golden retriever and lab mix puppies for sale

Tom Thorpe Blog Did you let out your dog to play only for it to go home with a limping front leg? A Golden Retriever limping front leg indicates a potential injury, health problem, and even congenital defects. Golden Retrievers are very energetic canines. Below, I discussed the possible reasons for the limping and what you should do. Gradual vs. With sudden limping, the problem occurred without previous underlying causes. On the other hand, gradual onset limping is brought by an underlying illness. The limping developed slowly, which is far more concerning than sudden limping. Nevertheless, both of these conditions require immediate treatment. This is to save your Goldie from suffering and to prevent the condition from worsening. Why is my Golden Retriever limping on its front leg? Injury and trauma Imagine your Golden Retriever as a child. If you let them out unsupervised, they can get bruised knees, a broken bone, and all sorts of possible injuries. Injury and trauma is the most common reason why Golden Retrievers will limp on their front legs. Your dog probably zoomed too fast and pulled a muscle on its front leg. Also, your Goldie can fall off elevated surfaces, which can cause trauma on its forelimbs. Aside from that, paw injuries due to sharp objects can occur. Lastly, you should rule out insect bites. My Golden Retriever is notorious for pawing bees, which always give him swollen paws and a limp that goes on for days. Elbow dysplasia Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia can also affect Golden Retrievers. This time the affected legs are in front. This will cause limping, lameness, and other progressive symptoms. This can lead to various abnormalities on the affected joint, making it difficult or almost impossible to fix entirely. Moreover, elbow dysplasia is observed to be the most common cause of forelimb limping and lameness in young dogs. But unlike typical limping, Goldies with this condition will have a paddling gait as the dog tries to compensate for the lameness. Elbow dysplasia is easy to diagnose if the Golden Retriever puppy underwent rigorous testing. This is standard among legitimate breeders. By that time, the condition has worsened and can be expensive to manage. Panosteitis Panosteitis is a condition among young pups, specifically those that belong in the large and giant breeds. It can occur on one of the forelimbs or both. While rare, this condition can also affect the hind legs. Golden Retriever puppies with panosteitis will exhibit lameness, depression, unexplained weight loss, fever, and poor appetite. If not corrected early, panosteitis will lead to muscle atrophy on the affected legs. The good news is that this condition is self-limiting, which means it will resolve on its own most of the time. Generally, Golden Retriever puppies with panosteitis will outgrow the condition once they turn a year old. Still, some dogs will require corrective treatments and medications to assist with walking. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy HOD On a more serious note, a limping Golden Retriever might be suffering from a condition called hypertrophic osteodystrophy. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy is commonly observed in large breeds. According to experts, Golden Retrievers are about 5. Like panosteitis, Goldies with hypertrophic osteodystrophy will suffer from bone inflammation. The difference is that hypertrophic osteodystrophy affects the flared regions of the long bones metaphyses. On the other hand, panosteitis occurs on the bone shafts diaphyses. Moreover, HOD is a self-limiting condition that will usually go away on its own. Treatment for this condition is mostly centered on managing the pain. Overall, the medication for HOD will only last for a few weeks. But if your Golden Retriever still suffers from bone inflammation at an older age, there might be another underlying condition involved. Cranial cruciate ligament CCL tear Another condition Golden Retrievers may experience is the cranial cruciate ligament. This is quite a common knee injury among canines, which can affect both the front and rear legs. CCL tear causes sudden limping as the shin bone slides forward. Surgical correction is often necessary to prevent irreversible injuries and further joint damages. Almost all cases of CCL tear are due to overexertion. It can occur when your Golden Retriever runs too fast or jumps from an elevated surface. In general, the ligament tears because your dog planted its limbs on the ground even as the body is still in the forward movement momentum. The longer you put off treatment for your dog, the worse the condition gets. From limping, it will develop into full-on lameness, inflammation, and muscle atrophy. This condition occurs when the kneecap gets dislocated. As with CCL tears, the most common reason behind the luxation is injury or trauma. Dogs with this condition will bunny hop and limp on the affected leg. It can also affect both the front and back legs, depending on which limb received the trauma. Toy and small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas are at high risk of experiencing patellar luxation. Many cases of patellar luxation require surgical correction, especially if it occurs frequently. The veterinarian can also place implants to prevent the kneecap from luxating in the future. Arthritis Almost any dog can suffer from osteoarthritis later in life. If your senior Golden Retriever is limping its front leg, you should get it checked for arthritis. Moreover, arthritis occurs due to the deterioration of the joint cartilage. As the cartilage thins, the bones rub together, which forms bone spurs. These spurs will cause extreme pain and discomfort to the affected dog. As a progressive disease, the treatment for osteoarthritis in dogs is focused on managing the pain. Veterinarians can also prescribe medications and supplements to slow down cartilage degeneration. The vet will first rule out potential causes like luxation, dysplasia, trauma, arthritis, and so on. What should I do when my dog is limping? If you noticed that your Golden Retriever is limping, the first thing to do is check the affected leg. Look for obvious wounds, injuries, or dislocation. You should also bring your dog inside and observe its behavior. If the limping front leg becomes swollen, inflamed, or warm, you should bring it to the vet right away. You should do the same if you notice that your dog is licking the affected leg too much. This habit can cause bald spots on the leg and even increase the risk of infections. Human-grade pain relievers are no-nos for canines, regardless of breed. What can I give my dog for limping? To manage acute pain on the affected leg, you can put on an ice pack on it. Reduce physical activity. Putting the canine on a crate will help. You should also keep them on ground level and avoid forcing the canine to climb the stairs or the car. Control the bleeding. If your Goldie sustained open wounds, you should wash and bandage them right away. This will control the bleeding while you head to the vet. Carry the dog. When transporting a limping dog, you should carry it around. This is to prevent further stress on the affected forelimbs. Your dog probably stepped on sharp objects or very hot pavement. A: Minor injuries may cause your dog to limp but not substantial enough to trigger excruciating pain. Some Golden Retrievers are tolerant than others, so they may appear fine even if they are experiencing pain. Q: Should I take my Golden Retriever to the vet if he is limping? However, the longer you put off treatment, the longer your dog will suffer. Q: How long will a dog limp with a sprained leg? A: A Golden Retriever with a sprained leg will limp for 24 to 48 hours. Q: Can I give ibuprofen to my Golden Retriever for limping? A: You should never give human-grade ibuprofen to your dog. This medication has a very narrow margin of safety for canines. It can cause more harm than help if you decide to self-administer. Veterinarians have treated many cases of ibuprofen-induced conditions like intestinal inflammation and internal bleeding in dogs. Final words A Golden Retriever limping front leg should always be considered a serious condition. This way, you can prevent it from running too fast or getting exposed to various hazards. Do you have something to add to this discussion? Share it with us below! One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue.

So, why do Frenchies need toys in the first place? So, what are some of the biggest reasons that toys are important for French Bulldogs? Toys Provide Mental Stimulation Frenchies are smart and curious, and they need to exercise their brains regularly. Entertaining dog toys, especially puzzles, are a great way to prevent boredom, depression, and destructive habits, as well as encourage them to learn problem-solving skills. Toys allow them to exercise their natural chewing instincts, saving them from pent-up energy and anxiety. Mentally and physically engaging toys are the best way to prevent this, allowing them to relieve any pent-up stress and energy. Aside from your standard dog toys, it also helps to have a few toys that allow you and your pup to play together. These play sessions will help you and your dog to grow closer while also getting in some physical activity. You should try to get in at least minutes of exercise or active play every day, but go for a bit more if you have the time. This time can include anything from walks to playing tug-of-war as long as your pup is getting up and getting moving. We think your pup will love each of these toys, so feel free to try them out! BarkBox delivers new toys and treats every month, so with a customized bundle, your pup will never be bored again! All you have to do is hide the extra toys in their cubbies and let your Frenchie start searching! Squeakers in each toy will keep your pup engaged, encouraging them to solve the puzzle. This is a natural behavior that cannot be eliminated by training. They can chew anything, including strange and dangerous objects such as bolts, sticks, rocks, clothing, and more. Chews distract them from chewing unnecessary things, and that is why it is crucial to provide them both puppies and adult Frenchies with enough chews. Chews also keep your Frenchies entertained, especially when you are away. Doing this can also help prevent separation anxiety. It is also worth noting that chews play a big role in strengthening the jaws of your pooch and in removing tartar and plaque collected in teeth. Frenchies also get bored with chews and lose interest, so consider taking them away and changing the activities before giving them chews back. With that in mind, here are some of the chews suitable for your Frenchies: Tooth cleaning chew toy This type of toy does an excellent job of teaching your Frenchie to chew. If your French Bulldog pup is chewing like a maniac, might as well give your puppy some benefits. Make the most out of their chewing habits and help clean their teeth. Most cleaning chew toys include rubber nubs and nylon bristles to help stimulate gums and keep teeth clean. Chew toys squeaky sound Catch the attention of your pooch with this unique toy. Make sure to keep this chew toy clean all the time. Let your Frenchie chew their own shoes Does your Frenchie love chewing your shoes? Why not give them their own shoes to chew? Dog funny mouthpiece This toy is designed to not only entertain your dog by also you and your friends. It is a simple and funny dog toy that releases a unique sound when squeezed. Give it a shot! Beeping chew toy Distract your Frenchies from chewing house items with this toy. It also helps to improve his intelligence. It is ideal for fetching and interacting with your pup. Squeaky chew toy You will find this chew toy very helpful when your pooch is teething and suffering from painful gums. You can also use it to cool your Frenchie during summer. Keep in mind French bulldogs are sensitive to heat. Before giving it to your Frenchie, wash it in cold water and put it in the fridge for 10 minutes. Why choose the right chews? If you really care about the health of your pooch, you will never buy the wrong chews. Wrong chews especially those that break into pieces can get lodged in the back of the throat risking the life of your adorable pet. If you have puppies in the house, you may want to be very cautious as they attempt to swallow anything, including whole chews. Observing how you Frenchie interacts with the toys over time is very crucial as this can help you get the right toys. For example, if you find that he loves chews that make funny sounds, get him the very best. Basically, if keen, it will be possible to get your Frenchie the toys he loves more. FAQs: Do French bulldogs chew things? Yes, Frenchies like to chew and can chew anything. Your puppies will put anything in their mouth when teething. Most of the time, this is not a concern, but if this behavior continues to adulthood, you should be worried. Fortunately, chews come in handy. How to stop a Frenchie from chewing on home items? The best way to stop your Frenchie from chewing is by occupying him with the right chew toys. We have listed some chews suitable for your dog. Feel free to search for more chews online. March 25, 0 If you are a new owner of a French Bulldog, it is normal and good to ask: What kind of toys do French bulldogs like? Or, what are French bulldogs' favorite toys? With French bulldogs taking over America, many owners have shared what toys make their Frenchies happy, including squeaky toys, stuffed toys, chew toys, Kong toys, tug toys and interactive toys that challenge their minds. French bulldogs are very playful and love all kinds of toys. But according to many Frenchie owners, their dogs like some toys more than others. That said, here are the top Frenchie-approved toys on the market today! Best Interactive Toys for French Bulldogs 1. By encouraging healthy play, which is important for French Bulldogs' physical and mental development, this treat-dispensing puzzle toy helps solve behavioral issues such as digging and barking, boredom, separation anxiety, chewing and teething. The KONG Classic, which is the most recommended by vets and trainers worldwide, is even more fun when filled with kibble. Key Features and Specification:. YouTube Before you go, check this out! We have lots more on the site to show you. You've only seen one page. Check out this post which is one of the most popular of all time. One of the best things you can do is use French Bulldog teething toys. They will help to alleviate the pain and discomfort from chewing, and possibly even distract them from chewing your valuable stuff! Below you can see links to the best-rated French Bulldog puppy teething toys that you can buy on Amazon. We personally love the Kong range. They really helped Claude when teething, and are used by millions of dog owners all around the world. Kong Classic view on Amazon The Kong is possibly the most popular dog chewing toy in the world. We used one of these as a teething toy when Claude was a puppy. You can put treats in there, and it will leave your dog entertained for hours. You can also chuck it in the freezer for 30 minutes if your dog has really bad teething. It will help relieve the gums and teeth. The manufacturer states the key ring chews encourages non-destructive chewing habits. The material is ideal for teething puppies, and each key has a slightly different feel to it. Nylabone Peanut Butter Flavour view on Amazon Dogs love the taste of peanut butter so this French Bulldog puppy teething toy is ingenious. You can place it in the freezer first and then give it to your unhappy puppy. The coolness will relieve pain quickly, giving them some relief from the teething phase. That guide contains an overview of the teething phases with everything you can do to help your Frenchie at this painful and frustrating time. We are the proud parents of Claude the French Bulldog. This is an affiliate advertising program that is designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees and revenue by advertising and linking to amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Importance of toys for French Bulldogs: French Bulldogs are adorable and playful companions that bring joy to our lives. As responsible pet owners, it is crucial to understand the importance of providing them with suitable toys. They not only entertain our furry friends but also play a vital role in their overall well-being. Preventing boredom and destructive behavior French Bulldogs are intelligent creatures with a mischievous streak. Without adequate stimulation, they can become bored easily, leading to destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or excessive barking. Toys serve as a great outlet for their energy and help prevent these undesirable habits. Interactive options, such as puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing balls, challenge their problem-solving skills while keeping them engaged. These stimulate their minds and provide a healthy outlet for their natural curiosity. Promoting physical exercise and mental stimulation Just like humans, French Bulldogs need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Engaging them in active playtime sessions with appropriate toys helps burn off excess energy, preventing obesity and related health issues. Tug ropes, plush squeaky