golden retriever dogs and puppies

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Australian Labradoodle Grooming Guide Choosing a Groomer Before you bring your Australian Labradoodle to the groomer, ask if they have had previous experience clipping Australian Labradoodles. Show your groomer some photos from our website so that they know exactly how you expect the clip to look. Labradoodle coats require a regular brushing and grooming routine. How often you have your Australian Labradoodle trimmed will depend on how fast their coat grows, your personal preferences in how long you leave them, how much maintenance you want to do at home, and how often you have them groomed professionally. You can expect to bathe and completely blow out their coat every weeks, and plan to have them trimmed approximately every weeks. For an adult Australian Labradoodle, you should allow on average, 60 minutes every two weeks for brushing time. If your Labradoodle is active in the water or hiking in nature areas, you may have to run a brush through them more often to remove debris or loosen hair clumping during the drying process post-swimming. Wait until your dog is dry, then run a slicker through their coat. Purchasing a small grooming table and arm, and training them to stand still during brushing and drying will save your back. But be warned that you need to always have a hand on your dog when they are on the grooming table or attached to a grooming arm. Never leave them or turn away or they can try to jump off the table and injure themselves. When your Labradoodle has short hair, an inch or two, regular brushing with a slicker can work just fine. Once the hair gets longer, it is important to make sure you are reaching all the way to the base of the hair by adding a metal greyhound comb. If loose hair is not removed near the skin, mats can begin to form. In separating your dogs coat with your hand, you can brush and comb all the way to the skin. Work backwards from the feet up to the body, and the tail to the head. Brush in the direction of the hair, but add small amounts of coat to each stroke. At approximately eight months old a puppy coat needs more frequent brushing during its changeover to the adult coat. Bathing: Australian Labradoodles need bathed and brushed out approximately once a month. Puppies can be bathed as needed. If you are going to bath your Australian Labradoodle at home, be sure to brush through the coat completely first. If you do it the other way around, any mats will get tighter when you get them wet. Also, watch that you do not pull on the mat while you are cutting it, and be aware of how closely the skin may be to your scissors. We also use a dematting tool to help break a mat into a smaller piece for easier removal. Then brush, comb, or gently work any mats out. Purchasing a commercial hair dryer is worth the investment and will speed up the drying process. Head: The lovable teddy bear look of your Australian Labradoodle is enjoyed every time you look at them, and every time you take them out and others look at them. No matter what length the body is trimmed, that adorable teddy bear face can make up the difference in winning hearts everywhere they go. A picture is worth a thousand words, so the photos and grooming card below coming soon will help to clarify the following worded instructions you will need to convey to your groomer to get exactly the look you want to see. It is best to print out the grooming card and take it with you at each visit to your groomer. This creates a more natural look and keeps the hair from poking at or covering their eyes. It also makes it easier to clean any matter out from the corner in the morning. Feet: Keeping your Labradoodles paws shaped nicely will help less water and debris attach to their feet as they are coming and going. We start trimming around their paws by around weeks of age to get them used to the action of having their feet picked up and worked with. You want to go around the bottom edge of their paw in a nice, rounded shape, snipping off longer hair so that it does not hit the ground. Your groomer can trim hair from the bottom of their feet with a clipper and a 30 blade. Nails should be trimmed regularly every weeks depending on wear. The hair under their tail should also be trimmed to keep the area clean. Besides to brush out fur balls or tangles, there are reasons that you should groom your dog out regularly. There are numerous reasons why you should groom your Labradoodle regularly, but the question is often when and why? Keeping Your Doodles Coat Healthy Another reason that you should groom your Labradoodle has to do with the many benefits it gives your dog. Regularly bathing and brushing your dog, ensures that you spread the naturally produced oils throughout his coat. These oils allow your Doodle to repel the water when you both go swimming and they also shield your dog from sunburns on sunny days. You can actually groom your Doodle too often, resulting in stripping these oils out of the coat and undo all the good work you were previously doing. The more time you and your dog spend together, the stronger your bond will be with him. Grooming your dog regularly helps him get accustomed to people touching him. Grooming your Labradoodle is an extremely important part of the socialization process. How often should a Labradoodle be groomed? Every element of grooming brushing, bathing, trimming nails, etc. There are additional factors that you will need to consider. Some of those include: Time of year: Twice a year your Doodle is going to require more attention. Diet: What you give your Doodle to eat will absolutely affect the health of his coat and nails. A rich and balanced diet will promote a normal growth rate and subsequent shedding schedule. Health: If your dog suffers from a chronic illness, have a chat with your vet regarding how frequently you should groom him. Smell factor: Labradoodles like most dogs love to roll around in a variety of objects that will leave your dog with a foul odor. Things like dead animals, animal excrements, and many other revolting things. Filthy factor: Doodles also loves mud. Labradoodles require quite a lot of grooming compared to other breeds like the Labrador Retriever. The most important part of Doodle-grooming is brushing. When you brush your Doodle , the first thing you should do is start by checking things out with your bare hands. Do you notice any spots that seem tender or sensitive? Make sure that you avoid these areas when you are going to use the brush. Should I groom Labradoodle Puppies? Grooming a puppy is not as necessary as it is with a more grown dog. The risk of your puppy being the cause of stinking up your room is a lot less likely than a year-old Doodle doing the same. You will typically also keep your puppy on a shorter leash when going for walks, which is going to prevent him from getting into too many foul things. Shedding will not be as big of a problem with a younger dog. So, should you still groom your puppy and is so, how often? As with any dog, the socialization process is extremely critical to make sure that your puppy is ready for his everyday life — and this also includes grooming. The earlier you get your puppy used to the grooming process the more likely your dog will take to grooming without any problems as an adult. When talking about a puppy, it is probably best to limit your grooming sessions to two or three times a week and only for a few minutes each time. Every different time you practice grooming your puppy, try another area of his body. Labradoodle puppies are at a perfect stage to get them used to the grooming process. Go lots of little short sessions to help him get used to the experience. Short and as fun sessions as possible it the key to success in socialization. And then as your puppy starts growing, try to extend the sessions a little bit every time. Ultimately, you will have a grown Labradoodle that loves sitting still while you go through an entire session with grooming. When do you need to groom Doodles the most? Fall and spring are always the worst shedding times for a Doodle. But if you want to limit the shedding just a bit, you should probably brush him out at least once a day. You can also get different types of de-shedding shampoos and conditioners that will help you in your fight against the loose hairs. During my more than 20 years of dog ownership, I have tried dozens of different brushes and my favorite for the past many years is Chris Christensen Mark III. I absolutely love this brush because it not only does an incredible job of removing the dead hair, but it does it without being overly aggressive. With other brushes I previously even caused my dog to bleed, and the guilt I felt afterward made me thrown that brush far away immediately. How often should I bath a Labradoodle? The reason for that is that bathing your Doodle too frequently will lead to dry skin. This will bother your dog and most likely lead to extreme itching and scratching. Typically, the best way to bathe your dog is just a quick hose down or possibly even a quick swim in a nearby lake or river. Shampoo and conditioners for Doodles Looking for the best shampoo and conditioner to fight shedding can be quite confusing, but one product I would recommend you to consider comes from the Furminator brand. The shampoos and conditioners from Furminator are extremely popular in every pet store in the country, and they are so for a reason. Click here to check what the best price currently is. Their cute wobbly ears have a certain way of acting like a cover on their ear canal. So, if for some reason water or debris gets in there, these things can risk staying in there and start to fester. Then you should massage the ear canal with the solution inside to loosen up the smut in the ear. If you want to know more about ear infections, check out this article. While doing this, you might even experience that your Doodle enjoys having his ears massaged. When you stop massaging, you will probably end up with a bit of a mess in your room because your dog is going to shake his head in an attempt to get the liquid out of his ears. This should remove whatever is left in there. Trimming a Labradoodles nails If you experience that your Labradoodle constantly has too long nails, the good news is that the perfect cure is both cheap and healthy. If you by accident cut a bit too far and get into the quick, apply some chapstick to end the bleeding. When deciding on a tool to get for nail trimming, there are two different solutions. A guillotine cutter , or an electric trimming tool , each with their own pros and cons. Labradoodles are prone to some different eye issues like cataracts which can cause them to have a cloudy look to them. If the eyes look like they need to be cleaned, just grab a cotton ball or pad and dip it in some water or saline. Tooth brushing is a part of grooming When not taken enough care of, teeth can cause some serious pain in people. The same is true when it comes to dogs. Bad breath and yellow teeth are some the least of the concerning problems when it comes to dental hygiene in dogs. And this is also the situation with your puppy. There are various different ways you can stop tooth decay. Some people choose to just get a normal dog toothbrush. Some years ago, I decided to get my dog in for a checkup. Although everything on the surface looked fine, I was told that I should consider a dental procedure to remove tartar and plaque. So, I decided to look into more cost-efficient methods to control the teeth issues. The first and luckily also the cheapest alternative was the Pedigree Dentastix. I was a bit skeptical at first, but my Labradoodles teeth were noticeably cleaner after just one box of these chews. The next choice I have tried was a toothbrush that they use entirely on their own. It is the Wisedom Dog Toothbrush. The bristles on this toothbrush are flavored to promote some serious chewing. And in time, those grooming sessions will become easier and easier, and much more enjoyable for you and your dog. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. This does mean however, that your dog requires regular clipping to keep the coat trimmed and free of knots and matting. This is important for the dog also, as their coats can get very heavy and hot and matted coats make them very uncomfortable. It will really depend on the length you want to keep your Labradoodles coat as to how much grooming you will have to do. What do I need? Hold the skin taught to protect from any discomfort, especially where you come across a knot, or matts. Like in human hair, work knots out gently, or cut through them with scissors or a matt breaker. Knots are quite common around the ears, jaw, and collar as well as behind the tops of their legs. If they wear a harness regularly, you may find matting from this too. Trim around their eyes and across the bridge of their nose between their eyes regularly — you can do this with blunt scissors, or use a little tool like the Wahl Pocket Pro, which is a little battery operated trimmer. Over bathing can reduce the oils and damage the coat. I usually bathe my dogs every weeks. It is important to use a good quality pet shampoo — dogs have a different PH in their skin to humans, so regular shampoos is not suitable for use on your pets. Fido products are expensive, but I find them very good and this is what I use on the puppies, and my own dogs. Some vets will advocate regular plucking, others may suggest trimming the hair, but regardless, keeping the hair minimal, and the ears clean, with the use of an ear cleanser or a drying agent will reduce the risk of problems. You pop the solution into each ear and massage it for seconds and then wipe it out with a tissue — never use ear buds! Check with your vet for tips on hair removal and which solution to use. Your dogs nails should be done each time they get their coat trimmed and this is a service most dog groomers usually do as part of their clip. If you choose to do this, be sure to get your groomer, or your vet to show you how to trim the nails correctly. Grooming How frequently you choose to get your dog clipped will depend on lifestyle, how long you want their coat to be and, your regular maintenance regimes. Besides you want to enjoy that adorable puppy shagginess for a little while! The Puppy Trim Trim between their eyes so they can see Fringe should be cut so there is an inverted"V"above the nose. If the fringe is thick, it can be neatened with thinning scissors. Trim the ear length back to about 1 cm following the shape of the ear leather. Neaten the face, especially if the beard is long. The Full Clip Ears Trim the ears, following the edge of the ear leather. To gauge the length — pull forward to the nose. The length of the ear should be just short of the nose. Taper the tip of the ear. Hair on the outside of the ear should be layered on the to about 3cm, and the tip of the ear tapered. Trim back any thickness behind the ear. The underside of the ear should be shaved or cut very short underneath to allow good air flow. Trim hair inside the ear canal. Top of the head The top of the head should be natural, and cut long enough that it parts naturally by itself. To trim, pull the hair forward and up and trim to around cm. You want to be able to see the dogs eyes easily. Leave the eyelashes long — it helps to keep hair out of their eyes. Eyes Below the eye at the muzzle, trim the top of the muzzle short at an angle just under the eyes so they can see easily. This makes it easier to clean around the eyes also. Muzzle The beard and moustache should be layered and trimmed into a circular shape, rather than blunt - aim for around cm in length. Body the body can be trimmed to whatever length suits the lifestyle. Tail should be evened up. If the body is left long, the tummy can be trimmed shorter, or even shaved in summer to keep the dog cool. Trim the hair between the pads, so the pads touch the ground. Trim the nails. Taper the hind quarters to the tail gradually. Brush and trim the tail to a natural length, and trim underneath. Private Parts Shave or trim close the dogs private area to keep clean and free from matting and any dags. We use Madden pin brushes on our labradoodles and have found this brush to be excellent quality. If you catch them in play mode during the day, you will only be reinforcing that brushing time is something to get all riled up about. Nail Clipping Clipping their nails is also a good exercise to do when you find them tired out. They tend to care a lot less about things. You can start by just clipping the nails on one paw. This way your pup learns this is quick and no big deal. It also gives you the opportunity to practice this exercise 4 days in a row, rather than once and then having to wait for them to grow again. When clipping, clip just the tip of the nail where it starts to curve downward, holding the nail clippers parallel to the bottom of the paw. Be careful not to clip too much, otherwise it will hurt and the nail will bleed. Lean towards clipping little bits more often than trying to get a lot off all at once. Ear Cleaning Ear cleaning is something that labradoodles need since they have those long ears that trap and hold in moisture. Check their ears every few weeks and if you notice they look dirty, then get a cotton ball or makeup remover pad, etc. Never push anything down in the ear, you could damage the ear and cause your puppy pain. Do the other side, and finish with an ear drying powder. In fact, over bathing can harm this quality in their coat, and actually cause you to need to bathe more often. If they get dirty, let them dry and simply brush the dirt right out. It is good to get them used to getting wet though, and when you do use shampoo, we recommend a tearless shampoo specifically designed for dogs as their PH balance is different than humans. A good minute walk daily will meet this need your new family member has. Up until then, their joints are developing and jogging on pavement would not be good for their joints. However, this does not mean you have to limit their activity. Running across the yard chasing a ball at their own pace and will is good for their developing body, and talking walks through the neighborhood is an excellent way to meet their exercise needs. While the adult coat is establishing, you will need to brush multiple times a week, and I find this the best time to give your pet his first trim. It will be difficult to keep up with the matting in the longer coat, but with a trim, it is very manageable, and the beauty of the adult coat is better realized. Once your dog gets to 12 to 14 months, the adult coat will be fully established, and this is the coat you can expect to work with for your dog's adult life. I find that the picture to the right will help to clarify the instructions you will need to convey for your dog's face. It is best to print this picture and take it with you to the groomer. A three-fourths inch blade don't go shorter than one-half inch will keep your dog's coat nice and full but give a smooth consistent length all over. If you like your dogs coat longer, your groomer should have a guard they can use to achieve this. The legs are typically just a little longer than the rest of the coat if you trim the coat to three-fourths inch. FEET: The feet will need a "slipper" cut to achieve the floppy, full leg look. The leg will look like a column. TAIL: The tail needs to be de-matted and trimmed. It is also important to have the hair removed, either trimmed or pulled, inside the dog's ears. Click the grooming picture for an enlarged, printable version and take it with you to your groomer! Keeping a well-groomed dog is essential to maintaining their health, happiness, quality of life. This guide will instruct you on grooming as young as 8 weeks into adulthood. In order for this to be the best experience for you and your Doodle, the most important thing to remember is: Be patient! If it is frustrating for you at any time throughout the grooming process, take a break and come back later. We always want our Doodles to relate grooming with positivity! Well, short answer, I groom my dogs every 8 — 10 weeks. There are so many variables to the grooming question that I hate to boil it down to one sentence. First, we should ask ourselves a few questions: 1. How much time does he spend outdoors with the potential to get dirty? What sort of coat does your dog have? Different Coat Types Require Different Labradoodle Grooming Schedules I have dogs with different coat types, and they have different grooming schedules. My two older dogs both have a wool type coat. It is very curly, a little wiry, and not the easiest to brush. It is most like a poodle coat. These two get the most regular grooming appointments, and I keep them pretty short. With this type of cut and frequency I do not need to brush them out at all between grooms. I usually wait more time between grooms on this coat. I love the fluffy look when it grows out. Often the ears and collar area need regular brushing to prevent matting. If your doodle does not go out and get dirty, then cleaning is not an issue, and you could keep a longer coat with or without regular visits to the groomer. If a mat develops next to their skin it is painful for the dog, and you will need to have your Labradoodle shaved down to eliminate. Artistic Grooming Techniques And of course, there are all sorts of artistic grooming techniques. I often see the ears and tail left longer than the rest of the body. And the Teddy Bear- is always cute! Clearing the ear hair will help prevent ear infections as well as ear odor. If your groomer does not pluck ear hair, consider this task on your own or stop by your vet a few times a year to have them take care of the problem. Occasionally, a nice bath helps in between grooms too! However, they need to get accustom to being handled. They should be brushed, have their ears and teeth looked at, and nails handled or trimmed every day. At around nine to sixteen months the adult coat starts to grow in. The puppy coat does not fall out and will start to cause matts. Brushing thoroughly to pull the puppy coat out from the new adult hair is necessary. This could be a good time to consider a good clip to ease the amount of brushing and formation of mats. It is important to start introducing your puppy to the groomer early so when he is older he will be comfortable with the grooming process. Once your Labradoodle puppy has had all of his shots, he can safely be taken to the groomer. Up to this point, handling and brushing your puppy everyday will prepare him for his first trip to the groomer. Let the groomer know you have a puppy and want to have an introductory visit. Even just for your puppy to meet and have a nail clip might be enough to start a good, calm rapport with the groomer. Follow up visits can begin to include a simple session of brushing, washing, drying, nail clip and ear hair pluck. Your puppy and groomer will be thankful for these small visits every weeks so puppy can get used to all of the sights, sounds and sensations till he is ready for a full clip. Grooming Your Adult Labradoodle You can maintain a long fleece coat with thorough brushing weekly. A curly fleece will need more attention than a wavy fleece. Curlier coats will be easier to maintain if it is kept shorter. Many owners have their labradoodles clipped two to four times a year depending on personal preference, lifestyle and curliness of the fleece. They get a full groom with a 1. For your doodle to not look like a poodle, talk to your groomer about what you want. Pictures of a well groomed labradoodle can help. Regular bathing is mostly unnecessary. Even after getting muddy, it will dry and fall off or can be brushed out. If you take your Labradoodle to the groomer regularly, they should take care of the nails adequately. Pay special attention to the ears. The hair in and around the outside of the ear canal clogs the inside and prevents air flow. This can cause ear infections. The hair needs to be pulled out of the ear canal and kept trimmed around the opening and under the ear. This can be done every months. Your groomer should be doing this and will keep it maintained. Also, if you do not use a groomer often, make sure the hair around the anus does not get too long and cause problems with waste build up. Brushing Your Labradoodle When your Labradoodle has short hair, an inch or two, regular brushing with a pin brush or slicker can work just fine. Once the hair gets longer, it is important to make sure you are reaching all the way to the base of the hair. If not, loose hair is not removed below the surface and matts will begin to form. If that hair builds up, it is not going to be possible to clip the hair at a decent length and the only alternative will be to shave the hair close to the skin. In order to keep a coat longer than and inch or so, you will want to use a technique called line brushing. Line Brushing It is simply done by parting the coat with your free hand and brushing the loose hair on the other side of the part, starting at the base of the hair. With every other stroke or so, you can bring down a small bit of the hair being held up by your hand. You will slowly move your hand up that section of coat. Start low on a section of the body and work your way up. Using the edge of the pin brush, start brushing from the part, down the length of the hair. Complete the stroke to the end of the hair. Repeat till smooth and ready to continue. Pick up a small amount of hair from the other side of the part to continue the process, working your way up that section of the body.

