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Short-Haired vs. The breed can be bifurcated into a Long-haired English Labrador Retriever as well as a short-haired Lab. A typical Labrador can be characterized as a 55 to 80 pound, short-haired dog with a life span of years. However, for those who love dogs with long locks, though not very common, long-haired Labs are also bred and can prove to be great pets. This breed was developed from imported Canadian fishing dogs. The Labrador is one of the most popular dog species in various regions all across the globe. They come in three colors, i. Genetic Differences The distinct feature of the long-haired Lab has to be its length and much finer double coat than typical Labrador Retrievers. The long-haired Lab owes this to the difference in the genetic makeup of both types. Long-haired Labrador Retriever has a combination of two recessive alleles genes , which result in lengthier coats. This gene is called the fibroblast growth factor 5 gene. Geneticists have termed it the FGF5 gene. However, it is known by the name of the L gene by the Labrador breeder community. The L gene has two alleles forms. L, which is the gene for short hair, and l, which is the one that produces long hair. L is the dominant one amongst the two. So, whenever a combination of both alleles is formed for the new offspring, the L form masks the effect of the I allele, and an individual with short hair is produced. All offspring get one allele from each of their parents. If both mates from the combination 'Ll' or 'LL,' the offspring will have a coat that grows up to be short-haired. In contrast, if both parents pass only recessive genes, it will result in an 'll' combination, and the puppies will grow up to be long-haired. One thing that needs to be noticed is that whenever two different alleles Ll combine, it results in an offspring that does not show the effect of the recessive allele but becomes a carrier of the gene and may pass it on to the next generation where the gene may show its effect. In this case, if a puppy gets a combination 'Ll,' it will be short-haired but may result in a long-haired offspring by mating with a long-haired ll or a heterogenous Ll individual. Which is the Pure Breed? When a Labrador Retriever is talked about, a typical image of it that automatically comes to mind is athletic, steady, and with a thick, glossy, short coat. The standard says: "It should be short, straight and very dense, giving a fairly hard feeling to the hand… A slight wave down the back is permissible. However, this restriction does not exclude this breed from the list of purebred dogs. Long-haired English Labrador Retrievers are, in fact, purebred dogs that can be recognized in breed registries. The long coats only disqualify them from the show bench but keep them as pure of a breed as the typical ones are. Although, some breeders believe that exclusion from the literal definition should deliberately lead to no long-coated type breeding. But the continuous demand and adoration by the families as pets will never let this happen. Who is a Better Pet? The most relevant question that arises is: Can long-haired pets be good pets or not? Fortunately, the l gene has not been seen to have any other effect on the offspring except for the change in the length of their coats. No health issues, no other special characteristics. Just the long locks and nothing else. Long-haired English Labrador Retrievers have all the great traits that can be found in the typical ones, be it friendly disposition or special affection towards children. So the answer is a big fat yes! You can definitely pet these cute, faithful creatures. Labrador's thick, oily, double coat has always been the species' intrinsic characteristic which protects them from wind, rain, and harsh weather conditions. This helps them tolerate the worst environments without any significant effect on their health. A long fine coat makes the body more vulnerable to environmental conditions. Also, long hair is a bit more difficult to clean. So, the selection is based on your personal liking of you as a buyer. If you find long hair cuter on your pet and can handle all the extra fuss that comes along with the long hair, then why not go for what your heart desires? Which Breed is More Common? If the long-haired breed is ignored by the main breed registries to this extent, it surely means that the vast majority of Labradors that are bred in the present day are the typical short-haired ones. This in no way means that it is hard to find a Long-haired English Labrador Retriever. This breed is produced by several breeders in the country. You will not have to search much to find one for you. Bathing your long-haired lab might require more effort and time but once done, it makes it look and smell its best. To avoid the long locks from matting during the bathe and make the bath as smooth and enjoyable as the both of you want, brush your dog's hair beforehand. It is recommended to use some conditioner in a reasonable quantity after shampooing the hair. Don't forget to use it with diluting products so that it reaches and cleans every part of your dog's long coat. The residue from the products can be harmful to the dog's skin, so make sure to rinse thoroughly with water. It is a long and hectic process but the results will be worth it. It is advisable to use a slicker or bristle brush to bathe your short-haired Lab, as a pin brush may injure the vulnerable skin. Remember not to use any bathing products for use by humans. The ingredients which are beneficial for human hair may prove to be irritating to a dog's skin. Be careful with the shampoo as it can easily slip into the dog's eyes, nostrils, ears, or mouth, which in this case are not covered by hair. Verdict: Which One to Buy? The major difference between both breeds lies with the genetic makeup of the two of them. The different genetic combinations lead to two different coats, i. Long-haired Labs do not come under the typical Labradors definition, which leads to it being the less common breed among the two. Short hair breeds are easy to take care of. All other characteristics make both breeds quite the same. Therefore, the buying decision should more or less be based upon the mere appearance of the two. Go for the one that appeals to you the most. Bring your very own English Labrador home now! Contact us to learn more. The modern Labrador was developed from water dogs discovered in Canada by visiting rich, English hunters in the s. When they brought some of the dogs back to England, breeders further developed the Labrador Retriever we know today. Nor does anyone know exactly how the recessive gene responsible for longer coats found its way into the Labrador gene pool. One theory is that early Labrador breeders used other, long-haired retriever breeds as part of their development, bringing the recessive version of the hair coat gene with them. Bred as water retrievers, specifically for cold weather and frigid lakes, Labs needed the right coat to keep them warm as they worked. The long-haired Lab coat is thinner and wavier, making it neither as warm nor as easy to keep clean. However, most Labradors today serve primarily as family pets, not hunters or show dogs. Long-haired Labs have become more popular as the breed itself has become the most popular dog in the U. The American Kennel Club accepted its first Labrador registration not long after, in .Although their coats are outside of the breed standard, long-haired Labradors are still considered purebred dogs and are eligible for registration. The coat length of all dogs, including Labs, is controlled by a specific gene: FGF5. In Labs, the dominant trait of this gene is the short-haired version, while long hair is recessive. Puppies inherit genes from both of their parents. Parents with two dominant genes LL only pass on the short-hair genes. However, parents with one dominant and one recessive LI can pass on the long-haired trait to their pups. If both parents have LI genes, some of the litter will receive two recessive genes II and grow long hair. Image Credit: Africa Studio, Shutterstock 2. Anyone interested in breeding their Lab should consider having the test done unless they are okay with getting some fluffy pups. As long as at least one parent has only short-haired genes, the pups will come out with breed-standard Labrador coats. They Shed a Lot! Labradors are considered a heavy shedding breed , and the long-haired version is no exception. No matter their top coat length, all Labradors produce a thick, warm undercoat. They shed this full undercoat seasonally, typically in spring and fall, producing enormous amounts of hair. Long-haired Labs also shed some fur year-round. Because their coats are longer and finer, they may need more brushing than short-haired Labradors to keep them tangle-free and clean. Their coats may look different, but in every other way, long-haired Labradors are typical of the breed that has topped the popularity charts in the U. They are smart, friendly, loving, and energetic, as all Labs should be. Although combining some recessive genes can result in deformities and health issues, the FGF5 gene is only responsible for hair growth. Those without the space, time, or energy to keep up with these pups should consider a different breed. Long Coats Ashland Labradors Let me be clear.Below is our experience. We now have the ability to screen our dogs to prevent producing any more long coats in our litters. We hope other breeders do the same. Long Coated Labradors? After 29 years in the Labrador Breed, it finally happened. I got Long Coats! Three in ONE litter. No, they are not rare and we surely did not breed to purposely produce long-coated offspring. Matter of fact, this was a repeat breeding which a litter of nine pups born to the same parents 2 years earlier produced NOT ONE long-coat puppy. Go figure! Long coat puppies are born looking just like their normal litter-mates. Wow, coat, bone, head, tail. WTH happened? Someone stole my pup and replaced it with a Flat Coat. .Ooh my!! The long-haired coat is inherited as a autosomal-recessive trait. Because I want to share this information freely, so people can learn more and be "assured" that if YOU happen to produce a long-coat, it is NOT the end of the world. I feel breeders should be much more open instead of secretive. Why some breeders feel they need to "hide" the fact that there stud dog or bitch is a long-coat carrier is ridiculous. It would only appear to help other breeders make better breeding decisions and avoid intentionally breeding carrier. For anyone wanting to do more research into bloodlines of which our long-coats were produced, please click here to see the pedigree. There are many theories on how the long-coat gene originated in the Labrador Breed. This was the only British retriever to be selected for the dominant smooth coat. Modern Labrador retrievers are almost universally smooth-coated dogs. However, although seldom, a long-coated puppy is born. The exact origin of these modern long-haired Labradors isn't exactly clear. They could have always been hidden within the smooth-coated St. I think a much more likely source for this coat is cross-breeding. Labrador, golden, and flat-coated retrievers were considered varieties of a single breed, and interbreeding the varieties was very common. When the Labrador retriever needed fresh blood, it was occasionally bred to wavy or flat-coated retrievers, which may have included dogs we would call golden retrievers. The Dukes of Buccleuch and the Earls of Malmesbury tried to keep their dogs from being bred to long-haired retrievers, which is one reason why they were so eager to import more smooths from Newfoundland. However, other breeders certainly did outcross. There are long-haired Labradors that typically have a longer coat than other types. This is caused by a recessive gene and is less common than short coats. The fluffy coat type is present in all three colors of purebreds, yellow, chocolate, and black. Labradors were used as gun dogs in the past, and their thick, short coat was ideal for working on a hunt in inclement weather. The long, wavy, glossy coat of the long-haired Lab is less suited for this kind of work. To explain where long-haired Labradors come from, we have to talk about heredity, dominant traits, and recessive traits. Some Labradors have long hair due to a recessive trait of a gene called fibroblast growth factor 5, abbreviated to FGF5. Two copies of the genes, one from each parent, are required to express the long coat. Carrier puppies that inherit one copy of the gene will have normal short coats. To elucidate further, a Labrador pup receives one version of the hair length gene from each parent. Each version of the gene is called an allele. In the FGF5 gene , short hair is a dominant trait, and long hair is a recessive trait. If the pup has one short hair allele and one long hair allele, the dominant short hair trait cancels out the recessive long hair. This pup will also pass the recessive trait on to their offspring. If they mate with another dog that has at least one copy of the recessive trait, there is a good chance the offspring will also be a long-haired Lab. Long-haired Labs shed a shocking amount of fur, just like their short-haired counterparts, due to having a double coat. They shed year-round and shed more than usual twice a year, typically in spring and winter, when they will change their coat ready for the season ahead. The Labradors topcoat is longer and slower-growing. This is the coat that you typically see. The undercoat is softer, grows quickly, and keeps the dog warm. Investing in a Roomba is my advice! Are Long-Haired Labradors Purebreds? Long-haired Labradors are purebreds. Except for the length of their hair, they have exactly the same pedigree as short-haired Labs. Although the American Kennel Club recognizes them, they are severely penalized for conformation, but a slight wave down the back is acceptable. For dog shows, dogs have to adhere to very specific standards appearance-wise. Breeders even go as far as to deliberately breed Labs to eliminate this genetic trait. This is one of the reasons why most Labradors have short coats. If you go the breeder route, make sure you buy from a reputable breeder. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. This tip mainly applies to dog owners who buy from breeders. The stakes are a lot higher in the purebred dog game. Unfortunately, some breeders have been accused of selling mixed-breed puppies as Labradors simply because they have the long-coat trait. Anyone unsure of the parentage of a puppy with such a coat should have it DNA tested. This is because most people who adopt from a rescue do so to give a dog a home rather than own a dog with a valuable pedigree. When adopting a Lab puppy, you should budget not only for the initial purchase but also for the costs of taking care of your dog. This includes food, puppy training, and vet bills for vaccinations and checkups. Veterinary care will be the most expensive part of dog ownership. Long-Haired Labs as Good Family Dogs Besides the different hair lengths, long-haired Labs are the same as other Labs in physical size, shape, and temperament. They are friendly, enthusiastic dogs who are extremely gentle toward children. For this reason, the Labrador is a favorite breed among families. Labradors are also good for seniors as long as the owner is quite healthy and active. Seniors will also usually have more time to spend with their dogs, especially if retired. If breeders have worked so hard to bury the recessive long-hair gene, why does it continue to show up? The answer is pretty simple. They just want a fluffy addition to their family. Final Thoughts If you are contemplating this breed — whether the popular short-haired or the rarer long-haired variety, all Labradors make good first dogs. Overall, Labradors are viewed positively by pet owners. They are friendly, non-aggressive, affectionate, and easy-going. The length or texture of their coat does not affect this. Related Posts You May Like:. Tweet on Twitter A long haired Lab is a Labrador Retriever with two copies of a recessive gene which causes them to grow a longer, finer, wavier coat than typical Labradors. Long coated Labs are still purebred dogs which can be entered onto breed registries. But their coats disqualify them from the show bench. Some breeders believe that since long coats are not part of the Labrador breed standard, long haired Labs should never deliberately be bred. But many long haired Labs are adored family pets. So who is right? Are There Long Haired Labs? The classic image of a Labrador Retriever is easily called to mind: athletic, steady, and with a thick, glossy, short coat. All gazing patiently at the camera and sporting silky, wavy coats. How is that? Long haired Labs owe their coat length to a very specific gene, called the fibroblast growth factor 5 gene. The fibroblast growth factor 5 gene is also known as the FGF5 gene by geneticists. And as the L gene by Labrador breeders. The L gene comes in two forms. L, which produces short hair, and l, which produces long hair. The L form is dominant, which means whenever it is present it overrides the effect of the l form. Puppies who inherit the combination LL grow up to have short hair. Puppies who inherit the combination Ll also have short hair. And finally puppies who inherit the combination ll will grow a long coat. The difference starts to appear at around six weeks old, when it becomes clear their coat is just going to keep on growing. Fibroblast growth factor 5 is a chemical signal, which acts on hair follicles and tells them to stop hair growth while the coat is still short. Long haired Labs are still Labrador Retrievers through and through. And as long as they have a proven pedigree, they are still purebred , and can be registered as such. Where does it come from? Since the gene is recessive, it can easily be passed down silently through the generations, and only be expressed very occasionally. Do Long Haired Labs Matter? But why is that? And is it justified? As we all know, Labradors are first and foremost a gun dog. They have a long and illustrious past working on hunts in all weathers and all seasons. Their thick, oily, double coat has always been an intrinsic part of their ability to do that. It protects them from wind and rain so that they can go on working in all conditions. But a long fine coat is less protective against the elements, and also less practical to clean after a mucky day of field work. But how do they get on in the far more modern role of family pet? So can long haired Labs be good pets? The answer is certainly yes! Long haired Labs have all the same wonderful traits as their short coated brethren, including a friendly disposition and gentleness towards children. But for many generations, the recessive gene has appeared unbidden and unexpectedly in Labrador puppies after years of being hidden. And the result of this test might well be included in the paperwork they offer you when you register your interest in a litter. Most Labrador breeders will avoid mating known two carriers together, since their litter is statistically likely to be one quarter long haired. The Importance Of Carriers When a Lab with the genotype Ll and a Lab with the genotype LL have puppies, approximately half of the litter will carry the l gene, but none will express it. Using all the genetic information available and making measured decisions like this are an important way that Labrador breeders can maintain genetic diversity and avoid inbreeding, whilst still producing puppies that meet the breed standard. If you are thinking of mating your own Labrador, these tests and decisions are also something for you to think about. Long Haired Labs — Summary Long haired Labs are the result of a genetic combination which is very unusual in the Labrador Retriever breed. Nonetheless, it is possible for purebred Labs to inherit a long coat. Where long haired Labrador puppies have appeared in litters by surprise, they a disqualified from the show bench. But they usually go on to be much loved family pets instead, with owners who love them even more for how distinctive they are. Did their coat come as a surprise? Do you think further breeding of long haired Labs as pets should be discouraged? References and Resources. We present the following information about the fluffy long-haired coat for reference only, as it is a coat type that has been proven to be present in purebred Labradors. It is unfortunate that some breeders have been accused of selling mix-breed puppies as Labradors simply because the puppies exhibited the long-hair trait, so it is our hope that this article will be of help to those breeders, and encourage anyone who is unsure of the parentage of a puppy with such a coat to have it DNA tested, now that such a test is available. At about three weeks of age we started to notice something different about the two yellow boys. They started to develop curly hair on their ears—then on their legs. By the time the litter was five weeks old it was clear that these puppies were very different from any I had whelped before. By now I was concerned that perhaps some other dog had entered the picture as well, and yet I was confident Light had not been with any other dog. It came back quite clear—Buddy and Light were certainly the only parents of this litter. At the time no such test existed for Labrador Retrievers, although a protocol had been developed for other breeds. Randy Smith at the laboratory agreed to develop a protocol for the long-hair gene in Labradors. The wait was brief, and very quickly Dr. Obviously, the parents both carried the gene and it appears to be a simple recessive much like gene for the color yellow. The question now remained—where did it come from? Some more research has uncovered that long-haired Labradors are fairly common in Europe, where indeed the long-haired Weimaraner is generally accepted by breeders. There have been several reports of the gene showing up in European-imported Labradors. The problem for us as breeders is that these puppies really do not look the way we expect Labradors to look. In addition, there are other characteristics that appear to be consistent with the longer coat, such as larger size and denser bone. The extrapolation is that perhaps this gene is a throwback to the ancestral St. There are at least two theories on how the recessive gene of long fur has appeared within the bloodlines of the Labrador Retriever. The first is that it is an original dog legacy St. However, there is no evidence of this, and also the dogs St. The other theory speaks instead of using flat coated retrievers at the beginning of the century. According to some, this was done to strengthen the bloodlines in England were weakening, in the early , and again after World War II. Obviously, there are no certain traces of this in the pedigrees of the current dogs. The separation of this was based on the coat length because all the puppies were yellow. Apparently the third generation showed some parts of the original breed. Based on his research, I analyzed all of fluffy labrador pedigree in my possession, starting from that of Brida, our first fluffy, through the pedigree of Disel that being born in Russia should be very far from that of Brida , and then other engines in my possession. For all the pedigree we analyzed both parents. It is understood that this research does not want to give the final answer as regards the presence of a recessive gene long hair in Labrador Retrievers. Here are the results so far encountered. In all analyzed pedigree, there is a common ancestor, which is also identified in the original design of the Chocolate. It is Sandylands Mark. Based on the pedigree of Sandylands Mark, we can go back in time to find more of a flat coated retriever: Filleigh Jet passing Bee of Whitmore, and his many heirs in the pedigree of Sandylands mark, such as Tatler of Whitmore and Tag of Whitmore and downdrafts. In database Labradornet. It would now to check if between the long-haired Labrador specimens, or recessive nevertheless be established, there are that they are not in some way attributable Sandylands Mark, and in the case trace their blood lines up to verify if even in those cases they are of the flat. The presence of a common ancestor to all fluffy Labrador, in which there are multiple lines primigene Flat Coated Retrievers, however, would seem to be a confirmation of the facts, and that the recessive gene introduced with the flat is so historical legacy of the Labrador Retriever breed.

