle will strive to be obedient and impress you and tends to excel at almost any task. These traits make the Mini Goldendoodle one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Bathing is occasional and can often be relegated to the dog groomer that is recommended you visit every weeks. The groomer can help handle some of this during visits, but you will still need to do some maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed help prevent ear infections. Daily brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Although the parents of this breed have a lot of energy, a Mini Goldendoodle tends to sit in a more moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough for them. But, they are also likely to match their energy level to yours, so be prepared for some bursts of energy as well as plenty of cuddling on the couch. Fully-grown Mini Goldendoodles usually stand inches tall at the shoulder. A Miniature Goldendoodle puppy can vary in size based on the generation of the dog. The result is generally a dog that will range from pounds. Looking at the size of the parents for an F1 or F1-B puppy can be a good indication of what size to expect in a fully-grown Miniature Goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Goldendoodle Article.
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german shepherd and rottweiler mix puppy - Pug Dog Colors Overview Pugs can be found in four major colors, though not all are standard colors with certain kennel clubs. The two most common colors are fawn and black. Silver and apricot can also be seen with this breed, and while not standard colors per the AKC, these colors are indeed recognized by the FCI and other kennel clubs. Brindle Pugs do exist, though this is not without some controversy. All non-black Pugs have black masks and black ears. There are some unique color markings that can appear on Pugs which include the trace and the thumbprint, found only on non-black Pugs. This section will cover all of the details regarding Pug colors, both standard and alternate, as well as various markings and other color-related elements. But, of course, since other colors exist, an AKC Pug can be silver also known as silver-fawn , apricot also known as apricot-fawn , or even the rare and controversial brindle. If you have a Pug with a non-standard color silver-fawn, apricot, or even brindle , as of the time of this writing, if you register your Pug via postal mail not online and send in photos of your Pug that clearly shows the non-standard coat, the AKC will usually grant you a registration with the appropriate color or pattern listed as an alternate color. Though a Pug of any color can be registered, this does not mean the color is accepted in the show ring. For AKC conformation events, any color other than fawn or black is a disqualification. It should be noted that the AKC, which follows the guidelines set forth by the Pug Dog Club of America, used to accept both silver and apricot-fawn. If you are in the US, where most Pugs are either fawn or black, keep in mind that owners from 27 countries took part in the survey. Other well-recognized kennel clubs such as the FCI and KC make this much easier, since they accept apricot and silver coat colors in the show ring. And, the CKC allows distinction between fawn and sliver, by having 'silver-fawn' as an option. With these clubs, fawn is a light to medium cream. However, because the AKC will register a fawn as a fawn and an apricot or a silver as a fawn because they are non-black Pugs , but can also grant a registration for an apricot or silver to be as such via an alternate color, an AKC fawn Pug may truly be a fawn ranging from light cream to medium cream or technically be a silver or apricot more ahead on these colors. All non-black Pugs, including fawn, have black ears and black masks more ahead on this. Variances: Fawns are not always solid, there are variances in the coat. Many Pugs have a trace which is a stripe of back-tipped hairs running down the back that break up the fawn color. And, it is not uncommon for two shades of fawn to be seen within one coat; for example, a light cream fawn can blend into a light apricot-fawn. The wrinkles on a Pug are also responsible for color variances since a thumbprint may be present which is black fur in the creases and folds of the forehead. AKC Color Disqualification: Though fawn has a range of light to medium, the AKC does make it clear that anything other than fawn or black is a disqualification in the show ring. This refers to not only what the registration papers say but by what color is seen in person during the competition. Since there is sometimes a blurred line between silver and fawn or apricot and fawn, this can make things tricky. These colors are found all throughout the world, but in the US, show breeders focus on keeping the fawn a fawn without silver or apricot tones. Examples of Fawn Pugs: Dubi at 6 years old, a fawn Pug photo courtesy of Carmina Bautista Poppy, at 4 months old, a Pug with a combination of light and medium fawns photo courtesy of Maria Silver Fawn and Silver Overview: This is a color that is not overly common with Pugs; though, many owners of silver or silver fawn Pugs can easily be