Deworming German Shepherds - How Often? Puppies are entirely different however. Also, I deworm my dogs myself. I get the wormer I use from my vet for my particular German Shepherd because it is based on weight of the dog and then I administer it myself. The wormer I use is called Panacur. It comes from the vet in a liquid form and you administer it once a day for 3 days in a row. You can put it on their food or just directly into their mouths which is what I do and you're done. Many vets will give it to you as 3 separate dosages in 3 different syringes all ready to go 1 dosage per syringe but I usually just get it all in one bottle, and 3 empty syringes and then measure it out myself before I give it - but either way is fine. I like it especially because it is good to get rid of lots of different worms all at once such as; hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms and whipworms - and most other wormers on the market only address hookworms and roundworms. So one treatment of the 3 doses and you're done for 6 months! And most GSDs do not seem to have an issue with the taste either. But if you don't want to get the Panacur from your vet you can also order a wormer called Panacur C - Safeguard that is basically the same thing only in dry form to give your dogs. If you're using Safeguard to worm your dog, you can mix up the powder with a small amount of canned dog food to make sure that the dog takes it all. Again, it's a once a day dosage for 3 days in a row. And it's important to remember that if you decide to buy the powder form of Panacur Safeguard or any other brand that you buy more than your GSD weighs - meaning that if your GSD weighs 74 pounds that you buy 80 pounds worth, or if your GSD weighs that you buy enough for a pound dog. So you'll probably have to buy several packets to add up enough wormer to meet your GSDs weight requirements. It's better to give your dog enough wormer to treat a slightly larger dog than not to give enough to treat the full weight of your dog because dogs seldom weigh an exact 70, 80, or 90 pounds. Just ask your vet if you have any further questions about panacur. And if you want to see the liquid Panacur that I was talking about above, here is a video that you can watch all about that too to give you a better idea about what I am talking about. Deworming Your German Shepherd Dog. Do all puppies have worms? Intestinal parasites are common in all puppies. Roundworms are present in almost all newborn puppies. Puppies can become infected with parasites before they are born or later through the mother's milk. Your pup has been wormed every two weeks from the age of two weeks. Modern de - worming preparations are safe however please use a good quality all wormer for it to be effective Drontal allwormer or Nexgard Spectra. These can be found in any Pet Shop. We recommend after you take your German Shepherd puppy home that you worm your puppy every two weeks until the pup is 14 weeks and then every 3 months for the rest of your pup's life. It is important that the medication is repeated since it is usually only the adult worms that are killed. Tapeworms are the most common intestinal parasites of dogs. Puppies become infected with them when they swallow fleas; the eggs of the tapeworm live inside the flea. When the puppy chews or licks its skin as a flea bites, the flea may be swallowed. The flea is digested within the dog's intestine; the tapeworm hatches and then anchors itself to the intestinal lining. Therefore, exposure to fleas may result in a new infection; this can occur in as little as two weeks, so please keep your puppy flea free. A worming certificate is included in your take home folder with the dates to worm your puppy, when you buy your German Shepherd puppy from us. View Price on Amazon These are chewable deworming tablets for dogs and helps control seven different worm species including two types of tapeworms, two types of roundworms, and three types of hookworms. They are safe to give dogs and puppies over 12 weeks of age and it is also a suitable dewormer for small dogs — those weighing between 6 and 25 pounds. It is an easy and convenient worming treatment for your dog. Make sure that you review the dewormer information provided carefully to ensure that you select a product that treats the types of parasites your dog has. You should also make sure you keep a dog worming treatment in your home, so you can relieve the discomfort and potentially prevent the situation from getting worse. Symptoms to look for include poor appetite, breathing difficulties, sickness, diarrhea, weight loss, and unusual tiredness. Like most infections, unfortunately, there is not just one solution. There are different kinds of dog worms including tapeworms which are usually carried by fleas , roundworms which can also infect people, especially young children , as well as lungworms, which are carried by slugs and snails. Some treatments for worms will clearly state they are for all forms of worms, whereas others may only treat a specific type of infection. You will also need to read the label to ensure what age and size of dog the deworming treatment is suitable for, as some may only be for smaller dogs or puppies, and others for larger breeds. Some dewormers may also be intended to be used on a regular basis to be effective, whereas others may be intended for when an infection has already taken hold. Dog Worming Tablets vs Powder Different worming medicines use altering forms of delivery such as deworming tablets for dogs that can be hidden in food or regular tablets that can be crushed into food instead. You may also find deworming treatments in the form of powder sachets that need to be sprinkled over each meal. While powder forms might seem convenient and work out cheaper in the long run, you should also be aware that unless your dog eats all of the food in its entirety, then it might not get the whole, correct dosage. You should also research beforehand if the dewormer is likely to give your dog any side effects, especially vomiting and further digestive issues. Some deworming treatments can contain formulas that could make your dog increasingly unwell, so the best advice is to consult your vet if you are concerned by their original symptoms or how they have reacted to the treatment you have tried so far. Important Dog Dewormer Features The following are a few of the more important features summarized to help you choose the best dewormer for your dog. Active Ingredients. Many ingredients are used in combination or alone, and it is important to know that not all of these formulas will work for every type of worm your dog may have. Targeted Parasites. With two types of tapeworms, you will soon find that not all over the counter dewormers will eliminate both. When choosing the dewormer, make sure to see which parasites it is meant to target. You can find dewormers that come in either one or three-day dosage options. However, some natural dewormers are safe enough to use on a daily basis. Administering Treatment. Chewable tablets and liquid treatments may be the best way to administer the treatment to your dog or puppy. Tablets can be crushed up, and this is one of the most popular methods of administration chosen by pet owners. Side Effects. Never use a brand that is not well-known or reliable. Age and Weight. These products are all labeled by size and age, so choose the one most appropriate for your canine companion. There are some puppy options that can be given to a puppy from 2-weeks old as well as very small dogs, while others are made specifically for larger and older dogs. To ensure that the dewormer does its job, you want to make sure that the dose you use is correct. Puppy Dewormers — A Quick Word One of the biggest questions often asked by a pet owner is if over the counter dewormers are safe to administer to their puppy. When you choose a dewormer for a puppy, you should get one that is formulated to specifically target the worms that a mother commonly passes to her puppies. During nursing, puppies can get the infection again. They can also get it from eating things off of the ground. So, you will most likely have to treat a puppy several times, so you want to have a dewormer that is easy to administer and gentle so as not to upset their sensitive stomach. Why Are Worms a Problem? Though they are commonly found in our canine friends as they keep acquiring them from surrounding environments. Some of the ways a dog can catch worms are fleas, eating feces of other animals, and eating soil that already has worms in it. Besides, dogs end up eating rodents like mice and rats while hunting. This also transmits worms to your dogs. So, as a pet owner, you must be concerned about the well-being of your furry pet. And therefore, you have to get your dog dewormed from time to time. If worms have infected your pet, you should be able to confirm that by its stool or vomit. But there are some common symptoms that your dog will show if it has worms. These are weight loss, frequent vomiting, and a large belly. In addition, your pet will look sick, have dry hair , and lick its rear body parts. At times, it can also have diarrhea or bloody stool. So, in such cases, you must consult a veterinarian for your puppy. What are the Symptoms of Worms in Dogs? Different worms affect dogs in different ways. In fact, individual dogs will often suffer from different reactions to the same parasite. Sometimes the worms expelled may be dead, but they are often alive. How Do Dogs Get Worms? Different worms and parasites infect dogs in different ways. Dogs can also re-infect themselves in this manner, which can lead to very significant infestations. Mosquitos Heartworms are spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. And while not every mosquito is infected with heartworms, all it takes is a single bite from an infected individual to cause your dog to suffer from heartworm disease. Flea Ingestion Most dogs who contract tapeworms catch them when they accidentally consume fleas. Types of Worms in Dogs There are a number of different worms that can infect dogs, and although they all cause broadly similar symptoms, there are a number of differences between the various species. Some respond well to a variety of common over-the-counter medications, while others only respond to very specific treatments. The primary types of worms that affect dogs include: 1. Roundworm infestations can quickly reach plague-like proportions, as each female roundworm can produce more than , eggs each day. And unfortunately, these eggs can persist in the environment in a dormant state for years. This can cause canines to develop a pot-bellied appearance, and, if left untreated, eventually result in an intestinal blockage. Heartworms Heartworms are roundworms that can cause a very serious illness called heartworm disease. Heartworms can grow to about a foot in length, and your dog may end up with more than of them living inside his heart. Left untreated, heartworm disease is often fatal. Fortunately, heartworm disease is very easy to prevent with a simple oral tablet, given about once per month. Whipworms Whipworms rarely cause the types of serious problems that roundworms do, but they can be very unpleasant for dogs. Unfortunately, whipworms do not pass very many eggs, so they can be tough to positively identify when analyzing stool samples. They typically look like a long hair, although one end appears larger than the other. The two most common symptoms associated with whipworm infestations include weight loss and mucus-covered stools. Hookworms Hookworms derive their name from their sharp mouth parts, which enable them to cling to the wall of the small intestines. This can be very dangerous for dogs — particularly young puppies — as it can lead to anemia. Adult dogs can become sick from hookworms, but puppies occasionally die from severe infestations. Bloody stools, anemia, weight loss, and lethargy are some of the most common symptoms of hookworm infestations. Fortunately, hookworms are relatively easy to diagnose by conducting a fecal analysis. Tapeworms Tapeworms have an indirect lifecycle, which means that they require more than one type of host to complete their lifecycle. There are a variety of different tapeworm species, but those that most frequently afflict dogs utilize fleas as the intermediate host. Their larvae live inside the bodies of fleas, and when a dog inadvertently eats a flea while grooming himself, the tapeworm can be transmitted to his body. Tapeworms grow pretty large — many reach or exceed 6 inches in length. Unlike many other types of worms, which are likely to occur in high numbers, most tapeworm infestations will consist of very few individual worms. Protozoans Not all parasites that affect dogs are worms. There are a variety of different protozoans that can afflict dogs, but Coccidia and Giardia are two of the most common. Dogs can also contract cryptosporidium, which is a protozoan that can also sicken you and your family. Most protozoans cause broadly similar symptoms, including bloody diarrhea, weight loss, inappetence and a general failure to thrive. Protozoans can be very difficult to positively diagnose, as they are very small and only produce eggs periodically. Accordingly, multiple fecal examinations are often needed. Let us now look at how what are the major problems caused by worms in dogs. Worms can cause internal damage These worms generally live in the guts of your dog and can cause internal damage to your dog. This can lead to severe health complications and potentially harm your dog. Worms like roundworms can be dangerous The four main types of worms affecting your dog are roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. Whipworms are dangerous for your dog and can cause abdominal problems. These include diarrhea, a bloated abdomen, and vomiting. Worms are more dangerous for young puppies While adult dogs can still deal with the problems of worms, they can cause more damage to young puppies. This is because the natural immune system of a puppy is much weaker than an adult dog. Worms can make your dog feel highly uncomfortable A dog that has worms in it will feel uncomfortable from within. This will make it ill-tempered, for sure. Worms can prove to be fatal Most of the time, you can treat worms with proper medication. But if left untreated, worms can prove fatal and cause serious damage. They can cause health conditions like anemia, gut blockage, and severe dehydration. Unfortunately, these conditions can also cause the death of your favorite pal. Dog Worms at a Glance There are a lot of different worms that infect dogs, and it can be difficult for some owners to remember which worms cause which symptoms, and which ones are likely to cause the most significant problems. Parasite Visible in Stools, Vomit or Sputum? Potentially Fatal?