toys, or balls encourage physical activity while promoting bonding between you and your Frenchie. Incorporating interactive games like hide-and-seek or fetch will not only keep them physically active but also mentally stimulated. Aiding in teething, dental care, and overall oral health French Bulldog puppies go through the teething phase just like any other breed. During this time, they experience discomfort due to emerging teeth. Providing them with suitable chew toys can alleviate this discomfort by redirecting their urge to chew onto something safe. Chewing on appropriate objects helps promote dental hygiene by reducing plaque buildup and massaging the gums. Look for specially designed dental chews that aid in cleaning teeth while providing entertainment. These typically involve hiding treats or small plush toys within compartments that your furry friend must figure out how to access. The process of finding the hidden treasure requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Hide-and-Seek: These puzzle toys have multiple compartments where you can hide treats or small toys. Your French Bulldog will have a blast sniffing out the hidden goodies and using their paws or nose to open each compartment. Treat Dispenser Balls: These balls have openings where you can place treats inside. As your Frenchie rolls the ball around, it dispenses treats intermittently, encouraging them to keep playing and figuring out how to get more. Slow Feeders: Slow feeder bowls or lick mats require your French Bulldog to work a bit harder for their food by making them eat more slowly. This not only aids digestion but also provides stimulation as they figure out how to access each kibble piece from the various compartments. As they move the pieces around, they are rewarded with tasty morsels, making mealtime more exciting and engaging. Elsa Enjoying Her Puzzle. Pin35 35 Shares Frenchies never grow up. They want to play all of the time. But keeping a Frenchie entertained all day can be hard work. Before I go on though, let me be clear. All the favorite toy suggestions here are based on toys we have found Claude the Frenchie likes to play with — on this page you can see photos of him and his friends actually using some of them. In this list of the best French Bulldog toys on the market you will see favorites to suit puppies that are chewing and teething, plus some stuffed toys. I am going to start off with the ones that Claude has loved the most, that have kept him entertained the longest. What are the best toys for French bulldogs? You will need toys that last, period. Almost all the toys I recommend below pass that destruction test. With some of these, Frenchies will play with by themselves, others with us when we want to get involved. I believe these are the best toys for French Bulldogs, puppies and adults alike. It comes with a handle on it so you can throw it, squeaks, and is tough enough to withstand all the punishment a teething or adult Frenchie can dish out. Our cat even joins in with this game. These laser pen toys see Amazon prices will also need some batteries too. Claude loves chasing the laser across the floor, and even does it with our cat at the same time. Frenchie Chew Toy A Nylabone will become one of the best investments you make and is the perfect French Bulldog teething toy. French bulldog chew toys are essential no matter what age your Frenchie is. They start to teeth around 12 weeks of age, with the teething phase typically lasting up to 24 weeks. During this phase they will want to chew everything; furniture, shoes, you name it. Frenchie chew toys can offer a distraction and suitable alternative to having your prized possessions chewed up and destroyed. You can find a similar one to the photo on Amazon. Kong Chew Toy Dogs the world over love to play with Kong toys. You can put treats in them to set a mental challenge for your hungry Frenchie. The Kong helps to keep your Frenchie busy. It will not only take cunning and flexibility to get the nice tasting secrets out but will also take them a while too. These are one of the most popular dog toys in the world as you can see from the thousands of Amazon reviews. Frenchies love to play tug of war. It lets them get rid of any excess energy and possible aggression — and it keeps the owner fit too! This one is brilliant though and despite the pulling, tugging, and tearing at it, has never degraded, frayed, or ripped apart. They are designed for aggressive chewers. You can find a similar tug of war toy on Amazon. There are loads of different styles to choose from. Stuffed Toy Plush toys can prove to be a comfort to a puppy and give them something else to chew on. French Bulldogs love stuffed toys too. The best ones for Frenchies will come with a squeaky noise when bitten. It comes a pack of 12 so your dog should never get bored again. Rope Ball Toy Claude likes the rope toy, his friend was perfectly happy with a flowerpot! A great toy for keeping your Frenchie entertained outdoors would be a rope ball. You can throw it, dangle it, or kick it. Have a look at the Amazon prices. Squeaky Bone Toy This is Claude and his puppy friend having a chew toy battle. Frenchie love toys that squeak. As you can see from my photo, Claude and his buddies will often playfight to see who can win the bone battle. You can buy this toy in red, yellow, or green depending on your style. As with the other Frenchie toys, this is also available on Amazon. Frenchie puppies need to be constantly entertained and will want to play for every single second they are awake. Below you can see some of the toys best suited to a French Bulldog puppy. This puppy toy also comes with a squeaky button inside of it so expect your puppy to be cuddling into it one minute and trying to destroy it the next. See the Orangutan on Amazon. Chuckit Throwing Balls Frenchie puppies love to chase balls but need something a little bit smaller than the Bomber Ball I recommended earlier. You can buy a pack of 2 on Amazon. Best French Bulldog chew toys Frenchies of all ages like and need to chew, but even more so during the teething phase. You can even get French Bulldog chew toys that go in the freezer first, to help soothe sore gums. You can either fill it with snacks or pop it in the freezer before play time. See the latest prices on Amazon. Dog Toothbrush Stick Dental hygiene is a must so why not combine a favorite toy with functionality? Go take a look at the Amazon prices. Best French Bulldog stuffed toys .Hide-a-Squirrel Toy Claude loves chasing squirrels. I was surprised at how highly rated it was, but it certainly seems to work as you can see from the Amazon reviews. But sometimes the simplest toys are the best for a French Bulldog. Hours of fun could be had with this, and once your dog is tired, he can cuddle up to it. The people who already own this say it stands up to a lot of rough play. These mind-stimulating toys are how you keep a French bulldog entertained and mentally active. It has a small maze inside within which you can place small kibble biscuits. As your dog pushes the ball around, the treat will hopefully find its way through the maze. This sounds like absolute torture to me, but by all accounts, it can keep your dog entertained for hours — and importantly, keep their mind active. Go check it out on Amazon. Interactive Dog Puzzle Toy Another great idea here with this interactive puzzle that can help to teach your Frenchie how to learn sequential steps to get a reward. It has 6 different compartments that pull out to reveal a tasty treat. See what people are saying on the Amazon reviews for this awesome toy. Here are a few household items that Frenchies love to play with too. Claude loved playing with footballs when he was a puppy. He would go mad in our garden pushing it around at high speed with his nose and it kept him entertained for hours at a time. Part of the game was him trying to get the ball into his mouth. Once Claude got to about 10 months his jaw was a lot bigger and he was able to chew the football up — we were getting through a couple of football toys each week. Balloons The simple things in life are sometimes the best as this balloon game shows. Sometimes the simplest things can provide the best entertainment for a Frenchie. He will try to get the balloon, and actually end up heading it back. The top section are all ones that we know for sure are the kind of toys French Bulldogs like to play with. But sometimes, anything will work as a toy. How do you keep a French bulldog entertained? We walk Claude twice a day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, but also play with him and his favorite toys as much as we can in the house. How to keep Frenchies safe when playing? Frenchies will be very boisterous, and puppies will never know when to stop. Because of this, in hot weather particularly, they can overheat easily. I wrote a guide on how to keep Frenchies cool when playing. How do French Bulldogs like to play? French Bulldogs have lots of different ways they like to play aside from with their favorite toys. They like to playfight, the like to play rough, and they love to play fetch. You can see a video below which shows some great examples of Claude playing. For more information on how Frenchie play, read this guide. We release videos every week so please subscribe. How to stop chewing and destructive behavior Toys are one of the best ways you can help to prevent chewing. Without toys, mental stimulation, and exercise you might have a lot of destructive behavior to deal with. If you do want to stop that, read this guide to stopping chewing. How to stop a Frenchie biting when playing Once you have a collection of toys for your Frenchie you should also play with them. They can play by themselves happily but love it most when they have a playmate to share the fun with. However, puppies in particular find it hard not to bite, and this can become problematic if not trained out of them at a young age. To find out how to stop biting, read these notes. Take the Quiz 1. Chew Toys Got a furry little chew-monster at home? Chew toys are the paw-fect solution for teething Frenchies. They come in various durable materials to withstand even the toughest nibblers. These toys will also help maintain dental health and provide hours of entertainment for your Frenchie. Say goodbye to furniture gnawing and hello to a satisfied pup! They fight over them. Plush toys are the ultimate snuggle buddies for your French Bulldog. Hiding Toys Hiding toys are the sneakiest fun your Frenchie will ever have. We have soooo many of these!! Hours of fun await your pup as they conquer these brain-busters! She was afraid of that at first but as soon as she got the idea she solves to open the puzzles quickly. In a day or two she was an expert. Tug-of-War Toys Tug-of-war toys offer a fantastic way to bond with your Frenchie while helping them release their energy and giving their muscles a good workout. Warning: Be prepared to lose sometimes, because their cuteness is just too persuasive! Treat-Dispensing Toys Treat-dispensing toys are like a surprise party for your Frenchie. They keep those curious noses and clever paws busy, rewarding them with yummy treats for their hard work. The dogs then go crazy trying to get it out of the hole. Kong Toys The legendary toy that stands the test of time! Hours of entertainment guaranteed! He brings it to bed most nights, he just loves playing with it. Squeaky Toys Squeaky toys are a favorite among Frenchies, adding an extra dose of excitement to playtime. Rubber Toys Rubber toys are the ultimate all-rounders. This rubber chicken dog toy will surely be a hit with your Frenchie! Crinkle Toys Pups just wanna have fun…and make noise! Crinkle toys provide sensory stimulation for your curious Frenchie, keeping them entertained with exciting textures and sounds. Balls The timeless joy of chasing and catching! Prepare for boundless energy and endless giggles! She plays soccer and carries it. Flirt Poles Flirt poles let you engage your pup in a playful chase, providing exercise and entertainment for both of you. Guaranteed full-body workout for your Frenchie and great entertainment for you! She loves chasing this thing. Laser Pointer Unleash the feline frenzy in your pup! Laser pointers are the magical wands of playtime. The elusive red dot is an endless source of fascination, giving your Frenchie a chance to engage their hunting skills. Doggie Pool A paddling pool is one of the best ways to keep your Frenchie cool in hot temperatures. Not only does it keep them refreshed, but it also provides a stimulating environment and hours of playtime for your baby. Perfect for those water-loving Frenchies who enjoy splashing around! Plastic Bottles Who knew recycling could be so much fun? Plastic bottles are the unsung heroes of DIY dog toys. Frenchies absolutely love it: their crinkly texture and exciting sounds are enough to make any pup go bananas! Just be sure to remove the cap and any small parts to keep playtime safe and enjoyable. We also got her a toy off Amazon that you insert a 20oz plastic bottle into that she loves. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. Both are also made from TPE material which is a safe, eco-friendly alternative to a rubber ball. Plus, they come in the perfect size for a small dog. Interactive toys like this are also great if your little Frenchie suffers from separation anxiety. The treat dispenser on each is designed to challenge your Frenchie with his own little dog puzzle toy. This interactive dog puzzle toy is great for bored pups who need a rewarding brain teaser or to encourage slower eating habits in fast eaters. Cleaning is simple and fast. The treat spot located in the center of these dog chew toys is great for stuffing with treats to max out the fun of interactive or solo play. These toys are durable and long-lasting. The Squawkers durable rubber dog toys offer different, funny chicken characters with the irresistible squeakers your Frenchie loves. These are particularly fun for a Frenchie puppy. The high-quality materials are all safe and natural, and the paint used to decorate them is lead-free so you can have a safe, fun experience. The Invincible Snakes are another great toy for your Frenchie. Made from natural latex rubber and lead-free paint these hilarious dog toys are perfect for playing fetch and other games with your dog! The irresistible squawking squeaker will keep them engaged and mentally stimulated as they chomp and play. These two options fit the bill perfectly. It will undoubtedly become one of his favorite toys. The blend of natural wood fiber and safe synthetic materials is a safe alternative to real wood. Real wood can splinter which can lead to oral and intestinal damage, particularly in aggressive chewers. These multi-sensory durable dog toys provide various textures and sounds including 3 internal squeakers. Its K9 Tuff Guard technology includes reinforced non-rip seams, durable fused backing, and double-stitched seams that all add up to longevity and durability in this tug toy. This is a fetch toy, tug of war toy, and chew toy all in one. It has handles for you to grab easily, and you can play toss and catch with it too. It can also work well as a teething toy for your Frenchie puppy. Made with naturally shed antler material, Deerhorn has a natural taste and smell your dog will love. Made in the U. With a variety of scents like the smell of real wood or a Mesquite BBQ, Dogwood combines real wood with synthetic strength, making it a tough and durable chew toy. Constructed with soft plush, corduroy, and twisted rope material for a cozy yet tough dog toy that can last through multiple play sessions. Stuffed with crinkle paper and three squeakers that will keep your pup engaged for hours! That anatomy puts them at a higher risk for certain health problems that can affect their ability to play. Here are some of the common problems this particular dog breed has: Upper Respiratory Infections — URT Because of that squashed face, French bulldogs are at higher risk for upper respiratory infections. In fact, most Frenchies will have at least one upper respiratory infection in their lifetime, particularly if they spend time around other dogs. The symptoms of this are similar to a cold and include coughing, nasal congestion, and lethargy. If you think your Frenchie has a URT, you want to see your vet right away. That short snout and squashed face can cause trouble breathing, problems sleeping, and heat intolerance. For Frenchies, this problem typically occurs when they are exercising, particularly in warmer temperatures. You might consider limiting his playtime to prevent this from happening. Mobility Problems for French Bulldogs There are a number of health problems French bulldogs can develop. These include conditions like hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and spinal disc problems. Intervertebral disc disease IVDD is one example that can actually result in paralysis. These conditions are something to be aware of as you play with your Frenchie best friend. French Bulldog Toys: Final Thoughts French bulldogs are one of the cutest and smartest small dogs around. They love to play and have plenty of energy so get ready to move. Interactive toys that challenge their mind, chew toys, tug toys, kong toys, and squeaky toys are all great choices for your Frenchie. Also, watch out for upper respiratory infections that can slow them down.