labeling their dogs as fawn, especially if that is what the registration papers state. Because, as the name implies, silver fawn is a type of fawn. It is very light and is in fact the lightest color that a Pug can be. The AKC does not recognize this as a standard color, but may grant a request for a silver-fawn Pug to be registered as such via an alternate color, and if so, generally only responds to requests that are sent via postal mail. Both the FCI and KC allow for silver and the CKC allows for silver-fawn; both are essentially the same coat color but are referred to with these different terms. With some other breeds, this sort of orange hue is referred to as fawn like with Boxers or as orange like with Pomeranians. But, with Pugs, this is a nice, shiny orange hue that is set apart from the more common fawn coat. It is very common for apricot Pugs to not be fully apricot; there may be some fawn or even an almost white color found in patches, most often on the chest. Though, just like silver or silver fawn, this is also a color that may be present in the coat, but owners refer to their Pugs as simply 'fawn', especially if that is what the registration papers deem the Pug to be. And, just like other non-standard AKC colors, an apricot Pug may be registered as a fawn or as an apricot if the owner requests for this alternate coloring to appear on the document. With the CKC, apricot is not its own color, but rather their definition of fawn includes all shades in the fawn family including light to deep apricot. Apricot Pugs have black masks and black ears. And, just like all non-black Pugs, a trace and a thumbprint are desired in the show ring of all well-recognized kennel clubs. Example of an Apricot Pug: Peggie, at 4 years old, a registered apricot Pug photo courtesy of Susi R Ludlow Black Pugs Overview: It is rather amazing how very different the two main colors of Pugs are; fawn is a very light cream with black ears and mask, and black Pugs are just about the complete opposite with a rich, dark black coat. Of course, the ears and mask are black too, but there is no discernible difference since the entire Pug is black. Many black Pugs have solid coats, but it is possible for there to be a small white marking; if this is present, it is usually on the chest. As Pugs age into their senior years, gray hairs may appear on the face or in different areas of the body and this is much more noticeable with black Pugs. Examples of Black Pugs: Henry, at 10 months old photo courtesy of Maxine Aird Pearl photo courtesy of Saz Race Wonder how much exercise Pugs need and how to keep activity safe for this brachycephalic breed? Check out Pug Dog Exercise. Brindle Pugs Overview: Brindle is a pattern of interlocking light and dark colors which creates a striping effect. With Pugs, this is typically in the grey to black range. This type of coat pattern is found with quite a few other dog breeds including the Bull Terrier, Boxer, and American Bulldog. The Debate: Many wonder if a purebred brindle Pug can even exist. The answer is yes. This said, there are some explanations to be given. On one hand is the argument that brindle does not exist within the Pug's bloodline. It is true that this is not a color pattern that should be seen with today's breeding programs since it is not a standard color. One of the goals of reputable breeders is to produce dogs that come as close to breed standards as possible. So, brindle is not something that most breeders would strive for and any champion dogs would not have recessive brindle genes. But, did brindle appear in the bloodline at some point in the past? The answer is, yes, it very well could have. This goes back, in part, to the fact that every single dog breed that exists to day was developed from the pairing of other breeds. As to which breeds, exactly, were used to develop the Pug is unknown. We know that this breed was developed in China. Somewhere around B. And he was indeed successful. Therefore, the first element to note is that no one can say if, looking back, brindle is or is not found in the Pug's bloodline. In fact, paintings from the 's show Pug dogs with brindle coats. This said, those brindle lines most likely died out. It has also been debated that brindle Pugs are a myth since the gene responsible for the pattern is dominant and would 'take over' the entire Pug breed with eventually only brindles existing, making fawns and black obsolete. But, that point is not accurate. Brindle exists in other breeds and does not take over. One example is the Boxer dog in which there are both brindles and fawns. So, if there are brindle Pugs, however rare, where does the brindle come from? The answer is that brindle was introduced into the bloodline via another breed at some point. For each individual Pug, this could be recent or it could be many generations in the past. This may seem contradictory. As time goes by, a random brindle is thrown every now and then. Examples of Brindle Pugs: Luna at 8 months old, a brindle Pug photo courtesy of Brenda photo courtesy of Mike Dillow Color Changes It is normal for a Pug puppy's coat to change coat color to a certain degree as he or she is maturing from pup to adolescent. With fawn Pugs, the coat may