Things to do with your English Bulldog Texas is a great place to live with an English bulldog. With its beautiful scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Texas is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including mountains, canyons, and deserts. Your English bulldog will love exploring the park and meeting new friends. Your English bulldog will love exploring the woods and getting some exercise. Your English bulldog will love spending time outdoors and making new friends. The park is home to the Guadalupe Peak, which is the highest point in Texas. The garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world. Your English bulldog will love exploring the garden and meeting new friends. Your English bulldog will love getting some fresh air and seeing the sights from a different perspective. Texas is a great place to live with an English bulldog. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Texas? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Why adopt WB English Bulldogs? Travel Nanny Services Optional As experienced and reputable breeders; at WB English Bulldogs, we understand that the transportation of your English Bulldog puppy is one of the most important things. British Bulldogs Breeder in Dallas since We at WB English bulldogs take into consideration that all puppies we place in new homes must have excellent conformation, good health and amazing temperament. Microchip ID Optional We offer a more secure form of identification for your pet that is safer and extremely more effective than common pet tags. Our happy customers who chose our in cabin nanny services! English Bulldogs stand out for their unique appearance combined with a heart of gold. Their wrinkled face, stout stature, and gentle eyes are not just adorable but also exude their loving nature. How big do English Bulldogs get when they grow up? English Bulldogs, though compact, have a sturdy and muscular build. Males typically weigh between lbs, while females usually range from lbs when fully mature. Their size makes them suitable for both apartment living and homes with yards. Are English Bulldogs good with children and other pets? English Bulldogs are renowned for their gentle, patient nature, especially with children. They often become protective of younger family members and coexist harmoniously with other pets. How often do English Bulldogs need exercise? A daily walk of about minutes helps maintain their health, manage their weight, and keeps them mentally stimulated. Play sessions in a fenced yard or indoors are also appreciated! Are English Bulldogs easy to train? English Bulldogs have an inherent eagerness to please their owners, making training a rewarding experience for both parties. With consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement techniques, they can learn commands, tricks, and good behaviors, enhancing your bond with them. English Bulldogs and British Bulldogs are the same? The breed is commonly known as the Bulldog. How to buy an English Bulldog puppie? Browse Our Selection: Explore our website to view available puppies. Need More Information? Our team is here to provide all the information you need to make an informed decision. Prepare for Your Puppy: Once your purchase is complete, ensure you have all the essentials ready at home for your new furry friend, from food to a cozy sleeping area. Feel free to reach out if you have questions about care, feeding, or health concerns. Thank you for choosing WB English Bulldogs. Do you ship to other cities in the USA or to other parts of the world? Yes, WB English bulldogs offers shipping services for their English bulldog puppies to any major city within the United States. They ensure that transportation considerations, including breed conformation and temperatures, are taken into account before arranging the transportation of the puppy. So, distance is not a barrier for those looking to get their dream puppy from WB English bulldogs. If there are any further questions or concerns about shipping methods or in-person pickups, the breeder encourages prospective customers to reach out to them directly via their provided phone number. English Bulldogs are medium-sized, robust, and muscular dogs. Adult male English Bulldogs typically weigh between pounds kg , while adult females usually weigh around pounds kg. In terms of height, English Bulldogs generally stand about inches cm tall at the shoulder. Regular check-ups and a balanced diet can help ensure that an English Bulldog grows to its optimal size and maintains a healthy weight. English Bulldogs are sturdy and muscular canines. Typically, adult male English Bulldogs weigh between pounds kg , while adult females tend to weigh around pounds kg. However, individual weights can vary based on factors like genetics, diet, and health. Our Blog. English bulldogs for sale in texas "We pride our selves on making exceptional quality bulldogs" Health Guarantee We provide a limited 1 year health guarantee on your bulldog purchased from us. This helps guarantee the health of the bulldog. We want to make sure that our customers feel comfortable and trusted, when buying their English bulldog with us. The blueeyes Bloodline We have built up our English bulldog bloodline from scratch when we just started breeding 10 years ago. We have got colors such as Merle, blue, lilac, double chocolate, and features like Blue Eyes or exotic markings. One of the top canine color testers! This will assure you that what you see in the photo will be what you see when you meet us. We will guide you through every step from vet visits, to grooming, and feeding. If you are using your bulldogs to breed, we will also be their to help you with the process. As seen on.English bulldog puppies for sale As you can tell from our website, we mostly specialize in AKC English bulldogs for sale Texas and French Bulldogs for sale. Since we are a very small hobby breeder owning more than the breeds we already have will just overwhelm us and lower the quality of our dogs. Our main goals are to: 1. Make the breed have better health 2. Give a better quality of life to these amazing dogs 3. Give people the gift of owning a bulldog Some of the colors we offer are Lavender French bulldogs, Merle French bulldogs, Lilac French bulldogs , etc for our French Bulldogs. The Best Bulldog blog! Follow us on our bulldog blog where we frequently post tips, tricks, and new information about French and English bulldogs for sale. Additionally you can subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on new Bulldog blog posts, and new French and new English bulldogs for sale on our website. We are trusted breeders for over 10 years, and have a lot of experience with English and French Bulldogs. So if you need some help go check out our bulldog blog and grow your knowledge of french and english bulldogs.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Here at Frenchie Kisses Kennel you will not find "a breeder. We maintain a small Hobby program and breed for quality, rather than quantity. This ensures that you get a puppy that is healthy, beautiful, and has a great temperament. It is very convenient being close to Portland, Oregon because it makes for a nice day trip for our adoptive families in the Portland area to visit their puppy regularly as it grows. Since My son and Daughter In Law work at home we are able to spend time both indoors and outdoors with all of the animals. However, French Bulldogs are more suited for indoor living as opposed to outdoors. We do like to bring them out when the weather is moderate. At Frenchie Kisses Kennel we keep a close watch on the dogs as we wander about and if they seem a bit tired we simply return them to our air conditioned or heated in the winter home. Luckily the weather here in Washington State does not have horrible extremes so air conditioning and a good wood stove keeps their life very comfortable. French Bulldogs overheat easily because of their overly large chest and compacted air way, along with their insistence on being active. Their bulk and being Brachycephalic makes it impossible for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. In addition, Frenchies are top heavy and therefore have a difficult time swimming. We are very cautious when exercising them during hot or humid weather, and at times must insist they take a break. Though they tend to love the water, they must not be left alone in water as they may not be able to get out after exhausting themselves trying to swim. French Bulldogs are known as non swimmers. That's not to say that they are dogs of little brain. It's more like their "can do," can't keep up with their "want to. We love that the dogs want to be with us, very close by when we are walking around on the property. Washington is Cougar country and we would not want them to wander far so we do keep a close watch on them when we have them out. They all tend to get along with the cats and we are working hard to convince them that all animals are our friends. Since the Frenchies are so rambunctious it is hard to convince all of our pets that they are sweet, friendly dogs. I have my mind set that all my pets are going to get along and I am hoping that my will is stronger than a Bulldog! The puppies are exposed to the cats at a young age to instill a respect for other animals. Our cats are everywhere we now have five the puppies can have access to. We also have volunteer feral cats, that we are pretty sure come from a catch and release program in our area as they just appear with ears notched and previously spayed or neutered. The puppies only meet one of them He has become an outside pet only does not like to be confined kitty and occasionally comes to the door to see what is going on. He is friendly with the dogs and puppies. Three of our cats are both indoors and outdoors so the puppies learn early on that cats are their friends. We now have three Chickens that wander the property during the day. We hope to also use them to condition the puppies to being comfortable with birds. This makes for very sweet gentle puppies as they mature. We are also able to care for them individually if they become sick and give them excellent medical attention. We have a wonderful vet who has taught us how to do much of the necessary medical care at home since we are 45 minutes from any Veterinarian. Sometimes without the training he has provided us we would lose puppies due to no access to immediate care. We can and do give mouth to mouth resuscitation if needed. We will do anything necessary to save a puppy or dog. We love them for the wonderful little family additions that they are. We now offer training packages for our puppies: Child Tolerance. We respect your privacy. Thank you! As a reputable and compassionate French Bulldog breeder, we pride ourselves on the health testing, beauty, and personality of our Sires and Dams. Thoroughly vetted breeding stock, along with over a decade of experience, research, education, and a dedication to bettering the breed, sets our puppies up for success with their new families. We incorporate the principles taught by Dr. Gale Watkins through the AviDog University, cultivating our puppies' confidence through proper socialization. Meaning, that our puppies grow up in my, and my children's arms. They are provided with age-appropriate enrichment which ultimately gives you the most balanced and well-behaved adult French Bulldog. We dedicate our lives to cultivating a well-behaved and loving member of the family that will provide you with comfort, humor, and companionship for many years- and this is priceless. NW Frenchies offers stud services to approved females. Our Sires offer the finest combination of bloodlines and are fully health tested. He has completed and is cleared for hip and elbow x-rays, thyroid blood panel, patella grade, heart auscultation by a veterinary cardiology specialist, and eye exam by a veterinary optometry specialist in accordance with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals guidelines health testing. He is the ideal representation of every quality a French Bulldog should have. Misha has fathered many healthy litters. Eager to bring a French bulldog puppy home? For a number of years we have wanted to expand our breeding program to the Non-Sporting Group, specifically French Bulldogs. After several years of detailed research and thorough groundwork, Affinity French Bulldogs was born! Excellent health, stable temperaments and winning confirmation is our goal! At Affinity French Bulldogs, we lovingly hand-raise each of our puppies in our home where they are broadly socialized to both humans and other animals, exposed to a variety of age-appropriate stimuli and experiences and the foundations of crate training and litter box potty training are started. Our puppies are thoroughly examined by our on-site veterinarian at birth and again at 8 weeks of age, de-wormed and vaccinated and come with our comprehensive health guarantee and life-long breeder support. We also provide micro-chip services to our customers. The most wonderful experience from start to finish! Thank you so much! Affinity French Bulldogs focuses on superior pedigree, stable health and excellent temperament. While our goal is for many of our dogs to go on to distinguished show careers, our Frenchies also make the perfect family companion and will change your life forever with their bright, affectionate and playful personalities. They happily adapt to life with individuals and families, do well with children of all ages, get along well with other pets and they adore making new friends — both of the human and K9 variety! French Bulldogs are easy keepers, do not require a lot of exercise and do not bark excessively although their naturally observant tendencies make them quick to alert to strangers or unusual activity around the home. They are well-suited to apartment life and are patient and affectionate with their owners and especially children. We are honored to be a part of so many wonderful families and would love to match you with your very own loving and vivacious Frenchie! I now x-ray the trachea's of all the dogs in my breeding program, so I produce dogs that are not exercise intolerant or have BOAS issues like the countless dogs being produce by backyard breeders, who do not breed with Purpose, they breed solely to produce pups. All my dogs live in my home, are a "BIG part of my family" and are spoiled with love and attention every day. When my girls have a litter, the pups are whelped beside my bed and monitored 24 hours a day. Training starts at birth with lots of handling and as they grow, we get more involved in desensitizing, obedience and house training. My pups go to the very best pet homes that are looking for quality before quantity. Puppies are like children and require A LOT of care, exercise, training and love. Owning either of these breeds is expensive! Everything costs more for a big dog: food, crates, bedding, medicine, veterinary care, toys, and when they chew on something with their large sharp teeth, it will most likely be destroyed in seconds. Puppies can have health issues just like children and when these breeds age, like any elderly person, they will need medical care to help them through their twilight years. Please understand the commitment you are taking on and don't take this commitment lightly, your new family member will be relying on you to love and provide for them until the very end and will love you with every ounce of their being in return.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Sacramento Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Sacramento? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Sacramento? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We have answers. Finding a new canine companion is an absolute breeze at Uptown Puppies. Simply peruse our vast catalogue of pups, select your favorite, and then contact the Golden Retriever breeders Sacramento or businesses. Do you recommend specific food for my dog? In general, each canine has a unique set of preferences when it comes to food - including the Sacramento Golden Retrievers for sale. These pups love to eat - like, a lot - and should be fed a carefully moderated diet of meats and vegetables. This will help sustain their naturally high energy levels while keeping them at a reasonable weight! Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Sacramento ready now? Yes, every pup in our listings is available right now! If you hesitate then you might lose your chance to bring home the dog of your dreams. How does Uptown Puppies view transparency when it comes to breeding Golden Retriever puppies Sacramento? We understand the struggle, which is why transparency remains one of our core values. At Uptown Puppies, our network of breeders and businesses has been thoroughly vetted to ensure perfect transparency from start-to-finish! Which kinds of breeds are best for families? These loving canines have become a staple among suburban households due to their active nature, sweet disposition, and unparalleled loyalty. Pick up a Sacramento Golden Retriever for sale today and prepare to introduce a new member of the family! Do you sell the cheapest Golden Retriever puppies in Sacramento? Sometimes, but not always. The Golden Retrievers for sale Sacramento shed lightly for most of the year, but experience two periods of intense hair loss every Autumn and Spring. How do I know that my Golden Retriever for sale Sacramento will be healthy? These checks highlight the status updates on everything from the eyes and ears to the lungs and heart - and more! Is it enough to walk Golden Retriever puppies for sale Sacramento, or do they need more exercise? The Golden Retriever for sale in Sacramento loves to run and a simple stroll through the neighborhood might not always provide sufficient exercise. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? When searching for a new Golden Retriever Sacramento, unethical breeders are often the only available option - forcing you to sacrifice your morals if you want to adopt a canine. At Uptown Puppies, we operate with a network of ethical breeders and businesses that make it possible to find your pup and bring it home, all from the comfort of your living room! We provide perfect morals, flawless ethics, and ultimate convenience.

The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Learn more » Congratulations on your new golden retriever puppy! You now have a beautiful, smart, and loyal dog who will love you for life. To make sure they grow into a healthy and happy companion, you need to feed them the right amount of food. At months old, which is usually when they are ready to leave their mother, a golden retriever puppy should be eating 3 cups of dog food divided into three meals per day. This is based on a typical large-breed puppy food. Different brands will give a feeding guide on their packaging. However, how much and how often to feed your golden retriever will keep changing during this time of rapid growth. Golden Retriever Puppy Feeding Timeline Image Credit: PxHere All puppies are different as are the foods, but some general guidelines for feeding your golden retriever during their first year are: 0—6 weeks: A golden retriever puppy can start eating solid food when they are 3—4 weeks old. Give them a total of 3 cups of dog food per day by their third month, 3 to 4 cups by the time they are 6 months old. The AKC recommends waiting until large breed puppies are at least 12 months old before switching them over to adult dog food and more likely 18 months. The amount will depend on their weight and activity level, but a rough guide is 1—2 cups per meal. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock Large breed puppies like golden retrievers should eat three to four small meals a day for the first 3—6 months of their lives. Smaller portions spread throughout the day are easier on their tummies and help prevent bloat, a serious condition that can be deadly for dogs. It also helps them maintain their energy level throughout the day. Puppy food has more calories and fat to support their growth, as well as extra vitamins and minerals for their developing immune and nervous systems and bones. The protein source matters, too. Puppies need animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb for their growing muscles. Choose a Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies grow quickly, which means they need extra support for their bones and joints. Formulations for large breeds contain the correct calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. They can help you choose the right food for your puppy based on their age, weight, and activity level. But puppies need to be fed on a schedule to prevent them from overeating and becoming overweight. How do you know if your puppy is getting enough to eat? After that, their growth will start to slow down. He Has a Healthy Appetite: A healthy puppy is interested in food and eager to eat. He Has Plenty of Energy: A well-fed puppy is full of energy and ready to play. Make the most of mealtime with these tips: 1. It also helps other aspects of puppy training, such as potty training and crate training. Image Credit: Alena Marchuk, Shutterstock This means leaving food out all day for them to graze on whenever they want. Leave food down for 10 minutes and then pick up what is not eaten. If they have not eaten anything, offer it again in an hour. Slow them down by scattering their kibble around the bowl, using a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat. This will help them learn to eat slowly and enjoy their food more. If your puppy is not drinking enough water for your liking, try adding a bit of broth to their bowl to make it more appealing and help them stay hydrated. Resist the Urge to Sneak Them Table Scraps Puppies are experts at giving those big, soulful eyes that make it hard to say no. But resist the temptation to give them table scraps or human food. Aside from teaching them bad manners, it can also lead to health problems, like obesity. A lot of human foods are not safe or healthy for dogs. For instance, garlic and onions are toxic to dogs. Oily food can upset their stomach, and carbs add a lot of calories. This helps them learn that mealtime is a specific time and place and not something that happens all over the house. Let Your Puppy Eat in Peace. This includes other pets in the house and small children who might want to bother them or try to steal their food. Otherwise, meals can become a stressful experience for your puppy instead of a happy one. Conclusion Feeding your golden retriever puppy the right amount of quality dog food will establish a strong foundation for their health and happiness. In addition, make mealtimes more meaningful by turning them into lessons and bonding moments between you and your dog. The puppy phase is over before you know it, so enjoy it while it lasts! Golden Retrievers are very food motivated. If your puppy seems to be getting fat, you may need to switch to the lower end of the above recommendations. Alternatively, if their ribs are becoming too prominent, you should work to the upper ends of the guidelines. Golden Retriever puppies have much smaller stomachs than adults. This means their daily food allowance should be split into smaller, more frequent meals. Rather than just feeding them once in the morning and once in the evening, as you might plan to do eventually, their food will need to be split into 3 or even 4 portions, like so: 8 — 12 weeks: 4 meals a day 3 — 6 months: 3 meals a day 6 — 12 months: 2 meals a day However, like the feeding charts, this should only be used as a guide. Feeding too much food at once can lead to cramping, vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort for your puppy. How to Choose the Best Golden Retriever Puppy Food Puppies need a balance of certain nutrients and vitamins to support their growth — not just as much food as possible. In fact, simply giving as much food as possible is linked to certain joint-related health problems. So, when searching for a high quality puppy food, there are a few key ingredients you might want to search for. This includes a real meat source, and the correct amount of nutrients like calcium and iron. Commercial Food vs Homemade Food There are pros and cons to every type of puppy food available. Dry food is long-lasting and easy to use during training, but can contain filler ingredients. Wet food is palatable and easy to serve, but can be more expensive and harder to use during training. Homemade food is often very appealing in terms of taste for our dogs, but is the most likely type to contain nutritional imbalances that can lead to serious health problems. So, they will continue to grow and develop physically until somewhere between 12 and 18 months. You may want to transition your puppy to a new food when you bring them home, rather than whatever your breeder was giving them. Ideally, you want to make the change over the course of a week. Replace a very small amount of their old food with their new food at mealtimes. Over the week, you can change these amounts by decreasing their old food and increasing the new. By the end of the week, they will be eating only the new food. Changing abruptly can cause stomach upsets and symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. But, Golden Retrievers should generally look lanky rather than chubby. But, the most successful rewards in this type of training are often food, such as kibble or small chunks or meat and cheese. Doing all of your training in the morning can lead to stomach upsets if your puppy ends up eating a large amount of their daily allowance all at once. Instead, try and complete shorter training sessions before each mealtime, and give whatever allowance is left for each meal after training is done. This can also benefit your training, as a hungry dog will be more motivated to work for those treats! Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. 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. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. There is also info on how to keep your puppy and your adult at his or her optimum weight. Scroll down to find growth charts to make sure your puppy is growing at the proper rate and is within the right weight range for his age. If you are looking for information on what to feed, go to How to Choose a Dog Food. Unlike with human children, a puppy that is overfed will grow too fast before they grow too fat. A good example is where a smaller puppy at 10 weeks was overfed and his growth was compared to a puppy that was correctly fed. The growth of your puppy needs to be controlled. General Guidelines for Puppies Below are some general guidelines on how much to feed puppies. Most dog food bags suggest feeding too much. Increase to about 3 cups a day by 5 months for boys and by 6 months for girls. Golden Retrievers at this age are supposed to look lanky and all Golden Retrievers act like they are starving when fed the correct amount. If left to eat as much as they want, they will all grow too fast. In the wild, dogs do not have unlimited access to eat as much as they want. They work for their food. Caloric Needs Greatly Decrease at About a Year When puppies reach about months, their caloric needs begin to decrease. Some males might need 4 cups if active and are fed a less expensive food. Make sure you take into consideration the number of extra calories being fed as treats. You should be able to feel their ribs, but not see them even when the dog is wet. If you can see the ribs, increase their food. Decrease the food if you cannot feel them. I always tell people that it is better to underfeed than to overfeed, especially when feeding puppies. Weight Range Charts Following are charts of how puppies should generally grow in weight. Keep in mind that very few puppies need to be at the top of these ranges and if you cannot feel ribs, your dog is overweight even if she is in this weight range. If your dog is still a puppy and she is over these weight ranges, you are feeding her too much. Female Golden Retriever Weight Chart Here is a chart of how girls should generally grow in weight: 2 Months — pounds.