Dogs are a tremendous physical and emotional help to those who need assistance due to physical limitations. Dogs can be trained to not only help a blind person walk, but also open doors, retrieve items, and many other daily tasks. Voted the most popular dog breed for the 28th year, Golden Retrievers are often used for emotional support animals or service animals. However, this specific video is about a seeing eye dog — well, a puppy right now — for another dog. Yes, you read that right. This sweet Golden Retriever was lucky enough to get his own tiny assistance dog. Sadly, in , Charlie had to have an eye removed due to glaucoma-related pain. Then, in , Charlie started having pain and discomfort in his remaining eye. Adam and his wife, Chelsea, knew the eye would have to be removed. Despite being a very expensive surgery, the Stipes emptied their retirement plan to take care of their beloved pet. Now going on eleven-years-old, Charlie has adapted pretty well to the loss of both his eyes. The couple decided to add a puppy to their family. They had two reasons: they wanted a puppy to grow up with their newborn son, and they wanted a companion for Charlie. As any dog does with a new addition, Charlie had to get used to this new pup in his space, but Charlie and Maverick soon became best friends. The Stipes decided to share the bond and fun times these two had together, so they made the dogs their own Instagram account and started sharing pictures and videos. Maverick and Charlie were instant hits and received more than 20, followers in the first day alone. The antics of these two famous dogs are so much fun to watch. The bond they share is much stronger than just companions — they are now family — what a sweet story about the friendship these two dogs have. If you liked this, share it with a friend. Dogs are a tremendous physical and emotional help to those who need assistance due to physical limitations. Dogs can be trained to not only help a blind person walk, but also open doors, retrieve items, and many other daily tasks. Voted the most popular dog breed for the 28th year, Golden Retrievers are often used for emotional support animals or service animals. However, this specific video is about a seeing eye dog — well, a puppy right now — for another dog. Yes, you read that right. This sweet Golden Retriever was lucky enough to get his own tiny assistance dog. Sadly, in , Charlie had to have an eye removed due to glaucoma-related pain. Then, in , Charlie started having pain and discomfort in his remaining eye. Adam and his wife, Chelsea, knew the eye would have to be removed. Despite being a very expensive surgery, the Stipes emptied their retirement plan to take care of their beloved pet. Now going on eleven-years-old, Charlie has adapted pretty well to the loss of both his eyes. The couple decided to add a puppy to their family. They had two reasons: they wanted a puppy to grow up with their newborn son, and they wanted a companion for Charlie. As any dog does with a new addition, Charlie had to get used to this new pup in his space, but Charlie and Maverick soon became best friends. The Stipes decided to share the bond and fun times these two had together, so they made the dogs their own Instagram account and started sharing pictures and videos. Maverick and Charlie were instant hits and received more than 20, followers in the first day alone. The antics of these two famous dogs are so much fun to watch. The bond they share is much stronger than just companions — they are now family — what a sweet story about the friendship these two dogs have. If you liked this, share it with a friend.

Cons of Contis History of Continental Bulldog The Continental Bulldog is a comparably distinct breed of dog from Switzerland, which was developed with the concept of producing a Bulldog that matches the demanded standards of the European Convention on the Breeding and Keeping of Pets and the Swiss Animal Welfare Act. In the year , voices were raised there to prevent the breeding of the English bulldog for animal welfare causes because they were becoming more and more over bred. To not lose the famous breed of the Bulldog completely, there were attempts to produce a new breeding regulation, which should produce a Bulldog with a healthy body. This approach instantly achieved a bunch of supporters in Switzerland and particularly in Germany. Beneath the severe surveillance of the effective societies, the English bulldog was mixed with the Old English Bulldog. Later only a few years and several breeding authorities, a dog was performed that became very close to the primary variety of the Bulldog. English bulldog History The history of the English bulldog is as individual as its unique face. It is reported that all levels of society became part of this blood game and that even Queen Elizabeth enjoyed this sort of enjoyment. This belief has been since trained. Leavitt began his project in employing the cattle line breeding scheme of Dr Fechimer from Ohio State University. Continental Bulldog personality Friendly but elegant, neither modest nor aggressive, the Continental Bulldog is a member of English Bulldog and part Olde English Bulldogge in character and personality. This medium-sized dog, also commonly called Conti, has a short and strong yet, powerful body. The Continental Bulldog is an observant, self-confident, and affectionate dog that is neither aggressive nor humble. It has an excellent temperament and presents an exceptional family and protector dog. He is considerate and sensitive to children and enjoys playing with them. It is observant of its surroundings and will scare a signal if a foreigner approaches near. It can be managed as a good watchdog. Temperament of Continental Bulldog Continental Bulldogs are often highly affectionate and caring pets. They are good watchdogs who may be wary of strangers at first, despite the fact that they rarely bark. Conti will be just as friendly and social among your visitors as he is with your own family once he gets to know them. Continental Bulldogs are often kind and caring pets. Despite the fact that they rarely bark, they are good watchdogs who may be suspicious of strangers at first. Once he gets to know your guests, your Conti will be just as outgoing and boisterous around them as he is with family. Size and appearance of Continental Bulldog How big is a Contis? The Continental Bulldog is a medium-sized, athletic dog. It is a well-built Bulldog that is very active and surviving despite its almost square build. The adorable Swiss is deemed to suggest the English Bulldog in character, which it does in the great possible approach. However, in opposition to the English Bulldog, a healthy body entitles him to run and breathe freely. The withers height for males should be centimeters. Bitches are slightly smaller with a size of centimeters. Physical movement does not exhibit an obstacle to the energetic four-legged companion. Generally, this dog resembles the original Bulldog of the 19th century than animals that win prizes at expositions. The tail of the Continental Bulldog is not weakened but set low; it is strong and stretches around to the ankle. It can be straight or somewhat arched but is not supported curled up over the back. Despite its compact body, the Continental Bulldog is mobile and of staying power; his respiration even at full speed is noiseless. His weight, depending on his height, is between 20 and 30 kg. The head is less extensive than that of the Bulldog. The forehead is flat to slightly domed, wrinkles being but not too different. The under bite is not as noticeable as that in the Bulldog. Regular and fluid movement, good improvement of the forelegs, large thrust of the hind legs. The coat is smooth, short, with or without an undercoat. All colors conducted by a dark nose are allotted: self-colored, brindled, or merged with white, with or without a black mask. However, similar to all dogs, they are prone to certain health situations that you should be conscious of. In Continental Bulldog breeding, the health of the parents and the puppies are the principal focus. The Continental Bulldog puppies should be chipped, dewormed various times and vaccinated. They should have pedigree papers, a vaccination certificate and a health certificate. Continental Bulldog Lifespan Continental Bulldogs are overall very friendly and devoted pets. Though they infrequently bark, they are excellent watchdogs who may be suspicious of foreigners at the beginning. Once your Conti gets to know your guests, he will be just as pleasant and friendly throughout them as he is approaching his family. However, it is promptly to maintain the Continental Bulldog lifespan since it is quite a young dog breed. Still, according to some personalities, it should be throughout 12 or 13 years, which is great for a bulldog type of dog. How to take care of Continental Bulldog Exercise requirements Continental Bulldogs require a moderate amount of exercise. If you are habitual to other bulldogs, you should understand that the Conti is more vigorous and requires more exercise than most different bulldog varieties. Endeavor for at least 30 minutes to an hour each day. They want two longer walks per week. To stay healthy and comfortable, they hold some playtime or training sessions. They are honestly relaxed and dormant indoor dogs, which presents them as good suitors for apartment existence. You can catch your Continental Bulldogs on longer walks because they can drive for hours without exhausting. Like all dog breeds, This mix breed needs to go to the vet once per year for a checkup. Generally, a complete physical examination of a particular dog is needed at least once a year. Vaccinating your pet has long been regarded as one of the most straightforward approaches to assist him to live a long, healthy life. As such, you should be prepared to brush your dog one to two times per week. These dogs have more wrinkles than other bulldogs, but the wrinkles they do have will need to be cleaned regularly as your Conti can receive food or dirt in the folds of his skin. The smooth, fine, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when essential. Clean the face with a damp cloth every day to wipe the wrinkles inside. This breed is an ordinary shedder. Clean their ears, eyes, and nails and clip their nails if required. Providing a high-quality dog food Each dog is individual and, therefore, will need a particular diet. Since the English bulldog with the Leavitt Bulldog Cross is inclined to hip and elbow dysplasia, provide him food enriched with fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin. It is necessary to evade over feeding your dog as it can only exasperate health obstacles such as elbow and hip dysplasia. Your most essential purpose should be to provide your pet companion properly. The English bulldog with the Leavitt Bulldog mix is a big dog, so going for the best big breed dry dog food may be the correct choice. If, upon all benefits, your dog turned out small, search for one of the greatest dry dog food for small dogs and see if they like it! Here we list out some of the best good dog food for Contis. How to train Continental Bulldog? Continental Bulldogs are somewhat obvious to train. However, similar to their ancestors, they can be obstinate animals. You should be consistent and steady with your training and begin preparing your Contis simple instructions from a young age. If you have nevermore maintained or trained a dog before, you may require to contemplate bringing your Conti to a professional instructor. Generally obedient and devoted to its master, the Continental Bulldog is more comfortable training with positive training techniques. Like all dogs, It will require a firm yet gentle trainer who will treat the dog positively to receive the best out of him. The first and most significant challenge that you may face is that of potty training. If your dog decides to go with an indoor potty, so placement is essential. Potty training your English bulldog with the Leavitt Bulldog mix puppy can take a lot of time, patience, and attention, but luckily, one tool can make a huge difference: a potty training pad. Some dog experts recommend that you begin house training your puppy when they are between 12 weeks and 16 weeks old. At that time, they have ample control of their bladder and bowel movements to learn to hold them. However, you may require thinking of the best place for that crate at the beginning. Correctly done crate training is also a highly effective management technique that dog owners can be a lifesaver. Crate training is suitable for hunting dogs because it keeps them comfortable during hunts and on the road. Socialization English bulldog with the Leavitt Bulldog mix puppy might produce aggressive behaviors and severe anxiety if you do not enforce the early socialization. In the method of early socialization, you will present the puppy to different objects, people, and areas as advanced as possible. There are two stages of this process. From this period of time up to four weeks of age, the buyers will hold the dog in a listed amount of time. The second stage of socialization begins from four weeks of age to 16 weeks of age. You will let the dog become familiar with neighboring formations and smells. This training activity aims to form the puppy into a fearless and incredible adult dog. The dog will appear at ease with interacting with people and different dogs, providing to their potential in becoming therapy dogs, service dogs, or herders. How much do Contis cost? The price is higher than different breeds because while Contis obtained a reputation in Europe, these dogs are comparatively unusual in the United States. It may be challenging to discover a Conti breeder in the U. However, you should pay attention to obtaining a trustworthy breeder and desist puppy factories and pet storehouses where dogs are overlooked. Continental Bulldog puppies for sale Continental Bulldog Continentale Bulldogge is a wonderful dog breed. As an enclosure, we determine its growth, health and character. Therefore, it is not only the character that is essential. We converge principally on the health of puppies and dogs. We do our greatest to determine the excellent families for puppies. This way, we can get to understand each another a bit. If our thoughts converge, we are happy to accept the ideal puppy, principally according to the proper character. Continental Bulldog breeders Continental Bulldog is a molluscoid breed, i. Therefore, it is relevant to spend fabulous attention on physical movement in the puppy period. The period of developing teeth and the greatest growth, between 3 — 10 months of age, is significant for a puppy in decent nutrition and the suitable sort and result of physical movement. A family takes over their new family member from a breeder, ordinarily at about 2 months, when it is still a tiny adorable teddy bear, but which will soon grow to its final height by the age of about 10 months. If we resemble a puppy that is 9 months old, we can recognize a long-legged long-eared animal. Advantage and disadvantages of Continental Bulldog Pros of Contis They are very loving and affectionate pets. They are great family dogs due to their even-keeled nature. Continental Bulldog can be very playful animals. This is a friendly, attentive and confident dog breed. Continental Bulldogs are good watchdogs who may be leery of strangers at first. They exhibit dominance or aggression when around other dogs. Got some suggestions? Temperament: Energetic, friendly While bulldogs sometimes have a reputation for being aggressive or dangerous, the Continental Bulldog is actually very affectionate. Keep reading our guide to learn more about whether the Continental Bulldog is right for you and your family. 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. It may be difficult to find a Conti breeder in the U. However, you should still do your due diligence in finding a trustworthy breeder and avoid puppy mills and pet stores where dogs are neglected. Since the Continental Bulldog is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, Conti puppies will not come with the comprehensive pedigree papers that an AKC-recognized dog would. Though they rarely bark, they are good watchdogs who may be leery of strangers at first. Once your Conti gets to know your guests, he will be just as friendly and sociable around them as he is toward his own family. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They can be very playful animals, making them wonderful companions for your children. As with any breed, you should always supervise your Continental Bulldog and your children when they are playing together, especially if your children are young. Teach your children how to properly pet and play with your dog so that they do not accidentally upset him by pulling his tail or otherwise harming him. A post shared by Fareeva vom Greifenseeblick fareeva. If properly socialized, Continental Bulldogs get along well with other animals, including other dogs. Keep in mind that males may have a tendency to display dominance or aggression when they are around other male dogs. However, generally speaking, you should give your Continental Bulldog between 2. Continental Bulldogs are prone to obesity, so you should refrain from allowing free eating if possible. If you are accustomed to other bulldogs, you should know that the Conti is more energetic and needs more exercise than most other bulldog breeds. Aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour each day. That being said, they are fairly calm and inactive when they are indoors, which makes them good candidates for apartment living. However, like their ancestors, they can be stubborn animals. You should be consistent and firm with your training and begin teaching your Contis simple commands from a young age. If you have never owned or trained a dog before, you may want to consider bringing your Conti to a professional trainer. As such, you should be prepared to brush your dog one to two times per week. These dogs have fewer wrinkles than other bulldogs, but the wrinkles they do have will need to be cleaned regularly as your Conti can get food or dirt in the folds of his skin. However, like all dogs, they are prone to certain health conditions that you should be aware of. Minor Conditions. Grooming Training Your Conti does well on quality food, whether it is prepared at home or bought from the store. The Continental Bulldog is neither a couch potato nor an overly active breed, and regularly taking it for a walk around the block would be enough for burning out its energy. Your Conti would also appreciate a little variety, for which you may take it along on your hiking trip or explore the nearby running trails. This is a shorthaired, smooth-coated dog that has low grooming needs. Fortunately for inexperienced owners, they do not have to devote much time and effort to care for its coat. To keep your Conti look its best, an all-over brushing with a firm-bristled brush once or twice a week is sufficient. You may regularly clean the wrinkles on its face with a moist cotton ball to prevent any infection caused by accumulation of food or moisture. Because of its outgoing personality, Contis are quite receptive to training and relatively easy to handle even for a beginner. As with all dogs, socialization should be started early to prevent it from becoming fearful of unfamiliar people and pets. Continental Bulldog Image. As a kennel we have an influence on its development, health and character. Therefore, it is not only the appearance that is important to us. We focus mainly on the health of puppies and dogs. From the role of breeders, we can influence health primarily in one way and that is the careful selection of parents of puppies. We are looking for such stud dogs for our females, so that they are suitable not only for their overall body type and appearance. We also want the character to be as balanced as possible. But the first criterion we have is always excellent health results. For us, the health of the breed is not just a phrase. After some time passed, we are more and more convinced that we made the right choices. Our Contis are