Life Span Did You Know? The Boxador is a designer mixed dog breed that is a cross between a Boxer and a Labrador Retriever. They are sometimes also called a Boxer Lab Mix, although Boxador tends to be a more popular term. Because this is not an established purebred dog, the Boxador is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are still recognized by other official organizations. With mixed breed puppies, you can get any combination of the physical characteristics and character traits of the parent breeds. A Boxador puppy could take completely after their Boxer parent or their Lab parent or could be some combination of both. In general, Boxadors tend to be intelligent, friendly, energetic, and loving. Overall, these dogs tend to make a great addition to a family. Both the Boxer and the Labrador are known for their happy-go-lucky, friendly temperament. They also have a playful spirit and are known for getting along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. In general, the Boxador tends to have a similar temperament. Playtime with small children should be supervised as these dogs will grow into large, energetic dogs and small children can be knocked over by their excitedly wagging tails and energetic play. They tend to be loyal, friendly, and playful and love spending time with their families. Due to the hunting instinct in the parent breeds, a Boxador may have a high prey drive and enjoy chasing things. Boxadors tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be a better fit for larger homes with a fenced-in backyard where they can run. However, as long as they receive plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well to apartment living. As with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to extreme heat and can be sensitive to cold. But, overall, this dog breed does well in just about any climate. They love to be around their families and have a high energy level, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Mixed dog breeds can inherit some, all, or none of the potential health issues present in their parent breeds. When it comes to the Boxador, they are a relatively healthy breed. Some of the potential health conditions to be aware of include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, and heart conditions. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parent breeds and to see any relevant health clearances can help allay potential concerns about health you may have. Both the Boxer and the Lab are highly intelligent dog breeds that are eager to please their owners, which makes them both highly trainable. You can expect your Boxador to be highly trainable as well. These dogs respond well to positive training techniques and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Although it tends not to be necessary with this breed, enrolling in puppy training and obedience classes is an added bonus and can offer some extra opportunities for socialization. Boxadors usually have a short and dense coat. They will shed moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as the seasons change. Generally, brushing their coat a few times a week is sufficient. This will help keep your dog more comfortable and will keep some of the loose fur contained to the brush instead of all of around your house. In terms of bathing, these dogs only require the occasional bath or more often as needed if they have gotten dirty or have been swimming. Dental care for dogs is especially important. Both of the parent breeds of this designer dog breed are high-energy, so you should expect your Boxador to have a high energy level as well. In addition to regular daily walks and playtime, your Boxador may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, going hiking with you, and taking trips to the dog park. They also are a good fit for several canine sports like dock diving, agility, and more. Their joints are still developing before this age and can be damaged by strenuous exercise. A fully-grown Boxador will usually stand 20 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 55 to 80 pounds. A Boxador generally lives 10 to 14 years. Boxador Puppies for Sale. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats. Your vet can help you develop a care routine. Boxadors love to eat and will rapidly gain weight if they are allowed to free feed. Pick a high quality dog food and stick to a feeding schedule; two feedings per day could be ideal to keep this pooch happy. They also need an exercise schedule. A 30 minute hike, walk, or game of fetch, plus an hour of active running around a yard will help burn off pent up energy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. Keeping them clean and dry is the best way to avoid doctor visits. If your dog develops a pungent aroma or is scratching their ears excessively, they may have an ear infection and will require a vet exam. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth a minimum of three times a week. Clean your dogs eyes as you would your own. You can use a cloth or your fingers to wipe away discharge or debris that collects in the corners. Boxador Feeding An ideal Boxador diet should be formulated for an active, medium- to large-sized breed. Limit their amount of treats, as well. The main colors of Boxadors are; black, brown, brindle, and white. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do. They may self groom and are considered a pretty clean dog. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any tail pulling or biting on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this pup by reading about their parent breeds, the Boxer and Labrador Retriever. Boxador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Boxadors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Boxer or Labrador Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. It will probably have a wedge-shaped head, with the forward-facing floppy ears of the Boxer, as well as circular eyes. Its most prominent Retriever characteristic will be its coat colors. While Boxers tend to have brown coats, your Golden Boxer will likely have a golden coat. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. However, mixing dog breeds became very popular in the United States in the s and early s. We can glean from this that the Golden Boxer was only created recently — sometime in the last 20 years — likely due to intentional breeding. This makes it all the more important to examine the history of the parent breeds. We will take you through some of that history by exploring where the Boxer and Golden Retriever come from — and how their histories could help shape your Golden Boxer dog. Developed from crossing mastiffs, Great Danes, and possibly a Terrier, the Boxer was initially bred as a bull-baiting dog — a horrible sport that involves running a bull ragged around a field till it collapsed or till the Boxer is killed. They were then exported to England, where they took on similar roles and were eventually imported to the United States following the conclusion of the First World War. Given their late arrival in the U. According to the American Kennel Club rankings , they ranked as the 14th most popular dog in the United States in .Long before they were a mixed breed of dogs, Boxers were used in military and police functions and remain one of the most popular breeds for those functions today. The Boxer is a medium-sized energetic breed that loves to participate in family activities. It does best with an active, fun-loving family that can give it all the necessary exercise of an active dog breed. How Did Boxers Come About? Boxers later became stalwarts of American policing and the military following their importation from Europe at the end of World War One. Although crossbreeding in the United States did gain significant popularity in the s and early s, the Boxer was likely crossbred to create a designer breed. The History of the Golden Retriever In significant contrast to the violent and bloody history of the Boxer, Golden Retrievers have quite a different origin story. This intentional breeding led to creation of a golden-colored dog with high activity levels. Today, Golden Retrievers are affectionate, loving, intelligent, family-centric dogs with beautiful temperaments. Golden Retrievers have been used throughout American history as guide dogs for the blind, show dogs, and faithful companion pets. Golden Retrievers are beautiful dogs for just about anyone, except for the elderly, due to their activity levels and exercise requirements. Golden Retrievers will love you and your family until they can love no more. Their gentle nature befits that of a family with children. Golden Retrievers can also sometimes suffer from separation anxiety, so consider this when you consider how your living and working situation stacks up against adopting a Golden. Golden Retrievers were initially created by Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, a Scottish kennel owner, businessman and politician. Mainly for its temperament, frequently as a balancing act with another dog of a slightly less even character. Goldens are very popular crossbreeds with other types of medium and larger dogs. However, they tend not to be crossed with much smaller breeds due to the physiological differences that make natural breeding impossible. The Golden Boxer is one of the instances where crossbreeding naturally is possible and is more likely to produce an even-tempered, standard-looking mixed breed dog. One of the most important things you can do before you adopt any dog is to conduct thorough research on its temperament, health issues, and more. Active family dogs tend to do better with busy families. A failure to adequately research your new pet could lead them to need re-homing, which can be incredibly traumatic for the dog, you and your family. Make sure you research your mixed-breed dog well! Fortunately for most owners, the Golden Boxer is exceptionally likely to have a balanced temperament. The Golden Boxer borrows both dispositions from its parent breeds, resulting in a friendly, loving, energetic dog. The Golden Boxer may exhibit separation anxiety symptoms early on in the ownership timeline, although this can be corrected with training. The Golden Boxer will inherit plenty of its intelligent, clever nature from both parents and may surprise you with some of its early antics. The Boxer and Golden Retriever dogs are usually very friendly, so you can expect Golden Boxers to be equally friendly. The ease with which they fit into family units makes them excellent family pets. You can expect that your Golden Boxer may exhibit substantial energy levels to start with. This can make training somewhat tricky. The average weight of a Boxer Golden Retriever mix is between 50 and 60 pounds. The height of Golden Boxers is typically between 22 and 25 inches tall. While the Golden Boxer will typically inherit the short hair of the Boxer, your Golden Boxer may inherit longer hair, similar to the wavy-coated Retriever. Either way, the Boxer Golden Retriever mix is a moderate shedder that will require brushing once per week. When you combine Golden Retrievers and Boxers, you combine two dogs that are exceptionally energetic and are used to high activity levels. You should expect to walk your Golden Boxer for at least minutes each day as an adult, slightly less with mixed-breed pups. The average lifespan of a Boxer Golden Retriever mix is between 10 and 14 years, barring any significant health concerns. Houses with yards and families with children Temperament: Happy, clever, intelligent, protective, alert, watchful, and eager to please. It has increasingly become popular in the last years, with breeders developing more diverse species. The parent breed, the Golden Retriever, was developed in Scotland in the mids by Lord Tweedmouth. This dog was created as a solution for hunters who needed a dog adept at retrieving downed waterfowl. On the other hand, the Boxer originated in Germany back in the s. Bred as a guard dog, this dog was put in an exhibition in in Munich and later arrived in the U. S and Europe in the s. They were used as messenger dogs, attack dogs, and pack carriers during World War 1. 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. Golden Boxer Puppies A post shared by Russell russellthegb Golden Boxer puppies are cute, cuddly, and full of energy, and this tends to stay the same even as they grow. They are very happy and love to spend time with their families. These dogs are unlikely to be found in rescue shelters and often come from breeders so we recommend you do your homework and ask all of the right questions before you begin to work with any breeder. Apart from paying for your new dog, you need to ensure you factor in other initial costs associated with bringing a puppy home, such as a leash, crate, dog collar, microchip, and medical costs if your dog is not neutered. These expenses are a necessity, especially if you are a first-time dog owner. Your dog will thank you for them all. They are intelligent and clever; therefore, they can learn quickly and love to please their owners. They are affectionate, loyal, and outgoing breeds that also love playing with and entertaining children. Golden Boxers tend to be very shy and reserved around strangers, but this is advantageous because it makes them fantastic watchdogs. However, they are not aggressive to strangers but will alert you about the presence of a new face. Golden Boxers are ideal for an active, fun-loving family. These dog breeds are also very patient and willing. Despite been very polite, this dog can be high-spirited sometimes like the parent breed, the Boxer. As a family dog, too much isolation can lead to depression or destructive behavior such as continuous barking and chewing items in the house. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, they still need early socialization and training to bring out these qualities further. These breeds tend to bond very closely with the family. If you are always at work without a sitter or family member around, this may not be the best dog species for your family. They are great pets to have around children because they like playing with them a lot. They should avoid habits such as tail pulling, rough play, and teasing. They also bark a lot when they are upset but make good guard dogs for the house when the family is sleeping. The Golden Boxer adapts well to sharing space with cats and other dogs. However, when small cats run away due to intimidation, the prey drive might kick in, and your Golden Boxer might chase the cat. When socialized at an early age, this dog breed will co-exist with other dogs peacefully. It makes friends very quickly; therefore, it will engage with other animals or pets that walk stray into your compound. This breed needs lots of attention from the family; therefore, you need to provide all the necessities. Like any other dog breed, you need to know the diet requirements, training and exercise needs, grooming, and any health and medical conditions. You can include quality lean meats such as lamb, beef, and chicken. When planning the feeding schedule, the diet should be according to the size, age, and activity level. These breeds are highly prone to bloating; therefore, they should not be fed all the food at once. The meals should be spread out to 2—3 meals throughout the day together with water. In addition, you should feed the dog an hour or two before an exercise session. When feeding your Golden Boxer, avoid foods that use meat by-products or other non-meat as their first ingredient. Once you buy food from the stores, follow the instructions on the package to ensure that the meals are served correctly. This dog tends to become obese and develop joint issues. Apart from food, the treats should also be kept to a minimum. To avoid this, you should schedule one long daily walk or two hours of engaging activity. Because of their high energy needs, the ideal owner for this dog breed is an active person who can bring the dogs along for a jog, hike, or walks. This dog can adapt well to living in an apartment, but with enough exercise outside. This dog species is perfect if you have a yard. You can plan for activities such as walks in the dog park. These walks in the park are also suitable for his socialization process. It helps bring out the best qualities in your pet and makes things easier for you. Exposure to new people, places, and situations and puppy training classes will encourage your dog and make it comfortable. It will also discourage some aggressive behaviors because the dog is more comfortable. Because of this, it will also listen to commands much faster without requiring a lot of repetition. During the training, you should be firm and confident. Also, use positive reinforcement such as praises to encourage your dog to pick up commands much easier. Incorporate some treats to keep your puppy happy during the training session. You should also avoid shouting or yelling at your dog during training. The sessions should also not be very long. Shorten them to an hour or less each day to help with concentration. Because Golden Boxers are devout people-pleasers, they use these moments to show you how well they respond. In addition, this may also be a perfect time to strengthen the bond between you and the dog. These dogs are moderate shedders; hence will need regular brushing, ideally once a day. Brushing daily is good because it helps to keep the coat tangle-free and keeps loose hair away from your home or car. The breeds with a long double coat require frequent trimming. You can either do this at home or hire a professional groomer. You should bathe your dog only when necessary and ensure that you use dog shampoo to protect the fur coat. This dog breed also has floppy ears; hence, they should always be kept clean to avoid infection. It would be best if you also kept them dry at all times. You can also do this by wiping with a damp cloth or cotton ball. In addition, you should trim the nails and brush the teeth at least three times a week. Breeders always try to improve their health conditions by carrying out selective breeding. However, even with this precaution, some conditions might be passed down to the offspring. Therefore, you should always research the potential medical conditions your pup may be prone to, as well as ask the breeder for medical records before taking your dog home. Minor Conditions.