Bull Terrier Staffordshire Terrier Most of them have ancestry that traces back to the United Kingdom where they were typically used in the herding of livestock and to control vermin populations. Some can weigh as little as 3 pounds 1. Regardless of how small or big they are, Terriers are spirited dogs with bold personalities and fearless natures. They also tend to love barking, digging, and playing. Just like any dog who gets early and proper training, they can be a great addition to any household. Popular Lab Terrier mixes There are about 30 Terrier breeds out there, the possibilities for creating a Lab Terrier mix are also endless! Despite their size — 13 to 18 inches 33 to 46 cm in height and 10 to 25 pounds 4. They love to please their person so they should never be left alone. You can find them in shades of black, red, apricot, blue, and tan, sometimes, with a combination of white. Although small Jack Russells are known for their high-energy levels. These quick and determined dogs will keep you playing all day! These dogs require assured owners who know how to socialize them properly, especially around children and strangers. These intelligent and self-assured dogs are used in search and rescue and are known to also excel at dog sports and agility. They typically stand between 17 and 19 inches 43 and 48 cm tall and have a short, easy-to-maintain coat. During their 12 to year lifespan, there are a few health issues you need to be aware of including skin allergies, heart disease, and hip dysplasia. Lab Bull Terrier mix The Bull Terrier is a medium to large-sized breed standing at 21 to 22 inches 53 to 58 cm in height and weighing between 50 and 70 pounds 22 and 32 kg. They have a short low-maintenance coat that comes in a variety of colors. Typically living between 12 and 13 years, health concerns with this breed include patella luxation, heart murmurs, and congenital deafness. This is a lively breed that is loyal to its humans but is often not great with other dogs. They need lots of stimulation, management, and training in order to avoid unwanted and destructive behaviors. This breed has a lifespan of around 12 to 14 years. These dogs have a short low-maintenance coat and they come in a range that includes around fourteen different colors. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a lively breed that will require a lot of exercises. They do have a stubborn streak so training may need an issue but if socialized early they can be great family companions. A mix of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier and a Labrador Retriever will likely look very similar to a Labrador but slightly shorter and stockier. These relatively healthy dogs have a lifespan of between 12 and 15 years, although they are known to be prone to allergies. They have a wiry short coat that is typical of terriers and come in a dual-color including blue and tan or tan and grizzle. These cheerful dogs have a good work ethic and need lots of exercises. They are okay as a family companion as they tend to get along with children but they are not so great with other pets. Lab Fox Terrier mix There are two types of Fox Terriers with head shape and coat being the main difference between the two breeds. Both types of Fox Terriers are of medium size with an average height of 15 inches 38 cm. Smooth Fox Terriers have, as their name suggests smooth thick fur and a wedge-shaped head. Their smooth, dense coasts shed very little and they will need to be brushed only occasionally. On the other hand, Wire Fox Terriers have a dense coat like coconut matting, which has a wave or crinkle to it. These dogs will need their hair stripped, or plucked, regularly at a parlor. What does a Lab Terrier mix look like? While the look of a Lab Terrier mix can vary greatly, this crossbreed will typically have a short, stocky body with straight strong legs, an elongated muzzle, a medium-length droopy tail. Their head will be in good proportion to their body with a black nose, brown expressive eyes, and a smiley quizzical expression. Their ears will either be short, erect and folded like the Terrier or floppy and pendant shaped like the Labrador Retriever. How big do Lab Terrier mixes get? An average-sized dog, the Lab Terrier mix will typically be smaller than a Lab but bigger than the Terrier parent breed. A mal Lab Terrier mix will be bigger and heavier than its female counterpart. You can expect male Terrier Lab mixes to weigh between 27 and 50 pounds 12 and 22 kg with females coming in at around 20 to 45 pounds 9 and 20 kg. A male dog will stand between 13 to 17 inches 33 and 43cm tall with a female being between 13 and 15 inches 33 and 38cm tall. Coat of the Labrador Terrier The coat of the Lab Terrier mix will normally be of a medium length, straight, and very dense. The coat can come in a variety of colors including solid black, brown, or white, or a combination of these colors. Their playful and happy demeanor will make them a great companion for children. That said, this intelligent breed is easy to train. They can easily read your mood and will listen intently to instructions, although they may not always obey. As a result, they need a firm pack leader who is prepared to train them from a young age and keep training varied to prevent boredom from setting in. However, they do enjoy the attention that comes with training and will respond well to treats and positive reinforcement. If trained and socialized properly the Lab Terrier mix will be a friendly social dog that takes well to children, other pets, and strangers. That said, one thing to be aware of with a Terrier Labrador mix is climate as these dogs will not do well in extreme cold or heat. Exercising a Lab Terrier mix As both parent breeds of the Lab Terrier mix are extremely active, this dog needs to be exercised daily. A half an hour walk every day, as well as a variety of games at home, will keep this breed happy and healthy. Games can include fetch, hide, and seek and tug of war. This breed will also enjoy visits to the park and doggy daycare and may enjoy swimming, thanks to the Labrador Retriever parent. If given the required exercise this breed needs on a daily basis they can adapt well to a range of home environments, even apartment living. Feeding your Terrier Lab mix Although highly active, you still need to be stick with feeding this breed only the required amount based on their height and weight. This breed will love eating and the Lab parent makes them at high risk for obesity. Stick to the best quality dry dog food to avoid your dog putting on extra weight while still providing them the nutrients they need. Will a Lab Terrier mix shed? It is difficult to tell if your Lab Terrier mix will shed as the parent breeds are so vastly different in this regard but typically this crossbreed will be a moderate to excessive shedder. As a result, this breed is not hypoallergenic and is not recommended for an owner with allergies. You will likely need to brush your dog once a week with a firm bristled brush. You can also wipe them down with a damp cloth to make their coat shiny while checking their ears for any debris and dirt build-up. Also, be sure to brush their teeth from a young age. How long does the Lab Terrier mix live? The life expectancy of this hybrid dog breed is between 10 to 15 years. While typically healthy, if not given the required exercise, obesity, and a number of more complex health issues can set in. These include mobility issues such as Intervertebral Disc Disease which affects the spine, Hip Dysplasia which can lead to arthritis, and Patellar Luxation which causes knee joint discomfort. Due to the Labrador Retriever parent, this mixed breed can also be prone to getting ear infections. Finding a Lab Terrier mix breeder Be sure to always look for a reputable breeder that you can trust is not overbreeding the parent dogs. Always ask for the health documents for both parents as well as your puppy so you are aware early on of any possible health issues. This breed makes for a perfect companion dog and is a good choice for first-time dog owners. Just be sure you are willing to provide your dog with plenty of exercises as this breed is not a good choice for someone that wants a purse or lap dog. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. A Lab Terrier mix is a crossbreed dog, mixed between the purebred Labrador Retriever and a purebred terrier. Labs are famous for their loving temperament and intelligent mind, and terriers are adored for their feisty, tenacious personalities. That said, determining what a Lab Terrier mix is in particular could be difficult, because while the Lab is a specific breed, there are a multitude of Terrier dog breeds he could be combined with. The Labrador Retriever Labs are beloved for their family-friendly nature and trainable personality. Bred originally for water retrieving in Newfoundland, Canada, the Labrador Retriever is a well-built dog that comes in three standard colors. These colors include yellow, black and chocolate. The Lab is highly energetic and puppy-like, even into adulthood. His coat is thick, dense, weather-resistant and shedding, and he has sweet brown eyes and floppy ears. Most people love Labs because they are so friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers know no strangers and get along well with people of all ages as well as many different types of pets. They require lots of exercise, socialization, and plenty of space to play and run during the day. Labs make excellent companions for young families and first time dog owners. They grow to be between 25 and 80 pounds, .Terrier Dogs Terriers come in all shapes and sizes, with different coat types, temperaments and personality traits. While there are several different Terrier groups currently listed, each group contains dogs of different sizes, shapes, and breeding history. They are known to be feisty, animated, energetic, and loyal. Terriers come in all sizes, from less than 6 pounds to over 60 pounds. And this brings us to the crossbreed controversy. What You Should Know About The Crossbreed Controversy Crossbreed dogs are very popular, but there are some things you should know before investing in one. But it is important. A crossbreed, also known as a hybrid or designer dog, is a dog that is the direct offspring of two purebred parents. Different generations of cross breeding can help determine predictability with the dog, but for many first and second generation hybrids, predicting things like temperament, health and appearance can be left up to genetics. This is part of the controversy of crossbreeding dogs. Originally, crossbreeding was left up to experienced breeders who were working to create a new breed. It takes generations of crossbreeding and perfecting for a dog to be considered a purebred, and most first, second and third generation crossbreeds were generally not sold. However, over the past couple of decades, hybrid dogs have become very popular. It started with smaller poodle mixes like the maltipoo and yorkie poo, but has now spread to most any type of dog combination you can think of. Today, some of the most popular crossbreed dogs include Labradoodles, Bernadoodles, Cavapoos, Maltipoos, and other doodle dogs. However, the Lab Terrier Mix is not far behind in popularity. Many people are finding they enjoy the combination of sweet and spirited, outgoing and feisty, and these are all traits many Lab Terrier mix dogs embody. So, what are some of our favorite Lab Terrier Mix dogs available? Both the Scottie and the Lab are popular dogs, and for good reason. The Scottish Terrier is a symbol for Scottish class, and is beloved by enthusiasts for his independent nature. Combining a Scottie and a Lab is likely to leave us with a pleasant, loving, and loyal dog who is both adorable and spunky to boot. Though they are intelligent, training a Scottish Terrier Lab Mix could be tricky. These mixed breeds could be stubborn and get bored easily. They will require an owner with lots of patience and an owner who knows how to keep training sessions short and fun. A popular family dog, this mix has the potential to be hypoallergenic and is incredibly tolerant of children. He loves being with his family but is also fine left to his own accord, making him the ideal family dog for those with busy or unpredictable schedules. Beautiful both in appearance and temperament, the Irish Terrier Lab Mix makes a playful, fun-loving companion for young families and those with children. This is also a dog who becomes very bonded with his people and will enjoy learning new tricks and ques. While independent, the Irish Terrier Lab Mix requires plenty of early socialization and lots of training, especially considering his potential to have hunting instincts. This mix could also potentially be territorial round other dogs of the opposite sex, so monitering him will be nessiary. The Wheatador is a family-favorite, combining the beloved soft-coated wheaten with the intelligent and loving Lab. This is a Lab Terrier Mix who is full of personality and pep, and will do well in homes with owners who have flexible schedules. Sensitive and friendly, the Wheatador will try his best to please you, so use positive reinforcement methods during training and refrain from punishments and scolding. Wheatador dogs will need consistent exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day to stay happy and healthy. A Cross Between: The Boston Terrier and the Labrador Retriever Average Weight: 20 — 50 Pounds Average Temperamental Traits: Athletic, outgoing, fun-loving, affectionate, and loyal Average Lifespan: 11 — 15 Years Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, obesity, intervertebral disc disease, patellar luxation, brachycephalic airway syndrome, and ear infections. When it comes to Lab Terrier Mix dogs that are ideal for families, the Boston Lab is high on our list. This crossbreed is athletic, playful, loyal and eager to please. He is quick to learn, though he can have a stubborn streak. Described as a self-thinking hybrid with a fun-loving and family-oriented personality, the Border Lab is ideal for those with a more open schedule. He will thrive in families who can take time to train and care for him, and owners who are patient with his sometimes ornery behavior. However, this is a trainable dog all-in-all that is well-mannered when properly socialized. Like most dogs, the Border Lab does best with positive reinforcement training including treats and praise. While the Fox Terrier Lab is an outgoing, independent, and loving family companion, he might be problematic for some first time dog owners. Combining the high energy of the Fox Terrier and the enthusiasm of the Lab may be a bit much, so the Fox Terrier Lab Mix will do best in homes with experienced dog owners who understand how to harness all that energy. That said, when properly trained and socialized, this Lab Terrier Mix does well with families of all ages. The Rat Terrier specifically is known to be feisty and mischievous, and these traits may make training somewhat challenging for the owner of a Rat Terrier Lab Mix. However, when trained and socialized at an early age , and when using positive reinforcement like treats and praise, most owners fall head over heels for this clever and unique hybrid. The Labrastaff is one of the more popular Lab Terrier Mix dogs on this list, and many people adore him for his loving nature and infectious personality. A combination between a Labrador Retriever and an American Staffordshire Terrier, the Labrastaff will need plenty of exercise, training and socialization throughout his lifetime to grow up happy, healthy and well rounded. Despite his potentially intimidating look, the Labrabull is a Lab Terrier Mix who is surprisingly gentle. In fact, he is easily frightened and will need lots of love and patience from his family to help him feel safe and at ease. We suggest finding a breeder that specializes in the unique mix you are looking for, and who understands the background of each purebred parent breed. Most reputable breeders will also be able to offer you a health certificate with your puppy that proves he has been health screened and cleared of any serious health issues. Remember, while some experts say that cross breeds are healthier than purebreds, your Lab Terrier Mix could still be susceptible to any of the same health issues as his purebred parent breeds. You may unwittingly be contributing to a puppy mill, and you also have a more likely chance of winding up with a sick puppy. Going through a rescue or shelter to adopt your Lab Terrier Mix is usually a fraction of the price of going through a breeder. Better still, rescuing a dog helps reduce the number of dogs in shelters, opening up space for other incoming dogs in need of a home. Many shelters will also have their dogs health screened, and some even offer free initial vet visits. Furthermore, most shelters and rescues have their dogs undergo behavioral testing to ensure they are adoptable and end up with the right family. When looking for the best dog for your home and lifestyle, consider your lifestyle and what you want to get out of your companionship. Do you have children or other pets? Do you live a busy lifestyle? Do you enjoy outdoor adventures or do you prefer staying in? Do you have a backyard? Do you live in an apartment? Make sure the type of Lab Terrier Mix you choose fits into your unique lifestyle, and will get along well with other members of your household. Last but not least, regardless of which type of Lab Terrier Mix you choose, make sure you have plenty of time, patience and love to provide him with. Which of the above Lab Terrier Mix dogs are your favorite? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below. Thanks for reading. Jen Jones Jen Jones is a professional dog trainer and behavior specialist with more than 25 years of experience. Well known for her intuitive and compassionate approach, Jen adopts scientifically-proven, reward-based methods, encouraging positive reinforcement over punishment. Jen specializes in obedience training, behavior modification, and puppy socialization. Her innovative methods, particularly in addressing anxiety and aggression issues, have been widely recognized. The coats of Labradors are very beautiful and are in yellow, black, or chocolate color. Their fur is thick and short and is an all-weather coat. Terrier Dog Overview There are many breeds in the Terrier family. Most of the Terrier breeds originated from Ireland and Great Britain. A recent study has shown that those from the hunting group originated in 19th century Europe. Today the terriers are grouped according to their function like hunting, size, etc. The DNA of the Terriers is filled with hunting and killing skills. They can never be tempted by any real or perceived threat. Their boldness and fearlessness would always get the better of them. Terrier dogs are very quick learners. They get along well with children if they are given proper and supportive training. These dogs are very loyal and it is great fun to exercise or have fun with them. The combination of two popular breeds has given way to one of the finest designer dogs. This crossbreed is relatively a new breed, as a result, there is nothing accurate to tell about this breed. Although the Labrador Terriers are designer dogs, it is unfortunate that they finally end up in shelter homes. As not much information is available about this breed it is better to consult any shelter home or breeder if anyone is considering adopting this crossbreed. As is in the case of most of the mixed breeds it is very difficult to exactly specify their size. Male dogs weigh between 27 to 50 pounds while females would weigh between 20 to 45 pounds. Their height from the front paw to their shoulder while standing on all fours could be between thirteen to seventeen inches. The females might be visibly smaller than the males standing between thirteen to fifteen inches. The coat of the Labrador Terrier will be dense, and straight. Their hair is of medium length. Both the parents have opposite coat shedding characteristics. So, it is difficult to predict which shedding trait the Labrador Terrier dog will inherit. The colors of the coat will be generally black, brown, white, or a combination of these colors. Their furs are bi-colored or solid. Labrador Terrier dogs have a short and sturdy body but in proportion with their body. They have very expressive brown eyes. Their ever-smiling face is a quite well-known character. When they raise their eyebrows they can convey a quizzical look. The nose of the Labrador Terrier dog is normally black. The ears can be floppy like that of the Labrador or small and erect with a floppy tip like that of the Terrier. Their legs are straight and strong with rounded paws. The tails of this crossbreed are medium-sized and are held low away from the body. Food Habits of Labrador Terrier Dogs The food consumption of this mixed breed depends on a lot of factors like age, health, etc. Other than food always ensure that their bowl of water is kept full so that they are always hydrated. It is necessary to monitor their diet regularly as this breed is prone to getting obese just like the parent. Ensure that they consume only the right amount of food that is required for their active lifestyle. We love our pets to be healthy and happy always. That is why we should avoid giving them unwanted dry food. If your pet is a puppy give him the best puppy food available. But if he is a grandpa then go for the best senior dry food which could keep their bones brittle. Whatever you experiment with his food always consult your vet before you change his diet. Exercise Requirements for Labrador Terrier Mix Just like their parents, the Labrador Terrier Mix is also the happiest if he is given exercises regularly. A daily walk combined with some games at home will keep him active and joyful. Being an eagerness bound dog he will even wait for you at the door when it is time to go for his daily walks. If you are staying in an apartment make him get accustomed to the space available and train him according to that. This breed favors a moderate climate and would find it difficult to thrive in extreme climates. Labrador Terrier Mix breed has inherited the trait of swimming from its Labrador parent. He loves to have a splash in the water especially in summers. His favorite games are fetching a ball, tug-of-war, playing hide and seek, etc. This breed is a family dog, so he will just love outings with the family. So it would not be difficult to train him. They have a nature-filled with eagerness to learn which will make them active during training. Like all dogs, they should also be trained at an early age because they will otherwise tend to become stubborn as they grow older. If left alone they tend to become bored and destructive. Although they will listen attentively to all your commands sometimes they will be a time when they will just not obey. He loves to please people so he will respond well to your training as long as he gets all the attention. Training for this breed should always be only with positive reinforcements. Do not pamper him with overdoses of rewards or treats as this may lead to obesity. Since this is an intelligent breed that loves physical challenges, regular exercises will only ease the training. Socialization should be taught at an early age. Take him to parks, beaches, or doggy care and teach him how to mingle with other people or dogs. A quick brush, with a firm, bristled brush, once a week is all that is needed. If you need their coat to be a little shinier then a rub down with a soft damp cloth is all that is needed. This breed loves attention so grooming every week should be done just as a ritual for them. Ritual grooming could be as simple as checking their nails, checking their ears, or just simply grooming down their coat. Wiping their ears gently with a soft damp cloth will remove any dirt or debris. It is better to get them used to brush their teeth from an early age. Let them be trained so and always reward them for doing this good behavior. This practice will only ensure that they do not develop any bad habits later when they mature. How does the Labrador Terrier get along with the family? Every pet gets along with the family on how we train him. He should be taught early on how to accept the general rules of the house. Being highly active, they have a huge need for exercise. He is always eager to please his owner and family and hence would always try to grab your attention. They have a clingy nature to their family and hence he would get bored when left alone. Never buy this crossbreed just for lap-sitting. He is a high wired dog and cannot just be kept idle for long. Also, he stands a heavy risk of getting obese quickly so keeping him active is the best option. Energetic and tolerant they make the ideal playmate for children. Saying that it does not mean that you can leave your children without any supervision with your dog. If no adults are free to be around when your child is playing with your pet then it is better to keep him kenneled. For them, it is fun to pull at his ears or tail but for the dog, it will not be easy. Labrador Terriers should be taught early on how to mingle with other dogs or pets. If he has been trained on how to interact with other animals then he will behave friendly with them. Health problems faced by Labrador Terrier Mix All dogs have the potential to inherit genetic health issues but some have the risk of facing these problems more. For crossbreeds, it is very important to always check the health of the parents. A reputable breeder will always maintain a proper health record of all his breeds. So if you have adopted your pet from the start then you should not be facing any problems. Also, you should take your dog to the vet immediately after you have adopted him to know what exactly his health status is like. A Labrador Terrier mix dog has a life span of up to ten to fifteen years. They should undergo regular checkups to monitor their health condition. Some of the health problems they could face are : Hip Dysplasia — This is an inherited disease where the bones do not fit into the joints or form at different proportions. This may lead to arthritis. It is always better to stop your pet from getting any disease. So always take him for regular checkups and try to maintain a health record. Take the help of your vet and ask them for suggestions to avoid your pet from facing any health issues. If proper training is given from an early age everything would work fine. But just like all dog breeds they also have their pros and cons. Here are some of them Pros of getting a Labrador Terrier Mix Intelligent and easy to train — Just like their parents they are always eager to learn and so it is easy to train them. This combined with their intelligence makes him an excellent pet. Social skills — They are extremely friendly and can get along well with children, people, or other pets. Early socialization would make them the favorite among all. Moderate maintenance requirement — Even though they have high exercise requirements their maintenance is moderate or sometimes even low. This is because they shed very less. Regularly scheduled brushing will prevent their coat from getting untangled. Cons of getting a Labrador Terrier Mix High exercise requirements — As both, the parents are highly active this crossbreed requires a lot of exercises. If they do not get the required exercise then they have the chance to develop any dog diseases. Separation anxiety — This dog loves to be in the company of its family and is a very affectionate dog. If they are left alone they become bored and tend to develop destructive behaviors. Risk of obesity — Even though this breed is highly active yet at the same time they just love their food. Because of this, they tend to become obese quickly. So regular and proper exercise is required to prevent them from obesity as otherwise, this will lead to other health problems. Some of the most fascinating ones are : Rat Terrier Lab Mix — He is a handsome fellow, small to medium in size. His lean body is covered with a short dual-colored coat. The coat color black, tan, apricot or red or sometimes in a combination with white. This breed comes in a miniature size and their height could be between ten to eighteen inches. Their typical weight could be ten to twenty-five pounds. The life expectancy of this dog varies between ten to twelve years on average. This mix makes a good companion and is always an adventure game. His energy level is very high and always loves to be in motion. You just cannot see him as a couch potato or lazing around. Early socialization and training would make him a good companion for children. But he should not be left along with other dogs. Bull Terrier Lab Mix — This crossbreed is a lively dog that must be kept busy always to prevent him from getting bored. If not he will develop destructive traits. They grow to about twenty-one to twenty-two inches tall and weigh about fifty to seventy pounds. This breed has a short coat and has a plethora of colors. They are considered to be low maintenance dogs. The Bull Terrier Lab mix is loyal dogs. But do not give them any canine siblings as they show their bratty behavior then. Therefore he should be trained early and well. With positive behavioral training, he could be taught well-polished manners. The American Labrastaffies are similar to the Pitbull Terrier. He will stand at seventeen to nineteen inches tall and live twelve to fifteen years. Their coat is short and soft and easy to maintain. Labrastaff is a sturdy medium-sized dog who is intelligent and self-assured. His agility and adaptability to any situation make him a good search dog. This breed has a sparkling personality but those cross-bred with the Pitbull will have temperament issues. He can be kept happy and friendly with just moderate exercises. His potential guarding instincts are very high so early socialization, especially with children, is required. He grows to fourteen to sixteen inches tall and weighs about 24 to 38 pounds. His life expectancy is twelve to fourteen years. They have a short coat which comes in a rainbow of fourteen colors. He has a considerable high energy level and hence would require a lot of exercises to burn up his energy. Positive training is the only way for him as he is stubborn by nature. Harsh methods and a very strict regime will not work with him. The Smooth Fox crossbreed will be medium-sized. They stand at 15 inches tall with a wedge-shaped head. The life expectancy of this breed is twelve to fifteen years. Their fur is smooth and thick with mainly white, black, or tan markings on the coat. This breed is a relatively healthy dog. The Wire Fox crossbreed has a wiry coat with white and brown colors about the ear and face. They stand at fifteen inches tall and weigh about 16 to 18 pounds with a life span of 12 to 15 years. This dog is attention seekers and will do anything to catch your attention. He is always alert and ever ready to jump. They have the crazy habit of running behind any moving objects be it even a toy. Border Terrier Lab Mix — This crossbreed is a cheerful agile guy standing at 15 inches tall. He weighs 11 to 16 pounds. They live on average for 12 to 15 years. They have a typical short terrier coat. The coat is wiry and not smooth. It comes in dual colors blue-tan and grizzle-tan. He will do just fine with children but you should be careful if he is left with other dogs. Conclusion A Labrador pet is an evergreen choice for every dog lover. But the cost of owning a pedigree can sometimes be out of reach for a few of them. On the other hand, a Labrador mix can be something closer to owning the original pedigree but at a lesser cost! The crossbreed will be as much fun as the Labrador itself. We also have a choice to make by getting a mix that would not grow as big as a Labrador but at the same time suitable for our house. The general rule is that crossbreeds will live healthier and longer than pure breeds. If we choose the right Labrador mix then we could get a breed that inherits the best traits of the Lab. Additionally, we could also get a dog with the additional inheritances received from the other parent as well. While trying to find a new pet the first step you should do is to find reputable breeders. They generally have the best breeds with them and would never take a risk on their welfare. Hence you can trust that they would never overbreed the parent breeds. Also, check that they have the proper documents including vaccine schedules and health records. Meet the breeder personally so that you can ask them all about the needs of your puppy. They could also guide you on how to raise your puppy. Going to a breeder and meeting the puppy will also help you decide if you ready to raise a pet. Otherwise, the next thing to do is to check out with the local shelters and rescue homes where sometimes you could be lucky to find that perfect pet. The only point to remember while adopting a pet from the shelter or rescue home is that please ensure that their health record is perfect and they have been temperament tested too. If possible it would be worth it if the shelter home would allow you to take the dog on a trial basis for a week or so. This would give you time to decide if he would fit into your home and vice versa too. Last but not least is that before you go to a breeder or shelter home it is advisable to research and find out about the breed you are planning to adopt. This will help you in clearing whatever questions you have in your mind about raising a pet. But whatever said and done the Labrador Terrier Mixed dog is always fun to be with. So enjoy!! Inspire Dogs Home Click to rate this post! Their damp cloth Terrier Lab Hybrid Health Problems Although the hybrid is typically healthy, there are still instances wherein the breed member has inherited health issues from one or both of the parents. This is why the health history of the parent breeds are so important. While all dogs have the potential to inherit and develop genetic diseases, some breeds are more susceptible than others. You could avoid having to worry about these if you chose to adopt a puppy from the start. A reputable breeder must be honest about the health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances are made so that a dog is proven to be tested from and cleared for a particular condition. On the other hand, here are the health conditions that some Terrier mixed with Lab dogs has experienced: Intervertebral Disc Disease — is a disease that also affects the spinal cord over time. It is not apparent until a trigger presents itself. Symptoms can range from mild pain to paralysis. Hip Dysplasia — it is a heritable disease in which bones either do not fit the joint or grow at different proportions. It may lead to arthritis and usually goes unnoticed most of the time. Ear Infections — it is the inflammation either in the inner ear or the middle ear of the dog, both of which are caused by bacterial infection. The best course of action to prevent these diseases is to have them regularly checked and have a document of their health history. You can also ask your trusted veterinarian more about these diseases and what are the small ways you can do to reduce their risks. Aside from their food, make sure that your dog is always hydrated by keeping their water bowl full all the time. It is essential to monitor their eating patterns since this hybrid is prone to obesity. Make sure that they only consume the right amount of food that is right for their active lifestyle. Some of the ways in choosing the right dog food are to look at their ingredients. To help you get started, here are some of the best dry dog foods of for highly active puppies: Merrick Grain Free Puppy Recipe Dry Dog Food — This brand is packed full of chicken protein and industry-leading levels of Chondroitin and Glucosamine. This brand has such a good taste that even the many picky puppies appear to like it. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Puppy Food — This brand offers a nutritionally balanced kibble that is available in two flavors. High Prairie contains bison and venison while Pacific Stream includes a variety of fish species. The puppies who have digested it have appeared to be healthier, exhibiting high energy levels and a shinier coat. Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend Puppy Food — This brand is considered a premium puppy food but is available at a very reasonable price point. Most puppies digest the dog food with no problem. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Puppy Food — This brand is made from an impressive collection of ingredients which includes farm-raised chickens and several fruits and vegetables. The recipe is designed for small and medium puppies, but the manufacturer also produces a large-breed formula under a different name. Aside from its taste and exceptional ingredients, dog food also promotes a healthy coat. It also provides dogs with higher energy levels. Because of this, it is full of great-tasting proteins, nutritious fruits, and vegetables. This brand will keep your puppy healthy and happy. Most puppies also appear to love the taste of this dog food. Whether you have a giant or a miniature breed pooch, you want to make sure that they stay happy and healthy. That is why you should avoid giving them the worst dry dog food. If your furry friend is still a cub, check out the best puppy food brands on offer right now. If your goggie is a wise, elderly dog-grandpa, give them only the best senior dry dog food , and keep their brittle bones safe! Every mixed doggo carries the genes of their beautiful, one-of-a-kind parents. So, you might want to try your luck with the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food and see which one they like better! Lab Mixed With Terrier Exercise Requirements This breed will be at its best behavior if they can exercise regularly every day. A daily walk for at least an hour mixed with some games at home will keep the Lab Terrier Mix fit and healthy. They can get accustomed to apartment life if they are exercised well daily and if they could explore their place a little. They are not in favor of areas with extreme climates and would do well in moderate climates. Because of its Labrador Retriever parent, the Terrier Lab mix will enjoy splashing around in water especially in the summer. By then, you can take them out to swimming with you. Some of the games that will keep them amused for a long time include fetching the ball, tug of war, and hide and seek the type of games. The Lab mixed with Terrier is a family dog that loves to please, so make sure to include him during family outings. They are also advised to have at least minutes of physical activities as a daily requirement. Lab Terrier Mix Training Since the Lab Terrier mix is a hybrid which produces naturally intelligent and playful dogs, you will not have a hard time training them. Their own eagerness to learn is also a factor which makes them very active during training. Like most dogs, they must also undergo training at a young age because they tend to become more stubborn as they grow older. If left alone and bored, they can become destructive. While positive reinforcements are highly encouraged, make sure that you only give them the right amount of treats because they have a high risk of obesity. Since this breed is an intelligent dog who loves physical challenges, more exercise can help in their ease of training. Socialization with others is also an important component to make sure to take them out to park or visit doggy daycare to get them around as many people and dogs as possible. To help you get started with their training, here are some of the essential commands that every dog must obey at a young age: Sit — the typical obedience command that you can teach your dog. Use this command in different situations so that your puppy will learn it fast. Come — this command will help you keep the dog out of trouble. It can also be used if you lost your dog at a safe distance of if you lost the grip on the leash. Down — this command can be a difficult one since it shows submissiveness of the dog. While teaching this to your dog, make sure to keep a positive and relaxed tone. Stay — this command is a form of self-control for your dog. Leave It — this is another self-control and obedience command. Upon its mastery, it can help you keep your dog safe from potential harm brought about by its curiosity to explore possible dangerous things. Terrier Labrador Mix and Families While the Terrier Lab mix will have no trouble getting along with your kids and anyone else in your family, there are also some things to consider. Keep in mind that these dogs are moderate to excessive shedders. They also have a high physical exercise requirement, since they are very active dogs. They also have a