lighten or darken, predominately during the first year. It's not uncommon for there to be smuttiness at a young age which is the term for black hairs intermingled with a light color coat. This may remain, lighten, darken, or fade in other areas except for a line running down the center of the back which is known as a trace. The ears and mask may darken into a more solid black as a Pug grows. For example, here we see Yoda as a young puppy first photo below on mobile with a fawn base and lots of black hairs running through the coat referred to as smuttiness - details ahead. And, then we can see Yoda as a 3-year-old adult Pug second photo below on mobile , the fawn is much lighter and the black-tipped hairs are now a much more faded trace that runs down her back. The black mask has darkened and her head wrinkles are fully developed. There can be other color changes as well. Apricot tones may not appear until a Pug is a bit older; so, a Pug that is registered as a fawn may very well be an apricot. Another change that typically happens with black Pugs, but may also be seen on some fawns, is that hairs around the muzzle and face may gray as a Pug transitions into the senior years. If this occurs, it is generally starts around the 8 year mark and increases in time. Wondering how much sleep a Pug needs and ways to help this breed achieve a good night's rest? Check out Pug Dog Sleep. Smuttiness If you take a very closeup look at a light-colored Pug, you may see a scattering of a few black hairs over the body and this is generally not enough to classified a Pug has having smuttiness. Smuttiness on a Pug refers to a noticeable overlay of black hairs on a light coat fawn, silver, silver-fawn, apricot, or apricot-fawn. These patches of black hairs are thin enough to see the lighter hairs underneath, however it gives an overall appearance of a "haze". The more there is, either in density or coverage, the more smuttiness a Pug has. Note that black or darker hairs are desired in certain places on a Pug; running down the center of the back the trace and on the forehead the thumbprint - more ahead on both of these markings. But, when there is an overabundance of these black hairs in areas other than the forehead wrinkles or the back, the term smuttiness is then used. Smuttiness may appear in just about any area on a Pug including the saddle back , flanks, legs, and head. In the show world, this is not a disqualification, however it is considered to be a fault points are deducted. Example of Smuttiness on a Pug: Winston at 11 years old; this is an example of heavy smuttiness on the head. Though not something rewarded for in the show ring, there is no denying how cute this Pug looks. In fact, this is such a heavy intermingling of black hairs that Winston almost looks like a half fawn and half black Pug dog. The trace may begin on the nape of the neck or further down the back. It will run in a predominantly straight line, ending at the base of the tail. The thickness and the density of the trace can vary. Though a trace is a very desired trait in conformation dog shows, not all non-black Pugs have this marking. A trace may be very apparent during the puppy years and then fade as a Pug matures. On the flip side, this marking may not show at all during the newborn phase and then become apparent as the Pug grows. This particular element is considered to be an official marking of the breed and is thought to give Pugs character. In the show ring, the blacker the trace, the better. That said, if your Pug does not have a trace, this is nothing to be concerned about. If, however, when Pugs are being considered for a breeding program with the goal of producing show quality dogs, those with no trace at all are often excluded since this is a heredity trait. Example of a Trace on a Pug: Do you have a Pug and are worried about leaving them home alone? Find helpful tips for Pug Dog Separation Anxiety. The Thumbprint A Pug's thumbprint, also referred to as a thumb mark or diamond, is a darkened spot centered on the forehead. This, of course, is not seen on Pugs with black coats. Though this is another desired trait when Pugs are judged in conformation events, not all non-black Pugs have a thumbprint. Another way to look at this is that approximately 3 out of 4 non-black Pugs have a thumbprint or thumb mark. Though it is sometimes called a diamond, it may resemble an oval, a circle, or be an irregular shape. While the wrinkles on the forehead can cause shading that may appear to be a thumb mark, the thumb mark is actually a splash of darker color on the fur. This type of marking is usually present at birth. It is rare for a Pug born without this to develop one as he ages. When a young pup has a small thumbprint marking, it may grow larger or become darker as a Pug ages and matures. Example of a Thumbprint on a Pug: This is Tommy, a Pug with a nice thumbprint on his deep forehead wrinkles. This is an area of black that typically starts under the chin, covers the muzzle, and extends around the eyes. Though this is the general description, the mask can vary quite a bit on Pugs. One element to take note of is that the black may be mainly on the muzzle and then again with black fur around the eyes with little