Two snorts turned to four and before we knew it, we had created our own tribe of frenchies. We are a boutique breeder. We operate a small, detail oriented operation. We Focus on producing quality dogs and providing round the clock care as opposed to just making as many puppies as possible. We focus on one or two litters at time. Our end goal is to produce french bulldog puppies that you can be sure were cared for at the optimum level of love and at a great value. She has produced healthy and beautiful french bulldog puppies. Her Champion bloodline goes all the way to Hungary. She is the foundation of everything that is Crescent City Frenchies. Khaleesi enjoys short walks, getting her belly rubbed and snorting as much as possible. Click on the link below to get to peek of her and other french bulldogs on Instagram. Khaleesi Mother of frenchies Is a Frenchie right for you? French Bulldogs are extremely popular. Many people contact us for a new born puppy yet have done very little to no research regarding the care that a french bulldog requires. Some issues related to this flat faced breed include, trouble breathing, snoring at night, and farting. Yes, you read that right. Frenchies are stinkers. We urge everyone to do their research before submitting an application for any of our french bulldog puppies. If you need a place to start your research, click the link below. Frenchie Info How to reserve a puppy Reserving one of our french bulldog puppies starts with the application process. None of our french bulldogs are sold with out answering the questions provided and multiple phone calls. We don't mind video chatting to show a puppy. It also gives us the opportunity to see the environment the puppy would potentially be in. Once the application is completed and accepted, you will be sent a formal contract and you can reserve your puppy with a deposit. Your puppy is now reserved! Take a look at the application in the link below. Your responses to the questions can be sent to crescentcityfrenchies gmail. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Louisiana? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Louisiana work? There are various factors that can affect the price of French Bulldog puppies for sale Louisiana including coat color, breeder experience, pedigree, and more. Start searching our network today and see what you can find! What characteristics do French Bulldogs have? French Bulldogs are small dogs that just love cuddles. They are companion dogs, they are funny and goofy, and they are incredibly cute. Are you ready to find your new puppy? Then start looking for French Bulldog puppies Louisiana here and get ready to meet your new best friend. French Bulldogs seem expensive. Why is this? These little dogs require a lot of skill and work by French Bulldog breeders Louisiana in order to breed them properly. They have narrow hips, meaning natural reproduction is very difficult, and artificial insemination is therefore used. This extra skill means French Bulldog puppies in Louisiana are often more expensive than many other breeds. Will you only connect me with French Bulldog breeders in my local area? Start looking for a Louisiana French Bulldog for sale here. Then you can meet your new pup at your nearest major airport because the breeders in our network are skilled at arranging puppy travel. How do I know the breeders in your network are all ethical? Because they have to take our Breeder Pledge. Our vetting process is strict for breeders providing French Bulldogs for sale Louisiana. We only want the very best Louisiana French Bulldog breeders and companies here. We take factors like experience, animal care, facility quality, and more into account, so you can search with peace of mind. Is Uptown Puppies really any better than searching online for a puppy? We only let the very top French Bulldog breeders in Louisiana into our network, so you know you are getting your new pup from the best. Start your search here today! Will I find puppy mills in your network? Absolutely not! Puppy mills are terrible places for puppies. They only care about making money, and mill pups often develop health and behavioral problems. Steer clear when you search for a French Bulldog for sale in Louisiana. Will I be able to find French Bulldog litters in your network now? Are you ready to find your French Bulldog Louisiana? Then start here! We make it quick, easy, and fun to find the perfect pup for you and your family. Will my French Bulldog puppy be OK around kids? Not only are French Bulldogs small dogs, but they are also very friendly. After finding your French Bulldog for sale Louisiana and taking it home, make sure you supervise it when it first starts to spend time with the kids. Do French Bulldogs need to get a lot of exercise? They will also love playing with you at home.

Breed Title Goldador Puppies Temperament Goldadors are an amazing combination of the intelligence and trainability of the Labrador and the friendly, gentle personality of the Golden Retriever. With their outgoing, friendly character and sweet disposition, Goldadors make excellent family pets around children and other animals as they have a great aptitude for understanding people. In terms of temperament, these beloved pups are highly sociable but not overly boisterous or hyper; they enjoy playing fetch but rest just as happily on your lap or at your feet while you work. Golden Labrador Retriever Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Goldadors for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Golden Labrador Retriever puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Finding a Golden Labrador puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. Depending on the climate they live in, Goldadors may need regular baths — however omitting shampoo once or twice a year will ensure their coat retains its natural oils. Finally it is recommended to check the ears regularly and trim nails as needed. Adopted Golden Labrador Retriever Puppies. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Labrador is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever. The goal was to combine these two highly popular breeds to create a dog that exhibits the best traits from both of them. A mixed dog breed can take after one parent breed more than the other or any combination of traits from the parent breeds. This can result in some variation among individual puppies. But, overall, a Golden Labrador is friendly, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. Although this mixed breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and more. This large designer breed is characterized by their energetic personality and friendly disposition. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are open, friendly, and affectionate, so you can expect the same in your Golden Labrador puppy. They are very playful and get along fabulously with children, other dogs, and other pets. They may be alert enough to be a good watchdog, but they do not make good guard dogs. They are instinctually more interested in making new friends and getting attention than they are with anything else. They can have a slight prey drive, but most of the time, they are just curious and interested in playing and making friends. The Golden Labrador is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their large size and energy tend to make them a better fit for larger homes with room to run. They can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given enough exercise and mental stimulation. But, small spaces can be a challenge because they are large dogs that are so playful and energetic. Golden Labradors do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, thrive on attention, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. As a mixed breed, a Golden Labrador can inherit the potential health conditions of one or both of the parent breeds. Although the Golden Labrador is a relatively healthy dog breed, there are some potential health conditions to be aware of. These include eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and joint issues common to large dogs like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Like their parent breeds, the Golden Labrador can be prone to weight gain, which does put them at risk of diabetes later in life. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to ensure genetic conditions are not being passed on to puppies. Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and sufficient exercise can help keep your dog healthy and reduce preventable diseases. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are highly intelligent and highly trainable, so the Golden Labrador should be no different. Eager to please their owners, these dogs pick up on things quickly and respond best to positive training methods focused on praise and reward. This dog breed, like both of the parent breeds, is a great fit for owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. Their high energy can sometimes be a challenge, so you may want to consider puppy training and obedience classes. This designer dog breed may be called a Golden Labrador, but they can show up in many colors. A cream, yellow, or golden coat may be the most common, but a Golden Labrador can also have a black, red, or brown coat. It tends to be a dense double coat that is short or medium in length. This dog breed will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as the seasons change. During seasonal changes, you may want to increase to daily brushing. Not only will this make your dog more comfortable, but it will also decrease the amount of loose fur that ends up around your house. In addition to coat care, you will also need to handle nail, ear, and dental care for your Golden Labrador. Floppy ears tend to trap more dirt, moisture, and debris, which makes them more prone to developing ear infections than ears that stick straight up. Unfortunately, this is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Beyond that, you can use vet-approved dental hygiene chews and treats and even a specially-formulated dental care diet to supplement your efforts. Getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience can make grooming a lot easier as your puppy grows into a big dog! Plus, it can become a bonding experience that your dog looks forward to. Golden Labradors are high-energy dogs. Daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity are generally enough for this dog to stay happy and healthy. But, they will probably tire out before you do! Their friendly nature makes the Golden Labrador a great fit for trips to the dog park. Try teaching your dog how to play frisbee. With their retriever background, it could become one of their favorite activities. You can also train your Golden Labrador for several dog sports like agility, dock diving, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Golden Labrador usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Golden Labrador generally lives years. Although Golden Labrador is the most popular name for this designer dog breed, they are also sometimes referred to as a Goldador or a Goldador Retriever. Featured Golden Labrador Article. Simba 2yrs old Golden Lab St. Catharines This is Simba! Simba has lots of energy, loves going for walks, can play fetch for eternity but is also always cuddled up by my side. It breaks my heart to have to give him away as I love him so much.Call or text only. Friendly playful well tempered and seriously good.Gorrie One sweet, 7-week-old female puppy ready for a new home next week! Has had vaccinations, vet check and deworming. Mother is on site and very good.Jacobs Mixed large breed puppies for sale. Call or text us to get a quick reply. Raised on the farm. Lots of experience playing with children. Have had their first shots and dewormed. Vet checked healthy. Come and pick out your new.Played and socialized with kids and adults every day! We have 8 black and 2 yellow pups available. Mama dog is the picture of the chocolate lab, and the golden retriever is.Great family dog! Best of both worlds. Dad is purebred golden retriever. Parents DNA tested. Super friendly breed and good with our kids. Mom is pure lab, Dad is red lab x golden.Some search tips we've found useful: Try a different or more general keyword Expand search location.

Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! This comes at no extra cost to you. As a new Golden Retriever puppy owner, you may be wondering about when important puppy milestones happen, such as: When do they lose their puppy teeth? When do they stop growing? When do they finally stop biting? When do they sleep through the night? These puppy behavior stages and developmental milestones will differ from individual to individual, but this timeline can give you a general understanding of what to expect with your puppy. Day 1: Puppy is born You could also call this the best day ever. After carrying the pups for about 9 weeks , mom is ready to give birth! The average litter size for Golden Retrievers is 8. Their eyesight is very limited, and their soon-to-be-brown eyes are sometimes blue when they first open them. And as you know or will soon find out , they are very sharp. The puppy kibble is soaked in water, mashed up, and introduced to the pups. They work up to eating solid food about four times per day while still nursing from their mother. Because puppies need to complete weaning, most breeders wait until the puppies are 8 weeks to 12 weeks old before they send their pups home with their new owners. You can also start training them at this age the best way to stop bad habits is to not let them start! Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Download the Potty Training Cheat Sheet here! The biting phase is one of the toughest behavior stages for puppy owners. Golden Retriever puppies lose their baby teeth at around 4 months of age. Sometimes he would be chewing and then start to play with something on the floor. Most of the time when that would happen we would find a tooth laying there. This depends on the gender and your individual dog. And this is definitely a conversation to have with your vet, as spaying or neutering your Golden Retriever too young can have adverse health effects. Females are typically inches tall, while males are inches tall. It becomes their undercoat. At one and a half years old, Goldens have typically grown out their full coat. Related article:. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This was the first time we had a chance to chart puppies from birth until 8 weeks old. We tried to take as many pictures as possible so we could have a journal of our Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week. When raising guide and service dog puppies we usually bring home our puppies at around weeks old. On occasion we are allowed to see puppies before 8 weeks of age, but they need to stay with their mother and siblings during those important early weeks to get milk and antibodies from mama and learn how to interact properly with siblings, learning important behaviors like bite inhibition. During our days as a foster we raised two litters of puppies , but both were already weeks old by the time we got them home. We actually own the Puppy Culture DVD and Workbook which includes charts, lists, worksheets and other great information for raising your litter. Keep your eyes and ears open and absorb it all like a sponge! Birth To 1 Week Old Guess what? This was the first litter we ever whelped!? We got a lot of advise, but we were largely on our own. Large Puppy Dish — great for feeding the puppies when they moved to solid food. Whelping Mats — we ordered 2 of these mats and washed them several times a day. Whelping Box — We have a homemade whelping box built by my father-in-law, but if we continue raising litters I plan on purchasing an EZWhelp Whelping Box. Our homemade box lasted three litters. We ended up purchasing the Magnabox which was hellu expensive but if you plan on raising multiple litters we highly recommend it. We recently put together a whelping checklist with all the supplies we gathered together to help out with our second litter of Golden Retriever puppies. Check out our whelping supplies checklist here. However, none were overly huge and none were extra small. No runts and no beasts. It was my understanding that when the cord was chewed down to the base of the belly it was sometimes difficult to get it to stop bleeding. I took the hemostat and pinched the umbilical cord about 2 inches from the base of the pups belly then cut the cord rather than let Raven chew it off. I kept the hemostat on the cord for about 2 minutes to let it clout. The umbilical cord dries up quickly and then within a day or 2 it falls off. Raven was a good mama and took care of her poops. Puppy eyes and ears are closed at this stage and puppies army crawl around the whelping box looking for a teat to suckle. We did everything we could to make sure our pups stayed warm by adding a watt heat lamp to the whelping box and portable heating unit in the puppy room. As I mentioned Raven stayed in the whelping box most of week 1 and of course… the puppy piles! One thing I learned is if I had a puppy on my lap then do not let Raven lick those areas or be prepared for a little accident on your lap. While caring for Raven and her litter Raven was really blowing out her coat that first week, but as time went on it slowed down. I heard from other friends this is common and that Raven blew out her coat much less than other mama dogs. We got Probiotics for Raven before her first litter, but forgot to order them for her second litter. After an upset stomach for the first week or so we realized our mistake, got Probiotics, and no more upset tummy. Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. Have you ever had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Tell us about your experiences with puppies in the comment section below. Are you about to raise a litter of puppies? Not raising a litter, but getting ready to bring home your first Golden Retriever puppy? Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. 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.

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. 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! 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.

German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Video Temperament They have a calm nature and somewhat affectionate nature that can be enhanced with proper training. The German Pit is loyal to its family, enjoying spending time with them. Though they may not need your attention always, contented enough to spent some time on their own, leaving them alone for prolonged periods might make them destructive. Since they take on the genes of the German Shepherd and Pitbull, the Pit-German Shepherd mix may inherit their guarding instincts to a certain extent, being protective towards its family and exhibiting wariness towards strangers. It could even be territorial with other dogs and get into a chasing mode on encountering smaller pets. While allowing them to interact with children ensure there is proper parental supervision and the dog has been well socialized. Care Exercise It has a high exercise need, requiring two brisk walks a day, along with sufficient playtime. Keeping its excessive energy levels in mind it is not recommended to keep it in an apartment or enclosed space as it might get restless. Remember to leash it while taking it out. Grooming Though it does not need excessive grooming, brushing your Shepherd Pit with a brush having hard bristles on a weekly basis would be sufficient enough. It might resent grooming in the beginning, so you need to handle it gently and use positive reinforcements if needed, to help it get accustomed. Bathe it when it gets dirty and also check its ears and eyes once a week to keep any infections at bay. Brushing its teeth and trimming its nails are also essential. Health Problems Though healthy, the German Pit might inherit some of the conditions suffered by its parents like bloating, hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, hypothyroidism and heart problems. Training Training the German Shepherd mixed with Pitbull since its puppy days is mandatory, though an experienced master is preferred over a novice trainer. Socialization: Having the genes of German Shepherd and Pitbull, it might exhibit aggression and biting instinct, for which early socialization is a must. Teach it to differentiate between a threat and a pleasant situation so that your pet understands that a crying baby or playful kids playing in the yard is not bad. Feeding Feeding it cups good quality dry dog food in combination with a nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. Conclusion 1. What does a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix look like? It is impossible to tell with certainty what the dog will look like when it is a mixed breed. What we do know is that this breed is more likely to have the face of the Pitbull, with a broad head and a short muzzle. As for coloring, this breed comes in a variety of colors: black, white, brown, tan, gray and fawn. Given that both the Pitbull and German Shepherd have strong physiques, it is not surprising that this mixed breed does too. Fully grown, these dogs are large , as mentioned in the first paragraph their average weight between lbs 29 — 38 kgs , so it is important that you have her under control. You can do this by properly training and socializing her. What characteristics can I expect? As with all crossbreeds, it is not easy to say precisely what temperament this dog will have, as it will always be a different combination. In my experience, however, they tend to have the following traits: High energy All dogs need regular exercise to stay fit, and this large breed usually needs a whole lot. I recommend at least a one-hour walk a day, providing you have an outdoor space where she can release excess energy for the rest of the day. By giving her the exercise she needs, you will avoid undesired behaviors such as slipper-chewing, hole-digging or nuisance barking. As long as she gets her exercise needs met, she will be happy to settle down and relax with you. Loyal and loving Pitbull German Shepherd mixes are very affectionate dogs when raised right. While they are good at entertaining themselves, they still love to be around you and make a good family dog. This dog can have a very protective nature. This is due to its German Shepherd relatives , who were bred to herd and guard livestock. To prevent this from the outset, you should socialize her with people as much as possible from an early age. Intelligence Both the Pitbull and the German Shepherd are incredibly intelligent breeds. It is no surprise, then, that this mix is no exception. These dogs learn quickly and respond incredibly well to training and commands. Just as you exercise her body, it is important to keep her mind stimulated, too. You should start training at the earliest possible stage. It is important to keep a close eye on this type of behavior because, if it gets out of control, it can turn into aggression. What are the common health problems? Providing that she has a healthy lifestyle, as we mentioned above this breed can live for up to 12 years. Every dog breed is susceptible to certain health difficulties, however, and it is good to be aware of these so that you can treat your dog accordingly. In the meantime, it is worth knowing that this breed can suffer from the following diseases: Skin irritation The Pitbull German Shepherd mix can be prone to skin irritation, which they inherit from the Pitbull side of its family. They tend to have more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites as well as to fleas and ticks. To prevent this reaction, make sure you use a high-quality tick and flea treatment. Diet also plays an important part in maintaining the health of the skin. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition that can begin in dogs as they grow and results in an unstable or loose hip joint. While weight management is essential for any dog breed, it is highly important that this breed maintains a healthy weight to avoid stressing the hip joint. How much will I need to groom her? This mix has a coat that can range from short to medium in length. I recommend starting your grooming regime when she is a puppy so that she can get used to the routine. I do not advise over-bathing these dogs no more than once a month due to their tendency to skin irritation. It may also be worth buying a shampoo specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin. German Pits are usually floppy-eared, which means they get less air circulation and are therefore more prone to earwax build-up and ear infections. I advise that you get her ears checked at least monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. So is the German Pit the right fit for me? After all the information you have read, it is now important to put this question to yourself. As you can see, these dogs have the potential to be lovely, loyal dogs that are ideal for a family. Yet they require a lot of attention, walking and training, so they need a dedicated, and preferably experienced, dog owner. Conclusion Here are the main points to consider before committing to owning one of these dogs: Are you an experienced dog owner? Are you dedicated to walking your dog at least an hour a day? Do you have a spacious house with a yard, or can you walk her twice daily? Are you able to provide a rigorous and dedicated training routine? If not, it might be time to reconsider getting a different breed of dog. Do you own a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? Leave a comment below and tell me all about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. I have worked with various large breeds all my life. The German Shepherd is my favorite. I recently brought home a mixed breed. .Our Puppy is high energy at 8 weeks old. Highly intelligent and very affectionate. I have a large family with lots of boys and 1 girl. So our family is definitely the right fit! In my opinion every family member should have an caring active role in raising the family dog. You can expect moderate shedding from this crossbreed. Be prepared to use a vacuum cleaner often. Most German Sheppits will come in a variety of colors like tan, black, white, fawn, and gray. Some have beautiful multi-colored coats like the GSD, while others inherit the brindle coats of their Pittie parents. Because of its moderate shedding, the German Pit is not the ideal dog for people who suffer from allergies to dander. Is a Shepherd-Pitbull mix dangerous? As we mentioned before, this breed is often negatively associated with being aggressive. A Shepherd Pit Bull mix is a loyal, intelligent, protective, and bold dog that likes spending time with his family. This canine has a calm and loving personality toward its owner, but it can be an attention-grabber, too. She loves nothing more than to run, play Frisbee, and roll around all day. Just make sure that your German Pitbull mix puppy is introduced correctly to small kids. Proper socialization and training are crucial because these dogs tend to chase down smaller animals. They may also have a dominant personality and may try to be the alpha to other dogs. Being raised with other pets will help this crossbreed co-exist with them. With early training and socialization, this naturally friendly and affectionate dog is an excellent choice for a family pet and the perfect companion for children. How much activity does this crossbreed need? A Pitbull German Shepherd hybrid has a strong and robust physique and he requires plenty of physical activity. You can take your dog on a one-hour jog or run in the morning and a minute walk in the evening to keep him in the excellent physical condition and as release excess energy. Without a proper exercise regimen, he may exhibit unruly and destructive behaviors like excessive barking, hole-digging, or chewing on slippers. Remember to keep it slow with a German Pit puppy because his legs are shorter. After that age, you can increase your speed as long as he can keep up. He can also have some playtime, like romping in the dog park. Or maybe play some fetch and let him catch a frisbee so his brain gets a workout, too. These crossbreeds require a high level of physical and mental activity to be in their best form. How to train Pitbull German Shepherd mix puppies The unfortunate truth is that this hybrid is not easy to train and is not suited for first-time dog owners. You need to be a firm and confident alpha , or he will try to control you. Be patient and try not to give in. Socializing him at an early age helps him interact better with other animals and encourages a better sense of adaptability in the dog. Socialization also fixes anxious and timid behavior and will help your pet get along with your family members. This breed may be intelligent, but he has a certain level of stubbornness when it comes to training. This hybrid tends to bark quite frequently, too, so you may want to include a routine that will help you control excessive barking. Try including crate training and leash training in your sessions. Starting it young is the best way to train a German Sheppit. The best age to start would be at seven weeks old. An adult dog can still receive training, although it will be more difficult. These are the most common health concerns to watch out for in your German Sheppit:. Parent Breeds The parent breeds of the German shepherd pitbull mix include the German shepherd and the American pitbull terrier. As these breeds