mainly our friends. Puppies are not born very often in our kennel. We want our females to remain healthy and vital, so we decided the maximum for each of them are three litters. We do our best to choose the ideal families for our puppies. This way we have the opportunity to get to know each other a bit. If our visions intersect, we are happy to advise on choosing the ideal puppy especially according to the suitable character. We postpone the choice until the weeks of age of the puppies when, at least in the case of Continental Bulldogs, basic personality traits become stable and visible. However it is very likely that audited breeders in our wide network do or will have top quality, super cute Continental Bulldog puppies for sale either now or in the near future. For this reason we suggest that you fill out the below form, and let us know exactly what you are looking for. Tell us the gender, colour, and bloodline of your ideal Continental Bulldog puppy, the planned timing of your purchase, and where you would like your new pup to be delivered to. As soon as your inquiry is in, our dedicated team will start contacting our panel of breeders and will provide detailed information on the available dogs. Let us help you find the perfect dog for you Please, fill in the below form. We will then search our database for Continental Bulldog breeders and their litters and propose several puppies that we feel suit you and your lifestyle best. Didn't you find the right puppy? Please fill in the below form. Have you found your puppy amongst our above Continental Bulldog puppies for sale? If you like one or more of our Continental Bulldog puppies for sale above, feel free to visit their profile pages. You will see the date of birth, info on bloodline, age, colour and more useful information. Our Services and Guarantees You may either find your future puppy amongst our published Continental Bulldog puppies for sale or, based on a special search, we will locate your future Continental Bulldog puppy, and he or she will come with our certified services and guarantees. All our puppies come from audited show breeders. Pups are fully vaccinated, treated for internal and external parasites, micro-chipped and checked by vet multiple times. All this is registered in an international vaccination book Pet Passport. Our puppies come from top breeders, and we are happy to offer you any of our Continental Bulldog puppies for sale with two types of guarantees: 10 year Health and Lifetime Puppyness Guarantee. Live the amazing life of a dog owner and opt for one of our Continental Bulldog puppies for sale. Contact us today and start an exciting journey. Puppies are not born very often in our breeding. But when they are born, then they are dogs from the best possible connections. We do our best to choose such dogs for our females, so that the little ones inherit the best possible basis from their parents. Both in terms of character and of health results. The Continental Bulldog also Continental Bouledogue, originally Continentale Bulldogge is a breed that enjoys generally good health. In our kennel not only character is essential. We also work on further improving the health side in the long run. Our ideal is a friendly, intelligent, docile and adaptable Continental Bulldog that is physically fit and tireless, lively even in hot weather. One that enjoys various activities with owners, different kinds of motion, even sports, training, obedience, and that is healthy overall and full of life. That is our goal. We sincerely wish that every puppy from our kennel would be like that. For more information you can look into the categories Our Dogs or Puppies. In the header there is also the category About Us. And primarily About the Breed where you can read about our experience with Continental Bulldogs and other important information.

How much is a French Bulldog puppy? Most French Bulldogs are sold or adopted as puppies, so the cost and considerations above apply to puppies and adults. Younger dogs will likely cost more because people prefer to bring puppies into their homes for several reasons. Puppies are cuter and easier to train, and owners get more time with them because they are younger. Most breeders will not sell puppies until they are at least eight weeks old because they need to spend their first two months of life with their mother. So the youngest you can usually get a French Bulldog is eight to ten weeks. An eight-week-old French Bulldog will cost more than a six-month-old French Bulldog simply because there is a higher demand for very young puppies. Learn about the top factors that increase the price of a Frenchie below. Colors and Patterns The color is possibly the most important factor in the cost of a French Bulldog. There are several coat color options, and some are rarer and more sought after than others. Sable: Sable is a light brown, beige-ish color. Sable is one of the most common colors in French Bulldogs, so sable dogs are not typically more expensive or sought after. The color is the same as a fawn, except their snout and sometimes the tip of their tail are black. Blue French Bulldog: Blue dogs are popular among celebrities and the extremely wealthy, boosting. The color is a cool-toned dark gray, almost a soft blue. The gray is comparable to slate gray. They need two dilution genes to create this color, which can lead to some coat-related health problems like alopecia. Despite the potential health problems, people pay high prices for blue Frenchies. Chocolate: Surprisingly, chocolate Frenchies are very rare. The chocolate color requires two recessive chocolate genes but is not associated with health problems. Chocolate Frenchies can be dark, deep brown, or soft brown. Aside from the delicious coat color, chocolate Frenchies are popular because they often have unique eye colors, like green, gold, bright yellow, and even orange. Lilac French Bulldog : Like blue Frenchies, lilac Frenchies are rare and in high demand among famous and wealthy people. The color typically requires two chocolate genes and two blue genes , which are both rare. Other unusual gene combinations can result in the lilac color. They can suffer from the same health problems as blue dogs, but they cost twice as much. Isabella Frenchies are lilac dogs with a proven genetic code for the color. Cream: Cream Frenchies have an eggshell or cream-colored coat. Their coat has a subtle tan tint, and they often have dark-colored snouts. Their features are typically black, unlike white bulldogs with lighter, pinker features. White: White Frenchies are a bit more common than cream Frenchies, and they have a much brighter, lighter white coat. As mentioned above, they often have light features, like pink eye rims, bright pink ears, and sometimes a pink nose. Pure Black: Pure black Frenchies are surprisingly rare. Black genes are not rare, but the lack of genes for any markings can be hard to cultivate. Most Frenchies with black genes are merle or have tan markings, so pure black coats are harder to find. Black and Tan: Black and tan Frenchies are rarer than you may expect, but not nearly as hard to find as blue, cream, white, pure black, or lilac dogs. Many breeders specialize in black and tan dogs, so they can be pretty expensive. They are typically mostly black with tan marketing on their chest, face, and paws, but can also be mostly tan with black markings. Black and White: Black and white Frenchies are just as common as black and tan, but will almost always be primarily black with white chests or necks. There are also Piebald Frenchies, which are technically a different coat color and are primarily white not cream with large black spots on their backsides and rear. Merle: Merle French Bulldogs are different because this coat pattern is unnatural in their genetic code. Merle dogs have spots and patches, usually black and gray. Dogs with this coat often have health issues like eye and ear problems. Merle dogs are rare but not as sought after as other colors. Blue Fawn: Blue fawn Frenchies have the fawn and dilution genes, creating a soft, blueish-brown coat. Sometimes, their snouts have a lilac or blue color, and their eyes are usually a lighter color, like blue or violet. Bloodline and Purity Bloodline and purity are typically the top factors that affect the price after color. Many people who buy Frenchies from breeders expect to get a purebred Frenchie. Purebred Frenchies will cost more than mixed breeds, but the bloodline is important too. People want dogs with strong bloodlines and little to no genetic disorders or diseases. Breeders charge more when they can prove not only the health of the dog for sale, but the health of their siblings, parents, and grandparents. Genetic tests and health records that show that their lineage is healthy will substantially increase the price. Breeder Reputation The breeder's reputation will increase the price too. As breeders become more reputable and highly rated, they will likely increase their prices because they can. Also, the best breeders often only produce a handful of litters a year, so they need to charge more for each puppy to make their investment back. Some breeders may produce only one or two litters, but the best usually produce no more than three in one year. Reputable breeders offer DNA tests, genetic information, lineage history, and other things that guarantee a healthy and genetically pure Frenchie, so they charge more. Frenchies typically weigh between 16 and 28 pounds and stand about 12 inches tall. Most people seek smaller Frenchies because they are likely to live longer, so a Frenchie expected to be 15 pounds will be more expensive than one expected to be 30 pounds. Something as simple as a high-quality GPS tracking collar ensures you can always find your sweet Frenchie, no matter how far they run. Protect your pup with the Fi GPS tracking color, so no matter what happens you can always find them and bring them home. Personality One of the reasons people love Frenchies is their charming personalities. They are typically very good with other dogs, bark sparingly, are easy to train, and have moderate energy levels that are manageable. Frenchies are playful but still protective, and are usually friendly enough with strangers, making them easy and fun dogs to love and care for. Size and Weight As mentioned, French Bulldogs weigh between 16 and 28 pounds and are around 12 inches tall at the shoulder. Average Lifespan The average lifespan of a healthy French Bulldog is between 11 and 15 years , which is standard for smaller breeds. While some coat colors are associated with health problems, none of these problems are fatal eye, ear, skin, fur problems. Unlike light, athletically-built dogs, Frenchies have low endurance and moderate energy. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The cost of owning a dog can range widely depending on how you take care of them, like the quality of food you give them, how often you take them to the vet, and if you invest in training. How much is a French Bulldog as a lifetime pet? Also expensive. So, how can you lower these costs? The top way to keep the cost of your Frenchie down is to be open to all coat colors and sizes, as choosing a common coat color can save you thousands. Buying a slightly older Frenchie can also save you money. As far as lifetime costs, you can save money by training at home, buying affordable food, using pet insurance, grooming at home, and having friends or family pet sit instead of boarding can all make owning a Frenchie cheaper. When you do get your beloved pup, make sure you protect them with a Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar , so if they ever get lost, you can find them easily. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. However, that price can increase significantly, even into five figures, depending on the location and reputation of the breeder. Reproducing requires artificial insemination. These factors increase the investment for French bulldog breeders. The more investment a breeder makes into producing healthy high-quality dogs in good environments, the higher the price will be. The rarer the color is, such as blue, lilac or chocolate, the more you can expect to pay. Certain coat patterns, such as pied, merle or brindle, will also be more expensive. Female French bulldogs and those with blue eyes are pricier as well. Adopting through the French Bulldog Rescue Network is a more affordable way to acquire a new puppy or adult Frenchie. The French bulldog breed is exceptional with many rare characteristics that make them popular among dog owners. But there are also some challenges and things to watch out for. French Bulldog Size Fully grown French bulldogs average 12 inches tall. Adult females often weigh between 16 and 24 pounds, and males reach 20 to 24 pounds. Most French bulldogs will continue to gain weight until about 14 months old but stop gaining height between nine and 12 months. There are also mini Frenchies, also known as teacup French bulldogs. These are bred to be miniature versions of standard French bulldogs, weighing between five and 14 pounds. They typically shed in spring and fall, so you should increase coat brushing during that time to help reduce hair in your home. This can help you save on grooming costs. French Bulldog Appearance Along with breeds like English Bulldogs and pugs, French bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a shortened snout. Their faces are wrinkly and scrunched, giving them a distinct look, even as puppies. French Bulldog Colors French bulldogs come in many different coat colors. These include neutral colors — such as cream, gray, tan and black — as well as more rare colors like lilac, blue and chocolate. The rarer the color, the more expensive the price of a French bulldog will be. French Bulldog Temperament These pups are affectionate and playful, making them great companions. Training is recommended for French bulldogs since they can march to the beat of their own drum without guidance. Most Frenchies respond well to training, especially when treats are involved. Trainers believe French bulldogs understand commands but are moody and will respond as they feel like it. Frenchies are great family dogs, do well around other pets and prefer companionship. A companion will also allow you to leave them alone for longer periods of time without them getting frustrated. But, of course, another pet will come with its own costs. French Bulldog Activity Level Frenchies are not the best dog if you want a jogging companion. French Bulldog Life Expectancy French bulldogs have an average lifespan of 12 years if well taken care of. If they remain in great health, they can live as long as 15 years. Your veterinarian will periodically examine your Frenchie to ensure he or she is growing properly. Due to their flat faces and short necks, it can be difficult for French bulldogs to use standard feeding bowls. You can instead provide elevated dog food and water bowls to help your pet eat and drink more comfortably. Buying treats, toys or a comfortable dog bed can also help your Frenchie feel welcome in its new home. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide. Depending on where you live sorry California, it is expensive where you are! This could indicate the dog is coming from a puppy mill. You can read why you should avoid buying dogs from puppy mills here. But the popularity of the dog means there can be a lot of competition for the Frenchies that do need a home. There are a lot of factors that can influence price, and if you are looking for a show dog or a dog for breeding, you should expect to pay a lot more. Certain colors, which are desirable but genetically quite rare, can also push up the price. A brindle or black puppy will usually be at the lower end of the scale, but a breeder might ask a lot more for a platinum or blue fawn puppy. This is Micro, a perfect body specimen for a Frenchie. He also has a blue coat and orange eyes, which are quite rare in dogs. What About Mini Frenchies? Mini Frenchies, also known as Teacup Frenchies, are the same fantastic dog, but they are quite a bit smaller than usual. You can expect them to weigh just 5 to 14 pounds on average. Due to their smaller size, though, their bodies can be fragile, so it is important not to engage in rough play with them. These dogs are even harder to breed see below than standard French bulldogs, so they are also quite a bit more expensive. Why are they so expensive, then? One factor is high demand since they are a very desirable dog breed. But that is not the whole story, since Labs are also one of the most popular dog breeds. Health Problems One of the biggest factors is these dogs have a lot of health problems. Most of their health issues are related to their flat, brachycephalic faces similar to Pugs and American bulldogs , which makes them particularly prone to breathing issues and allergies. This unique facial structure can also affect the formation of their jaw, and the health of their eyes, and can even affect their healing from certain illnesses and injuries. On top of this, they can also be prone to hip dysplasia, kneecap shifts, and heat stress. Fortunately, breeders try to control these breed-specific issues. It is essential that responsible breeders do their best to control these conditions, which means DNA scanning, genetic testing, multiple trips to the vet, and paying extra close attention to the developing puppies. Of course, all of this comes with a cost. Breeding Problems The other big problem is that Frenchies are extremely hard to breed. As well as the operation itself is expensive, the mother and pups need extra care afterward. Plus, breeders need to give their mother dogs significantly longer to recuperate before they can think about breeding them again. On top of that, French bulldogs have small litters—usually just three puppies. It is very unusual for a Frenchie to have five or more puppies in a single litter. So, if you are looking for a French bulldog puppy, you can expect to be on a waiting list for several months before a puppy is available. As well as being expensive to buy, French bulldogs can be pretty costly to care for, again mostly because of their health problems. They will probably need regular trips to the vet, and insuring them can be expensive because they are known to have health issues. But what are some of the main costs that you can expect to incur when bringing home a new puppy? Supplies It can surprise pet parents just how many things you need to care for a new dog. For starters, your new pup will need a bed, toys, bowls, a collar, and a leash. A crate can also be a big expense if you choose to crate train. However, because crate training is not so common among French bulldogs, first-time owners might also want to consider some professional training classes. Food Food is one of the biggest neverending expenses for any dog. Puppy food is also a bit more expensive than adult food because of its high protein content. Ideally, your dog should be eating puppy food until they are about 9 months old. French bulldogs should be eating around 25 to 30 calories per pound of their body weight each day. You can read more about pet insurance for puppies here. They will usually only bark when there is something wrong, so it is worth paying attention when they do vocalize. This is one of the reasons why they make excellent apartment dogs. While French bulldogs are adorable, they are specifically bred for their appearance, and this has led to a lot of genetic issues that affect their health and can leave them in a lot of pain in their later years. Many people object to putting the health of an animal second to appearance and therefore object to buying French bulldogs and supporting the purebred breeding industry. In theory, if there was no demand for these dogs, this kind of exploitative breeding would stop. In practice, this is difficult to imagine, considering how popular the breed is. Can French bulldogs stay home alone? French bulldogs actually tolerate being left alone relatively well. However, all dogs need a lot of love and companionship, and no dog responds well to being left on their own for 10 hours a day five days a week. Dogs become members of the family, and if they are going to thrive, they need to be treated with that kind of attention. Are Frenchies hard to potty train? However, they are little dogs with small bladders. They also tend to gobble down their food, which means they can be prone to smelly gas expulsions. How much exercise does my Frenchie need? French bulldogs do well on just a 15 to minute vigorous walk each day. They are also quite playful, so they burn off energy just playing around as well. Are French bulldogs aggressive? Despite the reputation of bulldogs, Frenchies are not aggressive. They are friendly and get on well with people and other animals. However, all animals are a combination of nature and nurture, so they can learn aggressive habits if they are not properly cared for. Are Frenchies high maintenance? They can also be left alone without expecting too much trouble. On the other hand, their tendency towards breed-specific health issues does mean they need regular visits to the vet. They may need special medications for things like breathing issues, and in later life, they may need things like a special bed. The Verdict French bulldogs are excellent dogs. They are great little companions who will find it easy to live in your apartment with you, but they are also fun-loving and curious. While they are great dogs, they are also quite expensive. This is due to high demand and some pretty serious difficulties when it comes to breeding them. They have small litters, almost always delivered by c-section, and health screenings and vet visits are a big burden for breeders. If you want something special, such as a rare color, you should expect to pay a lot more. You can also expect them to be relatively expensive dogs to own because they do need regular and close contact with a good vet to maintain their health. At a glance, the French bulldog is: Highly intelligent and trainable Small, meaning it does well in fairly small apartments Expensive due to demand and how difficult they are to breed Prone to breed-specific health issues So, are they worth all this expense and trouble? We think they are. French bulldogs can be the ideal pet for first-time owners with limited space and time but a lot of love to give. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Tweet Looking for free German Shepherd puppies? If you are looking for a German Shepherd, and your budget is tight, you can find your new best friend nearly free or at a decent price. You just have to know where to look. Most of the dogs they place are one year or more, but they often have puppies as well. This normally includes vaccinations, a heartworm test, and spay or neuter. For about one third of the price of a purebred GSD from a reputable breeder, you can give a deserving dog a second chance. Rescue groups specialize in finding forever homes for lost, abused or unwanted German Shepherds. They have extensive knowledge of every dog they place and can normally match you with the right dog for your unique situation. Do you have a German Shepherd rescue success story to tell? Adopt a German Shepherd It may take some patience and persistence, but you can find a nearly free German Shepherd from a local shelter. If they don't currently have puppies, check back often. Or ask them to call you as soon as they get one. The adoption fee will normally cover an initial vet checkup with puppy shots and a spay or neuter. This is cheaper than the cost of a purebred German Shepherd from a rescue group. One quarter of all shelter dogs are purebreeds. Why adopt a dog? You may be their last hope. Many shelters only hold dogs for a week. If they are relinquished by their owner, they are on the short list for euthanasia, as they are not considered lost and no one will be coming to look for them. My Begian Malinois , Ryder, was 48 hours away from being put down after his owner signed him over. Search for a local animal shelter. Don't make price your primary consideration. Backyard breeders and puppy mills price low to sell quickly. Avoid these unscrupulous breeders. Even if an ad reads AKC registered dogs , this is not necessarily a sign of a quality dog. Be aware that Puppy Mills also use this as a lure for unsuspecting buyers. Exercise patience. You don't have to break the bank. Your new best friend is worth the wait. Jennifer here. I've been a fan of the German Shepherd breed for as long as I can remember. After you have been shown pictures of the German shepherd puppies for sale that the breeder has available, you should ask the breeder any questions that you may have. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale Under Dollars If you are looking for German Shepherd puppies for sale then you can expect to pay a premium price if you do not know what you are doing. So, what you need to know is how to find German Shepherd puppies for sale that are cheap. The first thing you need to realize is that there are many ways you can find German Shepherd puppies for sale for under dollars. One of the biggest ways to do this is by buying them from a breeder or adopting one from your local pound. Here you will be able to get a dog at a much lower price than buying them in pet stores or from breeders. Another way to find cheap German Shepherd puppies for sale is to buy them from breeders in your area. You can find breeders in almost every city, so this is an option you should consider before looking for German Shepherd puppies for sale online. One advantage to getting one from a breeder is that they will be able to provide you with a pedigree and will often be able to get you a puppy that is not only purebred but a purebred that will also perform well in the show ring. One thing to remember when buying one of these dogs is that you will be buying a dog that was bred for show. This is why you need to make sure that you get a dog that has had the best possible health care as it can be costly. So, if you have a good vet you can be sure you are getting a healthy dog. When choosing the dog you want then you need to be sure you do not get a dog that is too small or too big. If you have too many breeds in the mix, it is more expensive to breed them all together so try to get a mix of different German Shepherd puppies for sale to get the cheapest prices. Another tip to help you find the best German Shepherd puppies for sale is to watch the breeds that you are interested in. Usually, these dogs are larger and have larger bones so you will be able to see if this breed is right for you before making a purchase. As a final tip to help you get the best dog for the best price it is always best to ask a friend or family member to help you with some research. These people are usually more knowledgeable than you are so they will be able to tell you about the best breed for you. It is important to remember that finding German Shepherd puppies for sale that are cheap can be very hard. So, what you need to do is take your time and be patient and you will be able to find a dog that you love and one that will make you happy for years to come. German Shepherd puppies for sale at a very low cost can be found if you know where and how to look. This can often mean going online and doing some digging to find out where the good German Shepherd puppies are being sold. This is one of the best ways to save money on your puppy purchase. The Internet is an invaluable tool that allows you to find German Shepherd puppies for sale all over the world, even from people who are not German Shepherd breeders. When you go online, you will find many classifieds that advertise German Shepherd puppies for sale. Some sites allow you to buy directly from a breeder, while others require you to fill out an application. Most of these online sites will allow you to search for puppies that meet your criteria, whether you are looking for AKC registered German Shepherd puppies or simply those that have had some training. It is really up to you which method you choose, depending on how much time and effort you want to put into finding the right dog for your family. Both methods will result in dogs that are high quality. German Shepherd puppies are also easily found through local breeders and animal shelters. Sometimes you may be able to find a good bargain at a local shelter, especially if you are looking for AKC registered German Shepherd puppies. Sometimes you may have to make an appointment and visit the shelter to pick up your new puppy. However, there are other places that you can look to find German Shepherd puppies at a low cost. Sometimes you can find these animals in your local newspaper or even in the classifieds in your local grocery store. If you want to purchase German Shepherd puppies that are purebred, you can go online and do some research to find out which dogs are of the highest quality. You can find out what their history is, where they were born, and who their parents are. Once you have this information, you can compare it with the German Shepherd puppies for sale for under dollars. Of course, if you are not going to pay top dollar, you should find a place that is willing to take less. Just because a breeder is willing to take less does not mean the dog is substandard, just that the dog has been taken care of in a loving manner. There are some things that you should know about German Shepherd breeders before purchasing your puppy from them. First of all, the best German Shepherd breeders are willing to spend as much money as you are willing to spend for a purebred German Shepherd puppy. You will also want to find out how much they are charging per week if you are going to be bringing the dog to use at home. The more costly it is for the breeder, the more likely it is that they are charging their customers a low cost. Another great resource for locating German Shepherd puppies for sale is in your local pet store. Oftentimes these stores have a wide variety of German Shepherd, as well as other dogs, for sale. Of course, you need to keep in mind that breeding issues may lead to low production numbers for some of these dogs. This is another reason why you need to check carefully before purchasing any German Shepherd puppy from any store around your area. If you are still interested after checking out the local pet stores, you may want to try a German Shepherd rescue group. Many times these groups will have German Shepherd puppies for sale, or they will know where someone is selling them. Typically, you will find these groups by putting in searches for German Shepherd rescues on the Internet. As long as you are keeping your eyes open and searching for German Shepherd puppies for sale, you should be able to find someone within your vicinity that is selling a dog that needs a good home. You must keep your eyes open when looking at German Shepherd puppies for sale. Just because you saw one that was priced low, does not mean that it is going to be that way when you bring the dog home. You also want to keep in mind that breeders will often sell dogs for prices that are lower than what you would pay at a pet store. If you find the right breeder, however, you should be able to get an excellent puppy for an excellent price. Once you find a good breeder, you can always keep him on your list of breeders to buy from, and then you will never have to worry about where to purchase your German Shepherd puppy from again. German Shepherds are considered the most intelligent dogs on earth with an innate sense of smell. This makes them excellent companions and excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-taken care of, they are a pleasure to have around the house. Of course, as long as you get proper training from puppyhood, any dog can be trained to do anything within reason. German Shepherds are very protective dogs. This is one of the traits they were specifically bred for. They bark at intruders and they want to guard the family. They can become very jealous when other dogs are introduced into the family. If you have not yet been bitten by a German Shepherd, then you should consider getting bitten by one before getting a puppy. However, most breeders do not allow new dogs into the house until they are fully immunized. Puppies can cost anywhere from two hundred dollars to three thousand dollars for a purebred. You can get German Shepherd puppies for sale for anywhere between two hundred and five hundred dollars. German Shepherd puppies that cost over seven hundred dollars are usually purebred. These puppies will have many health problems and may not be very friendly. German Shepherd puppies for sale should be taken care of properly during the time you get them. If you have the money to spend, there are dog breeders that will ship puppies to your home. Some of these breeders will ship their dogs in crates. If this is not possible for you to do, try to find someone willing to take the dog to your home in a carrier. This is one way to ensure that your puppy does not get hurt while it is being shipped. The best place to find German shepherd puppies for sale is online. You can usually find dog breeders who are selling puppies for prices around fifty dollars to one hundred dollars. You can even find dog breeders who will sell their dogs for prices as low as fifty dollars! To find German shepherd puppies for sale online, you should first search on the Internet for German Shepherd breeders. When you find a breeder that has a list of dogs, you should look at the pictures of the dogs. If you like what you see, you should contact the dog breeder and ask questions about the dogs. You should also ask questions about the breeding program that the breeder has in place for his or her dogs. When you find breeders breed their German shepherd puppies for sale for under a hundred dollars, you may want to ask about the breeding program that these breeders have in place. Breeders who do not offer much in terms of a breeding plan may not be the best people to purchase from. It is best if the breeders you are considering are the only breed for profit, but if they do not, they may be good breeders nonetheless. You should ask the breeder how many dogs he has bred in his lifetime. You should also ask about the mother of the German shepherd puppies for sale. It is always best to choose a breeder that has been in the business for some time. German shepherd puppies for sale under dollars are easy to come by. However, you should not settle for just any dog breeder. You should look for a reputable and established breeder to help you find the right puppy. These are dogs that can be placed with loving families and that can provide you with years of companionship and enjoyment. They are great dogs for any family and with the proper care can become a part of your family for many years to come. Share this:. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

Exercise, Growth, and Joints Exercise Labradors not only love exercise, they need exercise. We all look forward to taking our puppy for a walk, however it is important not to over-exercise your puppy. In natural play, puppies will romp until they are tired and then stop to lay down for rest. When walking a puppy on a leash, they cannot stop when they normally would for rest. Too much exercise or walking can severely damage their bone and joint structures irreversibly. This should be taken seriously. THE RULE is: No more than 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age So that means, at 2 months old 8 weeks , your puppy only needs to exercise or walk for 10 minutes per day. At 3 months of age 15 minutes of exercise and so on. If you walk your puppy too far too soon, your puppy may develop hip and elbow dysplasia as they get older. Labradors have been known to develop dysplasia younger than other breeds of dogs. In many of these cases, it is often due to environmental factors such as over-exercise, running on hard or strenuous surfaces such as concrete or sand , continual jumping or agility work. Things to avoid with your puppy: No jumping in or out of car, especially larger cars. Lift the dog or use a ramp. No throwing balls or frisbee great distances for your puppy to chase. The sudden stopping and over reaching with the front legs is dangerous. No agility, jumping or flyball before years old Do not let other dogs knock or push the puppy over continually, includes body-slamming Avoid much stair climbing which can increase the risk of dysplasia No fast turns or roll-overs Good exercise: Swimming is great, since there is no weight-bearing impact on their joints. Remember, labradors love water! Walking on leash, for no longer than the recommended length of time for their age Self-directed play is an overriding rule for any puppy under 18 months old. The majority of exercise should be free play, exploring, and noodling around Hide and seek games are fantastic, as the dog can move at its own pace looking for its toy or treat or you. Size is a factor as large dogs, especially ones that like to play with paw whacks, can inadvertently injury a young puppy. Supervised play is critical. You need to teach the puppy a release command. All these games are forms of exercise for puppies and are a great way to help your puppy learn useful lifelong skills and qualities. Growth plates and bones: Development and injury Growth Plates Growth plates are soft areas that sit at the ends of the long bones in puppies and young dogs. They contain rapidly dividing cells that allow bones to grow longer until the end of puberty. Growth plates gradually thin as the hormonal changes approaching puberty signal the growth plates to close. In puppies, this closure normally completes between 18 to 24 months old in labradors. After sexual maturity, the growth plates calcify and the rapid cell division ends. The growth plates become a stable, inactive part of the bone, now known as an epiphyseal line. Dogs bones are held together with muscles, tendons and ligaments soft tissue. In an adult dog, if a joint experiences a stress such as bending the wrong way or rotating too much, the bones will hold firm and soft tissue will be pulled, resulting in a sprain or tear. Why this matters so much, is that unlike a sprain, injuries to the growth plate may not heal properly or not heal in time for the puppy to grow up straight and strong. Injury to a growth plate can result in a misshapen or shortened limb, which creates an incorrect angle to a joint resulting in yet more future injuries when he grows up, including dysplasia. These xray images show open and closed growth plates in a puppy and adult dog. Bone Strength In addition to having soft growth plates at the end of long bones, puppies bones in general are softer. Spiral fractures of the tibia lower leg bone are very common in puppies. A spiral fracture is where the bottom half of the bone twists in the opposite direction of the top half. Any exercise that puts torque twist on a bone puts the puppy at risk of a fracture. For an example, movements such as twisting and turning suddenly can cause these type of fractures. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is where we recommend you read our Health and Genetic Testing page, where we talk about hip and elbow dysplasia. It is critical that you, as a puppy owner, understand as much as you can about hip and elbow dysplasia, how you can help prevent it, and what your breeder should be testing for. On the other hand, an underfed or malnourished puppy or dog is also at higher risk of injury. Muscles mass directly influences strength, likewise inadequate calcium and nutrients affect bone density. A body condition score of about is healthy for a young puppy. Once an adult, the ideal body condition score would be about 5 for a healthy, fit labrador. Sterilisation Desexing In larger breeds, sterilising young puppies at a young age has shown to increase the risk of joint disorders and injury. We recommend sterilisation occurs between 24 months old for this reason. This recommendation is outlined in our Health Guarantee. We discuss this more under Desexing or Sterilisation. 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. 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. 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. 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.

Coat: Are Mini Labs hypoallergenic? If you are after a hypoallergenic dog, you will have much better luck with Labradoodles , which are Labs crossed with Poodles. Unfortunately, the Mini Lab has the same tendency to shed as a standard Lab. Their thick double coats are waterproof on the top layer, soft and fluffy on the inner layer. Thanks to their double coats, they can withstand heat and cold much better than their owners can. That being said, every dog is different and their preferences should be taken into consideration. A house dog would not like being left out in the cold, whereas a dog used to winter would find your home too stuffy with the heating on. Do Miniature Labradors make better house pets? Purebred Labradors are known to be awesome family pets. They get along great with kids and are as loving as they are active. Your Teacup Lab Retriever will be no different. However, due to issues with their health, your Mini Labrador Retriever dog might be more time-consuming to take care of. According to Google, there are plenty of runts that live to lead healthy lives but they often have lower survivability in their puppyhood. On the other hand, Labradors born with dwarfism will need a lifetime of specialized care and attention. Exercising your Miniature Labrador Retriever Mini Labradors have the same energy levels as their standard counterparts. The only difference is that they are even more susceptible to joint disorders such as hip dysplasia. You also want to provide them with enough stimulation, lest they get bored and become destructive. How often should Mini Labs be groomed? Too much shampooing can also cause their coats to dry out, which will either cause itchiness or an increase in oil production. Neither of which will do your dog any favors. Check their eyes and ears frequently to ensure that there are no abnormalities. Nails need to be clipped every few weeks or when you can hear them clacking on the floor. As you can see, they are quite low maintenance and only require a brush every now and then. Any ole slicker brush you get off Amazon will do, although some pet parents like to use a furminator to get their annual shedding under control. How do you feed a Toy Labrador? They will need the same nutrients as a large-breed dog. Miniature Labrador Health Issues Depending on what caused your Labrador to be smaller than the breed standard, you might need to be prepared for a shorter than average lifespan. Dogs with dwarfism might only live 5 years, whereas the breed average is 10 — .They also suffer from certain physical disabilities such as short legs, bowed knees, swollen joints, turned-out feet, and a low slung back. Dwarf Labs also have proportionally large heads. There are two main kinds of dwarfism, SD1, and SD2. The SD1 gene is called osteochondrodysplasia and will manifest as malformed legs. These dogs will most likely develop dysplasia and cause pain and lameness, something that the Labrador breed is already susceptible to. The SD2 is the more common form of dwarfism and it causes skeletal dysplasia and inhibits their bones from fully developing. This means that while their legs will be shorter, they will not have any deformities. Another genetic mutation that might create a Miniature Labrador lies in their faulty pituitary gland. A malfunction that inhibits their growth hormones naturally stunts their growth and leaves them smaller than other Labs. All three mutations can increase the risk for retinal dysplasia which causes blindness. Smaller Labs bred with runts are often more sickly than regular-sized Labs. However, they can also be just as healthy. This popular breed of dog could also develop ear and eye problems, and hypothyroidism. The other health issues that Labbie owners should look out for are obesity and cancer. How Much is a Miniature Labrador Puppy? Most breeders do not advertise their stunted puppies as bigger Labradors are often more desirable. First of all, they should be breeding healthy Labradors who do not carry the gene for dwarfism. Just be aware of the risks involved as they are unregulated. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. Make sure you understand the implications of investing in a Lab that was bred via runt breeding or a Lab that is diagnosed with dwarfism. Avoid getting your Lab through breeders who have purposefully bred dwarfism into their Lab puppies or through breeders who have purposefully bred litters to be smaller than average. Try and ensure that your Mini Labrador maintains a quality diet and eats a dog food specified for his age, weight and activity level. Keep up with routine grooming practices, and ensure your dog sees a vet regularly for wellness exams and check ups. In spite of not being the healthiest dogs, Mini Labradors are just as friendly, affectionate and playful as their full-sized counterparts. Mini Labrador dogs are still Labradors, and as such they are some of the most highly sought after dogs in the world. These dogs are renowned for their family-friendly temperament and companionability when it comes to children. They also get along great with other pets including both dogs and cats. Labradors are very high energy , however, which can be exhausting for the more laid back owner. That said, in the right home and with an active family , Labrador dogs can thrive. They are incredibly intelligent as well, meaning training is a breeze. In fact, Labrador Retrievers are some of the top employed service dogs throughout the world, thanks to their keen sense of emotional intelligence and ability to pick up so quickly on what their people need of them. However, Labs can become very bonded with their family and do get bored easily when left alone for too long. This boredom can lead to destructive behaviors like digging, marking, barking and chewing. Mini Labrador Training and Socialization Requirements Like all dogs, the Mini Labrador should be trained and socialized at an early age to prevent behavioral issues. Like all dogs, Labrador Retrievers require plenty of socialization and training at an early age in order to grow up happy, healthy and well-rounded. Even though Labrador Retrievers are highly social and friendly, they can be prone to behavioral issues and even aggressive tendencies if they are not raised and socialized properly. Because they are so intelligent, Labrador Retrievers love to learn. They are also eager to please and highly food motivated. Instead, use positive reinforcement tactics like treats and praise. If you find your Mini Labrador is becoming distracted or bored during training sessions, try and offer several five minute sessions throughout the day and provide him with plenty of breaks and playtime in between. Tips on Socializing Your Mini Labrador Socializing your Mini Labrador is just as vital as training is to his overall health and happiness. A dog who is properly socialized is a confident, well-rounded dog that is less likely to exhibit aggressive tendencies and fear-based behavioral issues. Try and ensure your dog has positive first time experiences and as many new experiences as possible as he develops. Introduce him to different people, children, other dogs, sights, sounds, and so on. Encourage your Mini Labrador gently using treats and praise to help him associate the world around him with something positive. Most importantly, avoid forcing your Mini Labrador into a situation or experience he is clearly frightened of. Doing so could exasperate his fear and lead to future problems down the road. Labrador Retrievers are naturally energetic dogs. Bred water retrieving dogs, these guys love to be with their people and will enjoy being outside and having a job to do. A Mini Labrador will be no different, and will enjoy a variety of exercise routines including both mental and physical exercises designed to keep him healthy and happy. Mental Exercise Labs are considered some of the smartest dogs in the canine kingdom. As such, they are happiest when they have jobs to do or when they are given plenty of appropriate, dog-safe activities to keep them busy. We recommend investing in interactive puzzle toys and slow feeders to keep your Mini Lab engaged and challenged. You can also take time to set up fun little obstacle courses in and outside of your home with furniture or appliances and encourage your dog to complete these courses for treats. Not only will this help keep your dog mentally and physically sound, it will help build the bond between the two of you. Remember, Dwarf Labradors can suffer from a higher rate of bone and joint issues, spinal issues and chronic pain. They may also suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome due to their abnormal skull development. This can lead to respiratory issues, heat intolerance and exercise induced collapse. When dealing with a Dwarf Labrador or Mini Labrador, be sure not to over-exercise your dog and to monitor him in warmer weather. The appropriate exercise for a Mini Labrador will include about 30 to 45 minutes of exercise a day as well as free playtime in a securely fenced backyard. Mini Labrador dogs are also highly social and get along with other canines, so dog parks are another great way for your Mini Labrador to have his exercise needs met. This is especially beneficial for dogs who might suffer from breathing difficulties. The harness is ideal for medium sized dogs like Mini Labradors and will help you guide your Lab on walks easily and naturally. The material is comfortable for your Lab as well, and even includes reflective materials for safer evening walks. Still, they require routine grooming and upkeep to ensure they stay healthy. The Mini Labrador is a shedding dog, so he may not be the ideal companion for those who suffer from allergies. This is a breed who has a dense, double-coat that is weather resistant and self cleaning. The good news is that he only needs to be bathed once every six weeks or so with a quality dog shampoo and conditioner. Over-bathing your Mini Labrador can lead to skin and coat issues. Your Mini Labrador will not need hair cuts or trims, though he will need routine brushing. While he sheds year-round, the Mini Labrador sheds heaviest twice a year during the shedding season in Spring and Fall. During the shedding season, you may want to brush your lab a few times a week to collect and reduce loose hair from his undercoat and keep it from your clothing and furniture. Outside of shedding season, you can get by brushing your Mini Lab once a week. Along with bathing and brushing, the Mini Labrador should have his ears checked regularly to prevent chances of moisture and build up leading to an ear infection. His teeth should be brushed daily using a safe toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste , and his nails should be trimmed or ground down regularly. Gonicc Dog Nail Clippers. Lab Terrier mixes 2. Introducing The Gene For Dwarfism Dogs with dwarfism have disproportionately short bones in their legs. Many types of dwarfism are caused by a single gene mutation, which can occur spontaneously, or be introduced by out-crossing with another breed. However dwarfism is linked to an increased risk of skeletal disorders including arthritis and spinal disease. Selectively Breeding From Runts Finally, all Labrador litters have some variation in size between siblings. Puppies much smaller than the rest of their litter are known as runts, and they might remain smaller in adulthood too. Breeding runts from different litters together over several generations can produce a breeding line of unusually small dogs. Recreating these problems over several generations can produce small dogs who are prone to illness and fail to thrive. Not at all. Just like people, Labradors come in a range of healthy sizes. The AKC breed standard allows for male Labs to be 22 to 25 inches tall at the withers, and 65 to 80 pounds. Females can be 21 to 24 inches tall, and 55 to 70 pounds. And of course, these parameters only apply to show dogs. Even greater variation occurs healthily and naturally in the pet population. So if you want a naturally micro Labrador, how can you go about finding one? But one of the most reliable predictors is the size of their parents. When two healthy dogs at the low end of the normal weight range for Labs mate, their puppies are likely to be small for Labs as well. You can ask breeders about their size of their sire and dam when you call to ask about a litter, or research which waiting list to join. But be prepared to discover that your puppy may exceed all expectations anyway! Labradors can come in a surprising range of healthy weights. Their legs appear to be bent because they are malformed. This bone malformation causes them to have problems with their knee and hip joints, which can be painful and crippling. Any type of dwarfism can cause additional health problems to the animal. Although you associate dwarf Labradors with short legs, they can also have abnormally formed skulls. This can result in breathing problems. They can also have problems whelping, and require c-sections instead of being able to give birth naturally. Disproportionate leg and body lengths, such as seen to an extreme scale in the Dachshund, can also result in spinal problems and painful movements. Although some dwarf Labradors will live full and happy lives, they are at a greater risk than their unaffected cousins. It is therefore very important that Labrador breeders ensure that they do not breed from Labradors who carry the gene for dwarfism. Dwarf Labrador Health Tests Before you buy a Labrador, their breeder should have carried out a variety of health tests on both of the parents. One of the things you should make sure that they have tested for is dwarfism in Labradors. There is a test available for SD2, which will tell the breeder whether the parent carries the gene. No Lab with the gene should be bred to another with it, as they could result in the puppies having dwarfism. Miniature Labrador Breeders A Labrador Retriever small breed is something that has been coined by a few dog breeders to try and cash in on a market of dog lovers who want a small Labrador Retriever to fit into their lives. Every month hundreds of people scour the internet looking for a miniature black Lab or miniature chocolate Lab to join their family. And unscrupulous people will take advantage of these people who are innocently putting their faith in them to provide a happy, healthy new friend. They will provide you with clear, breed specific information. Those claiming to be miniature Labrador breeders may be producing puppies that carry the Labrador dwarfism gene. They may have cross bred their lines with a smaller breed of dog. Or they may be producing regular sized Labs and simply giving their customers the misleading impression that they will remain the same size. Words Of Warning From Lab Breeders If you are researching Labrador breeders, here are some negative buzzwords to keep your eyes peeled for: Micro Labrador Mini Labrador Miniature Labs These words demonstrate that the breeder is either lacking knowledge about Labradors or is trying to mislead puppy buyers. Either way, they are not the breeder that you want to approach. Well, yes, you can. Some Labradors are smaller than others! Within the bounds of usual Labrador size, they are a bit shorter, lighter and just plain littler than other Labs. You will also find that some English Labradors are chunky in build but short in height. Short legs are more fashionable in the show ring at the moment. So this can be removed as the reason for them being shorter legged. Small Labradors who are simply at the lower end of the normal spectrum can be found from reputable breeders, and they are a good option if you want a Labrador temperament in a slightly smaller package. The other option is to buy a Labrador mix, who is crossed with a smaller breed of dog. Just make sure that you check out the health tests that are relevant to this breed as well before you commit to the puppy. But no healthy Labrador will stay small to the miniature extent. Lab puppies that stay really small do so because they are undernourished, ill or have a disease. Even dwarf Labradors are only around 2. If you want a small Labrador Retriever, then think about why. Is it to do with a lack of space, or simply a personal taste issue? Small dog breeds are popular at the moment, but fashions change and the most important part of any pet is their personality and temperament. I hope that you will decide that a full sized Labrador is worth the loss of space on the couch, in exchange for the love and devotion they will give you for the next ten years. Find Out More About Labradors!

It is important for senior dogs to have a feeding routine, that the food bowl remain in the same area of the house so that they know where to find it, and that they have a rug or yoga mat to stand on while eating to avoid slipping or having trouble standing on hard floors. If your senior dog has gone longer than 24 hours without eating, they should see their veterinarian for a thorough physical examination and possible diagnostics to investigate the cause of their loss of appetite. Is Your Dog a Puppy? Small breed puppies, especially, are at a high risk of hypoglycemia low blood sugar and should be watched closely for signs of lethargy or collapse if they are not eating. If this happens, they should be treated on an emergency basis. Some puppies may not like larger kibble, as it can be hard for their puppy teeth to chew, especially if they are just transitioning to solid food. This can be remedied by mixing in water and letting it soak to create more of a porridge consistency, or the kibble can be mixed with canned food as well. If your puppy still will not eat, they should be seen right away by a veterinarian. If they are also lethargic, vomiting, or having diarrhea, they should be seen on an emergency basis. A newly adopted dog can take days or weeks to settle into their new home. It is important to ensure that they are given a quiet place to eat, away from other pets or children that may interrupt them. However, if they are lethargic, vomiting, or having diarrhea, or go more than 48 hours without eating anything, they should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Did Anything Change in Your Household? Some dogs may be sensitive enough that a change in their environment may cause inappetence. Examples include a new addition to the family whether a new pet or a new baby , construction, having people over, or even a change in the location of the food and water bowls. Some dogs with separation anxiety even expect their loved one to be in the room while they eat, and will stop eating if their human leaves the room. While this is not necessarily a health concern, it is a sign that your dog may have severe anxiety that needs to be addressed. Calming chews such as Composure or Solliquin may be helpful, and calming pheromone collars or diffusers such as Adaptil can be beneficial as well. However, if you are concerned that your dog may have severe separation anxiety, consider consulting with a board-certified veterinary behaviorist for help. Did You Switch Dog Foods? This also allows your dog to get used to the new food over time, rather than making a sudden switch. Is Your Dog Pregnant or in Heat? Early in pregnancy , your dog may have a reduced or absent appetite. If your dog is in the middle or late part of her gestation, she may eat less because her stomach has less room to expand due to the presence of puppies, but she should make up for this by eating a smaller amount more frequently. Regardless of what point of gestation your dog is in, if she has not eaten in over 24 hours, your veterinarian should be called right away to ensure that everything is okay. Dogs in heat may also have a decreased appetite, which is considered normal. However, if she goes longer than 48 hours without eating anything, she should be checked by her veterinarian. If she is lethargic, vomiting, having diarrhea, or drinking and urinating more than usual, she should be seen by her veterinarian right away, as this could indicate an infection in the uterus known as pyometra. Is Your Dog Diabetic? If your dog is diabetic and will not eat, this could be an indication that something is seriously wrong. If your veterinarian advised you to give a half dose of insulin if your dog skips one meal, do so, but alert your veterinarian immediately if your dog skips another meal. If your diabetic dog skips a meal, is lethargic, nonresponsive, or vomiting or having diarrhea, they should be seen by a veterinarian immediately, as this could be an indication of hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis, both of which are life-threatening if not treated right away. It is not unusual for your dog to skip a meal or two after a surgery. You may try tempting your dog to eat with a spoonful of canned food or boneless, skinless, boiled chicken on top of their kibble. Better yet, ask your veterinarian for a few cans of a prescription gastrointestinal diet to feed for the first few days after surgery. These foods are highly palatable, are easily digestible, and can help counteract some of the gastrointestinal upset that can happen after surgery and anesthesia. If your dog had oral or facial surgery, your veterinarian may recommend feeding only canned food for two or more weeks. This also means that your dog should not receive hard treats or chew on hard toys until they are declared healed at their recheck appointment. If your dog is refusing to eat the prescribed canned food, reach out to your veterinarian in case there are any post-operative complications. Heat canned food for a few seconds in the microwave make sure to take it out of the metal can and put it into a microwave-safe bowl. Canned food can become scorching hot quickly, so feel the food first to avoid any burned tongues. Try mixing some plain, boneless, skinless boiled chicken and rice with their kibble to encourage them to eat. Add a probiotic such as Purina Fortiflora or Advita on top of the food. Not only can this make the food more palatable, but it can also help any inflamed or irritated intestine heal by rebalancing a healthy gastrointestinal flora. If you have tried these tricks and your dog continues to refuse his food, he should be seen by his veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Unless explicitly prescribed by your veterinarian, your dog should not be given any over-the-counter gastrointestinal medications like Imodium or Pepto Bismol , as these could cause serious side effects or even interact with medications that your veterinarian may want to give. It is best to consult with your veterinarian before attempting to treat symptoms at home. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? But, there are several reasons why your labrador puppy might not be eating. Sometimes you need to worry. While, at times, it is okay to ignore it and give them some time. I will try to cover all the possible reasons why your Labrador is not eating. Why my labrador puppy is not eating? There can be many possible reasons behind it. Illness If your puppy is showing a lack of physical activity. Then, your puppy might be sick. If your puppy is in this state for a few days make sure you take them to the vet to get checked out. It can be a sign of cancer, kidney failure, liver problem, etc. Stress Your puppy can be under stress. There might be certain external factors affecting your puppy. Try keeping their environment light, and if possible play, along with them. This way, they might feel much better and get back to their daily routine. Along with it, some intestinal roundworms can affect the appetite of your puppy. Vets advise that you should not walk your young puppy outside until they have been vaccinated since puppies are so vulnerable to distemper and parvo. Dental Disease Maybe your puppy is having some issues with his teeth. It might be a broken or loose tooth, that is making it painful for your puppy to eat. If you find something like this, then you need to get a checkup done. Try changing the food and see if they eat it. Lab not eating but drinking water? It is another thing that many owners have experienced. So, is it something to worry about? He is not eating anything except drinking water. Give him a few days and monitor his symptoms. If symptoms get worse over time, if he stops drinking water, develops a fever, or starts vomiting then you should call your vet and talk about it. Dog not eating food but eating treats? It is again a common thing, and it is referred to as partial anorexia. It occurs when a dog is not feeling well. A dog will eat what is unique to it rather than eating anything else, such as treats, chicken, etc. It can sometimes become an issue but is less dangerous as compared to complete anorexia. Try these steps and check if your pet is back to its daily routine or not. So, slowly try to change the menu and add something new to it. And notice what he or she likes to eat. You can use different brands, different proteins, and much more. Limit the treat If your dog is not eating anything. Then try limiting their treats. This way, they will understand that the food given is the only meal for them. After that, they might get back to their daily routine. Separation anxiety All the dogs are not the same, and some dogs have separation anxiety. So, try to be with them while they are eating. It is just a matter of a few minutes. Then you can leave them, and get back to your work. Praise them While you are putting down your food, right in front of their nose, try to praise them. They are sensitive, and maybe praising them can change their mood and start eating back. Hand feeding Some pets also prefer hand-feeding rather than getting their food in the bowl. So, try to feed your dog with your hand. Make sure to not make this a habit. These were some of the tips you can use to get your puppy back to normal eating. After trying these tips, if your dog is not eating anything please make sure to talk to your vet immediately to run some tests. Should I worry if my puppy is not eating? You do not have to be worried every time your puppy is not eating. Try to follow all the steps given above. It might go on for 2 or 3 days. If you feel at any point this is a medical issue, please contact your vet immediately. Pay proper attention to the signs and if you find any unusual symptoms, then contact your vet immediately. How to stop this from happening again? Is there any way to prevent this from happening again in the future? Yes, there is. Add food that is good for its health. Never give them trash or spoiled food. It can eventually lead to an upset stomach. Signs your puppy needs to see a vet Besides the long-term risks of puppies not eating as they should, there are some immediate risks to take into account when your puppy refuses to eat. This is particularly true for toy breeds that are prone to hypoglycemia a drop in blood sugar , which can lead to serious complications. Puppies are also more susceptible to dehydration than older dogs. This seems especially the case if their main diet is canned food, as pups eating the "wetter" canned food tend to drink less. Here is a list of the more common reasons. Finicky Eater Being a picky eater isn't all that common in puppies. After all, your puppy has two qualities that should make them happy to eat just about anything: they're 1 a dog and 2 a puppy! However, in some cases, puppies can become picky eaters and have certain preferences in their eating habits. To be on the safe side, you always want to have your puppy's veterinarian evaluate them to be sure they are healthy if they show signs of not wanting to eat. If your puppy is given a clean bill of health by their veterinarian, consider whether they are happy to eat other things besides their meals, such as healthy dog treats or dog-safe fruit. If they are happily eating those things, it may be that they are getting a bit picky with their regular food. You have a couple of options here: Change their food. You certainly wouldn't want to be forced to eat something you don't like, day after day. Sometimes it's as easy as switching to a different texture or hardness of food. I don't advise changing the protein source chicken, beef, etc. Changing protein sources for your dog can make it more challenging in the future should your pup develop food sensitivities or allergies. This is one reason when pets do develop food allergies, they have to be fed veterinary hypoallergenic diets which tend to be much more expensive instead of limited ingredient or new protein diets. Stick with the same protein even if you're switching or adding canned food to their meals. And be sure to change your puppy's food gradually to avoid stomach upset. Make their food more enticing. This may be a food topper, fish oil supplement although don't overdo it, and remember that it is a fish protein in case of allergy concerns , or some wet food. Even just wetting the food with warm water and letting it sit for a few minutes can make it more enticing read: smelly for your puppy. Do this before you offer the food to your puppy. You don't want to build a habit of them refusing dry food and learning that doing so means you'll add something yummy. They're always learning! The goal here is to just get calories in. See below for some options on food toppers to try. If a puppy is truly being picky — again, this is rare — the usual recommendations from canine behavior consultants are to put the food down for 15 to 30 minutes and then put it away if uneaten after that time. It doesn't reappear again until their next mealtime. HOWEVER, because it's extremely important for a puppy to get enough calories from a balanced diet, this isn't recommended for young puppies or toy breeds that are prone to hypoglycemia low blood sugar. Be sure to rule out other causes for their lack of appetite first, and then speak with your veterinarian about whether they are old enough to try this method. Maybe you brought them home very recently. If you have children, maybe they have just gone back to school, and the puppy is experiencing separation anxiety. Or maybe the kids are spending more time at home. Keep an eye open for potential sources of stress for your pup. Well, the same can hold true for puppies. If you think this might be the reason, check out some ways to help keep your pup cool. Teething or Pain Just like babies become fussy about eating when they are teething, so can puppies. The discomfort and soreness they experience in their mouth can make them reluctant to eat their food, especially if it is dry food. The pain could be from an injury — after all, puppies can be quite accident-prone! Pups can also experience inflammation of their pancreas pancreatitis or growing pains from their developing bones. They could even have something stuck in their mouth — like a splinter or piece of wood from chewing on a stick — or a broken tooth from a bad chew toy. Check for any external or obvious sources of pain. See below for some teething toy suggestions and alternatives to dry food. Some snacks and treats, whether stolen by your puppy or given freely by you, can cause digestive upset as well as obesity and begging later in life. They may even cause your puppy to reject the healthier and balanced dog foods they should be eating! You can greatly decrease the chance of your pup sneaking their own treats by puppy-proofing your home and teaching them not to counter surf. If your pup is having diarrhea for more than 12 hours, they are at risk for dehydration. The risk for dehydration increases if your puppy is also vomiting. For those that are severely dehydrated, the skin will remain tented. This is a critical situation for puppies, and medical attention is needed immediately. Connect now Rates may differ for those residing outside the U. You'll have access to a vet for 7 days. Many puppies have roundworms or other parasites in their gut before you get them home. This is a big part of the reason why we vets usually deworm puppies at their puppy visits, recommend fecal poop testing, and vaccinate to prevent Parvo and other devastating diseases. For example, puppies with liver shunts will have stunted growth, poor muscle development, abnormal behavior such as head pressing, seizures, circling, etc. They may also have vomiting, diarrhea, or abnormal appetites. Acute kidney failure due to a toxin or infection can cause decreased appetite, abnormal urination, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, etc. Respiratory Infection One of the more common respiratory infections, kennel cough, can be mild and self-resolving, but it can also spread and reach the lungs. For some, this can be another reason not to want to eat. The best way to protect your puppy from kennel cough and perhaps even canine influenza, a. Therefore missing a meal or two can be problematic and be a cause for concern. Always err on the side of caution and call your veterinarian for advice in these situations. Add about 1 part water to 3 parts dry food. You can even warm it in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds to enhance the smell. Be sure it is not too hot before giving it to your puppy. Add in a little bit of canned food. Some puppies like it cold, some room temperature, and some prefer it warmed. Note: Choosing canned food is best done with your veterinarian's recommendation, but you can start by looking to see if the dry food you feed your pup is available in canned form. And stick with the same protein source. If the kibble is chicken, find a chicken canned food. However, these diets and the options below all require a veterinary prescription. Veterinary-formulated diets are meant to treat, cure, or alleviate certain medical conditions and if they are used incorrectly or for the wrong condition, they could cause other health issues. These diets should always be used under veterinary supervision. When you need a truly smelly and appetite-stimulating canned food, Royal Canin's Recovery canned food is a good option. If you wanted to switch dry foods — normally you'd want to transition over time — but because it's critical for a puppy to eat, this food is safer to switch suddenly. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric dry canine formula provides complete and balanced nutrition for the growth of puppies and maintenance of adult dogs, including the growth of large breed dogs 70 lbs or more as an adult. You can try adding some peanut butter. If Feeding Canned Food: Try offering it cold, room temperature, or warm to find your pup's preference. Avoid broths containing onions, onion powder, chives, or garlic — as these can cause a breakdown of your pup's red blood cells. Mix Native Pet's Bone Broth powder with water as a pet-safe way to add broth to their food, or sprinkle this broth flavored food topper on their food. Some pups will perk up their appetite when you add a little bit of plain boiled white rice or pasta to their meals, or some boiled and shredded, boneless, skinless, spice-less chicken breast. Add some low-sodium green beans can encourage some puppies to eat. And the added benefit of green beans is they contain essential vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber. Add some room temperature or warmed chicken or turkey baby food the brands we linked to don't contain onions, which shouldn't be in any food you give your dog. Add some fruit, such as blueberries, cantaloupe, cranberries, etc. DO NOT give grapes, raisins, or currants since they are toxic. Check out our list of safe and unsafe fruits you can give your dog. You can also try a very small amount of canned pumpkin. While pumpkin has a lot of benefits, sometimes too much of a good thing can create issues. For example, excess fiber from the pumpkin could block the absorption of protein if the puppy consumes more of it than their normal diet. Additionally, too much can cause diarrhea, which would be an additional complication. If you normally feed your pup their food in a bowl, try a different type stainless steel instead of plastic or switch to a plate. Change where you feed your puppy. Feeding them in their crate or puppy playpen is the best idea, which provides some separation from other dogs, cats, and the hustle and bustle of your home. It also has the added bonus of creating a positive association with their crate an essential part of crate training and helping prevent resource guarding issues. You may need to stimulate their appetite by increasing activity before mealtime. Try taking them for a walk or have playtime before you plan to feed them. Try setting a fixed feeding schedule to see if they will eat once hungry. Providing puppy-safe teething toys can give them some relief. A cooling teething stick can help soothe gum irritation and feel good to gnaw on, and the softer rubber in puppy teething toys is gentler on your puppy's sore mouth. These pheromones mimic the scent of a mother nursing her puppies, encouraging a sense of safety and security. Adaptil Pheromone Diffuser Available at: Provide calming enrichment activities. Licking, chewing, and sniffing are excellent for not only providing mental enrichment but are also self-soothing. Spread some wet food on a licking mat you can even freeze it to make it longer-lasting or to use on hot days and give it to your puppy in their crate or playpen to work on. Make sure to supervise their licking mat session, as these aren't meant as chew toys. You can even blend up their dry food with some water or food topper and then smear it on the licking mat so they can get those much-needed food calories. Hyper Pet IQ Treat Lick Mat Available at: You can try spreading a bit of your dog's wet food, peanut butter, pureed pumpkin , or low-fat greek yogurt on this mat to provide a soothing enrichment activity. If you feel really desperate, you can attempt hand feeding. Just be warned, this