connection between the two points or, quite contrary to that, black may extend from the muzzle to the eye area with no interruption at all. In addition, while a very dark black mask is desired in the conformation show ring, the black mask on some Pugs may contain any number of fawn or lighter-colored hairs. This can range from medium to dark brown and eyes can be so dark that they almost appear black. With canine breed standards, the term dark means dark brown. Coat color does not affect eye color; for example, a fawn Pug does not automatically have lighter eyes than a black Pug. You may be curious to know if Pugs can have blue eyes. Blue is not in this breed's genetic code. However, similar to humans, dogs are usually born with dark blue eyes due to low levels of melanin in the eyes. The eyes darken as melanin levels naturally increase. This transition is usually complete by week six or seven. White Paws Can a Pug have mitted, white paws? The term 'mitted' is often used with cats since it is much more common for felines to have this type of color marking. It refers to coloring that falls on the paws that is different than the main body color, as if the animal is wearing mittens. White paws on a Pug is not common at all and is considered a major fault in the show ring; however, it can happen. This Pug below has a fawn coat and white markings on the paws and on the chest. Both photos are of Mr. Mittens, at 3 months old; photos courtesy of Suzanne White markings like this are able to exist due to the parti-factor gene. This very same color gene is responsible for small white markings on the chest that are occasionally seen with Pugs of all colors. Rarely, the parti-factor is thrown to one, some, or all paws, resulting in purebred Pugs with white mitted paws. Are you taking care of your Pug's teeth? For this brachycephalic breed, dental care is very important. Learn how to keep your Pug's teeth clean and healthy. Behavior and Personality Traits Based on Color Many people wonder if there are inbred character traits that vary depending on the coat color of the Pug. As with any other breed, the coloring of the coat has no effect on energy level, personality, behavioral quirks or any other element. But, it is easy to leap to the belief that color matters in this regard. An owner may have a black Pug that is more energetic than his fawn counterpart, for example. However, there are just as many owners who have energetic fawns compared to laid back black Pugs. Each dog is an individual, and Pugs will have their own unique personalities, regardless of coat color. Differences in Coat and Shedding Most Pugs have coats consisting of two layers of fur, an inner and an outer coat. Some, but not all black Pugs are single coated. For this reason, a percentage of black coated Pugs may shed less in comparison to fawn, apricots or slivers. And, the color of your carpeting and furniture can affect how much shedding you notice. Fur that sheds from a black Pug onto light-colored surfaces is going to be much more noticeable than fur that falls from a fawn Pug. And, fur that sheds from a fawn Pug onto dark surfaces is going to be much more visible than fur that falls from a black Pug. Though it's not suggested to buy furniture and flooring that matches your Pug, this is something to keep in mind. Did you find this to be informative? See what's inside. Related: Black Pug Dogs - More photos of black Pug puppies and dogs with a recap of color information. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Can a non-standard colored pug still be registered with a kennel club? For example: the AKC recognizes two pug colors as breed standard, fawn and black. These are the colors required for a pug to be a show dog and compete in the ring. They are the breed standard. However, a non-fawn or black pug can still be AKC registered — they will just not be allowed in the show ring. Silver-fawn, apricot, and even rare and controversial colors like brindle, can be registered with the AKC and listed as an alternate color. So, if you see a non-standard colored pug listed as registered with the AKC, it is entirely possible. You can read it here. The pug breed standard is the blueprint for the breed, and the target for which breeders should aim. The Pug Dog Club of America firmly states that: All reputable breeders of pugs are not interested in the development of any color of pug other than fawn or black. The most common pug colors: Fawn Pug Fawn is the most common pug color. Their muzzle or mask, and ears, should be as black as possible. Black Pug Even though fawn is the most common color of pug, the black gene is dominant. Black pugs have a rich, dark coat, and their muzzle or mask, and ears are black too. Silver-fawn and Silver Pugs Silver-fawn is oftentimes labeled as a type of fawn. They have a shiny gray sheen to their coats and are the lightest color a pug can be. Silver-fawn pugs are pretty rare, and many who have them categorize them as fawns, instead of silver-fawns. Apricot Pugs Apricot pugs have warm undertones of orange in their coats. The hues of orange are richer and deeper in color than the common fawn coloring. They include:. Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article.