are both large dogs, the resulting mix is a large dog with unique physical and personality traits from both parent breeds. German Shepherd The German shepherd was originally selectively bred from shepherd dogs in 19th century Germany, where it was used as a herding dog. The breed was developed to be intelligent, strong, agile, and protective of flocks, all qualities that made it successful in its line of work. Horand von Grafath was recognized as the first German shepherd dog in .Today, the breed is still regarded as one of the best working dogs in the world because of its loyalty and eagerness to please. The German shepherd is used in police work, detection, service work, and search and rescue. German shepherd pitbull mixes often inherit the protective, hardworking temperament, strength, and wolf-like features of the German shepherd. The dogs were bred from terriers and bulldogs and used in blood sports like bullbaiting and dogfighting. American pitbull terriers were later selectively bred in the United States to have the muscular builds, sizes, and affectionate temperaments seen today. With proper socialization, American pitbull terriers make loyal, well-behaved companions. Lifespan A German shepherd pitbull mix has an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years if the dog follows a nutritious diet and exercises daily. Regular vet checkups help reduce the risk of health complications in German shepherd pitbull mixes. This mixed breed comes in shades of tan, white, gray, or black. Height and Weight German shepherd pitbull mixes are considered large dogs, with a height at the withers of 18—26 inches, and a weight of 30—90 pounds. Males are typically larger than females. Most German sheppits are lean, muscular, and slightly taller than their pitbull parents. Colors German shepherd pitbull mixes are typically tan, white, or black with bicolor markings. The coat color depends on the genes they inherit from their parents: German shepherd colors: Most common color combination is black and tan. Other colors include solid black, gray, red, and white. American pitbull terrier colors: Common colors are brown, black, and tan with various markings. Rare colors include solid white and brindle. German sheppits shed minimally to moderately throughout the year, depending on coat type. Double-coated dogs blow their coats twice a year. Personality and Temperament Photo by spcaofnorthernnevada German shepherd pitbull mixes are smart, affectionate, and protective dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They get along well with kids, and their intelligence and athletic stature make them well-suited to agility classes and fieldwork. Socializing and training this mixed breed from a young age will help it grow into an outgoing, obedient, and even-tempered adult. These dogs can be trained with positive reinforcement from an early age to not bark excessively. Left alone, German sheppits often experience anxiety and engage in destructive behavior, like barking and scratching, to cope. While smart and not fussy over food, these dogs need plenty of exercise, training, and mental stimulation to stay happy. Food Needs A German sheppit adult should be fed 2 to 3. Grooming Needs The German shepherd pitbull mix should be brushed weekly, or a few times per week if it has inherited a double coat, to distribute natural oils and keep its fur tangle-free. Bathe the dog once every few months and ensure its nails are well-trimmed. Exercise Needs An adult German shepherd pitbull mix requires at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, split into two separate walks, to remain physically fit. A two-month-old puppy needs 10 minutes of exercise per day, while a four-month-old puppy requires 20 minutes. German sheppits do best in homes with large, secure backyards where they can run freely. Certain states, cities, and territories have laws in place that restrict or ban pitbulls and pitbull mixes. Check local laws before exercising this mixed breed in new areas. Mental Needs German shepherd pitbull mixes need 60 minutes of mental stimulation per day to prevent aggression, boredom, and anxiety. Suitable mentally-stimulating activities include obedience training, scent work, herding, puzzle toys, agility classes, and interactive games like fetch. Depending on the severity, the condition can be managed with medication and surgery. Bloat : When the stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid, and then twists, causing severe abdominal pain. Bloat is often fatal if not treated immediately. Hip dysplasia : Abnormal formation of the hip joint that causes pain and mobility issues. Treatable with surgery and lifestyle changes. Degenerative myelopathy : Degeneration of the spinal cord that causes leg weakness, incontinence, and eventually paralysis. The condition is managed and treated with lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory medication, and in some cases surgery. Symptoms include lethargy, weight gain, exercise intolerance, and coat changes. Hypothyroidism is treatable with medication. Cataracts : Cloudiness of the eye lens that causes vision issues. The German sheppit is particularly prone to food and skin allergies. Take these dogs to regular vet checkups to reduce their risks of health complications. Use positive reinforcement and be firm and consistent when training this mixed breed. Never use punishment-based training methods because these can cause anxiety in dogs and exacerbate their aggressive behaviors. These dogs need plenty of training and socialization throughout their lives to keep their dog aggression in check. German shepherd pitbull mixes are often available for adoption from rescue shelters. This price includes expenses such as food, treats, vet checkups, toys, and training. First-year costs are higher than subsequent years because of the costs of first-year puppy vaccinations and neutering or spaying, and initial supplies like bedding. The German shepherd pitbull mix is an affectionate and loyal dog that loves pleasing its owners. The mixed breed is playful, energetic, and well-suited to people that lead active lifestyles. German shepherd pitbull mixes are suitable for people that are active, have a large backyard, and can dedicate lots of time to socializing and training the dog. The best owners for these dogs are people that use positive reinforcement measures and stick to set boundaries. First-time dog owners should also avoid these dogs because the breed is difficult to manage without proper socialization and training. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: German Shepherd Mixes. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepherd Pit Bulls are prone to weight gain. They also have high energy levels. About three hours a day of activity is recommended. Agility training, hiking, walking, running, or playing around a yard will keep them happy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs when caring for a German Shepherd Pit Bull is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as many breeds are prone to dental issues. Vets or groomers are good at performing this messy task. You should consult your veterinarian or professional pet nutritionist for advice on what to feed your German Shepherd Pit Bull and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Their German Shepherd parents grow very rapidly between the ages of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. Overfeeding your German Shepherd Pit Bull and letting them pack on the pounds can cause joint problems, as well as other health conditions. Limit treats, keep them active, and serve them regular meals rather than leaving food available at all times. The main colors of German Shepherd Pit Bulls coats are brown, black, white, grey, tan, and fawn. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors. They usually have short thick coats, and this mixed breed is not recommended for people with allergies. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require at least three good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. German Shepherd Pit Bulls may be able to handle some extreme weather conditions for short periods of time. These dogs must live indoors with their families. However their size could put them at a disadvantage around smaller children. They could easily accidentally knock over a toddler. No matter how friendly, no dog should ever be left unsupervised with a small child. German Shepherd Pit Bulls can get along well other dogs, especially if raised with them. Socialization early on is a must for this mixed breed. For a better understanding of this breed read more about their parent breeds, the German Shepherd and American Pit Bull Terrier. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or American Pit Bull Terrier breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Adopting a German Shepherd Pitbull mix from an adoption center is the best thing you can do. It can be life changing — not only for the dog but to you as well. He requires a low-to-medium maintenance level due to its short coat and a moderate amount of shedding. Brushing his coat can be done weekly, or three times a week if you are the type of person who is greatly bothered by scattered dog hair. Make sure to clean his ears often since this area is common to accumulate dirt, moisture, and bacteria. Nail trimming should be accomplished every few weeks to keep his paws clean and healthy. Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd Health Problems Provided that he is given the proper care and is living a healthy lifestyle, this crossbreed can live up to 12 years. Every breed is susceptible to specific health issues, and so it is essential that as a dog owner, you are aware of these things so that you know how to take care well of your dog accordingly. It is worth remembering that the Pitbull crossed with German Shepherd may suffer from the following diseases. Hip Dysplasia: The German Shepherd breed is genetically susceptible to this condition, and the possibility of passing it to its offspring is highly possible. The disease is characterized by malformation of the hip joints which may cause lameness and ongoing pain. Atopic Dermatitis: It is an inflammatory skin condition which may be triggered by exposure to certain environmental factors such as grass sprayed with pesticides and mold spores. To avoid this condition from affecting your pup, make sure to keep your house clean. Also, keep an eye for increased use of pesticides at dog parks. Skin Irritation: The Pitbull German Shepherd is prone to skin irritation, which it inherits from the Pitbull side of the family. They have a more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites, such as fleas and ticks. Generally, feeding him cups of good quality dry food daily in combination with nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. A well-balanced diet covering all the essential nutrients, including an appropriate protein and calorie intake, is vital in an active breed like the German Sheppit. On average, the German Shepherd Pitbull needs calories for males, while calories for females. Its core ingredients include ground brown and white rice, lamb meal and chicken meal. It has all-natural ingredients infused with additional minerals and vitamins. Its main components include chicken, real beef and salmon meat products. Blue Buffalo Wilderness: If your Pitbull German Shepherd has food allergies, this dog food is the right choice for you. It is a grain-free turkey and potato recipe dog food supplemented with antioxidant-rich kibble. This dog food is formulated to minimize food sensitivities while maximizing the nutritional value dogs receive. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient: This dog food is formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs. If your pooch is still a munchkin, you should go through best puppy food brands. Senior, gray-coated dogs require different diets. Your pooch takes genes from two parents. This means you could also take into account buying the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Pitbull Crossed with German Shepherd Exercise Requirements The Pitbull German Shepherd mix is an active and high-energy dog, so it might get destructive if he gets bored. This breed love to move around and therefore enjoys doing exercise activities. It is recommended to exercise him at least 90 minutes daily. Their exercise requirement is not just a guideline, but it is crucial that they are met. Without enough exercise, this breed may fall into a pattern of aggressive and destructive behaviors, such as excessive barking, unwanted chewing, and digging. Mental stimulation exercises should also be part of your routine to keep them from getting bored and further improve its social interactions. You can provide your pet with interactive dog toys. While it is true that they come from parent breeds with remarkable high intelligence, you should be warned that training them can be a bit overwhelming. Patience, attention, more time and positive reinforcement are the key components that owners should abide by in training this crossbreed. This is for your dog to learn the proper etiquette at a young age and avoid developing unwanted behaviors when it grows up. Remember to keep the pace of the training slow as your pup is still young and its body might still be fragile. After a year or two, however, you can increase the pace. Moreover, take note that an experienced trainer is better than a novice trainer. You need to be strong and authoritative. Otherwise, this dog will try to dominate you. Gentle yet firm treatment is the way to go with the German Sheppit puppy. Use Positive ReinforcementEven if this mixed breed has a tendency to become stubborn, avoid taking extreme measures. Using negative punishment-based training will not do any help, he might just end up not respecting you as a leader. Make it a regular routine to reward him whenever he does something right. Implement simple rules that they can follow and in return, give them praises and treats for obeying the rules. Training your German Sheppit consistently in a positive method will provide you with pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Puppy socialization has been proven to reduce developing aggressive behaviors, anxiety, and fearfulness later on in their adulthood. You just have to introduce and desensitize your dog to different people and environments. You can try doing the following: Puppy classes Playing at dog-friendly parks Make him attend doggy daycares The above activities ensure that your dog interacts with a range of fellow dogs and people as well on different environments, which may include on and off leash interactions. Include Mental Exercises on Their TrainingThe Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing aggressive and other unwanted behaviors. Mental stimulation activities can be in the form of games or puzzles. German Shepherd Pitbull and Families With consistent proper training, exercise and correct socialization, the German Shepherd Pitbulls are incredibly loyal, friendly and affectionate towards family members, making them an excellent choice as a family pet. This crossbreed can even be the perfect breed for children, especially that its parent breed Pitbull was previously known as a nanny dog. Young kids, especially those under 8 years old, may play rough with dogs and they may tire them out or provoke them unknowingly causing the dogs to react in aggressive behaviors. Children should be taught to love and respect all members of the family including your four-legged family companions. This dog loves to spend time with you and other family members. So give love lots of affection to your German Shepherd crossed with Pitbull and expect an unconditional love in return. Temperament: It depends. A German Pit dog can be gentle, loving and protective of its family. It will like to be top dog and may challenge authority but with proper training it will learn who the master is. It gets bored easily. They cannot be left alone for long periods of time, or they can become noisy and naughty. Feelings and signals: Dogs communicate in many ways from playing to barking. Never approach a dog with its tail way down! How should you train a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? With patience! There are several types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility and socialization. Each is important to help this type of puppy learn to socialize and behave. This looks like a dangerous dog so it is important to train it to challenge perceptions and show people the best of this breed instead. How do you begin puppy training? It will take time, patience, with positive reinforcement, using praise and small treats as a reward for success. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer — Here are some tips to begin: 1 Develop your basic command words: Find the keywords you think you will use most like Sit, Stop, and Fetch etc. It will become its nest and it will feel safe and sleep there. Any mix from purebred dogs, could have congenital health problems. A German Shepherd and an American Pitbull Terrier cross breed could develop: Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a mal-formation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog. This active dog could have hip problems, causing pain when moving. Early warning signs are — stiffness when getting up or walking, reluctance to get up when prompted and its usual walking style can change. It can occur early or later in life. The only way to check is to trace the health history of the birth parents. There is no cure but a Vet will help with medication to manage the pain. Skin problems Atopic dermatitis They can develop allergies causing skin conditions and itching — from grass, mold, pollen etc. Bloat Gastric Dilatation-volvulus Affects many deep-chested, larger dog breeds that like to eat large volumes quickly, drink too much water after eating or even eat too close to exercising. Early signs are: restlessness after eating, a bloated stomach and an inability to reject excess air or food through ineffective retching. In each case it is important to seek medical help! Exercise: This will be a very active dog, with lots of energy and need lots of exercise. They like to play chase and fetch. A puppy needs hours of exercise every day and more when older otherwise it will get bored. It will love running around and adventures but not adapt to small spaces. Therefore not suited to apartment living. Remember: Puppies should not be exercised too much on hard ground as their paws are still delicate so a mix of hard and softer ground is recommended until they are at least 2 years of age. Leash training is strongly recommended for discipline, safety and control in the early years. Feeding: Feed as an active large-sized dog with a recommended type of specially-formulated dry food. A Vet will advise the food type, exact amount, how often and if they need extra mineral and vitamins. Puppies should have their daily amount split into 3 daily feeds. Be careful not to over-feed them as weight gain can put pressure on their hips. Grooming: This dog has a short to medium length coat of hair that does shed but not too much so it only needs to be brushed times a week. A good brush is recommended. Bathing: This dog has short hair like the Pitbull so bathing is only recommended when needed, but not too often as their coats contain natural oil; which can be stripped with over-bathing. Certain shampoos have the double effect of cleaning the coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites. Chewing helps, so use doggie chew toys, bare bones, soft tooth brushes and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed regularly, say once a month, and checked for infection. Their floppy ears need to be regularly checked for dirt build-up or infection. Anything unusual should be checked by a Vet. What is life like for a GSPM? Otherwise, with their high energy levels they may show their boredom through destroying or chewing things and barking. They can make a great family dog. Remember just how active this dog is before choosing one. How much does it cost? Always best to adopt rather than buy if you can. They are still prized working dogs on ranches or farms, but can fit well into active families with older kids. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies need lots of socialization, training and exercise. They require regular grooming despite their short coat, and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone. However, when you give them everything they need, this mix can be an amazing companion for experience dog owners and working dog trainers too. A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd was developed with the hopes of creating the perfect herding and service dog. Because of the cold and wet European climate, the German Shepherd had to be very hardy to handle long days in often brutal conditions. At that time, it became popular with military, police, and service work. Early Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create an athletic, bold dog primarily used for hunting. This is a practice where the dog would grasp a bull, bear, or other large animal around the head. Today, Pitbulls are still very agile dogs that make excellent contestants in agility, weight pulling, and tracking tests. This mix will be tall with a medium build and a coat that will range in length from short to long, depending on their parents. They will have a relatively long muzzle, dark eyes, a long tail and pointed ears. The German Shepherd Pitbull mix is probably going to be a large dog. You can expect a German Shepherd-Pitbull hybrid to grow up to 17—24 inches tall at the shoulder. If a hybrid puppy takes after its German Shepherd parent, then they may mature to between 80 and 90 pounds. When they more closely resemble their Pitbull parent, then they may reach anywhere from 30 to 60 pounds. Additionally, hybrids may look more like one parent than the other, or they may appear to be a lovely mix of both parents. Both breeds are commonly associated with territorial aggression and biting, both of humans and other dogs. Of course, with mixed breeds, you cannot say with much certainty how much the offspring of two purebred dogs will take after their parents. This goes for looks, health, and temperament. German Shepherd Pitbull mix puppies are no different. The Pitbull was first bred to fearlessly attack large animals and later to work, hunt and protect. This means that they are strong and agile enough to chase after such animals as cattle and hogs. Also, if needed, they can grasp and hold a moving animal with their powerful jaws. They can also be territorial. Furthermore, fewer Pitbulls in the study had attempted to bite their owner or a strange human than those who had attempted to or had attacked a strange dog in the past. Socialization As we mentioned earlier, proper training and socialization with other dogs and humans from an early age can help to prevent a puppy with German Shepherd lineage from developing aggressive behavior later in life. This is especially important if your dog has hypothyroidism in its genes. Additionally, both Pitbulls and German Shepherds are working breeds that are high energy. German Shepherd and Pitbull Health Your puppy has the potential to inherit the following conditions from one or both of their parents: Allergies — Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and dust cause itchy skin on the feet, belly, folds of skin, and ears. Hip dysplasia Patellar luxation — When the knee cap pops out of place while the dog is in motion. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis — Progressive nerve damage that results in weakness of the legs and sometimes blindness. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — An inherited disorder in which deterioration of the retina leads to eventual blindness. Bladder stones —Pitbulls can inherit Hyperuricosuria. The urine is too acidic, which causes precipitation of solid masses called bladder stones or kidney stones depending on where they form. Lifespan The average life expectancy of a German Shepherd is about 11 years. Similarly, the Pitbull typically lives between 11 and 13 years. This means that you can expect a German Shepherd Pitbull mix to live to be approximately 11 or 12 years of age. A Shepherd Pitt may mature to be a large dog with lots of energy. In addition to the energy outlet, exercise is also important for this hybrid due to the high probability of it developing hip dysplasia. As a family dog, this hybrid may not be ideal for homes with young children or other dogs. Make sure that you meet both parents. They should be relaxed and confident around strangers, if not overly friendly. Make sure the breeder also shows you evidence of clear health test certificates.

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A no-pull pet harness because no one likes a pup who pulls on their leash even when it looks cute! Not today, Spot! Gentle lead, easy walk, thunder leash, pinch collars.I like that we can clip on the front and back. When it's clipped to the front it really helps my one-year-old. Lab not to pull! The handle on the back is great if she wants to chase bunnies so I can just hang right onto it. A nail trimmer that will safely and pretty quietly grind your lab's nails down so he can continue frolicking without leaving scratches on your wood floors. Amazon, amazon. Since she just barely cooperates with my trimming her nails, a grinder that is quiet, quick, and easily manipulated is essential, and this one checks all three of those boxes. This grinder is much quieter and smaller than my previous tool. Was able to get all four paws done in about ten minutes and with enough battery remaining to do the other dog without having to recharge in between. A ball launcher to get any pent-up energy out of your lab. This gadget will launch a ball further than your arms can throw, giving your pup more distance to run and you time to catch your breath. We have a 6-month-old black lab puppy and he absolutely loves chasing tennis balls! Getting my dog his daily exercise has never been easier! It is so nice that the regular size tennis balls work with this and they don't require their own special size ball. Such a simple toy that produces endless fun for both dog and owner! A car seat cover so your lab can be the coziest on all of your road trips. It was a nine-hour trip and I wanted my chocolate lab to be comfy instead of just riding in the back seat. It was easy to install. It was a perfect fit for him. Loved it. A container of ear wipes , because labs are known to develop mites and infections in their ears. These wipes will help keep that at bay and your pup happy. Their ears need to be cleaned regularly, but too much moisture is a bad thing. I feel like these are the perfect dampness, are not drying, and are thin so I can get in there deep enough to clean without introducing more liquid. I use weekly and highly recommend. An orthopedic sofa so your lab can have their own little designated bed to lounge in near you. The L-shaped design even promotes a safe and secure feeling for them. There is room to spare and he really likes using the pillow. The bed is 4 inches thick and the pillow area is 7 inches thick. The stone gray color is beautiful. Very nice-looking bed! My dog moves the bed around the house depending on where I am. A pack of Pill Pockets dog treats that you can use to hide all of your lab's medications and they'll be none the wiser. We use it to give her daily allergy med and she doesn't hesitate with it at all. She gets excited when we get the bag out. Holds a long pill great. A two-pack of dog doorbells so you can train your pup to tell you when they want to go outside. It'll probably be ringing all day. We showed her how to ring the bell, let her out each time we rang the bell, and gave her a treat when she rang the bell. After a while, we only gave her a treat when she pooped, and now going outside is the reward for ringing the bell. No accidents since we started using them. Rachael Ray Nutrish is another brand I love for Labrador Retriever puppies as it is packed with DHA for healthy brain and eye development and specially formulated for young, growing dogs. You can also select different sizes and recipes. My favorite is chicken and brown rice. Bedding And Toys Lab puppies need quality bedding and toys for teething. Labrador puppies grow quickly and have sharp claws and teeth. Puppies also go through a teething phase and will need special teething toys to help soothe their sore mouths and help keep your furniture safe. As far as bedding, the best bedding for a Labrador puppy is going to be made of high quality material that is soft and plush while also being sturdy enough to keep them off the floor and support their growing bodies. KONG toys are wonderful tools to use during crate training , but they also help with separation anxiety , boredom, and the teething stage that all puppies go through. Enter the Nylabone Puppy Starter Pack. These flavored chew toys come both textured and regular to help get your pup and your furniture through the teething stage safely. Cuddly toys like the Smart PetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy above can help your new Labrador puppy adjust to sleeping on his own, assist in crate training, and may even help alleviate anxieties including noise phobias and separation anxiety. Puppy blankets are a must and can be used for multiple purposes in your home for your pup. My favorite puppy blankets are blankets that are specially made for dogs, like the Luciphia fleece blankets above. While you can use any blankets on hand, blankets that are specially made for dogs are usually a bit more durable, easier to wash, and have been made with quality and safe material for your pooch. Puppy blankets just make it easy to always a comfy place for your puppy to rest his head no matter where you are. Ultra Squeaker Ball is an absolute favorite in my house and with my clients. I especially love using this toy for puppies who are just getting the hang of playing fetch. For puppies, picking up on how to play fetch can be tough. Balls that squeak or make noise when thrown help to make the game more exciting and help encourage young pups to chase whatever is making that high pitched sound! Leashes, Harnesses, and Collars Collars, leashes, and harnesses are important tools to help socialize your puppy. Getting your puppy used to wearing a leash, harness, and collar is an important step towards socializing them. So even though your Labrador puppy will outgrow his harness and collar quickly, I still suggest investing in these items. Here are five of my favorite leash, harness, and collar products for Labrador Retriever puppies. As I mentioned above, puppies are especially fragile so steer clear of attaching a leash to their collar and try to help them adjust to wearing a harness that is comfortable. What I like about this harness is that it is adjustable so you can use it a bit longer as your puppy grows. Best of all it is the perfect length five feet for puppy training and is a leash your Lab puppy can take with him into adulthood. It is built like a standard leash, but it offers you control over how far away your puppy can get. This is excellent for puppy parents who live in busy neighborhoods or who are working with a puppy who likes to wander. Large breed puppies like Labrador Retrievers require crates that grow with them. This is why I love crates that come with dividers so that they can grow with your Lab puppy. I also recommend playpens, as Labrador puppies are notorious for being very active and energetic. Lab puppies are also incredibly curious and tend to chew a lot in their first few months, which is why indoor dog gates will also be an important part of puppy proofing your home. Take a look at some of my favorite puppy-proofing products below. Nobody likes cleaning up potty accidents. Of course, no one wants a big, bulky pen that takes up half of their home either! I also love that the pen is big enough for puppies to grow into and allows them to learn how to explore a space larger than their crate while keeping them and your home safe from their curiosity. And since crate training is such an important part of puppyhood and actually helps your puppy adjust to being alone and feeling secure, we recommend investing in a good, high quality crate you can use for years. It has two separate doors for entrance and exit and it comes with a divider so it can be adjusted to the size of your dog as he grows. Just remember to leave your pup inside his crate with a KONG and some bedding so he is comfortable, and remember that puppies who are younger than six months old should not stay in their crates for longer than four hours. For those of you who plan to leave your puppy out and about while you are gone and after he is trained, of course , then a crate that folds may be your best bet. The MidWest Foldable Dog Crate posted above is one such crate that is not only made well, but also stores well. Like most crates ideal for Labrador puppies, this crate also comes with a divider so it can grow with your dog. Along with crates and puppy playpens, you also might consider getting a gate to keep your puppy from entering places in your home that may pose a risk to him. Many of my clients keep gates up in their kitchen entryway, or gate their living rooms where puppies are tempted to chew on wood furniture. Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate Sale Buy on Amazon For those of you worried about installing something or accidentally damaging walls or paint, there are always free-standing gate options, like the Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate. I do like the way these gates look and the simplicity of them, however, they are not always the most secure and may not stand up to a strong and curious puppy. These gates are also not ideal for leaving puppies unsupervised as they can sometimes find ways to knock them down. Grooming your Labrador puppy early on not only helps to socialize him and prepare him for a life of vet visits, groomer visits, and physical contact with people, but it also helps to keep him clean and healthy. Like babies, puppies are more sensitive to certain products and require products that are specifically designed to be gentle on their sensitive skin and fur. Be selective of the shampoos, dog brushes , and other grooming products you pick for your Labrador puppy and make sure you always use high-quality products. Some of the products I recommend most for grooming a Labrador puppy are listed below. Pet Care Sciences Puppy Shampoo. Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. Non-slip bottom dog dishes Puppies naturally move their dish around as they are eating, especially if the dish has a flat bottom that easily pushes around the floor. We have found that dishes with a non-slip bottom can help so that your puppy is not chasing around his food dish. Make sure that it is large enough. And since dogs grow fast, that means they will likely grow to that size within a year to a year and a half. Almost all dogs we train eat between 4 -6 cups of dog food a day. So, make sure that your dish is large enough to accommodate this many cups. Water dish It is vitally important that your puppy have access to clean water for drinking. With the puppies we raise, we have found that it can be challenging to keep a small water dish full, so we prefer to use these 2-gallon water dishes. They are easy to fill and allow us to only have to fill them a couple times a week instead of several times a day. We suggest that you introduce a lead to your puppy as they start to grow in confidence and walk further from you when outside. There are two great reasons to do this early on. First it teaches your puppy how to handle the pressure of not being able to go wherever they want whenever they want. And it keeps your puppy from developing a habit of running away from you. A Flexi-lead works especially well if you want to give your puppy a little more freedom to go do his potty business but still keep control. Toys Puppies need toys. If you do not give them toys that they CAN chew and play with, they will chew on your sofa leg, or a book or a blanket or anything else they can find. So, purchase some good durable puppy chew toys. But watch your pup carefully. As they get older and stronger, they will be able to rip apart cloth toys and ingest them. Or they will chew rubber toys into small pieces and eat them. When your pup gets strong enough to destroy toys, it is time to take away the puppy toys and give them only dog toys designed for older , larger dogs or quality rawhides that they can chew that will not cause digestive problems. Stay away from rope toys. Many puppies have managed to ingest strings and ropes requiring surgery to remove them. Puppy-sized bumper If your plan is for your Labrador puppy to become a hunting or competition dog, you should have a puppy sized bumper. Learn more about teaching your puppy to fetch in this post. Barriers I recommend that you section off a small portion of your home and not let your puppy have full run of the entire house. Learn more about housebreaking your Lab puppy in this post. To section off a part, it can be helpful to have some child-gates available or an area of your home that you can close doors. This means that you need to show your puppy where the boundaries are and what is and is not allowed. To do this, you will need a few more tools. This is often when we see dogs that are running away from their owners, playing keep-a-way when retrieving and just basically being naughty. A lot of this could be avoided with the use of a check cord. Yes, a check cord can be cumbersome and often a pain to use, but it only takes one or two times of your puppy running away from you to make it worth it. Put a check cord on your puppy and allow them to drag it around with them. This alone is a great lesson for a dog. Dragging the weight is a type of pressure that they will need to learn to deal with. Occasionally, step on the rope and allow your dog to feel the pressure of being stopped and controlled. These sound like such minor things, but you would be surprised how much more well-adjusted your puppy will be just from learning these minor lessons. Chain or prong collar As your puppy gets stronger, it will get more and more difficult to control your puppy with a lead just hooked up to a nylon collar. As you notice that your puppy is getting harder to control, is pulling you around or dragging you down the street, you need to move to a chain or prong collar. Actually, it would be best if you changed to a chain or prong collar long before this becomes an issue. Remember, it is always easier to fix problems when they are small rather than waiting for them to become huge problems. Larger bumpers for retrieving dogs As your dog gets larger, you will want to move away from the puppy bumper and start using regular sized retrieving bumpers. We prefer to use plastic or rubber bumpers since they do not get as dirty or smelly as the canvas ones. They also last a lot longer and can be used for both water and land retrieves. Learn all about the different bumpers used for training hunting dogs here. Orange is a color that is difficult for retrievers to see, so that color should not be used for young dogs that are just learning about retrieving and hunting. Save the orange ones for advanced dogs working on blind retrieves. Final thoughts on What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? There are many things that you will need for your new puppy both now and in the future. Take some time to prepare before you bring your puppy home so that you will avoid buying things on impulse that you may or may not need. If you are planning on using your puppy as a hunting or competition dog, check out 6 vital tools every gun dog trainer needs. You can email me at ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? Vet bedding fleece on a roll is ideal puppy bedding. You can line both his bed and his car crate with this. Buy several pieces so that you can pop one in the washing machine when it gets dirty or if he has an accident. There are lots of lovely beds you can get to go around the house, but in those first days veterinary bedding is an essential alternative to keep his crate cosy and clean. Puppy Toys For Labradors Puppy toys need to be sturdy. Many puppies destroy soft toys quite quickly though they are so adorable, you may not be able to resist buying one or two. Kongs and rope toys are very tough and seem to survive the onslaught of puppy teeth. A Radio If you intend your puppy to sleep alone in the kitchen from the first night, you may find it helpful to leave a radio next to his crate. Just a simple, cheap Portable Radio with the volume turned down low can serve the same role as some human company. It just helps him feel less along during those first few nights when he may be feeling very homesick. Puppy Harness There is no rush for this, but once your puppy is too heavy to carry, and going out and about on the ground, he needs some kind of safety restraint. These days I usually recommend a harness as they avoid pulling on the puppies neck. The kind where the lead attaches at the front and on the back are ideal. You can find an expert review of the big brands of harnesses, from a professional trainer here. When he is older and has learned to walk next to you, you can buy him a collar. To let your puppy know when he has done something you like. It is a really useful tool to help you teach your puppy to be quiet, and to learn simple skills. It will make training your puppy much quicker, easier and a lot more fun. Getting a recall to whistle established at an early age gets your puppy training off to a great start. I recommend the Acme Dog Whistle. There is plenty of information on the use and choice of dog whistles in this article: Should you buy a dog whistle .It will help to get you off to a great start with your new puppy. These sprays are safe for your dog, and the bitter taste discourages chewing. In many cases, chewing can be kept under control with training, positive reinforcement, and mental and physical stimulation. However, some puppies and dogs will try to chew no matter what, making these products quite useful. Conclusion The list of products that could be useful to your life with a Labrador could go on all day, but these products are some of the most important. Keep in mind that any new pet needs a checkup with your veterinarian to verify they are healthy and up to date on things like vaccines, heartworm testing, and dewormers. One pet supply that you may not have thought of is pet insurance. With a balanced, personalized plan like Spot Pet Insurance offers, you may be able to manage your pet's vet costs and avoid surprises. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. This is the guide I wish I had when choosing the best puppy supplies for our Labrador Retriever, Kona. The dog you grew up with was much different from this one because your parents did most of the raising. It sure would have been nice to have had more honest and relevant guidance when determining what supplies I should get for my new puppy. It seems like everyone I know has recently become a dog parent and is raising a new puppy. I realized I know a thing or two about this topic after going through it all myself with our Labrador Retriever, Kona. I love sharing my experience with other dog parents and decided I may as well start sharing it here. Hopefully, others find my advice useful, regardless of whether you are the new owner of a Labrador Retriever or some other breed! I am all about being cost-effective when it comes to purchasing dog and puppy supplies. So, most of the products I recommend below are within that category, all are great quality and very reasonably priced. There are countless options when it comes to purchasing puppy supplies, so Kona and I rounded up a list of our favorite Labrador Retriever puppy products and explain them each below! Kona is a Labrador Retriever, and as a result, many of these recommendations are based on the experience with that dog breed. Yet much of this advice is relevant to any large breed puppies. So, getting him on the right food for a Labrador was a task I did not anticipate. We did 2-month dog food subscriptions on both of these products in lb bags and it made our lives so much easier compared to going out and purchasing the food at a physical location. The heavy bags of dog food were always delivered right to our door! They are not grazers like some dogs. I kept hearing about these special dog bowls that help Labradors eat slower and digest better, so decided to try one out. THIS feeder bowl is amazing! I bought the teal style and size small. We also never had to upgrade to the bigger size because the small still works for him as an adult. Food Mat While the bowl has some sticky rubber on the bottom that prevents the bowl from moving around while Kona eats, the floor around the bowl still gets dirty. It can get especially messy around the water bowl, so I used to put a kitchen towel underneath both bowls to limit the grime. I wish I had purchased it sooner because it would have saved me a bunch of time cleaning! Dog Crate Getting a dog crate was the smartest decision we made. They are actually a positive safe space for your puppy and it also does wonders for potty training. Kona took to his crate right away, and now almost 2 years old, he still loves it! We find that he tends to get the best rest if he sleeps in his crate at night. I did a lot of research on what crate to buy. Crates come in so many different shapes, sizes, and styles and finding the right one for your dog and your home is key. With a large breed dog, you should be looking at a big crate. But while it may seem oversized and ugly right now, this crate will be their home, so you want it to be comfortable for them. Getting a large crate now, that will grow with your puppy will make your life so much easier in the long run, and much easier for a puppy to adapt to. We got the inch double door with divider. We did this to help make it more private and cozy for him, and he absolutely loved it. It was also a great way to prevent him from waking us up super early or if we wanted to sleep in because the crate stayed dark for him. However, Kona would also goof around with the blanket cover in and out of his crate. He also loved climbing on top of it from the couch… This was all a bit frustrating, yet all a part of the silly puppy age. But let me tell you, this crate cover is a thousand times better than a blanket! I really wish I had purchased one earlier because this thing is totally worth it. The cover fits the crate perfectly and the best part is that it has flap openings for all areas include both door openings, a mesh window, and the top. It has zippers and velcro and is super durable. Dog Crate Pad When Kona was a young puppy we had no idea what we should put on the bottom of his crate to make it comfortable. We also knew that it was possible he could have accidents, so it was necessary to have something easy to wash. Initially, we tried a large soft folded blanket, but it ended up being too big and awkward. We decided to hold out from buying any bed or pad for a while. Instead, we folded a towel or blanket and placed it in the crate for him. Usually, Kona would nest it up on his own to make it comfy. This worked just fine for him, especially with the divider panel in the crate, which would have made fitting a full-size bed in there difficult. Kona voluntarily sleeping in his large dog crate as a young puppy. He loves this plush material and now cozies up with anything similar to it. The pad is totally washable and maintains shape well. It has an anti-slip bottom so it stays in place better than most dog beds. I hardly ever have to get down and adjust the mat myself. Looking back, I wish I had gotten one of these sooner because I think Kona would have loved it as a little guy and been even more comfortable! I will note, however, that Kona used to enjoy taking his bed out of the crate, prancing around with it, and laying on it outside the crate. Dog Bed When Kona was a young puppy, I purchased a separate dog bed that he could lay on in our living room. This was a bad idea because Kona saw the bed as something to play with and he actually relieved himself on it more than once. We go for a value pack so we never worry about running out. But rather than them chewing the wrong things and destroying your home, you can get them to chew the right things! Also, he preferred peanut butter and bacon flavors. We got the Medium size version when he was a puppy so it would last as he grew into it. Often, dog chew toys will have tiny flecks or pieces that come off but then pass through just fine if ingested. We tried our best to avoid those, and never experienced that with these particular bones. Better to play it safe in my opinion. These dog chew toys kept Kona entertained for some time, and he still enjoys them as an adult! Getting a hollow bone gave me the flexibility to fill it on my own or leave it empty. Tip: the pumpkin can spill out, so I recommend giving it to your puppy outside or on a towel or something. I think the bone holds onto some flavors. Initially, I boiled this bone with some chicken broth and let it cool. I think this gave it some extra long-lasting flavor. Believe it or not, they are also very inexpensive. Often, I give him healthy bits and treats that he loves like banana, greek yogurt, kale, and other vegetable pieces. But on occasion, I will give Kona one of these goodies called Bully Sticks. THESE are the best ones by far! I waited until he was about 3 or 4 months old to give him these. I honestly only give them to him maybe a couple of times a month now. However, being new dog parents, we got Kona one before realizing this. As a puppy, there was a plush toy that Kona especially liked, and it held up for a good while. THIS moose toy was his absolute favorite! He loved sneaking up, pouncing on, and shaking it as a little pup. Moose had soft insides and a squeaker. Kona loved Moose while he lasted. We originally got the toy in size Medium. Kona and his Kong Cozie, Marvin the Moose, a plush dog toy. I read early on that one way to help break bad habits with accidents was to use a good cleaner as a training aid. Using a safe and effective cleaner is the key to avoid this issue, as well as any other organic stains and odors. Not to mention, it will help keep your house smelling nice. It smells nice gets rid of that funk smell completely rather than just covering the scent. I think it even works as a good normal house cleaner. The spray bottle is the easiest to use, but when we run out we just order THIS pour version and fill up the original spray bottle. Kona enjoyed ripping apart and trying to eat the puppy pee pads. He liked laying on them, but I was also shocked to learn that he also associated those with a good place to have an accident. I would much rather he had an accident on one of those towels than anywhere else in the house because it made it much easier to clean up and launder. He totally destroyed that thing, all just from normal daily use. Kona loved chewing his leash on walks and it was a really tough habit to break. But always buying a new leash that would soon be chewed seemed like such a waste. We love the honu sea turtle print on it, especially being in Hawaii. They also have many other prints and designs to choose from! Dog Name Tag While Kona was microchipped, we also wanted him to have a name tag on his collar. If he got lost, the tag would have his name and our contact info. I got him THIS simple tag in the bone shape. This tag has had all kinds of action, it gets wet with saltwater and sandy at the beach all the time, yet it still looks great! There you have it, those are our best product recommendations for raising a Labrador Retriever puppy!