reputation for chewing on the very things that you told them not to chew. However, these dogs are one of the most loyal and friendly companions. They are a livewire of energy and are highly sociable, enjoying the company of dogs and other pets. Since they like to be active, you should not buy them if you only intend to treat them as a purse dog or lap sitters. Tweet on Twitter There are many different Lab Terrier mix breeds. In this article we will look at some of the features that Lab Terrier hybrids have in common. And show you how to raise your mix breed puppy to be a happy, healthy member of the family. What is a Lab Terrier Mix The friendly Labrador Retriever is a sweet-natured, intelligent, sociable dog who is a definite people-pleaser. Equally lovable but in stark contrast in terms of temperament and appearance, are the diverse array of dogs in the Terrier group. This is a varied group, but they do have some general traits in common. They also make loyal, loving, pocket sized pets. So what happens when these two different breed types combine? Are you thinking of bringing a Lab Terrier mix dog into your home as a pet? Terrier Lab hybrid possibilities! The tricky part is predicting how these characteristics will emerge. In fact, no responsible breeder will guarantee the personality of any mixed breed dog. The best anyone can do is consider each breed in turn, and realize that a cross breed canine will be a singular combination of several possibilities. The best of both breeds, the worst of both breeds, or a glorious mashup of the two! Overview of the Labrador Retriever breed Labs are a medium size dog with an impressive energy level. The friendly, smart-as-a-whip Labrador Retriever breed originated from hunting stock in Newfoundland, Canada. There they enjoyed success helping fishermen with their arduous, labor-intensive work. Today a high canine IQ combined with a natural people-pleasing personality makes Labs go-to dogs for search-and-rescue and law enforcement work. As well as being a popular choice for service dog duty. Labs love everybody, or so it seems, and they make good pets for children and families. Labradors have beautiful coats are come in three distinct colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. Given all of their positive qualities, it no surprise that Labs are an enduringly popular pet breed. Overview of the Terrier breed There are several breeds with the Terrier group. And a recent study found that dogs from within the hunting group originated in 19th century Europe. Modern terriers are commonly grouped according to their function such as hunting or size. Dogs from individual groups vary greatly in size, from around 2 to 3 pounds all the way up to 50 pounds and more. What many Terriers have in common is a history steeped in animal control killing vermin such as rats, etc. They have a bold streak in their personality and a dash of fearlessness that can sometimes get the better of them. However, on the whole Terriers are quick learners capable of getting along well with children when given the proper positive and supportive training. They are also very loyal pets, and great fun to exercise, train and relax with. Rat Terrier Lab mix The handsome, small to medium size Rat Terrier is a companion animal that is always game for his next adventure. He has tons of energy and loves being in motion. Being a couch potato or purse dog is just not in his DNA! But the Rat Terrier loves to please his humans so he should take well to consistent and supportive training methods. Early socialization and training should render him a good companion for children. Although he should not be left alone with other dogs. Colors that include black, red, tan, apricot and blue sometimes in combination with white. Rat Terriers are a relatively healthy group, but issues such as heart and eye disease, patellar luxation, and hip dysplasia have been known to crop up. The latter two conditions are common among Labs, so it is important to have your pup tested for these issues. This compact Rat Terrier comes in a miniature size ranging from 10 to 13 inches as well as a standard size of 13 to 18 inches. Their typical weight range is from between 10 to 25 pounds, and life span varies between 12 to 18 years on average. When you mix a Lab with a Rat Terrier the resulting pup could grow anywhere between these two sizes, and reflect any traits of either personality. Bull Terrier Lab mix The Bull Terrier is a lively dog that must have an outlet in order to stave off boredom and any subsequent destructive behavior. Bull Terriers are loyal dogs but giving him other dogs as canine siblings is not recommended. And with positive and supportive behavior management training he can learn to polish up his manners. This Terrier sports a short coat that comes in a plethora of colors and is considered to be low maintenance. Bull Terriers have issues with heart murmurs, congenital deafness, and patella luxation. The average Bull Terrier hovers right around 21 to 22 inches tall, and weighs from 50 to 70 pounds. Bull Terriers have an average lifespan of 12 to 13 years. A Bull Terrier Lab mix could display any of these traits, or any of those of a Lab. They will range somewhere in size between the two as adults. What you can be sure of is that this mix will need human company for most of the day, and thorough socialization from puppyhood. American Staffies are a very similar dog to the Pitbull Terrier. The American Staffordshire is a sturdy, medium size pooch described as an intelligent and self-assured dog. His agility and adaptability make him a natural for search and rescue duty. The American Staffordshire has a sparkling personality that hardly ever dims, and she can be counted on to be a loyal friend. However there are concerns with these Pitbull related dogs about temperament. The American Staffordshire Terrier is both muscular and agile and has an attractive form that is stocky in the front, tapering to an impressively lean backside. American Staffordshire Terriers have a few medical conditions to be aware of. Hip dysplasia and heart disease are on the serious end of the spectrum. In addition immune system weaknesses can lead to allergies of the coat and skin. Luckily there are screening tests that can identify affected dogs as well as those carrying the gene responsible for the condition. American Staffordshire dogs have a soft, short, easy-to-maintain coat that sheds minimally. American Staffordshire Terriers stand between 17 to 19 inches tall, and live 12 to 15 years on average. Due to potential guarding instincts, you would need to socialize your puppy very carefully, especially to children and strangers coming into the home. It would also be important to meet the American Staffordshire Terrier parent, to get an idea of what temperament they may inherit. They are not the same breed as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Solid, heavy and strong. And at 14 to 16 inches tall, he is a bit smaller than his American Staffordshire brethren. This lively dog needs lots of exercise to burn up his considerable energy. Traditional training may be an issue for the Staffordshire given his stubborn nature, so positive reinforcement training is advised. On the other hand, this smart dog can be gentle with children provided that supportive, early socialization and training is provided. Staffordshires have a short, low-maintenance coat that comes in a rainbow of 14 colors. The Staffordshire Terrier stands approximately 14 to 16 inches tall and lives on average for 12 to 14 years. Males weigh between 28 and 38 pounds, with females a tad under that at 24 to 34 pounds. A Lab mixed with a Staffie could display any of these tendencies. And will probably look like a shorter, stockier Lab with any number of potential color combinations. Their fur and coloration, as well as head shape are two of the main differences between them. Smooth Fox Terriers are a medium size breed with an average level of energy. They average 15 inches tall and have a wedge shaped head. Their smooth, thick fur sheds seasonally. It is mainly white, with tan or black markings randomly decorating the coat. Although they have a short torso, these amazing animals have the grace of a gazelle. Owners can expect their Smooth Fox Terriers to live an average of 12 to 15 years. The majority of these dogs are relatively healthy animals, although allergies and patellar luxation are typical issues. The Wire Fox Terrier is named for his dense, springy low-shed coat. His wiry coat is predominantly white with brownish coloration about the ears and face. Health issues to be aware of include patellar luxation and deafness. This dog really, really, wants to be your BFF: he can never seem to get enough attention! The Wire Fox Terrier is always alert and spunky, ever ready to jump into playful action. This means that daily exercise and activity is a must. Like cars, other animals, etc. Like the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Wiry Fox Terrier is a medium size, medium energy dog who can be expected to live an average of 12 to 15 years. Males weigh an average of 18 pounds, while females average 16 pounds. Wiry Fox Terriers stand approximately 15 inches tall. You should prepare for your Lab Fox Terrier mix to potentially inherit his strong prey drive, and start recall training early. Border Terrier Lab mix The Border Terrier is a cheerful, agile little guy who stands anywhere between 11 to 16 inches tall. They have a typically short terrier-type coat, although it comes with wiry, not smooth fur. Dual color schemes on the coat include blue and tan and grizzle and tan. The Border Terrier will do fine with children but can be tricky with other dogs. They are a relatively healthy group, although allergies can crop up. Border Terriers stand around a foot to 15 inches tall and live for 12 to 15 years on average. Males typically weigh 13 to 16 pounds, while females range from 11 to 14 pounds. Your Lab Border Terrier mix could inherit aspects from either parent, but is likely to be somewhere in between in terms of height. Lab Terrier cross temperament Knowing the kind of temperament a potential companion animal will bring to your home is crucial to forming a lasting bond. Too often dogs are surrendered because of incompatibility issues. A situation that could have been avoided with just a little research and a few well-placed questions. Your Lab and Terrier mix will inherit her disposition from her parents. Will she be more like an affable Lab, eager to please and friendly almost to a fault? Or will she take on the spicier nature of the Terrier types? Then again, your pup may inherit the best or worst qualities of each breed, or she may be endowed with a mosaic of contrasting personality points. Whatever camp you fall into, remember that there is no guarantee what sort of temperament your mixed breed dog will be blessed with. You must be happy with either temperament and the training requirements they could have, before you decide to commit to a Lab Terrier mix. Lab Terrier mix — how big do they grow? Your cross breed will be within the ranges of his parents, depending on which Terrier and Lab are bred together. So, how big do Labradors get? Male Labs range from 22 to 25 inches tall, while females tend to average 21 to 24 inches in height. Likewise, males usually weigh more than females. A typical male Lab will range from 65 to 80 pounds and females typically weigh in between 55 to 70 pounds. Terrier Lab mix general health Allergies are common among the different types of Terriers. Allergic response occurs when the immune system reacts to common substances allergens as dangerous, resulting in an extreme physical response. Dogs with allergic skin reaction are at risk for skin infection, hair loss, and scabbing. Dysplasia occurs when a joint and its socket fail to align properly resulting in a painful grinding and rubbing motion versus a smooth movement. Unfortunately the outcomes of these disorders can include severe pain, distress, and loss of function for your pooch, as well as costly surgery. Eye disease is also a concern with Labs. Cataracts pose another concern for Labs. Cataracts affect the eye lens by obstructing incoming light resulting in compromised vision. The Labrador parent must be hip and elbow scored, PRA clear and have a clear eye test of less than a year old. The Terrier parent must be tested for any health conditions relevant to their breed too. Lab Terrier hybrid lifespan Labrador Retrievers have a life expectancy of approximately .In general you can expect a healthy, well cared for mix breed pup to survive for around 10 years up to 12, and maybe a bit beyond. Smaller dogs and mixed breed dogs tend to live a little longer on average, so this gives your pup a good chance of a slightly increased time with you. Your mixed breed dog is at potential risk for any of the health issues that face her parents. Health testing should be done for the issues that impact both parent breeds. In particular look for Labrador hip and elbow scores and eye tests. Terrier Lab cross puppy Working with a responsible breeder is one of the most important things that you can do to minimize unhappy surprises. Conscientious breeders will help you to learn what you need know about health issues. As well as ancillary concerns such as temperament, grooming, etc. For example, hip dysplasia is just one of the serious health issues which impact Labs and some Terriers. And this is where a responsible, knowledgeable breeder comes in. Remember, your mixed breed dog can inherit any aspect of either parent. So it makes sense to understand all health implications before making a lifelong commitment to a mix breed dog. Keep in mind that all puppies are individuals in their own right, and even littermates can exhibit vastly different traits. Is a Labrador terrier mix right for my family? However, they will provide loyal and friendly companionship year after year. Many Terriers can be a handful of live-wire energy, and in general they should be watched when in the company of other dogs. They like to be active and should not be considered a purse-dog or bought with the intention of having it be a lap-sitter. Should I buy a Terrier Lab hybrid? Your Black Lab Terrier mix, Yellow Lab Terrier mix, and Chocolate Lab Terrier mix has the potential to inherit these and other typical breed qualities from each parent. Are you prepared to handle and live with the characteristics that both Labs and Terriers bring to the table? If the answer is yes, the next step is to find a responsible breeder in your area, and begin the happy process of adopting a new four-legged forever friend! Do you have a Lab and Terrier cross breed? How do I choose the right Lab Terrier mix for me? What is a Lab Terrier Mix? A Lab Terrier cross is a mixed breed dog with one Labrador Retriever parent, and one terrier parent. The main point to note here is that the Labrador Retriever is a specific dog breed. In fact, the AKC recognises 31 different terrier breeds! All terriers share some common traits in appearance, temperament, and care needs. But, there are some key differences between them too. Mixed breed dogs can inherit any traits from either parent. So, Lab Terrier mixes have a lot of scope for variety, even puppies from the same litter. None are yet recognized as official breeds in their own right. But, they are growing in popularity, and are becoming a more common sight across the world. An Amstaff Lab mix can come in a huge variety of colors thanks to the influence of the Staffie parent. They will often be very well muscled, and will need lots of daily exercise, as well as socialization from a young age. This little mix will usually be eager to please, active, and will fit right into a family home. This mix will be lively, clever, and alert. If socialized well, they will suit most households, but might be prone to chasing small pets and young children! The Rat Terrier parent breed comes in two sizes standard and miniature , so the size of this mix will depend which size is bred. These little dogs may also have quite strong chase and hunt instincts. Mixes may inherit the egg-shaped head of the Bull Terrier parent. Their colors can vary quite a bit, but their coat will almost always be short and dense. Expect moderate to heavy shedding with this mix. This mix will usually be a medium sized dog. They will form very strong bonds with their close family, and will love homes that can dedicate lots of time and attention to their care. Most of the time, this combo will produce a black Lab Terrier mix. But, occasionally, some other shades can show up. These dogs are friendly, loyal, and energetic, despite their smaller size. So, if you want a large Terrier Lab mix, this is the one to go for. Airedale Terrier Lab mixes will likely need more exercise than smaller mixes, but will be just as alert and intelligent. Make sure to watch out for health issues that can impact larger dogs, like hip dysplasia and bloat. This little combo will be loyal and playful, affectionate especially with close family members. The mix may inherit the more wiry coat texture of the Border Terrier parent. Either way, this mix is likely to be smaller than a standard Labrador. It will be friendly, lively, and courageous. Because there are so many different terrier breeds that can be used in a Lab and Terrier cross, the appearance of one can be very different to the looks of the next. Even their sizes can vary! Some may be smaller, like those with the Border Terrier parent, but others may be much larger, like the Airedale Terrier Lab hybrid! Terrier breeds come in a huge variety of different colors. Generally, a lot of people favour the Labrador colors when choosing their mix. The Lab comes in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. So, if your heart is set on one of these shades, try to mix your Labrador with a Terrier that has the same color coat. The Labrador Retriever breed generally grows from .But, with terriers there is a lot more variation. The smallest terrier breeds might only grow to around 15 inches tall. But, the largest the Airedale Terrier grows up to 23 inches, weighing 50 to 70 pounds! Mixed breed puppies can take after either parent, but they will usually fall somewhere in between the sizes of their two parents. So, if you cross a Lab with a smaller terrier breed, there is more room for variation in size. Mixing a Lab with a similar sized dog is more likely to give you a predictable adult size. Do Lab Terrier Mixes Shed? Labradors are a high shedding breed. They will shed moderately all year round, and heavily during shedding season. Shedding in terrier breeds varies with their coat type, as does their grooming needs. And, as we know, mixed breed dogs can take after either parent, or be a perfect mix of the two. So, you should look into the specific terrier parent being used to find out the likelihood of your mix shedding. But, if they take after the Lab parent, they will shed a lot. Labrador Retrievers and all terrier breeds are known to form strong bonds with their families, including young kids that they grow up with. As long as your mix has been socialized well, they will likely love kids. And, thanks to the common playful natures, kids will usually love them too! Socialization is important to ensure your mix inherits the friendliest temperament possible, and shows no aggression around kids. But make sure young kids in your family are taught how to interact with your mix, especially if they are a smaller hybrid that could be easily hurt during rough play. On top of this, be aware that many terriers have strong chase and hunt instincts. If your mix inherits these, they may be prone to chasing and nipping children. Labs are known to be one of the friendliest breeds out there. If you raise a Lab Terrier mix with cats, they will likely get along well. However, terrier breeds, as we know, can have very strong chase and hunting instincts. So, they may chase your cat quite a lot. In worst case scenarios, chasing can end in aggression. So, you should socialize this hybrid well to cats if you have them at home, and make sure your cats always have a route away from your dog. Labradors and terrier breeds are very energetic. A mix between the two will need plenty of exercise every day, and will be happiest with a job to do. But, smaller mixes will need less exercise than larger mixes. And, a Lab Terrier cross is also bound to enjoy curling up with you on the couch after a busy day.