could become a habit your puppy starts to rely on! Start by feeding from your hand and then work towards holding the bowl for them instead of feeding straight from your hand. From there you can build them up to eating from the bowl on the floor while you're further away Don't Over Treat: Be sure that you are not giving too many treats and spoiling meal time. A puppy that is full of yummy treats won't eat their regular meals because they just aren't hungry. There are a couple of options here to help mitigate extra treat calories and to ensure your puppy is getting a complete and balanced diet during intensive training. Use a portion of your dog's regular food as their training treats. Measure out their daily allotment and pull out a portion to use for training exercises. Use regular food treats indoors and for easy cues, saving the high-value training treats for puppy class or practice out and about. Rely on a different type of food as a training treat. For example, if your puppy eats dry food for meals, use air-dried dog food for treats, such as the Ziwi Peak Air-Dried food. The texture is different and many dogs find these types of food more valuable than dry food, but they are still formulated to provide a balanced diet. Speak with your veterinarian about how many calories your puppy should be consuming each day. This will help you balance out the calories they are getting from treats with the amount they are getting from food. Incorporate real-life rewards for your puppy's training. One of the best things you can do when training your puppy is to practice identifying what it is that they want in a particular moment and then using that as a reinforcer and reward for their behavior. It's not always about treats! For instance, they might want your attention, access to the yard, to go for a walk, or to play. By using these real-life rewards from the start with your puppy, only using treats to get better focus or to teach a brand new behavior, you'll be on the right track for fading out food treats later on in life. If your puppy has decreased energy. If your puppy is weak. If your puppy shows signs of hypoglycemia low blood sugar — abnormal gait walking , weakness, seizures, and even coma. If multiple dogs in your home or among your circle of friends are also experiencing decreased appetite. If you know your pup has recently gotten into the trash or dirty laundry. If your puppy got into cleaning agents mop water, freshly cleaned toilet, etc. If any toys are recently missing or destroyed. If they've recently been spending time at the dog park, doggy daycare, or any other group of dogs. If your puppy was just vaccinated. If the whites of their eyes, their gums, or the inside of their ears are yellow or even yellowish. See the photo below as an example of a dog's eye that is yellow. For a growing puppy, a good, well-balanced diet is extremely important. Puppies have unique nutritional requirements and therefore need diets specially formulated for their optimal health and growth. You are laying the foundation of a healthy adult when you properly feed your puppy. A well-balanced puppy diet will help: Achieve a healthy growth rate — not too rapid and not too slow. This is extra important for large and giant breed puppies. Support proper immune functions Prevent the possible occurrence of developing orthopedic issues in the legs and hips When you are looking for the right diet, you want to purchase food with the AAFCO American Association of Feed Control Official certification. This is the organization that supervises the entire pet food industry. An ideal diet will also have completed a feeding trial before it is marketed. You want to feed a diet formulated for puppies based on their size small breed versus large breed formulations are different. A good puppy diet should contain the proper levels of DHA. About the author Dr. Beth Turner Beth Turner is a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience. She graduated from North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine and following graduation, she began her career as an associate veterinarian and worked closely with the local shelter. In she accomplished her dream of practice ownership, designing and building her own clinic. Another meaningful role, while running her clinic, was serving as her county's shelter veterinarian. This gave her the opportunity to help improve the lives of many animals in her community as well as work with the rescue she loved. She sold her practice in to move across the country. But what can you do if your puppy is not eating, or isn't eating enough? Veterinarian Joanna Gale, BVetMed, a Mars Petcare expert, explains how much your puppy should eat and gives the lowdown on why young dogs sometimes skip meals, how to get them to eat, and what signs indicate something is seriously wrong. Exhaustion Puppies go-go-go until they suddenly crash into a sleeping pile of cuteness. Your little one may simply need a nap before he's ready to chow down. As long as your pup digs into his bowl at the next mealtime, it's OK for him to miss one feeding. Distraction If there's a party going on, a new person or pet in the house, or an opportunity to play, your puppy might be too excited to eat. Your four-legged friend should be ready to eat once things settle down again. Stress Has anything changed in your puppy's environment recently? For instance, a new home, pet, or person? If surroundings have changed, that can cause puppies to act differently. It may just be a matter of your puppy adjusting. But make sure feeding times are as calm for your pet as possible and consider placing your puppy's food bowl away from other pets' feeding areas. Vaccinations Just like in people, pets can feel a little blah after getting a shot. Fatigue and reduced appetite are normal side effects of puppy vaccinations , but they shouldn't last longer than a day. Finicky Eater Many pet parents assume that if puppies aren't eating, it's because they don't like the food. But, Gale says, "Most healthy puppies have a good appetite and aren't fussy about their kibble. If you add human food, you're unbalancing the meal that's been carefully formulated for puppies. And your puppy may end up picking out the bits that he likes and leaving the rest. Too Many Snacks It's important that puppies learn good manners with some basic positive reinforcement training. But teaching young pups the do's and don'ts usually requires lots of treats. If your puppy is filling up on treats, he may not be hungry for his normal meal. If that's the case, use pieces of his regular kibble or try buying specific training treats as incentives during training sessions so he gets proper nutrition throughout the day. Illness A complete loss of appetite could mean your puppy is sick, particularly if he is listless or quiet, Gale says. The problem could be anything from a virus to eating something that isn't food hello, little shoe chewer. It's essential for puppies to regularly refuel. Growing bodies need lots of nutrients. So if your puppy is acting like his goofy, normal self but hasn't eaten for a full day, call your vet for advice. Is your puppy also refusing water? Then ring your vet after a half-day of no eating or drinking, Gale recommends. If your puppy becomes inactive or starts to vomit or have diarrhea, it's best to see your vet right away. Diarrhea and vomiting can quickly dehydrate a puppy and could indicate that something is seriously wrong. How to Get a Puppy to Eat Again If your puppy has other symptoms or has missed an entire day of eating, seek veterinary care. Otherwise, there are a few things you can do at home to encourage your pup to eat his next meal. And, make sure mealtimes are calm and relaxed. One other secret to enticing your pup to eat is to mix wet and dry puppy food. It's a change that's still nutritionally balanced and appropriate for puppies. Like human babies, puppies have tiny stomachs and need to eat several small meals a day. As your puppy grows, you can feed larger amounts less frequently. Your veterinarian can recommend a schedule, but Gale says these are the general guidelines: 4 meals a day: Recently weaned puppies of all sizes need four meals a day. This chart helps break down the feeding schedule by your puppy's breed size. Always discuss the best feeding schedule for your puppy with your vet. Puppies need varying amounts of food, depending on the dog's size and breed. For a starting point, check the feeding guides on puppy food packages. But remember, Gale says, that the feeding guides list the total daily amount—so split that amount equally into the number of meals that's right for your puppy's age. For example, if it says your 3-month-old puppy needs 1 cup of food a day, divide that by four. So you would feed your pup a quarter cup of kibble four times a day. Your veterinarian can also help determine if the amount of food needs to be adjusted based on your dog's growth and weight at each well-visit. Young dogs need the extra nutrients they get in puppy food for proper growth. So if your furry pal is refusing to eat, it's best to check in with your vet especially if your pup has skipped several meals. Once your adorable fur ball is chowing down again, you can relax knowing your spunky pup is getting everything a growing dog needs. Was this page helpful? A family member moving out Relationship break-up A change in your routine, such as working shifts or nights Moving his bowl to a different area All of these changes may upset your Labrador and cause him to be disinterested in food. Multiple changes should be done one at a time. If your dog has a stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea , you may need to contact your vet sooner. Your dog may have also eaten something toxic. Take care with foods like grapes or chocolate, and never leave these where your Lab can reach them, as even a tiny amount can be highly poisonous. Medication or Vaccinations Some medications may cause a reduced appetite or nausea. If your Lab is taking a new course of medication and this occurs, you should inform your vet as there may be a more suitable alternative. If your Labrador Retriever has had his recent vaccinations, sometimes these can cause adverse reactions, including loss of appetite. The good news is this should only be brief. Ensure your Lab is drinking plenty of fresh water and keeping himself hydrated. If your Lab finds it difficult to keep hydrated, you can always try a pet water fountain such as the Petsafe Drinkwell from Amazon. The free-falling stream of water entices your dog to drink and keeps his water constantly clean. Dental Pain When your Labrador suddenly stops eating his kibble, it could be because the food is causing him some pain in his mouth. It might result from gum disease, an abscess, or a damaged tooth. Choose a more fragrant food. Try choosing a better quality food that has a powerful meaty smell. Add some warm water or unsalted chicken or beef broth. Add a topping. You can add wet food or other toppings such as plain yogurt, egg, chicken, other meats, or fish. I often do this to mix things up for my dog. Try hand-feeding, as your Lab might need a little TLC! Exercise your dog before feeding so that he works up an appetite. However, wait an hour before putting his bowl down which helps prevent bloat GDV. If you have been hand-feeding your Lab, try stopping for a while. Remove his bowl after 15 minutes and then only put it down again a few hours later. Limit treats to training times only. Try keeping his mealtimes separate from yours. Put him in another room at your mealtimes. Do not feed your dog table scraps. Try switching to a ceramic bowl instead. Give him lots of praise when he eats from his bowl. Make feeding time fun — try putting a lid on his food, so he must remove it first. They are good, especially if your dog is easily distracted by his environment. This bestseller has almost 75, positive reviews! If your dog senses that you are stressed and anxious about his loss of appetite, he may also become stressed and not eat at all. I know initial vet visits can be costly, but so are treatment methods if your Lab is diagnosed with a condition or disease! I would recommend having a decent pet insurance policy in place. This will always give you peace of mind and avoid unexpected vet costs. But if your dog has gone more than two days without eating you should call your vet. Labradors should eat at least twice a day at hour intervals to prevent bloat GDV. Puppies under 6 months of age should be fed more often as they need small meals throughout the day. Hopefully, these suggestions will fix the situation and return your Labrador to his everyday eating habits. Related Posts You May Like:. Picky dogs can have their appetite perked up by being offered another food or treat, but unwell dogs will refuse even their favorite meals. Partial anorexia is when a dog eats, but not enough to keep him healthy and fit. There are many reasons why a dog or puppy might go off their food. If a dog eats nothing for a few days or loses his appetite over a period of time this can be a sign of a serious illness. A mild illness, like a tummy upset, could cause him not to eat for a day or two. Problems with his teeth or pain can also cause him to eat less — just like you would. But there are other reasons for a dog to stop eating. Lack of appetite can be caused by changes in the environment or emotional upsets. Not eating can also be a learned response. But first things first. You could have a medical emergency on your hands. First try and see if you can figure out a reason. He tries to, picks at his food but then backs off. Check his body all over for signs of an injury, bloating or any unusual lumps at bumps. Are there any signs of problems with his teeth, mouth or throat. Check his stools and whether he is passing urine. Does he have a fever? If your dog looks really sick — withdrawn, lethargic or unusually quiet, he may be in trouble. He needs to see a vet without delay. Dogs with severe tummy pain may just take to their beds and not make a sound. Bloat or some kind of obstruction from eating trash are possibilities your vet might want to consider. You can also try and offer food again in a few hours. Dogs can go without food for a few days without any adverse effects on their health. There are many reasons why a dogs go off their food besides health problems. Or even if he seems just a little bit reserved. You dog might just not be hungry. Or bored with his food. Someone could have slipped him too many treats. Have you changed food brands? Some dogs are very suspicious of unknown tastes and smells. A new bag of kibble you just opened might be off — check and smell the food. When dogs have emotional upsets it often puts them off their food — just like our children. Have you moved house? Even a simple thing like a new food bowl or changing the place where you feed him can have him turning up his nose at food. Most dogs also stop eating for a day or two when their owners go off on holiday. Are there visitors who might be upsetting him? Or a new pet? But, if he normally has a healthy appetite, keep an eye on him, watch and wait. One of the things you need to watch for is that your dog drinks water. Right away. If your dog is drinking a lot more water than usual and refusing to eat this can also be a sign of an infection or a serious disease. Just like people, dogs get tummy bugs. These minor bugs are not usually serious and most dogs will carry on behaving normally throughout. And they will drink enough water to replace lost fluids. Veterinary advice is to not feed your dog for about 12 hours after a tummy upset. Then start by feeding small amounts of bland food every few hours on the first day. This allows the digestive tract to recover. Increase the amount of food gradually and if it seems that the problem is solved you can start reintroducing normal food. A lack of appetite accompanied by absence of bowel movements, or by straining, may indicate a bowel obstruction. Illness aside, the vast majority of dogs that go off their food are not in the throes of a medical emergency. Many dogs that gradually stop eating do it because they want you to feed them different food. If you ate the same old pellets every day, you might get bored too. Having said that, most kibble fed dogs consume their daily ration with gusto. So why do some dogs stop eating dry food? There may a perfectly good reasons. Older dogs, or those with dental problems or painful jaws may find them hard to chew. Or in winter the food might just be too cold. The solution here is simple — add a bit of warm water. But most often the reason is that someone added something tasty to the kibble at some point. And the dog has really appreciated that addition. It might have been some tasty gravy or some after dinner scraps. So the dog turns his nose up, and what happens next? Which he does! Job done. Or not. No — he is prepared to hold out for the tasty additions he has come to expect. So what do you do? Or paying a small mortgage for fancy food in a pretty pouch? The bad news is, your dog will make you feel like a bit of a heel whilst you go about teaching him not to be a fussy eater. He may also lose a bit of weight which could be a bonus. Which brand should you try? People often ask us which brand of dog food they should try, especially when their dog is refusing several brands. We simply cannot advise you on which brand of food you should feed your dog. That is a matter for you, and possibly your vet, to decide in consultation with your wallet. But be very wary of switching brands on more than one occasion. You can end up in a cycle of constantly switching from one food to another whilst your dog gets more and more picky. Your dog has learned to play you. How long can a dog go without eating Forget about hours. If he has access to water, a fit and well dog can last days without food. And most healthy, well balanced, dogs will give in and eat what is put in front of them within two or three days. So if you want to, you can safely refuse to feed a fit and well dog alternatives, until his hunger gets the better of him and he gives in and eats what you provide. That includes mentally well. Or a dog that has a health or emotional reason for not eating. A dog who has a chronic illness may need a special diet. And those recovering from a health problem could need some coaxing to recover their appetite. So do dogs who are recovering from a serious illness or have pain from recent surgery or conditions like hip dysplasia. This is only partly because they are less active and need less food. Various metabolic changes also take place when the body is under stress. Your vet will probably advise you on what to feed your sick, injured or recovering dog. He is likely to suggest that you tempt your dog with foods that he enjoys. Meals should be nourishing, easy to eat and to digest. You should offer smaller meals more frequently. Dogs find moist, warm food with a strong flavour more appetising. Canned dog foods, meat, fish, and eggs fit the bill. Sense of smell and taste can decline with age, and lower activity levels may mean that the dog simply needs less food. Most older dog gain weight because of inactivity. Those who keep losing weight usually have an underlying long term health problem, problems with their digestion or difficulty in swallowing. So if your older dog it not eating and keeps losing weight you should have him checked out by your vet. When older or chronically ill dogs eat too little over a long time they lose, not only body weight, but also lean mass muscle. Labrador puppies usually have voracious appetites, and will eat pretty much anything with relish. Even if your puppy seems otherwise well, talk to your vet if he stops eating altogether for more than a few hours. Moving home can be very stressful for a dog. He may need a little time to settle in first. His emotional health is the priority here, not your ability to control his diet. That can wait a week or two. But what happens when your dog eats everything besides the food they should? Fussy eaters Your dog that is happily settled in your homes, in great health, and refuses to eat the food allocated for him. He happily scoffs treats, or food of a different make? What about dogs that will only eat if you wet their food? Or pour gravy on it. These are the fussy or picky eaters of the dog world. These are often dogs that are having a great time making their adoring humans run around after them — providing their favorite delicacies — and generally giving their dogs what is very often a completely unbalanced diet. Just read on for the cure. How to cure a fussy eater The cure for a fussy eater is straightforward. Here are the steps: Decide what you want your dog to eat and offer him a small quantity in a bowl. Set a timer for five minutes. When the timer goes off, take the bowl away. Do not feed him any treats whatsoever until his next mealtime. At the next time, offer the dog a small quantity of exactly the same food again. For exactly five minutes. Do not feed him anything else. Make sure he has clean drinking water available at all times. Rinse and repeat Build up quantities as soon as he starts eating again. But you will win this battle.

Yorkshire Terrier When considering the Breed Standards and Average Sizes for collar selection, it is important to note that these measurements are approximate and may vary slightly across individual dogs. The average neck sizes listed above can serve as a general guideline for choosing an appropriate collar size for your lab puppy. It is crucial to measure your lab puppy's neck size accurately before making a collar purchase. Using a soft measuring tape, wrap it around the base of your puppy's neck, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit. Keep in mind that puppies grow quickly, so it is advisable to choose a collar with room for growth. It is recommended to select a collar that is adjustable to accommodate your lab puppy's changing size. This way, you can easily modify the fit as they grow. Always ensure that the collar is comfortable for your puppy to wear, with enough space for two fingers to fit between the collar and their neck. By considering the Breed Standards and Average Sizes, measuring your lab puppy's neck accurately, and choosing an adjustable collar with room for growth, you can provide your puppy with a comfortable and properly fitting collar. Remember to monitor your lab puppy's collar as they continue to grow and adjust or replace it accordingly. Suggestions: When selecting a collar size for your lab puppy, it is a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for additional guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your puppy's breed, age, and growth rate. Remember to always prioritize your lab puppy's comfort and pet safety when choosing a collar. Measuring the Neck Size of the Lab Puppy Measuring the neck size of a lab puppy is a crucial step in selecting the appropriate collar size. Here is a step-by-step manual on accurately measuring the neck size: Ensure that the lab puppy is calm and comfortable before measuring their neck size. Utilize a soft measuring tape or a piece of string to measure around the puppy's neck at the base, where the collar will be positioned. Wrap the measuring tape or string snugly around the neck, ensuring it is not too tight or too loose. Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters, maintaining consistency with the chosen unit of measurement. If you utilized a piece of string, measure its length with a ruler or measuring tape to determine the neck size. Double-check the measurement to ensure its accuracy. Remember that the collar should fit snugly but not be excessively tight or loose. It is important to allow two fingers to comfortably fit between the collar and the puppy's neck. By accurately measuring the neck size, you can select the appropriate collar size for your lab puppy, ensuring both comfort and a proper fit. Guidelines for Choosing the Right Size Collar for a Lab Puppy When it comes to finding the perfect collar for your adorable lab puppy, it's important to keep a few key guidelines in mind. In this section, we'll explore useful tips and tricks to ensure you choose the right size collar that will suit your furry friend's needs. From adjustable collars to selecting a collar with room for growth and ensuring optimal comfort and fit, we've got you covered. Get ready to make your lab puppy the most stylish and comfortable pup in town! Adjustable Collars Adjustable collars are a convenient option when choosing a collar for your lab puppy. They offer flexibility and allow for easy adjustments as your puppy grows. Perfect fit: Adjustable collars provide a perfect fit for your lab puppy's neck comfortably. This ensures that the collar is not too tight, causing discomfort or restricting movement, and not too loose, risking the puppy slipping out of it. Room for growth: Lab puppies grow rapidly, and adjustable collars provide the flexibility to accommodate their changing neck size. As your puppy grows, you can adjust the size of the adjustable collar accordingly, providing a snug fit without the need for frequent collar replacements. Economical option: Investing in adjustable collars eliminates the need to purchase multiple collars as your lab puppy grows. This helps save money in the long run and ensures that you always have a well-fitting collar for your pup. Durable and long-lasting: Adjustable collars are typically made of high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. They are designed to withstand the active lifestyle of lab puppies, making them a reliable choice for everyday use. Easy to clean: Lab puppies are known for their playful and messy nature. Adjustable collars are easy to clean, allowing you to maintain hygiene and keep your puppy looking smart and presentable at all times. When choosing a collar for your lab puppy, consider the convenience and versatility that adjustable collars offer. They provide a customized and comfortable fit, accommodate your puppy's growth, and are a cost-effective choice in the long run. Choosing a Collar with Room for Growth When selecting a collar for your lab puppy, it is crucial to choose one that allows room for growth. To make sure you get the right size, follow these steps: Start by measuring your lab puppy's neck size using a flexible tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler. Wrap the measuring tape or string around the base of the neck, where the collar will sit. Remember to leave a finger's width of space for comfort. Once you have the measurement of the neck size, add an extra inches to allow for growth. This ensures that the collar will fit comfortably as your lab puppy grows. Look for adjustable collars with multiple holes or a sliding mechanism that can easily be adjusted as your lab puppy develops. Consider collars made from lightweight and durable materials like nylon or leather. These materials can withstand the wear and tear that comes with a growing lab puppy. Ensure that the collar is neither too tight nor too loose when fastened. It should fit snugly around your lab puppy's neck, allowing freedom of movement without causing any discomfort. Pro-tip: Keep checking and adjusting the collar as your lab puppy grows to ensure a proper fit and prevent any potential discomfort or accidents. Ensuring Comfort and Proper Fit Ensuring comfort and proper fit is crucial when choosing a collar for a lab puppy. Here are some guidelines to follow: Choose a collar made of soft and lightweight material. It should be comfortable for the puppy to wear without causing any irritation or chafing. Ensure that the collar is adjustable. This will allow you to find the perfect fit for your lab puppy as it grows. Select a collar with a buckle or snap closure that is easy to fasten and secure. Avoid collars with complicated or hard-to-use closures. Check that the collar is not too tight or too loose. It should fit snugly around the puppy's neck without restricting their movement or causing discomfort. Regularly check the collar to make sure it remains properly fitted as the puppy grows. Adjust the collar accordingly to ensure a comfortable fit at all times. Recommended Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies at Different Ages When it comes to choosing the right collar size for your lab puppy, it's important to consider their age and growth. Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies up to 3 Months Collar sizes for lab puppies up to 3 months are determined by their age and weight. Lab puppies up to 3 months of age are typically smaller and lighter compared to older puppies. It is essential to choose a collar that fits a lab puppy neither too tightly nor too loosely. An adjustable collar is recommended to accommodate the puppy's growth. Ensure that the collar is comfortable and does not cause any discomfort or irritation to the puppy's neck. Before selecting a collar, accurately measure the puppy's neck size. Collars with room for growth are ideal for lab puppies up to 3 months as they experience rapid growth during this stage. To determine the appropriate collar size, consult the breed standards and average sizes for lab puppies. Consider the lab puppy's weight and neck size when selecting the collar size. Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies from 3 to 6 Months When choosing collar sizes for Labrador puppies aged 3 to 6 months, it is important to consider their growth and comfort. Here is a table outlining the recommended collar sizes based on the weight of the lab puppies: Weight Range. CHECK OUT 9 Things that are 4 meters long As your dog grows and begins to reach its adult weight, you can still use the weight method to figure out a rough collar size. When should a puppy first wear a collar? Some puppies may have already been wearing soft breakaway collars for training or to distinguish them from their littermates. This can make training, particularly leash training, much easier in the future. Collar Types There are several collar options available, and picking the right type is often as important as choosing the correct size. Leather collars are durable and stylish. Nylon collars are also comfortable for the dog and are available in a number of colors and patterns. Plastic collars are also available for dogs that tend to swim a lot or are frequently dirty. Harnesses are an excellent training tool for puppies that are just learning to walk on a leash. They can curb bad leash habits, such as pulling. Harnesses can be switched out for a collar as the dog grows, or you can upgrade to an adult harness size. Sharing is caring! When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? Collar, Harness, Or Both? Lab puppies start tiny but grow up extremely fast. Every pup grows up at its own tempo. If it has started to get too constricting at that point — either loosen it up if possible or get a new collar. If you get a collar with a lot of resizing leeway, it can last you a few months. This is very easy to judge if you just stick a couple of fingers under the collar. The risk of keeping an overly loose collar on your dog should be clear — the dog will be able to back out of the collar. Many others, however, including a lot of labs, love to back out of their collars whenever possible. Adult Labrador Neck Size So, what size collar will your lab puppy end up wearing when it grows up? If your puppy is smaller than average it may grow into a smaller-than-average adult lab or it may just be a slow grower. Different Types Of Dog Collars For Labs The main non-cosmetic differences between dog collars are in the materials and the fastening mechanism. Plus, they always allow for multiple different size settings. As for materials, these are the basics: Metal — a lot of people love metal, especially for mid-sized to large breeds like Labradors. Leather — this is the classic choice for dog collars. Its main drawback is that it can get stinky over time. This is especially true if your dog loves to swim and Labrador retrievers are a water dog breed. Fabric collars can come in a lot of different designs and compositions. Some of the more colorful ones are especially fun for puppies. Synthetic polyurethane-type materials — these intuitively put off some people but are an excellent choice. Training collars used to be very popular at one point for both puppies and adult dogs. These collars take many different forms — they can be pronged, pinching, and electro-shock collars. Their idea is simple — teach your dog not to pull on its leash with the negative reinforcements of the collar. Dog harnesses today are viewed as a better and safer alternative to training collars. These are used mostly for training and for adult dogs, however. You should start using those as soon as your pup is big enough. It is all rather bewildering, but there is no need to worry! This is where you can find the answers to those questions, and get some ideas and inspiration too. Collars are a great way to identify similar Lab puppies in a litter Labrador Dog Collars and the Law In many parts of the world, dogs must legally wear a collar when out in public. This is usually a disk attached to the collar, with your phone number and name on it. Collars can display IDs in a number of different ways. Some collars come with a brass or stainless steel plate attached to the surface, others have a metal ring for you to attach a tag onto. Others will embroider the ID into fabric or tool it into leather. Are Personalized Dog Collars Safe? But others feel that this is a dangerous thing to do. But most dogs are always supervised when outdoors, and many dogs are also microchipped so proof of ownership is more easily accomplished. Unless your dog is very friendly and spends time outdoors on his own, having his name on his collar is unlikely to put him at risk. Collars as a Fashion Statement A collar is the traditional way of attaching a restraint to a dog, for the purposes of keeping him safe. Before harnesses were invented this was an essential feature of life in a modern world, where cars and other hazards are everywhere. But in many homes and families, a collar has become something of a fashion statement too. A whole industry has arisen to meet the demand for different fabrics and styles. Training Collars for Labs Many people look on a collar, as an aid to training their dog how to walk on a leash. A way to get their dog to tread along nicely next to them, without dragging or pulling them along. They want to choose a collar that will best help them in this goal. Prong collars and pinch collars have been designed that are uncomfortable and even painful when a dog leans into them. The problem of course, is that pulling is often very rewarding for a dog he gets nearer to the destination he likes. So collars usually have to be quite painful if they are to successfully stop the pulling. Collars that can be used to pinch and choke dogs, are becoming less popular, as more and more dog owners want to train without using unpleasant aversives. And fortunately there are now excellent ways of teaching a dog to walk nicely without using collars at all. And in the meantime you might find it helpful to have a strong pulling dog fitted with a body harness that will give you more control without damaging his neck. Before you set off on a Labrador collar shopping expedition, you will need to think about sizes. And to know your Labrador neck size. Labrador Collar Size Not all collars are made in sizes large enough for an adult Lab. And one adult Lab will not have the same neck size as another. So you do need to whip out your tape measure in order to avoid disappointment Both my Labs have an 18 inch neck. They are medium build slim Labradors. But it really is best to measure. If you find it difficult to keep your dog still, just get someone to dip their fingers in some butter and let the dog lick it off while you take his measurements! Collars for adult Labs are usually about an inch wide — this allows enough space for a small ID plaque if desired. What Size Collar for a Lab Puppy? If you buy a puppy collar two or three inches longer than this it will last him a few weeks. Puppy collars are usually narrower than adult collars, half an inch is fine. And they come in some very cute designs. We have put together a collection of our favorite puppy collars to inspire you! So what kind of collar should you buy? Which Labrador Collar Style? We recommend that you buy your Labrador a flat collar with a buckle fastener. You can choose one to suit your taste and wallet. Especially if your Lab likes to swim. You can buy waterproof collars made from synthetic polyurethane type materials. Waterproof collars tend to resist odor and are easy to clean. They often come in striking bright colors — we love them and think they look cool! But not so loose that he can back out of it. You should be able to fit two or three fingers under it quite easily, but not much more. A collar that is too loose can be slipped by a lively dog very easily. It is also worth considering alternative forms of restraint. Especially for puppies and lively young dogs that can get very sore necks if leashed to a collar. Buying a Harness The breadth of choice in body harnesses for dogs has burgeoned in the last couple of years as people discover how great they are. A body harness is an excellent way to restrain a young dog that has not been taught to walk to heel. It has several advantages over a collar. It is almost impossible for the dog to slip out of. And most importantly, a puppy that wears a harness is not learning to lean into or pull, on his collar. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. It can be challenging to understand where to begin! Labrador Puppy Collars are available in a wide range of colours and sizes. Your puppy will have a comfortable, stylish collar with your name on it. Find the perfect size and colour dog collar for your new Labrador, with more durable, comfortable, and fashionable. Our labrador puppy collar size is one step guide for you. Measure The Neck Size Of Your Lab Puppy It varies from puppy to puppy in terms of neck size, in the manner of how people vary in terms of their physical characteristics like size and shape. You can use this guide to figure out what collar fits your pup. You should always measure the neck of your lab pup rather than guessing its size to ensure a perfect fit. Simply start measuring from his head down a couple of inches and then add an extra inch. It will be easier to pick the right collar size for your labrador puppy if you know what to look for. Numerous aesthetically pleasing, durable, and cost-effective collars are available to choose from. A variety of materials, such as leather, nylon, and cotton, are available. You can also get a breakaway collar that lights up at night to make sure your puppy or dog is safe. It is also possible to find no-pull collars which are extremely effective in preventing a hyper-active puppy from yanking out of control while also teaching them how to walk properly. With a few of the top collars for lab puppies available on the market today, we have taken the time to cut through the clutter and provide you with a selection of well-made, durable, and highly-rated collars. As there are two different types of collars you can use on your canine companion. The collar you choose depends on your personal preference and budget. And if your lab loves swimming, then use cotton collars. These cotton waterproof collars contain polyurethane-like synthetic materials. In addition to being odor-resistant, waterproof collars are easily washable. Our favorite thing about them is that they are usually bright in color, which is something we love about them. Leather Collar — This is a luxurious and traditional collar for dogs that offers the perfect balance of functionality and style. In spite of their higher cost, a leather collar is likely to last for many years to come. Keep in mind that you should only buy a collar made of genuine leather. The leather bonded together consists of scrap leather, which glued together using an adhesive. Although the leather of this type might resemble the feel and appearance of genuine leather, it provides less durability and is dreadful in quality. Dogs, especially those with thick coats that tend to matt around collars, generally preferred to wear collars made of rolled leather. You can choose from a wide range of color choices, designs, and sizes. Lab puppies can wear these on walks as well as at home. The nylon collar is a standard collar that can be worn for many purposes. Neoprene Collar — Neoprene is an extremely flexible rubber material used to make wetsuits, bolstered with nylon mesh to provide extra durability, flexibility, and strength. If your dog spends a lot of time in the water, a neoprene collar is a perfect choice. Biothane Collar — Dogs who enjoy swimming will love biothane collars too. Contains non-toxic materials composed of polyester weave and powder coatings composed of polyurethane or polyvinyl. Neoprene and leather collars are expensive, while biothane collars are more comfortable, easier to wear, and more affordable. A collar needs to be checked every two to three weeks. Look for indentations and signs of wear and tear. The collar should replaced immediately when you notice any defect that may upset the dog or endanger his safety. If it does, your dog will suffer from pain and discomfort. When your puppy is indoors, it is best to remove its collar. It attracts bacteria when it is damp. Additionally, a dog collar not being clipped onto furniture or choking hazards in a crate will be avoided. As a general rule, puppies should be taught to wear a collar and leash around 10 weeks of age. As a result, you will be able to get started in a week or so after they have settled in. FAQs Question 1: Do lab puppies always need to wear collars? Although there are some puppies who seem perfectly happy to wear a neck collar, it is important to consider that wearing one for prolonged periods of time could harm their coat and their skin due to the friction created by the collar. Question 2: Which collar size is best for my puppy? For dogs under 10 pounds, a collar up to 12 inches long is adequate. The collar length should be from 13 to 18 inches for dogs between 26 and 55 pounds. Question 3: Are dogs better off with wide collars? There are many benefits to using wide collars for your dog, including strolling, training , and even playing with. Wider dog collars provide your pup with a better fit around the neck while walking or training. For dogs that like to play rough, a wide collar can provide a better level of safety from other dogs or potential neck injuries. Question 4: Does my labrador puppy need a smaller collar? While many people will just go ahead and get the next size up, that could be a mistake. Make sure you choose a collar that will fit your puppy as he grows into adulthood. Post navigation.