This dog was considered a blend of the breeds' best qualities: smart and gentle, with the highly sought after hypoallergenic coat. Are you a breeder? Labradoodles at a glance Labradoodles, as the name suggests, are a cross between two dog breeds — Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. Labradors are considered friendly, energetic, and even-tempered, and Poodles are athletic, smart, and famous for having hypoallergenic coats. Many Labradoodle owners hope that their pup will take on these same traits. Since both parent breeds are generally athletic, Labradoodles tend to have higher energy levels and an eagerness to play. They make friends easily — with humans and other animals alike — promising to be a great addition to any family. The scientific name for Labradoodles, like all domesticated dogs, is Canis lupus familiaris. His goal was to keep the temperament and skills of the Labrador Retriever while adding a hypoallergenic coat to the gene pool enter the Poodle. Soon, people from all around the world were requesting this breed mix. Breeders quickly stepped up to the plate in an attempt to provide dog lovers with this popular new crossbreed. Physical characteristics The Labradoodle can range in size from petite pounds to miniature pounds , medium pounds , and standard pounds. The average height of a Labradoodle is inches. When dealing with designer or mixed breed dogs, it can be difficult to know which size a puppy will grow to be. As a rule, Labradoodle mixed with Toy Poodles will be smaller and lighter than those mixed with Standard Poodles. Nutrition Consulting a vet for a dietary plan is recommended. In general, feeding a Labradoodle should involve a high-quality dry kibble diet. Look at the back of the bag and weigh the dog every couple of weeks to figure out if they are gaining too much or too little weight with your feeding plan. For instance, if the puppy inherits the coat of the Labrador parent, they will have a thick double coat that is known for its shedding. If they inherit the coat of the Poodle parent, they will have a short, single coat that tends to be finely textured and requires regular grooming. Be sure your dog is fully vaccinated before visiting the groomer. Playtime and training When it comes to keeping a Labradoodle healthy, regular exercise, socialization, and obedience training are mandatory. Labradoodles possess high energy and exuberance, yet can often be gentle and friendly enough to play well with children. Because they have so much energy, it is important to give them room to run. If you live in a small space such as an apartment, give this dog frequent walks. Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent and will likely pick up basic commands easily. That said, they can also quickly become bored — which may result in destructive behavior. They require mentally stimulating activities such as agility lessons, hide-and-seek, or obedience training for competitions. As a rule, Labradoodles should attend puppy classes after they have had their initial vaccination series including rabies and are older than 12 weeks. Earlier, supervised socialization or playtime with dogs your pet is familiar with will be extremely helpful. Health and aging in Labradoodles This breed typically lives between years. To ensure the best quality of life for a Labradoodle, learn about the genetic health risks most likely to impact the breed. Early detection of genetic health risks will help Labradoodle owners detect issues early and develop a proactive care plan with their vet. Genetic testing can help dog lovers give their dogs the best care and quality of life for many years to come. Health Problems and Issues in the Australian Labradoodle and Labradoodle To bring families an exceptional labradoodle, exceptional in labradoodle health, temperament and conformation. Do Labradoodles have health problems? Yes, all dogs have health problems. Mixing breeds does not, on average, make a healthier dog. Yes, if you mix two purebred lines only once any genetic issue that requires a pair of alleles one from each parent and NOT present in BOTH breeds will be negated in that first breeding. However, Poodles, Labrador retrievers and Cockers English and American all produce, at times, concerning health issues. These are all screen for by good breeders and include hip dysplasia, eye issues, heart issues and cancer. Screening parents will negate, or reduce non genetic tests these health issues in offspring. What can we do to ensure a healhy Australian Labradoodle? We select only the healthiest of labradoodle parents, grand parents and great grand parents for your labradoodle puppy. We have completed ALL the canine expert suggested health testing on ALL the generations of your labradoodle puppy to ensure a lifetime of health. We will both provide you education on the breed and any health issues commonly occurring in this breed, AND health test the parents and line of your puppy to ensure these issues do not present themselves in your health labradoodle puppy. Please, never purchase a labradoodle or Australian Labradoodle that does not have health including genetically tested parents and if possible comes from a superior genetically tested line, plus a health guarantee. I will have to say the best book I have studied on genetics and health is Control of Canine Genetic Diseases, renowned authority George A. Padgett, DVM. Health and Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodles First, I would like to state that the MAIN reason for selecting breeding dogs that are a top representation of their breed Poodle, Lab, Labradoodle or Australian Labradoodle in Health, Temperament, and Conformation is the resulting puppies are top in health temperament and conformation. The term heterosis, also known as hybrid vigor or out breeding enhancement, describes the increased strength of different characteristics in hybrids; the possibility to obtain a genetically superior individual by combining the virtues of its parents. Heterosis is the opposite of inbreeding depression, which occurs with increasing homozygosity. The term often causes controversy, particularly in terms of the selective breeding of domestic animals, because it is sometimes believed that all crossbred plants or animals are genetically superior to their parents; this is true only in certain circumstances: when a hybrid is seen to be superior to its parents, this is known as hybrid vigor. When the opposite happens, and a hybrid inherits traits from their parents that makes them unfit for survival, the result is referred to as outbreeding depression. In all the years I have bred poodles there have always been crossbreeds around. Most of these were accidents and the puppies were given away or sold for little more than the price of their care. Some Cockapoos were deliberately bred for Pet Shops, but the market was inconsistent, so they were not readily available. Labradors and Standard Poodles were also crossbred in Australia to produce a specific type of working dog. In most cases these puppies are produced for monetary gains not to develop a new breed! The Goldendoodle is one of these crossbreeds. Goldendoodles were deliberately bred in North America as a larger version of the Cockapoo, beginning around ten to fifteen years ago. Most do not shed hair heavily, and some are hypoallergenic like the Standard Poodle. This crossbred gets its name from the mix of the two breeds - Golden Retriever and Poodle. Goldendoodles are considered a hybrid dog, a first generation cross between two breeds, and as such they are supposed to exhibit a quality called hybrid vigour by these breeders. This hybrid vigour is more correctly called heterosis. Crossbreeding in commercial beef cattle production improves feed efficiency through heterosis. Hybrid vigor or heterosis is the added performance boost in crossbred calves over the performance average of their purebred parents. It is not necessarily useful in breeding dogs. In theory the puppies will take on the best traits of both breeds. In reality, this is often false. True hybrids are the product of breeding two different species. Breeding a donkey and a horse produces a mule, breeding a lion and a tiger produces a liger or a tigon, while breeding a wolf and a domestic dog produces a wolf hybrid. Each of these hybrid breeding's is a cross of two different species. The offspring are hybrids. Domestic dogs are the same species. When you cross breed domestic dogs you are not technically creating a hybrid. Sloan, J. Moore Porter, A breed of dog is not a separate species, it is just a family of dogs bred to exhibit certain specific traits like the coat of a poodle. When you breed a litter of purebred dogs you get predictable puppies. With crossbred puppies you do not. It takes many generations to fix traits when developing a new breed. Cockapoos may look like a Poodle, a Cocker or somewhere in between. A Cockapoo bred to a Cockapoo is not a breed. People backcrossing Goldendoodles to Standard Poodles or crossing them on each other cannot predict the looks, coat and personalities of the resulting offspring. It will take many more generations before this will be possible. In addition when they breed them to each other they lose they slight health advantage which may have been gained through heterosis. These are still dogs and now we will have dogs with the health problems of both breeds. Hip Dysplasia, being present in both breeds can show up in first generation Goldendoodles, so parents should be screened. In conclusion, while I know it is possible to develop a new breed such as the Goldendoodle, with careful selective breeding practices and health testing, many people are breeding these dogs simply for monetary reasons. They often have no regard for the health and well being of the puppy produced and as a result these breeds are becoming a common commodity in animal shelters as well as in newspaper classified advertisements. The average life expectency is years. If you feed them top of the line, grain free nutrition, avoid over vacinnating do titer tests , avoid internal pesticides and purchase a puppy of genetically screened and health tested parents your Labradoodle or Australian Labradoodle can live a long health life. We have been breeding since and our many of original litter is still with us AND healthy. Because, one, those breeding purebred poodles with the same selection criteria and careful not to inbreed can also produce the same healthy, well tempered puppies. And two, since labs and poodles are of the same species, the true form of hybrid vigor does not apply. For the remainder of this section I will use "hybrid vigor" as a loose term to describe breeding two dogs of different breeds. Some breeders use this term to sell you on Doodles or mixed breed dogs. Other health concerns Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, patella Luxation, heart conditions, eye conditions, Addison's are present in both breeds and therefore cannot simply be bred out by combining the two. If line or inbreeding is practiced possible negative genetic traits are reintroduced at even higher rates. If it is only passed by one parent the trait is recessive and the dog never shows any signs or symptoms of the disease in its lifetime. Therefore, if a breed like the poodle has been known to carry SA a skin condition and a breed like Labrador is known not to carry SA, then the first generation breeding of these dogs cannot express SA. Only by using dogs that are known not to have SA can you remove SA from a line and that can be done through careful breeding strategies. For generations pure bred dogs have been inbreed and line breed to reduce size or create the perfect conformation standard. Or another dog was selected as a breeding dog specifically due to its size of conformation, its ability to produce smaller offspring or win in the show ring over temperament was the concern. This has lead to poor temperament offspring in general the same reasons human brothers and sisters cannot marry. The out crossing to unrelated lines, if selecting breeding dogs with temperament as top criteria, begets top temperament puppies. Furthermore it has been proven that, in general, the more unlike heterogeneous two animals are the more healthy their offspring. This is why health testing breeding dogs is so critical. Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodle dogs and puppies. BVA up to .Note: Results are available weeks from lab receipt of samples. This has been done to protect the buyer and support parentage identification. Eye disease every 18 months — eye exam by a Board Certified Ophthalmologist. The form, filled out by the Ophthalmologist, must be submitted to OFA for an official certificate. Eye Disease Option List. Patella Luxation, OFA report- veterinary. Cardiac, OFA report — veterinary exam. All testing is to be sent to registrar alaa-labradoodles. You can find accepted labs here: Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Acceptable score levels have not changed. You can read more about the CHIC program here. These changes will be effective May 1, .Silver Paw Recognizes your commitment as a breeder to maintain high health standards for your dogs, as well as your investment in testing the health of your breeding dogs. It assures potential adopters that your litters have come from the healthy parents. Gold Paw Recognizes your commitment as a breeder to maintaining higher health standards for your dogs, as well as your recurring investment in testing the health of your breeding dogs. It assures potential adopters that your litters have come from healthy parents. Platinum Paw Recognizes your commitment as a breeder to maintaining the highest health standard possible for your dogs, as well as your recurring investment in testing the health of your breeding dogs. It assures potential adopters that your litters have come from the healthiest parents possible along, with the strongest level of health that can be maintained. Test results must be from any OFA approved lab. If dogs status is verifiable via parent dog health test reports, the DNA test will be waived. Breeders must re-test each breeding age dog every 18 months and submit clearances to retain the Gold Paw. Testing must be complete by the time the dog is 30 months of age to maintain Platinum Paw status. Dedicated to protecting the Australian Labradoodle through responsible breeding, education, integrity and love. Thank you Canadoodles for letting us use this lovely boy. We are very excited to share this new lovely boy with Canadoodle Australian Labradoodles Labradoodle Health Testing At Over The Moon we do our best to ensure that our breeding dogs are sound and pass on the very best traits of the Australian Labradoodle. We want your pet to be a healthy companion for many years. Our puppies receive veterinary care from the time they are eight weeks old when they go to the doctor for their first examination and vaccine. Labradoodle Hip and Elbow Testing When a puppy has reached maturity at about a year old we send him to the veterinarian to have his hips and elbows x-rayed. Labradoodle DNA Testing At some point before the puppy becomes a candidate for a breeding dog we take a dna sample and have it screened for common diseases that are passed down from parent to puppy. If both parents of this breeding candidate have themselves been tested we are assured there are no easily discovered faults to be passed to the puppy. Labradoodle Eye Health Every year we take each of our breeding dogs to a canine ophthalmologist to have their eyes examined. Our Over The Moon Labradoodle puppy parents have extensive health testing. This is our Amber. She passed all of her health tests and has given us her first beautiful litter of puppies puppies. She lives with her guardian family in Grand Forks when she is not busy in the nursery at our house. Health testing of our labradoodle parents ensures enables Over The Moon Labradoodles to offer a genetic health guarantee for all our puppies. All rights reserved. You may not copy or otherwise use anything on this site without our written permission. The incidence of eye, cardiac, vWD, etc. A dog with cardiac clearance either has no murmur, or an 'innocent' murmur. Although these two hybrids are more prone to cardiac problems, some breeders test other breeding dogs as well. Testing is done by sending in a blood sample for diagnosis. Although Standard Poodles are more prone to thyroid problems, some breeders test other breeding dogs as well. All Poodle and Golden Retriever breeding dogs should be tested. There is a DNA test available by VetGen which will identify some breeds as a Carrier, Affected or as Clear of the disease, although this method has not been independantly validated. There is also blood test available through Cornell University. The information contained on this site is in no way intended to replace that of proper veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is meant to provide resource, so that we can better understand canine health related issues. You may not copy or otherwise use anything on this site without our written permission Made with Xara. However, we are smart enough to search out the smart people and learn from them. Please help yourself with the forms and I apologize for them being. Now, it is our firm belief that any family can educate themselves and train their pet to be a service dog or therapy dog. All of our puppies are therapeutic for me. I'm high strung, always doing something, and really a work-a-holic and I don't need to work. I waste hours and hours a month just petting them, grooming them, and having long intellectual conversations with them. You would be surprised how much a dog, and especially our dogs, can just put things into perspective. They have taught me to just roll with it and relax. I know they are adding years onto my life. With that in mind, we know there are more severe cases of stress, illness, and disorders that dogs can nurture, help or distract for a human being so they can function and live a better quality life. For that specific reason, we are providing these forms for all to use. If you use these forms to help you with a service dog please contact the publisher listed and thank them. All I've done is a copy and paste and you're welcome for that.We worked with a service dog trainer to learn how to really test our pups for specific service dog work. In all cases we default back to these forms. We don't recommend these forms as your one and only tool but instead part of many steps to testing a dog for service dog work. Finally, I would like to give my words of wisdom. This dog is confident and fearless. On the other hand, a PTSD service dog could be more mellow. A dog you calm down and remember to take your meds could be a more mellow pup. I would love to write more but I'm not the expert. Remember, you can teach a dog almost anything.We even have a puppy family that is training a Sugar Pine Doodles puppy to be a hospital service dog for the sick to help cheer them up. She decided she would do this when she saw her husband change over night for the better, after being visited by a hospital service dog, while he was terribly sick in the hospital. Imagine how many lives that puppy Brooklyn is going to touch! It's down right exciting and inspirational on what is possible and how we can touch other peoples lives through our love for our dogs. There is a reason they are called Man's best friend! I hope this touches something in you that helps you set a goal, educate yourself, and put into motion a plan on how you can bring joy to others in need. It isn't those big things that really make a difference. It's spending time with someone, laughing, enjoying a trained professional therapy pet, and forgetting for just a moment how much pain your in, how scared you are if you will ever heal, and if you will ever get out of the hospital alive. The pet may just give someone the will to live another day so they can get a pet of their own. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Health Testing Here at Labradoodle Dreams we work hard to make sure we are producing healthy dogs. The same health issues that affect the purebred parent breeds can also affect the labradoodle. These health issues can be familial or genetic in nature. Often these health disorders are unapparent to the average person but could result in misery for both the dog and their owner. This is exciting news for the Australian Labradoodle breed! With advanced technology in genetic testing, this will be one of the first breeds to emerge and continue to develop with genetic health soundness. You are free to request and view any and all health testing of our parent dogs before purchasing your puppy. We only breed dogs that achieve OFA normal hips and elbows. Pennhip This is another form of hip testing used to detect hip dysplasia and also hip laxity. There is recent evidence to support that there is a direct relationship between hip laxity and future development of hip dysplasia. There is much hope that with this new method incidence of hip dysplasia will be reduced even further. This is an eye exam performed by a Veterinary Specialist used to identify 20 possibly eye disorders including progressive retinal atrophy PRA , cataracts, and glaucoma. We only breed dogs that pass this test with a result of normal. The lesions characterizing congenital heart defects are present at birth and may develop more fully over time. Many congenital heart defects are thought to be genetically transmitted so all our breeding dogs must be free of congenital heart defects to participate in our breeding program. Labradoodle breed - What health testing should I look for? Updated: Jun 30 The Labradoodle is an energetic, fun and trainable breed, popular with families. They are generally a healthy breed. RightPaw lists all the health tests each Labradoodle breeder conducts, on their profile. If a test is showing on the profile, that means RightPaw have checked that the breeder is doing this test. You can also click to view any other tests that are available for the Labradoodle, that the breeder might not be using. By breeding from healthy parent dogs, the breeder is minimising the risk of their puppies inheriting any of these heritable conditions. Some diseases can be completely avoided by breeding parent dogs who cannot pass on the disease, whereas other diseases are complex, and the breeder can reduce the risk, but may not be able to guarantee the puppy will not be affected. Recommended Parent Dog Screening for Labradoodles Hip Certificate Labradors and Poodles can both be prone to hip problems, so it is recommended that breeders screen their breeding parents for hip dysplasia before breeding, to minimise the risk of it occurring in the puppies. Elbow Certificate Most breeds that are prone to hip dysplasia, can also be prone to elbow dysplasia. Breeders will commonly xrays the hips and elbows at the same time when they screen their breeding dogs. The most important one to test for is an eye disease called PRA Progressive Retinal Atrophy , as this can be carried in both Poodle and Labrador lines. Other common health conditions seen in Labradoodle puppies There are other health conditions that cannot be screened for with any specific testing, so they may occur in puppies from time to time. Even if your puppy has come from the perfect breeding program, no breeder can guarantee that a puppy will not have any health concerns. RightPaw recommends that all new owners take their new puppy for a health check at the vet within one week of coming home. If your vet notices something new that was not mentioned by your breeder, let the breeder know straight away. Deciduous teeth problems Problems with baby teeth is the most common health concern seen in young puppies of all breeds. Puppies may have an overbite, underbite, or have baby teeth that start to come through in an incorrect position. Incorrect positioning of baby teeth, such as Base Narrow Canines, can result in teeth poking holes into the gum or upper palate as they come through, causing pain, potential infection, and blocking the normal space for adult teeth to come through. This is a condition that can change from week to week, as it depends on how the teeth shift as they come through. If your breeder informs you that your puppy has a tooth problem, you should discuss this with them in depth before deciding you are comfortable to take that puppy. We do not know what causes Base Narrow Canines, but there is likely to be a genetic component. It is important for your breeder to know the condition has occurred so they can take this into account when planning future litters. A dog with Base Narrow Canines should not be bred, to avoid passing on a genetic predisposition to this condition. The small hole in the muscles allows abdominal fat to poke through as a soft lump under the skin. We do not know exactly what causes umbilical hernias but there may be a genetic component. If your puppy has been diagnosed with an umbilical hernia your breeder will inform you when you purchase your puppy. They are usually harmless, non-painful and can be corrected at the same time as desexing. A dog who has had an umbilical hernia should not be bred, to avoid passing on a genetic predisposition to this condition. They are complex conditions and do not have a simple mode of inheritance, so it is difficult for breeders to screen for these. If your dog does develop any of these conditions as they get older, please contact your breeder to let them know. This is very valuable information for them when they are planning the future genetics of their breeding program. Post not marked as liked RightPaw RightPaw is the simpler, safer, supportive way to find your pet online. Every time. Each of our puppies comes with a 2 year genetic health guarantee covering health conditions that are known to be genetic and that we can test our breeding dogs for. Below are details regarding Australian Labradoodle health testing: OFA This is a Hip and Elbow test used prior to breeding specifically to address: Carpal subluxation, Elbow dysplasia, Epiphyseal dysplasia, Fragmented coronoid process, Hip dysplasia, Hypertrophic osteodystrophy, Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia, Muscular dystrophy, Osteochondrosis, Osteogenesis imperfecta, Patella luxation, and Shoulder dysplasia. The disease results in declining vision and eventual blindness. The lesions characterizing congenital heart defects are present at birth and may develop more fully over time. Many congenital heart defects are thought to be genetically transmitted; however, the exact modes of inheritance have not been determined for all cardiovascular malformations. All of our breeding dogs will have passed a cardiac exam prior to joining our program. This protein plays a key role in the process of clotting a damaged blood vessel.

Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Those are good as a rough guideline, but not entirely accurate. Active Goldens eat puppy food longer than the calmer ones. Because adult dog food is not as rich as the puppy version, he can only rely on the puppy food to meet his needs until his behavior changes to adult behaviors. Once your dog has almost reached maturity, his behaviors will automatically change. This change in behaviors is another sign your Golden puppy is ready to transition to adult food. Some of those signs are: Your puppy begins to sleep more and becomes less energetic. Your puppy starts losing interest in their puppy food. Your puppy often has stools after eating his puppy food. When your puppy is growing, he needs more calories and protein than an adult Golden to support his growth. That is why puppy food is designed to have more calories, calories, protein, and other nutrients beneficial for his development. But once he reaches maturity, his puppy food, although beneficial during the puppy stage, can do more harm than good. Because of the high-calorie content, if an adult Golden eats puppy food regularly, in the long term, it can cause him soft stools or diarrhea, and obesity. How to Transition Your Golden from Puppy Food to Adult Food After deciding it is the right time to switch your Golden puppy to adult dog food, the next thing to consider is how you will go about it. The best way to transition your puppy is to gradually mix in more adult food to your puppy food until he is ok with having only adult dog food in his bowl. For most dogs, the whole process usually takes about 7 to 14 days. After a few more days, continue to increase your adult dog food intake while reducing the amount of puppy food. At the end of days, if your dog can eat adult food without any problems, then you can eliminate the puppy food completely. Just a few months ago, your little ball of fluff was tumbling around, getting into mischief. This article will help you determine when to switch your puppy to adult dog food, how puppy and adult dog foods differ , how to select the best adult dog food, and how to transition foods smoothly to ensure that your pup is set up for a life of good health. According to AAFCO, puppy foods should be higher in protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorous than adult dog foods. These macronutrients and minerals help support lean muscle and bone growth. They also provide enough caloric density to enable the puppy to grow and perform basic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion, and movement. Many puppy food manufacturers also include higher amounts of compounds like omega-3 fatty acids to support proper brain and eye development as your puppy ages. Large-breed puppies need specially formulated puppy foods that contain less fat , calcium, and phosphorous to moderate their rate of growth. This helps prevent skeletal diseases such as elbow and hip dysplasia that can result from growing too quickly. You need to ensure that your puppy has the extra protein, fat, and minerals they need to support their growth and development and prevent various bone, joint, brain, and eye disorders. But aside from breed size, you also need to consider whether they are spayed or neutered or if they are a highly active dog that needs more calories. Breed Size Because of their faster growth rate, smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas , Yorkshire Terriers , and Pugs reach adult size sooner than larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers , German Shepherds, and Dalmatians. The guidelines below will help you to determine when to start feeding adult dog food: Small breeds under 25 pounds when fully grown reach adult size at months of age. These breeds will be ready for adult dog food at months of age. Medium-sized breeds such as English Springer Spaniels , Australian Shepherds , and Border Collies are pounds when fully grown, and they reach adult size at months of age. With growth rates between those of small breeds and large breeds, medium-sized dogs will be ready for adult dog food around months of age. Large breeds are over 50 pounds when fully grown. There are many large breed dogs, from the Boxer to the Great Dane , so the point at which these breeds reach mature size and weight can vary between 15 and 24 months of age. With the wide range of breeds under this category and a generally slower rate of growth, these dogs will need to stay on puppy food until they are months old to ensure they have enough protein and other nutrients during this stage. They also need to get those nutrients in the proper ratio to support the growth and proper development of their larger skeletons. Activity Level Athletic dogs may benefit from staying on puppy formulas longer, as the extra protein supports lean muscle growth and function, and the extra fat and higher caloric density can allow energy for high-intensity activities. Spaying or Neutering Breed size is not the only factor when determining when to transition your puppy to adult dog food. Because puppy foods contain a higher calorie density, feeding the correct amount during the remaining months of puppyhood is very important to prevent obesity as the puppy matures into an adult. Spaying or neutering does not usually slow the growth rate of your puppy, but it may affect the growth plates in the bones of large breed puppies, setting them up for joint problems later in life. In addition, unspayed female dogs who will be bred early in life may need to stay on puppy food longer to support gestation and lactation following whelping. Switching Too Early or Too Late Because the timing of switching your puppy to adult dog food is so important, there can be negative consequences from both switching too late and switching too early. Dogs that are taken off puppy food too late may be more predisposed to obesity and associated health problems later in life, given the fact that puppy formulas have more fat and calories per cup than adult dog formulas. The extra protein and calories in puppy foods can also increase the rate of growth in certain dog breeds if they are not fed a breed-specific puppy food formula. If these breeds are left on puppy formulas too long, they can be more predisposed to developing joint problems in the future. Similarly, if your puppy is taken off a puppy formula too early, they may suffer from nutritional deficiencies and growth abnormalities, failing to reach adult size around the expected time and increasing their risk of future bone, joint, brain, and eye issues. How to Pick the Right Adult Dog Food When it is time for your puppy to transition to adult dog food, how should you go about selecting the best adult formula for them as they become young adults? The young adult stage is typically considered years of age, as middle age starts by year in many dog breeds. While most dogs are generally quite healthy during this stage in their lives, feeding them appropriately during their young adult years can help lower the risk of obesity, arthritis , and dental disease as they age. Choosing a Brand The many adult dog food companies are not all equal in terms of quality. Dry Food vs. Wet Food The next step is to decide whether you would like to feed your dog dry food, wet food, or a mixture of the two. Both types of food have positive and negative aspects, and the choice to use one, the other, or both depends on the specific needs of your dog. For example, wet food: Has a higher moisture content than dry food and may be better for dogs that do not drink much water. Has a lower calorie density per volume than dry dog food, allowing dogs to feel fuller on fewer calories, which helps control their weight throughout their lives. Is often more palatable and appetizing than dry food, so it may be a great option for picky eaters or for stimulating the appetite of dogs that are less interested in food. Can be beneficial for dogs with oral abnormalities or dental disease, as it is easier for them to chew. By contrast, dry food: Can be a more economical option than wet food. Is a great option for easier portion control and for dogs that tend to graze throughout the day rather than consume a full meal in one sitting, as dry food will not spoil as rapidly if left out for long periods of time. Is beneficial for dental health, as the crunchy pieces act as an abrasive against the teeth during chewing and help prevent tartar buildup and thus tooth and gum disease. Can be easily used as a tool in puzzle toys for enrichment and mental stimulation. Is be used in slow feeders for reducing the rate at which dogs are able to consume their meals. When your pup eats more slowly, the risk is lower of them swallowing too much air and developing bloat, a potentially dangerous condition. Nutritional Requirements The final step in selecting the best adult dog food diet is to examine the Guaranteed Analysis panel on the bag or can of food and ensure that the formula meets a few major nutritional requirements. Other formulas have glucosamine for joint health or probiotics for gut health. Some dogs are sensitive to chicken and do better on beef- or salmon-based formulas. If you are unsure of the additional needs for your dog outside of the key ingredients and nutrients listed above, consult with your veterinarian. This will help ensure gut regularity with less physical activity. Remember that dog treats and other sources of calories in the diet need to be included when determining the appropriate amount of food for your young adult dog. How to Switch Your Puppy to Adult Dog Food Once you have selected the best adult dog food for your puppy, you are ready to transition them slowly onto their new diet. Because rapid diet changes can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, such as vomiting and diarrhea , it is recommended to introduce the new food slowly over a period of five days or so. Continue to feed your puppy as many times per day as they are used to throughout this process. If your puppy develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite, stop feeding the adult dog food and see your veterinarian. How Often to Feed Your Dog For large-breed puppies, it may be best for them to continue to eat three times per day. For medium-breed puppies, they should continue to be fed twice daily when they have been transitioned to adult dog food. For small-breed puppies, you may consider transitioning them to eating twice daily instead of three times per day after they are fully on adult dog food. This may involve providing more attention and playtime for your dog as they become accustomed to fewer feedings per day. Consider extra walks, extra playtime, or brushing to distract them from feelings of hunger. Some dogs may benefit from high-fiber adult dog food to increase feelings of fullness between meals. Your dog may also enjoy cleaned, raw fruits and vegetables such as sliced carrots, cucumbers, or apples without the core or seeds. If you have any questions about transitioning your puppy to adult dog food, contact your veterinarian. In addition, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist can be a great resource for any issues that come up, and they can help develop the best diet and feeding schedule for your new family member. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Check Price Why do we need to switch from puppy food to dog food golden retrievers? They will need more high source of nutritional needs so they can stay healthy and preserve they well-being. But the first few weeks of the transition period are not that easy. Your golden retriever might experience tummy issues. You got to make an extra effort to identify the right food for your puppy during his period of becoming an adult dog. That said, you need to regularly consult with your vet and strategize about the week of the transition period so your dog will become safe with no gastrointestinal tract issues. At first, it may be hard to tell which can be mistaken for health issues or others. But these tell-tale signs are most likely that your puppy is no longer a pup but a developing adult reaching its maturity. Although we, dog owners, hard to accept that they are becoming adult golden retrievers, we still need to prepare for those inevitable events. What we need is to support them and we need to identify these signs. While those new teeth are coming in, you will need some chewing sticks or chew toys for your growing Golden puppy. This is also the time where you need to consider switching from puppy food to dog food which can be done slowly and through a discussion from your vet. Meaning that your puppy is becoming more responsible and matured. They are comparable to any highly active dogs because of their endless energy which makes them want to play all day long. But over time when your puppy is beginning to become less playful, this may be a sign that he is leaning towards adulthood. They may want to play with you every five minutes. He eats slower and eats less Puppies are known for their being voracious eaters. But when they hit their adulthood or while in their transition period to their full-grown dog, they will eat less and you will also notice how slower they eat than they are before. The puppy begins to physically mature Upon reaching 9 months of age, your golden retriever puppy is along its way to becoming mature. There are different kinds of maturity when it comes to dogs and they are largely affected through their gender. For the female dogs, they may have changes in appetite, may appear anxious than normal, and will experience a vaginal discharge of blood. You may not see it happening in an instant, but by the time and as weeks go by, you will realize that your puppy becomes a dog. Usually, the signs are, they listen attentively and responds to you and the other dogs from social cues, they can read if you are angry or happy to them, and they can easily settle down. So watch out for these signs. When he stops growing When your golden retriever has fully grown both physically and emotionally, this is definitely the obvious sign that your dog turned into a full-grown adult dog. This happens when your dog is already 1 to 3 years of age. This is the time where your dog will be needing an adequate source of protein-based nutritional needs such as whole meat mainly with first meat as their main ingredients when buying an adult dog food. Also, you may want to match their type of activity to the dog food you are considering. A general guide for feeding the golden puppy and adult Puppies who are in their first months will develop a built-in timer. This prompts him to eat based on schedule because they are a creature of habit. You should give your golden puppy at least three times a day of meals for the first three months. Prior to that, by the time he reaches four months, feed him at least twice a day permanently. Puppies ages 12 months more or less The above mentioned is the general rule. Yet, there are different cases of how puppies grow depending on their breed size. For golden retrievers, they belong to a medium-sized breed. Their age of maturity will hit by the time they are 9 months of age. While large breeds will hit their maturity when they are 18 to 24 months of age. Transitioning from puppy food to dog food golden retriever After you are completely aware and decided to shift your dog from puppy food to dog food. But be very careful to suddenly give your dog food. The key is to slowly introduce your puppy from puppy food to dog food. Let your golden retriever taste the dog food slowly so that he can get accustomed to the taste of the dog food. Normally this transition process will take about 7 to 14 days. That said, you can start the transition period by giving 75 percent of puppy food and a 25 percent adult food formula for at least 2 to 3 days. After the succeeding days, you can try increasing the adult dog food ratio to 10 percent until it becomes percent adult dog food. As a result, within 10 to 14 days, your golden retriever will somehow liken the adult dog food. If not, you can just go slower with the kibble food ratio until your dog is fully satisfied with the taste. This is among the important process during their transition period. One of the best and appropriate dog food for your golden retriever is this particular Royal Canin. Because it's breed-specific. That said, its nutritional value is specifically curated for a specific type of breed. This is to ensure that what you are getting meets the standard diet of your Golden. There's more than that, this particular dog food has a heart-healthy recipe. And because golden retrievers are vulnerable to heart problems, this will help them prevent any heart disease. Added the fact that it's also made to reinforce the skin of the dog. One of the main ingredients includes Brewers rice, brown rice, chicken by-product, oat greats. It's also packed with adequate vitamins like taurine and DHA for strong vision and helps cognitive ability. All the more, each kibble has a different design and even shape and size which is suited for the dog's jaw structure and biting patterns. This is well suited for a golden retriever because of specific nutrients and dietary needs added. Also, it supports some of the most health problems that the golden retriever commonly faces. So, this is actually worth buying for. Pros Specifically designed for golden retrievers Unique shape and sizes Grain-free. The general rule is to switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food once they reach physical maturity. For Golden Retrievers this is between the age of 12 to 18 months. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and need to stay on puppy food until they stop growing. Switching too early can have a negative effect on the growth and development of your pup. Golden Retrievers are considered a large breed and reach their physical maturity much later than small breeds do. All dogs differ as to when they reach maturity, which is why there is no one size fits all answer to this question. Can switch to adult food at 9 to 12 months. Medium Breeds: 20 to 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 14 months. Large and Giant Breeds: Weigh more than 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 24 months. He will continue to fill out until the age of 2 when he reaches his adult weight. Keeping your Golden Retriever pup on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months is a good guideline to follow. But, there are other ways to tell if your Golden is ready to make the transition. Here are some other signs that will let you know your pup is ready for adult food: Skipping Meals or Leftover Food Puppy food is designed specifically for growing puppies. It is higher in fat, calories, protein and nutrients to help support growth and development. Once your puppy reaches adulthood, he no longer needs as many calories. You may notice that your puppy is skipping meals or leaving food in his food bowl because he is still full. This is a good indication that your puppy is ready to make the switch. Puppies typically eat 3 meals a day, when you make the switch to adult food, you can also reduce the number of meals per day down to 2. Decreased Activity Level We all know that puppies have a ton of energy, and Golden Retriever puppies seem to have even more! But, with age comes a decrease in activity level. Once your puppy starts to mature, you will notice they also start to calm down. Weight Gain Once your Golden Retriever puppy is fully grown, they no longer need high-calorie food. If you continue feeding puppy food to your adult Golden Retriever, you may notice excessive weight gain. Weight gain is a clear indication that your Golden Retriever is past the puberty stage and is ready to switch to adult food. The transition to adult food is important, as puppy food can quickly pack on the pounds. Weight gain is usually seen in Golden Retrievers who are spayed or neutered because owners continue feeding them the same amount of food as before. The age of spay or neuter lines up to around the time your Golden Retriever should transition to adult food, which is when they are finished growing. Puppies require a higher amount of calories, protein, nutrients and fats in order to fuel their growth. While puppies need the proper food to grow and develop, adult Golden Retrievers require food to maintain their bodies. Puppy food is: Smaller in size, making it safer to chew and swallow. Softer in texture, catering to the softer and smaller teeth of a puppy. Contains nutrients and fats essential for bone growth, muscle development, and energy. Carefully balanced for growing puppies. Feeding properly balanced puppy food is important, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers benefit from specially formulated large-breed puppy food. Most vets and nutritionists consider a pup a large breed if they weigh between 55 to Lbs when fully grown. Large breed puppy food is lower in fat and calories than regular puppy food, and it has a carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This allows for slow and steady growth, supporting joints and bones. For more information on large breed puppy food, check out this article from PetMD. Different quantities and ratios of nutrients are ideal for different life stages. Keeping your adult Golden Retriever on puppy food can lead to obesity and other health issues such as faster growth, which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia. Puppy food is too rich and dense in nutrients which not only causes significant weight gain in adults but could result in stomach upset and diarrhea. It could also lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food contains nutrients that are suited for dogs who are passed their growth stage. Adult Golden Retrievers need food that helps them maintain their optimal health and weight. The switch to adult food needs to be gradual, over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will prevent any stomach upset in your pup. Basically, the best way to transition your puppy to adult food is to buy a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food. Gradually mix the two foods together, increasing the amount of new food over a period of 7 to 10 days. By day 9 or 10 your Golden Retriever should be eating his new adult food. If at any time during the transition period your Golden Retriever experiences an upset stomach or diarrhea, or simply resists the adult food, you can extend the transition time as needed. Final Thoughts So, as you can see there is a right time and a wrong time when you should switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food. Golden Retrievers grow and mature at a slower pace than smaller breeds do, and require the essential nutrients found in puppy food for much longer. It is recommended to keep your Golden Retriever puppy on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months. You want to gradually introduce the new food in order to avoid any stomach upset. Is your Golden Retriever puppy ready for adult food? At what age did your Golden Retriever start eating adult food? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods.