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Read more about the pups that are currently up for adoption. Read More… Foster Dogs FBRN is being faced with an increasing number of dogs who are ill, handicapped, or need expensive veterinary care before being placed. Meet our Foster Frenchies and please consider sponsoring one of them to ensure that they receive the care that they need. Read More… Surrender a Dog Life has thrown you a curve ball and you must surrender your French Bulldog… we are here to help! Read More… Volunteer We welcome you to join us in our efforts to rehabilitate and rehome needy French Bulldogs. We have many options for you to choose from, depending on your circumstances, time and resources. Our organization is composed solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes. Read More… Contact Us Learn about the many ways that you can get in touch with us. He has a Staffie sister, Lettie, who he adores and who has taught him so much with her gentle patience. He has doggie friends at daycamp he sees once a week. He is the best snuggler ever! He used to be a resource guarder, but will now bring you his toys for a treat! He loves our daily walks and meeting people. Thank you FBRN for picking us to be his family- we love him so much! Despite being mostly blind and deaf, Ham is thriving in his golden years, especially with his folks now working from home. Thank you FBRN for our goodest good boy! We are so grateful for every day with him. She had cherry eye surgery in March right before Covid quarantine and the surgery was a success. A gigantic thank you to FBRN for allowing me to adopt this perfect little nugget. All Rights Reserved. A c 3 Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID: .Powered by Geeks4Rent. Share A Story! French Bulldog Rescues In California A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. They are loving and do not require vigorous exercise, which is why they are considered one of the most popular AKC breeds. However, finding a french bulldog rescue in California to adopt from can be more difficult than it looks. At CharityPaws we never advocate buying from a breeder or puppy mill, but instead to adopt from a rescue. Adopting from french bulldog rescues in California can also be a rewarding experience. These rescues look for and save french bulldogs that have been abandoned or neglected by owners who can no longer handle the responsibility. Where to Find French Bulldogs Rescues In California As much as getting a french bulldog from a rescue is a good idea, starting your search might be confusing, especially if you do not know where to find these rescues. We have created a list of some of the best dog rescues in California where you can find some of these furry friends to adopt. Its mission is to save as many homeless French Bulldogs as possible. They search for, save and rehabilitate Frenchies. After rehabilitation, they place their dogs in suitable forever homes. They accept bulldogs from public shelters, high-kill rescues, and owners who can no longer handle the responsibility of owning a French Bulldog and wish to surrender. They have been rescuing and rehoming bulldogs for the past ten years, and in those ten years, they have placed more than 1, French Bulldogs in new forever homes. If you want to help them continue caring for this breed, you can support them through donations. To adopt a dog from this rescue, you need to apply through their website and reply to the acknowledgment email. A volunteer will screen applicants and push the approved applications to another volunteer who is charged with contacting you and scheduling a home visit. During the home visit, all family members and existing pets should be available during this visit. The volunteer also checks how secure your home is. The end goal is to see if your application will be approved. Once your application is approved, the rescue will contact fosters taking care of their dogs to see if there is one that matches your needs. This might take some time. They also host adoption events that allow approved families to meet the bulldogs.

But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one bathroom break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cozy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last potty stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy potty training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialization is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialization exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Yard The yard is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the apartment side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. Read on for detailed tips on when you should expect your Labradoodle to be trained and milestone ages. Did you know that back in , Labradoodles were bred by an Australian breeder Wally Conron for a blind woman whose husband had a dog allergy? Since then, Labradoodles have only grown in popularity. The average lifespan of a Labradoodle is around 10 to 14 years , and they come in three different sizes — miniature or toy, medium, and standard. Their sizes can also affect how they behave. Your Labradoodle will undergo various changes through every stage in their lives. Their five different life stages include: Puppyhood — 1 to 5 months Adolescence — 6 to 18 months Adulthood — until three years of age Middle Age — until seven years of age Old Age — the last stage; until 12 to 14 years of age. At every stage, your Labradoodle will depict different behaviors, and you will have to modify how you train them accordingly. Can Labradoodles smile? The correct training approach is to start coaching your Labradoodles from the first day when you bring them home. Compared to adult dogs, puppies are easier to train. You will have a much easier and fun time training them when and where to pee, how to socialize, how not to put everything in their mouth, how to stay away from chewing the new sofa set, etc. First 30 Days with a Labradoodle The first 30 days are an exciting time with new Labradoodles. With a crossbreed, you often have no idea what surprises are about to unfold. Your furry friend will obviously go on to explore every nook and cranny of your house. While you might feel like spending every second cuddling and playing around with them, this is the time when you should start training your dog. The sooner you begin, the more adaptable the routine becomes to the dog. When they are young, it is recommended that you initiate the process of Early Scent Introduction to amplify their senses. This will allow them to quickly identify and react to particular smells. A helpful activity is putting a leash on your Labradoodle while it walks around the house and sniffs different household objects. You can also include a few more games and habits into their routine to make them put their senses to good use. You will often find them jumping around the house and licking everyone. All their sensory organs will be heightened, so behaviors like wagging their tails and play-biting people will be common. If their erratic behavior changes are not kept in check, you might even find them baring teeth at anyone who attempts to touch their belongings or fiddle with the safe environment they are used to. Potty Training This is the age to establish a potty schedule for your puppy. Include multiple potty breaks throughout the day so that the dog knows where to go to release themselves. Train them to hold their pee in until they reach their designated point. Every time they successfully pee outside , make sure to reward them with a treat. Leash Training Leashes are going to be a life-long friend of your dogs. Make sure you introduce them to the concept of a leash right from the very beginning. It will help your Labradoodle get accustomed to the feeling of having a leash around them every time they are taken for a walk. When at home, put the leash on the dog, and let them walk around freely without pulling on it. Two Labradoodles sniff eachother out at a dog park. The puppyhood phase is about to end, and the new adulthood chapter is about to commence. By this time, they should have mastered most of the training commands and techniques so you can move on to teaching them more advanced training options. Loose leash training, clicker, and positive reinforcement training all become possible now. We must keep a strict eye on reinforcing positive behavior and obedience and redirect unwanted behavior with just as much consistency as when they were a young puppy. By this time, your dog should also be vaccinated, so they can go to a nearby park and play with other dogs. Command Training This is the stage when you start teaching your Labradoodle some basic commands. The best way to introduce it is during their mealtime. You can hold the food in your hands and use it to lure them. Identify a definite marker that you can use to communicate to your Labradoodle if they perform a particular command correctly or incorrectly. Sit with your Labradoodle on the floor and play around to try to communicate with them. Make them comfortable with your touch and sound. Find other puppies that your Labradoodle can spend time with. It is a good idea to begin socializing your puppy to help them become more comfortable with humans as well as other dogs. This will also reduce the risk of anxiety and fear, help them listen to others better, and ensure that they live a fulfilling and happy life. Regardless of what training routine you establish for your dog, make sure you only do it through positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is a reward-based training option. So, if your dog successfully performs a task or follows a command, you praise them or reward them with treats. You can use a favorite treat or a toy to encourage them to follow the command again. Avoid punishing your dog at all costs as it would instill life-long fear in them. Use puzzle toys and different mentally stimulating exercises to improve their physical and mental capabilities even simple food toys like frozen Kongs or slow feeder bowls do the trick. Our best Labradoodle name ideas. I am sure you have been planning the arrival of your Labradoodle and are excited for all the joy and happiness they are about to bring into your life. I got a puppy a few months back too, and there are a few tips I wish someone had told me about before: Have two separate bowls ready for your Labradoodle — one for food and one for water. Feed them with food specific to their breed, and make sure to replace their bowl with fresh water every day. Proper nutrition and a balanced diet are part and parcel of a good puppy training routine. You can also treat them with a toy every time they follow the commands you teach them. Invest in a comfortable dog bed. Although bedding can be expensive, your Labradoodle needs a decent place to relax. Make sure the size of the bed is appropriate, neither too big nor too small. Puppy-proof your house before the new member settles in. Keeping the electrical cords out of reach, properly latching the doors and windows to avoid risking your puppy wandering off, and designating a specific bathroom area for the puppy are some of the vital precautions you must take. It not only keeps them clean and smelling fresh but also eliminates the risk of illnesses and diseases in your dog. But they still need to be regularly groomed to avoid matting. To do this, however, you need to train your Labradoodles to be comfortable with the different grooming tools and sit still for some time. Here are a few tips on how you can do that successfully: Sensitize your Labradoodle to the sounds of different grooming equipment like nail trimmers, scissors, combs, brushes, etc. Play with their paws and make them feel comfortable. You should massage their feet and touch their nails to make them feel at ease with your touch. The more you delay grooming your dog regularly, the more complex and painful the procedure will get. Brushing becomes easy, pain-free, and you will be surprised to see your Labradoodle eventually starting to look forward to it. While doing facial trims, your dog needs to remain calm and still. To do a facial trim, gently hold their head in one hand and rest their chin on another. There are high chances your dog will be placed in a crate when attending grooming sessions at a salon. So make them accustomed to being placed inside a crate at home. You can keep their favorite toys and treats inside to make them feel more comfortable. Most of the advanced Labradoodle training options and methods are built on basic training methods. If your Labradoodle has successfully mastered basic training skills, the advanced training period will be relatively easy. If you want your dog to behave even better and learn new tricks, or get them registered as a service dog or a guide dog, or make them participate in an upcoming dog event, you can consider enrolling them in professional advanced training courses. Labradoodles, as the name suggests, are a cross between Poodles and Labradors, combining the best characteristics of both breeds. Labradoodles are bred to be friendly and loving and they are very easy to train. In terms of background, if the breeder or adoption service you got your pup from did not start any training, then you will have to start slow and be patient. A Labradoodle that has been trained and brought up well can serve as the perfect service dog, guide dog, or therapy dog. Are Labradoodles Easy To Train? Labradoodles are great companions that can fit in as easily in a large family as they can in a small one. They are easy to train, friendly, social, and intelligent. If they are trained consistently, they develop a friendly temperament and bond well with their owners. Do Labradoodles Bark Excessively? As with any other breed of dog, Labradoodles are at high risk of barking excessively if they are not adequately trained or if their day-to-day requirements are not met. A Labradoodle has a lot of energy. If the energy is not channeled in the right place through coaching, exercising, and proper stimulation, they might get stressed and anxious and bark unreasonably. A Red Miniature Labradoodle looks happy in the studio. Final Words The happiness that comes with having a Labradoodle as your companion and raising them is unmatched. However, as with any other dog, training them involves hard work and discipline. I hope this guide makes Labradoodle training easy for you. The biggest hurdle you may face when training your dog is a lack of motivation and consistency. Luckily, Labradoodles are inclined to learn from their owners quicker than other breeds. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. The Labradoodle is a gorgeous cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the Goldendoodle is an adorable mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Characteristics and traits can vary significantly because these pups are a hybrid breed, but they are usually incredibly people-focused, laid back, and playful, making Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training an enjoyable moment. Doodles make awesome pets, especially if their owners fully comprehend the importance of training from a young age. The type of adult dog breed you end up with depends a little bit on their personality and a lot on how you take care of them. Before you begin Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training, it helps to decide exactly what kind of dog you want to have. Do Plenty of Research It is vital that you have an understanding of canine learning theory because dogs learn very differently from people. A puppy does whatever it can to get what it desires the most at that moment. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you about methods to get the best out of your training. It may be helpful to consult a puppy training professional or spend some time at doggy school to get a headstart and pick up tips from experts. Your pup is a blank slate — with your guidance, they can develop the traits and learn the behaviors that you value the most. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle puppies are curious and they love exploring their new home as they make it their own. Getting it right during the early stages sets a precedent for the rest of their life. Spending as much time as you can with them helps build the foundation for a happy, confident and well-behaved dog. Form a Bond and Gain Trust With Your Doodle Before you do anything, you will need to develop a strong bond with your new pal to make sure they trust you. Try to keep your own energy as calm as possible — they bounce off you. While it may be tempting to get excited by their cuteness and mirror their enthusiasm, this makes it more difficult for them to listen to you and regulate their own behavior. Teach your furry friend what to expect from the moment they get into the home to stop them from getting confused. Use Positive Reinforcement Intimidation or fear tactics are never the best way to build a loving and secure bond between you and your fur baby. To make the most of this method, reward your pooch for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Treats, verbal praise, and clicker training reward them for a job well done. This also helps them to make positive associations with you and training time. Everyone has their own list of priorities and yours will depend on factors such as whether you have children or other pets. Potty training is a straightforward, formulaic process that your new puppy will adapt to. A consistent routine is the key to getting them toilet trained as efficiently and effectively as possible. Let them outside at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot. In the early days, it may be difficult for them to make it all the way through the night, so try to make provisions for this stage. Select a word for them to associate with potty training and repeat it over and over whenever you take them to the toilet. Every time they do their business outside, give them lots of cuddles and praise, treat them and play one of their favorite games. There will be setbacks — getting it right takes time! If they mess in the wrong place, take them outside to their toileting spot and give them the chance to relieve themselves. We cannot emphasize the importance of praising them when they get it right enough! Crate Training Not everyone opts to crate train their puppy, but it can be useful for the earliest stages of Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training. The crate gives them a safe place they can call their own. Be sure to make the time they spend in the crate a positive experience, and never leave them in there for more hours than their age in months plus one hour. For example, a three-month-old puppy can be kept in their crate for no more than four hours. Socialization Dogs are social animals, and Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, in particular, are happiest when they spend time pleasing people and playing. However, building confidence takes effort and guidance from their pet parent. If you want to ensure they grow up to have a balanced personality, you need to expose them to plenty of dogs, people and different situations. Take them out and about as much as possible to help them become accustomed to a range of noises, sights and sounds. Bring them to a local dog park to get them used to spending time around other dogs. Manners Your adorable little pup has the potential to develop a host of bad habits, but these behaviors can be nipped in the bud. Temperament and Dealing with Small Children There are several steps to take while getting your canine cutie used to being a member of a family with children. Both pup and child will need to have clear boundaries mapped out for them so they can build mutual trust and be kind to each other. Let the child practice with a toy before they pick up or cuddle the pup. Ensure the child sits down when they play with the dog; this helps to prevent the pup from getting overexcited. Teach the child to do small tasks to help care for the dog, such as filling the bowl or helping with grooming. Knowing what to expect according to the time of day helps them to settle and feel reassured. Always wake them up at the same time, feed and walk them around the same time and do training exercises at a set time. Patience Is Everything! The best piece of advice for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training is to have patience. Spend lots of time bonding and playing with your pooch so you can make training something fun that you both enjoy. If you put in the effort early on, then you will be rewarded with a well-mannered dog who will be a joy to spend time with for years to come. Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and playful, but if you let your youngster do whatever he wants and allow him to think that he is the boss, then you may well end up with a naughty, attention-seeking adult. Lack of training usually plays a big part in why the dog develops some unwanted behavior traits. If you want a dog that you can take anywhere and who will be a perfect companion, rather than a pain in the neck, then spend time early on teaching him some manners and your ground rules. You may consider seeking the help of a professional trainer, but that option may not be practical or within the budget. This way, your puppy will get to learn and socialize with other dogs at the same time. You could also watch some Labradoodle training videos on YouTube, but it should not replace training with other dogs. If you decide to train your Doodle yourself, then remember the golden rule: training should always be based on rewards and not punishment. It should be a positive learning experience for both of you. Labradoodles can be sensitive little critters, and bawling at the top of your voice or smacking should not play any part in training. Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? Labradoodles are very intelligent and generally regarded as easy to train due to their easy-going temperaments and desire to connect with and please their humans. They have curious minds, and most will thrive on training if they get the chance to exercise their grey matter with some fun. Some Labradoodles are professionally trained to a very high standard to become guide or therapy dogs. Over the years, Labradoodles, especially Australian Labradoodles , have been bred with a specific easy-going temperament in mind. Early Labradoodles were often headstrong and hyper-active, but well-bred Aussie Doodles these days usually have great personalities and fit well into family life. Like most dogs, Labradoodles are pack animals and hierarchical. They respect the pecking order and are happy when they know and are comfortable with their place in it. They need to learn their place in the pack and accept you as a pack leader. You cannot force this on a dog by shouting and hitting. It has to be established by the natural order of things like mutual consent and brought about by proper training. If your puppy is not made aware of his place in the household and the rules to abide by, then he will end up ruling you and your family. Be firm, but never aggressive with your dog. If you do it wrong then, you will either frighten him or teach him to be aggressive. Keep training short and fun, especially at the beginning. If you have adopted an older dog, you can still train him, but it is a lot harder for them to unlearn bad habits. Training Tip 2: Your voice is your most important training tool Your dog has to learn to understand your language. The tone of your voice is very important. You should command in a calm, authoritative voice without shouting. Praise the puppy in a cheerful, encouraging voice, followed by a stroke or a pat. If your dog has done something wrong, use a firm, stern voice, not a harsh scream. This rule still applies even if your Labradoodle is unresponsive at the beginning. Training Tip 3: Only give command that you can enforce Labradoodles are intelligent dogs. Training Tip 4: Train your dog gently and humanely. Use positive and motivational methods to teach your puppy. Keep training sessions upbeat, so the whole experience is enjoyable for both of you. Training Tip 5: Begin your training from home How well your dog responds to you at home affects his behavior away from home as well. Training Tip 6: One command equals one response Give your dog only one command — twice maximum — then gently enforce it. Repeating commands or nagging will make your Labradoodle tune out. It also tells him that the first few commands are a bluff. But a relationship based on fear is not a good one, and it will undermine your relationship with him. He should trust that when he hears his name, good things happen. His name should always be a word that your Doodle responds to with enthusiasm, never hesitancy or fear. If he gets lots of attention when he jumps up on you, his bad behavior gets reinforced. Training Tip Timing is critical When your puppy does something right, praise him immediately. Similarly, when he does something wrong, correct him straight away. This technique works surprisingly well. Training Tip Give your dog attention when YOU want Labradoodles are sociable creatures, and they love being with you and involved with the family. While you are training him, it is good to give your puppy lots of positive attention when he is good. But if he starts jumping up, nudging you constantly or barking for your attention, then ignore him. If you give in to his every demand, then he will begin to think that he is the boss and become more demanding. Wait a while and pat him when you want, and when he has stopped demanding your attention. Training Tip Be Consistent In terms of rules and training, treat your fluffy little Doodle pup as a grown-up. Make him abide by the rules you want him to live by as an adult. You may want to put your pup on a leash to hold his attention in the beginning. Stand facing each other and hold a treat a few inches above his head. Stroke and praise him for as long as he stays in the sitting position. Practice it in short sessions until he does it every time. After a while, he should do it just from command, without moving the treat over him. When he does, give him a treat anyway. If he jumps up on his back legs and paws while you are moving the treat, be patient, and start all over again. Another method is to put one hand on his chest and with your other hand, gently push down on his rear end until he is sitting. Give him a treat and praise, even though you have made him do it. For example, when you are putting his leash on, while you are preparing his meal, when he fetches the ball, or when he is demanding attention or getting over-excited. They do it all the time with their siblings in the litter. It is a game for them. But when they arrive at your home, they have to be taught that human body parts are not for biting. Try not to encourage play-biting. As a puppy grows and feels more confident in his surroundings, and he may become slightly more aggressive. His bites may hurt someone, especially if you have children or older people at home. Make sure to have a soft toy nearby every time you have a play session with your puppy. When he starts to chew your hand or feet, clench your fingers or toes to make it more difficult and distract him with the soft toy in your other hand. Keep the game interesting by moving the toy around or rolling it around in front of him. He may continue to chew you, but will eventually realize that the toy is far more exciting and livelier than your body parts. If he becomes over-excited or too aggressive with the toy and starts growling a lot, then stop playing with him, and walk away. If your pup is more persistent and tries to bite your legs as you walk away, thinking this is another fantastic game, stand still and ignore him. Your puppy may well jump back in amazement, surprised that he has hurt you. Train a Labradoodle Not to Jump The reason why a labradoodle jumps up onto humans is that they want to get your attention and say hello. As you are taller than him, he has to jump to get your attention. Sadly, it might not be enjoyable for your guests or other people having an unknown dog jumping on them. As a dog owner, you must stop your dog from bothering other people. You can try the below techniques to train your labradoodle not to jump: When your dog starts jumping, follow training tip 9. Do not look into his eyes and stand straight up with your arms crossed. When his paws touch the ground, pat him. Repeat the exercise until he stops jumping. If your dog is jumping on a guest, then ask your guest to turn around and ignore him. Labradoodle Crate Training Crate training is the process of teaching your pup how to behave and enjoy spending time in a crate. Along with housetraining, this is one of the first things you should do when you get a new puppy. The idea behind crate training is that dogs like to have their particular spot. This place is a Safe Haven where only they can go. It teaches them to hold it until they are let outside to potty. Crates are not for every Labradoodle, and you should NEVER use them to imprison the dog while you are out of the house all day. Doodles are not like hamsters or pet mice, which can adapt to life in a cage. But, used correctly, a crate can help to: Housetrain your dog Keep your dog safe when traveling Create a doggy bedroom or place where your Labradoodle feels safe. If you use a crate, then remember that it is NOT a prison to restrain the dog. It should only be used humanely, and time should be spent to make the puppy feel like the crate is his safe little haven. Place the crate in the corner of a room, away from cold draughts or too much heat. Labradoodles like to be near their pack so, leave him where he can hear you. Crate Training Here are some techniques that you can follow to make your puppy to accept a crate and then to want to spend time in there. He might not be very happy about going in at first, but he will be a lot easier to crate train than an adult dog Drop a few tasty treats around and then inside the crate. Keep the door open. Do not close the crate door yet. Place a chew or treat inside the crate and close the door while your pup is outside the crate. He will be desperate to get in. Open the door to let him in and praises him. Fasten a long-lasting chew inside the crate and leave the door open. Let your puppy go inside and spend some time eating the chew. After a while, close the crate door and feed him some treats through the mesh. At first, do it for a few seconds at a time, then gradually increase the time. If you do it too fast, he will become distressed. Slowly build up the amount of time he is in the crate. For the first few days, stay in the room, then gradually leave the room for a short time, first one minute, then three, then 10, 30 minutes, and so on. The next points are very important to make the crate training successful: Do not let the dog immediately out of the crate while he is barking, or he will think that barking is the key to opening the door to the crate. Wait until the barking or whining has stopped for at least 10 seconds before letting him out. If you do decide to use a crate, remember that a dog is NOT a caged animal. Use the crate for limited periods and only if your dog is comfortable in there. NEVER force a dog to go in and then lock him in for hours on end. From about the age of three weeks, a puppy will leave his sleeping area to go to the toilet. Therefore, you need to teach him that it is unacceptable to make a mess anywhere inside the home. It depends on how quickly your puppy learns and how persistent and patient you are. Follow these steps to speed up the potty-training process: Constant supervision is essential for the first few weeks if you want to house train your puppy quickly. This is why it is necessary to book the week off work when you bring a new puppy home. Making sure you are there to take him outside regularly. If nobody is there, he will learn to urinate or poop inside the house. Take your puppy outside to the same place every time. Dogs naturally develop a preference for going in the same spot or on the same surface -often grass. Take him to the same patch every time, so he learns this is his toilet — preferably an area in a far corner of your garden or yard. No pressure — be patient. You must allow your Doodle pup to wander around and have a good sniff before he does his duties. Stay around a short distance away instead of leaving him. Sadly, puppies are not known for their powers of concentration. They may become easily distracted, and it may take a while for them to select that perfect spot to wee pee on! Share the responsibility. Just make sure you stick to the same routines and patch of ground. Take your pup outside at the following times: As soon as he wakes — every time Shortly after each feed. Over 6 Months Old 8 week old Labradoodle Puppy Training At 8 weeks old your puppy has only just arrived home, so your main focus will be on helping them to settle in, bonding and starting that all important potty training process. Potty Training Your brand new puppy will need to have the opportunity to pee as much as every twenty minutes for the first few days. They will also need to pee or poop after every meal, and every big drink. Socialization Have four different sets of visitors to the house, and go to at least four busy places with the puppy in your arms. Sweet Goodbyes Puppies find it hard to be left alone, so we like to sweeten up those goodbyes with treats! Every time you need to briefly leave the room, drop a handful of kibble behind you to make it seem like a good thing for your pup. Follow me Puppies are naturally inclined to follow you at 8 weeks old, and you want to encourage that instinct. When outdoors in the backyard change direction lots, and give lots of treats and cuddles in exchange for them coming after you. Recall Blow your recall whistle we use five short pips when your puppy is running full pelt towards you. They will have started to understand that outdoors is the place to pee, and have gained a tiny bit of bladder control. But they will still need a lot of help! Socialization should still be in full swing this week, and your increasingly confident puppy will need help remembering to keep her teeth to herself. Potty Training Your puppy will still need lots of opportunity to pee outdoors in order to reduce accidents. Socialization Meeting people is really important this week. Take your puppy to four new places, and have four sets of visitors. Carry them while you are outdoors. Rewarding Eye Contact Whenever your puppy looks up at your face, pop a treat in between her paws or into her mouth. This will start to encourage her to look up at you more often, in the hopes of something scrummy. We close our treat laden palm when the puppy approaches, open it again as they back oiff and feed the treats to them with the other hand. This helps them to start learning that staying calm and keeping a little distance will get you treats quicker than biting and snatching at them. This week you might start to see those teeth come into action. Remember to remove attention from the puppy when they bite hard on your skin. At just under 3 months old your puppy will have lots of confidence, and be accidentally getting themselves into all sorts of jams unless you are really careful. The window for socialization is closing soon, so make the most of those last couple of weeks to build up their knowledge of people and the world around them. Potty Training At 10 to 12 weeks your puppy will be able to hold its bladder for maybe as long as two and a half hours during the day. If you get an accident in the house, reduce that time down again. And make a note of when your puppy pees so as not to lose track. Over these weeks try to go to two new busy places and two new sets of visitors each week. Rewarding calm behavior Now is the time to help your dog learn to relax. Every time you catch your Labradoodle puppy relaxing, pop a treat between their paws. This will encourage her to chill out even more! Introduce off leash heel position You can start to teach your dog to walk nicely next to you at this point. We begin this process by reinforcing them for standing next to you with the clicker and treats. Recall To work on your recall, whistle your puppy for running towards you as you run away. Give them lots of treats as a reward when they arrive. You can also whistle when giving meals to build up strong positive associations with this cue. Bite inhibition Labradoodle puppy biting can really ramp up at this age. Remember to remove attention when your puppy bites hard. Either standing up, or even leaving the room or popping them in their crate or playpen temporarily while they calm down. This is your final chance for socialization, and it needs to be carried out in a more relaxed way. But at least you can pop your pup on the ground now! Recall Whistle your puppy for running towards you as you walk away, rewarding them with lots of treats when they arrive. Stand with your puppy on the leash, and carry them between locations so as not to upset future heelwork progress. Introduce sit We introduce the sit at this stage, but in a very relaxed informal way. We do so indoors only, when there are no distractions. This is begun without a cue or command, by capturing the position. Potty training should be pretty established. Your goal is to encourage your dog to focus on you and to become a well mannered member of the family. Your puppy should still be given the chance to pee at least every two to three hours. As well as after meals! Changing directions Puppies are more confident at this age, so you need to keep them keen to stay near you. When outdoors in the backyard or at the dog park, keep changing direction regularly. Be unpredictable, and when they follow you back it up with lots of fuss and treats. Off leash heelwork Off leash heelwork training moves from establishing the position to taking a few steps forwards at this stage. Make sure you use lots of praise, and only practice in a familiar, boring area. And one with no distractions! Go slowly, and make sure your pup stays focussed on you. Introduce down We also introduce the down position at this age. This is done without a cue like the sit was the previous month, by capturing the position. Advancing the sit The sit advances further at this stage. Once that is well established, you can begin to very slightly increase duration and distance one by one. Adding distance, duration or distractions to things they already know. Where you get your dog used to doing as you ask them, in different locations or with distractions. Or for longer! Adding distance, duration or distractions We do this step by step, only increasing one thing at a time. So if you want your dog to sit for longer, you will do it somewhere they already happily sit and with no one else around. And thinking of adding a distraction like another dog? Then do it somewhere they are familiar with, and with that dog a long way away to begin with. On leash heelwork We love teaching heelwork off leash. It helps your dog to walk nicely next to you, without ever having the opportunity to pull. A dog that has never wandered ahead is less likely to try to do so even with a leash. Training Methods I cannot recommend positive reinforcement training enough. Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog when they do something that you want them to, by giving them something they like. Food is usually the best thing to motivate your dog with, but toys work well for some dogs too. When you use positive methods you can start training your puppy from the very first day they arrive in your home. And logical to know how far you expect a puppy to be able to have come at different developmental stages. Labradoodles are clever and focussed, but they also have a fairly high prey drive. Training is a marathon, not a sprint, and every dog takes their own time. Just remember to only move on to more challenging training situations for them when they have totally mastered the stage before. Related Articles. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Labradoodles, one of the earliest of all the Doodles, make terrific family pets. These loveable dogs are great with adults and children alike. However, early Labradoodle training and socialization are critical to their development. They require a calm yet firm and consistent hand to ensure they know how to act both in and away from home. With a bit of research, some hard work, and a little patience, you can develop a secure, loving, and mutually respectful relationship with your pet. Below we have outlined different types of training, listed a few must-have items, and have included some top tips for dealing with common obedience issues. Training is the very last thing on your mind as they wriggle sweetly about in your arms and lick your nose. You just want them to feel happy and loved with their new family, right? Well, guess what… the very best way to make your new canine friend feel quickly at home with you is to establish clear boundaries from the get-go. This is more about setting ground rules so as to not leave them confused when they are allowed to do something one day and suddenly not the next. Training is all about developing a consistent routine. For example, make sure to feed your new puppy and let them out to do their business at the same times each day. This all goes towards helping them feel comfortable and secure in their new environment. The owner would do everything they could to establish their alpha status over their dog and use this status to control them. As our knowledge of dogs has improved, we have moved away from intimidation and coercion for shaping long-term positive behaviors. We know now that it may seem effective in the short term, but the end result is a fearful pet that is more likely to lash out when they feel uncomfortable. Many modern methods encourage good behavior rather than discouraging bad behavior — although this is done in slightly different ways. Despite what some trainers may tell you, there is no one-size-fits-all method for training your dog. Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement is based on the theory that dogs will repeat any actions for which they are rewarded. Treats, verbal praise, and play can all be used to mold behavior. This method also focuses on developing positive associations with both you and with training that will have your pup clamoring to learn even more. With this style of training, unwanted actions are simply ignored. The idea behind this is that owner attention is simply another form of reward — whether you are telling your pet that they are being good or bad. Not acknowledging an unwanted behavior removes the positive reinforcement, so it is less likely to be repeated. The issue with this is that some bad actions can be their own reward, e. In such circumstances, the owner might respond by removing a favored treat or toy. This is known as negative punishment. It differs from positive punishment, which would be shouting and hitting. Clicker Training Reliant on the same principles as positive reinforcement, clicker training is often utilized by professional trainers. Best for Clicker Training Compare Products Benefits of the clicker include marking the exact point at which your dog does what you want them to do. In this way, they will know precisely what they are being rewarded for. With long-term use, the sound itself can even become the treat — your pup will derive pleasure from a job well done. However, your dog needs to first be trained to associate the clicker with a treat. This is done by asking them to carry out a behavior they are already familiar with, using the clicker when they do, and promptly administering the treat. Any issues with the dog are considered to be the fault of the owner. The dog is simply a mirror in the process, reflecting what the owner is doing and feeling. The owner needs to figure out what they are doing wrong. Similarly, a dog that has developed a close attachment with its owner will mimic their actions in order to please them. If they sit on the ground, their pup will copy them — they are learning by example. This copying behavior also extends to other dogs that they have an attachment to, so proper socialization is vital to the process. Another important aspect of this method is allowing the dog the freedom to develop and make the best use of their natural instincts. Dogs are often trained off the leash, and much of the training and associated games focus on hunting, defending, and retrieving. In this way a strong bond is developed between the dog and the owner. Relationship-Based Training This hybrid of other training styles also relies on a strong connection between a dog and its owner. It depends upon this cooperative relationship to achieve mutually beneficial results. However, relationship-based training does require greater patience than other methods, especially in the early stages while the bond is formed. They also need to understand what motivates the animal and make effective use of this knowledge. While positive reinforcements are applied, the owner also sets their pet up for success by carefully controlling their environment. Training will first occur in a quiet place free from distractions and new puppies will have their house access limited while toilet training. By far, the biggest requirement is high-value rewards to reinforce behavior. By high-value rewards, we mean things that your pup absolutely loves. Best Training Treats These can be a good option. However, moderation is essential with snacks. Go for healthier options and consider alternative reward options like toys. The latter is particularly recommended for training, for younger dogs that still pull on the leash, and for giving you a lot more control of a more powerful pup. Many seasoned dog owners also swear by crates for things like toilet training , for making traveling with your pet that much easier, or for just giving them a place to call home. Yet, it also means that they will happily run rings around you if you let them. The sad truth is that plenty of beautiful but boisterous Doods have ended up being kicked out of their new home because their inexperienced owner did not know how to properly train them. Here are a few issues you may encounter while teaching your Labby D the right way to behave in your home and around your family. They are opportunistic eaters and will happily chow down on whatever they can get their cute little paws on. While counter surfing may seem funny the first time it happens, it can quickly become super frustrating. Probably the most effective way to prevent your dog from stealing food is to just remove temptation in the first place. Use positive reinforcement methods to help your pup understand what is expected of them. Avoid giving them mixed messages by feeding them off the counter or table you are trying to prevent them from jumping up to. Jumping Up Most Doodles, Labby ones in particular, are incredibly sociable dogs, but they need to learn how to behave around other animals and especially around people. Socialization training is a key aspect of getting your dog ready to be out in the real world. The more people they meet and spend time with, the less exciting it will all seem. Over-excitement is usually what lies behind jumping up behaviors and barking ones covered below. Pushing the dog down is the natural response, but to them this is all part of the game. Instead, you need to withdraw attention. Simply turn and walk away. You might then encourage your pup to sit when new people approach them and ask that the person only pets them when they are doing this. Barking Labradoodles are not usually nuisance barkers. If they are spending a lot of time making noise, chances are something is seriously upsetting them. Barking can signal everything from boredom to separation anxiety. This can help you understand how best to manage it. Socialization can make your pooch feel more comfortable around people, and other dogs, while access to toys may make them happier about being left home alone. Training can then be used to encourage your dog to refrain from barking. As with other unwanted behaviors, avoid rewarding them with your attention when they are barking. Provide them with treats only when they are quiet and calm. You may also want to train them to respond to a command that will tell them to quit barking. Pulling on The Leash Leash pulling can be a major issue for most canines before they walk properly to heel — young, excitable Labradoodles are no exception. Walking calmly at a much slower pace than they would like does not come naturally to canines. Pulling is also self-rewarding for dogs. They are getting to where they want to be, often at a quicker pace than before. However, this daily tug-of-war is likely to be far less fun for you and your poor arm. The quicker you can get your pet leash trained, the better. When they start to pull, simply stop and wait for them to return to your side before moving on again. See Also: Click the image Digging Digging is another activity that many active dogs love. This behavior can be difficult to combat because the digging itself is the reward — it can be a lot of fun for them. There are several possible solutions to prevent your back yard constantly resembling a churned-up cow field. The easiest one is to keep your pal stimulated and occupied. Up your exercise game — throwing in active play alongside frequent walks to keep them plenty busy. Finally, you might consider providing your pup with their own special place to dig and encouraging them through positive reinforcement to restrict this behavior to that part of the garden. In our experience, it does seem to work…until they simply find a new place to dig. Good thing poop is abundant! Biting and Mouthing Nipping and chewing are normal puppy play behaviors done with love and fun in mind. Aggressive biting in this breed signals an often serious underlying issue. Puppies will lightly bite their playmates as part of a game. Older dogs will rarely engage in such behaviors. Chewing, on the other hand, could be a sign that your young dog is teething , or that your adult dog is bored. Determining which one your dog is doing and identifying the possible reasons why are crucial. Both teething and boredom chewing is usually easily cured by providing appropriate chew toys. Biting especially in older dogs could indicate that they are stressed, fearful, or in pain. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with further support with this issue. Eating non-food items is not just antisocial, it could result in some pretty serious health problems, including intestinal blockage that requires surgery. However, they can be pretty good fun to chew. Chances are your pooch is just looking for something fun to do to relieve their boredom. Dogs also instinctually chew to keep their teeth clean and their jaws strong and healthy. The simple solution as covered with avoiding chewing behaviors is to substitute your socks for a much more interesting-looking chew toy. Then aim to keep your socks and other chewables well out of their reach — especially dirty ones which seem to be by far the bigger draw. Consistency is crucial for helping your dog to understand the rules of this game. Get into a fast pattern of letting them out at the same times each day first thing in the morning and last thing at night are both vital and taking them to the place you would prefer they relieved themselves. Keep in mind that there will be accidents and setbacks — there always are, but given time your dog will learn. Refrain from punishing or reprimanding your pet when they do slip up, as this could make them anxious, which will make the problem even worse. See Also: Click the image Professional Obedience Training For Dogs If your dog is exhibiting many naughty behaviors, it may be time to seek professional help. Oftentimes, at-home obedience training for puppies is combined with professional training or puppy classes. You can access these amazing resources and professionals from anywhere, to help you have the most well-behaved Doodle around. Need help with training? This makes them much easier to train than other breeds. The fact that they are so people-focused means they usually enjoy learning new skills and tricks. How do you discipline a Labradoodle? Disciplining dogs is rather an old-fashioned idea based on erroneous notions about how dogs live in the wild. However, some owners may discourage bad behavior by removing a treat or favorite toy for a while or by withdrawing their attention. What is the best way to train a Labradoodle? There is no best way to train any dog. Most owners swear by rewarding good behavior with treats, games, praise, or using a clicker to help your dog better understand when they are doing something right. However, it takes time and practice to find the right method and to get it to work for the both of you. A fair amount of patience is needed — especially in those very early days. Your little baby is not going to understand everything you are trying to teach them right off the bat.

Cream Frenchies Cream Frenchies have a coat color that is pale or light-colored, which is often described as a shade of off-white or ivory. The Black Mask pattern gives the impression that the dog is wearing a mask, which is why it is called a black mask. Take a look for yourself! The white patches vary in size and shape, and they can be solid or have brindle spots on them. Usually, the white patches are on their chests, however, they can be present anywhere on their coat… their head, back, paws, chest, tail, etc. Not all black Frenchies look the same! While the black coat color is not recognized by the AKC, it is still a desirable and popular color for many French Bulldog lovers. A lack of pigment cells The reason for this is that these genes are associated with a lack of pigment cells which give the appearance of their coats. This affects the small hairs in the ear There are small hairs in the inner ear that are called cilia, and when there is an extreme lack of pigment cells, the cilia may not develop properly, resulting in deafness. Hearing tests can rule out deafness If you are interested in a predominantly white French Bulldog or are just concerned about the possibility of your new puppy being deaf, be sure to ask your breeder about performing a BAER test. Blue Frenchies This one always confused me at first… Blue Frenchies are not actually blue! They have a coat color that is often described as a light grey or silver-blue color, rather than a true blue color. The color is a result of a dilution gene that affects the black pigment in the coat, resulting in a lighter color. Blue Frenchies can vary in shade, ranging from a pale grey color to a darker shade of blue-grey. While there is testing available for Color Dilution Alopecia, there is no cure. The Blue color comes from a dilution gene that affects the black pigment in the coat, while the Fawn color is a result of a Tan or Cream base color. A picture can explain better than I can… just look at my Blue Fawn Frenchie! Merle Frenchies Merle Frenchies have a coat color that is characterized by a marbled or dappled pattern. Not AKC recognized Due to these health concerns, the Merle coat color is not recognized by the AKC for French Bulldogs, and reputable breeders typically avoid breeding Merle Frenchies to ensure the health and well-being of the dogs. Chocolate Frenchies The brown chocolate-like Frenchie is one of the cutest colors out there in my opinion! The chocolate color can vary in shade, ranging from a lighter, milk chocolate color to a dark, almost black chocolate hue. The chocolate color is a result of a recessive gene that affects the black pigment in the coat, resulting in a brown color. As the name implies, Chocolate is a dark-brown coat color that is quite rare to see in Frenchies. Never seen a Chocolate Frenchie? French Bulldog Markings officially recognized by the AKC are… Piebald— A coat with large areas of white, mixed with patches of any other color. Black mask— A black mask around the face that covers the muzzle and eyes. The rest of the coat can be any color. Black markings— Any black patches on the coat, which may be small or large and can appear anywhere on the body. White markings— Any white patches on the coat, which may be small or large and can appear anywhere on the body. Brindle markings— A pattern of dark stripes on a lighter background color. The stripes can be any shade of black, brown, or gray, and may be thin or wide. However, as mentioned earlier, Frenchies can also have other markings that are not recognized by the AKC but can still be present in the breed. Other French Bulldog Markings You might see Frenchies with these markings, but the AKC would disqualify a Frenchie with these markings not important unless you want your dog to compete in AKC dog shows Ticked— this marking refers to small dots or flecks of color on a white or light-colored background. Spotted— this marking refers to small, evenly distributed spots of color on a white or light-colored background. Tan Points— this marking refers to tan or rust-colored markings on specific areas of the body, such as the eyebrows, cheeks, legs, and under the tail. This coat pattern is not officially recognized by the AKC. What Ticked Frenchies look like A Frenchie with a Ticked Coat Pattern Piebald Frenchies The piebald pattern is when there are spots of unpigmented white fur on top of the pigmented colored fur. The truth about most of these fad colors is that they are made by breeding Frenchies with other dog breeds. Believe it or not, these Fluffy Frenchies are actually purebred Frenchies— the gene for fluffiness is just extremely rare. Breeding Frenchies is a lot of work! What makes breeding French Bulldogs and hence Frenchie puppies so expensive is that they require artificial insemination and c-sections to reproduce. Their very slim hips make it very difficult, if not nearly impossible for them to reproduce naturally. Not to mention, vet bills, high-quality foods for the puppies, and housing just add to the cost of breeding Frenchies. These colors are not officially recognized by the AKC. Blue Fawn — This is what color my Frenchie is. While Frenchies may come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns, there are only a handful that are officially recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC. Posted on. Colors in French Bulldogs are black, cream, blue, chocolate, cocoa, lilac, and Isabella. Patterns are brindle, pied, merle, fawn, tan points, and solid aa. One of the most common coat patterns is brindle. Brindle creates a striping effect on the coat and varies in its coverage. The color of the stripes are fawn fawn is typically beige, but fawn can range anywhere from off-white to dark red. Some dogs have very minimal striping and some are what we call reverse brindle where the striping is so heavy that you mostly see the fawn. Brindle is inherited in a dominant manner, so it only takes one copy of the gene to produce this coat pattern. Any coat color can display the brindle pattern over top. For example, black brindle, cocoa brindle, chocolate brindle, lilac brindle, and Isabella brindle. KbrKbr and KbrN is a brindle dog. NN is a non-brindle dog. This is a blue brindle puppy. You an see the faint stripes of fawn popping through the dark grey base coat. Brindle is easier to spot on the sides of the body and legs compared to the head. Brindle puppies are typically born looking as if they are solid in color. However, as they start to grow the brindle striping becomes more apparent. Many of her offspring also had brindle that looked nearly solid, while a few brindles were born with the apparent stripes that this pattern is known for. The second most common coat pattern is pied. Pied breaks up the coat into spots separated by a white base coat. The areas that receive color can be predicted in the offspring based on where the parents patterns were. Some pied dogs retain most of their coat color and this is called an Irish pied. Some pied dogs have so little color retained that they appear nearly completely white- we call this extreme pied. There are some health concerns surrounding the pied coat color especially in extreme pied dogs. When the areas around the ears and eyes lack pigment these dogs can be at risk of being born congenitally deaf, and though uncommon sometimes with diluted icy-blue eyes lack of pigment in the eyes. So it is favorable to select breeding stock with a good amount color on the head, at least if breeding pied in your program. Pied is typically inherited in a simple recessive manner, meaning you need two copies one from mom, and one from dad to produce this coat pattern. I have come across a small number of dogs that display a pied pattern but only carry one copy of the pied gene or even no copies of the gene- this is very rare and not yet understood, nor do we have the genetic testing available to distinguish the responsible gene. Pied can be combined with other coat patterns, such a brindle and merle. SS and Ss is a non-pied dog. Again, pied is a coat pattern- not a coat color. So you can have a black pied, blue pied, cocoa pied, etc, dog. This dog is a lilac fawn irish pied, owned by Peerless French Bulldogs in Texas. This French Bulldog has excellent head pigmentation. Both the eyes and the ears are completely covered in color. Merle is a coat pattern that breaks up the coat color into splotches. Merle is a deletion gene, meaning it deletes pigment from the coat in a random fashion. Merle is inherited on a spectrum. Some dogs display only small cracks in the coat color while some dogs coats are deleted so much that only small dots of the original coat color remains. Merle is also a dominant gene, meaning it only takes only one copy to display this coat pattern. It is advised to never breed a merle dog to a merle dog due to health concerns in the offspring. These health concerns mirror those of extreme pied dogs. When too much pigment is deleted from the eyes and ears in double one merle gene from mom, and one merle gene from dad merle dogs, they can be born deaf, blind, and even missing eyes in the most severe cases. There are no known health concerns with breeding a merle dog to a non merle dog with regards to the double deletion- as only one deletion will happen as only one parent is merle. As mentioned, the areas that are affected by this coat pattern are random. If the merle pattern randomly lands over the eyes one time, it turns the iris an icy crystal blue. Sometimes only one eye is affected by the merle gene and you get a dog with one blue eye and one hazel eye. This is called heterochromia. The merle coat pattern can combine with any other coat pattern as mentioned previously with pied and brindle. Merle over a black coat typically deletes the pigment to an off white. Merle over a cocoa or chocolate coat deletes the pigment to a beige. Merle over a blue coat deletes the pigment to a light grey. MM is a non-merle dog, and Mm is a merle dog. This dog is a blue and tan merle. You can see that her left eye is just partly icy-blue. This dog is a lilac fawn merle with heterochromia. She does have splotches over her body as well, though faint as the base coat color of fawn is a light beige as is, and is diluted to a white in the areas that merle deleted pigment. Fawn ay a hue of beige, anything from a very light off-white, to a deep red fawn is possible. Meaning, when the dog has one copy the hue of fawn is diluted from red to beige. Two intensity dilution genes create a very light beige fawn. InIn is a deep red. InN is a medium red. And NN is a light beige. This puppy is a standard black masked fawn. This is the most common hue of fawn seen in French Bulldogs- the beige fawn, This is a standard black masked fawn with a red hue of fawn. This color is also referred to as just red fawn. Fawn ay can be modified by sable. Fawn and sable are somewhat interchangeable as sable is inherited and displayed on a gradient. When sable is minimal or non existent visually we call the dog fawn. When a breeder decided to call a dog a sable vs a fawn is up to their individual discretion. Sable will take whatever base coat color the dog is i. Sable can be so widespread that the dog appears tan pointed or even solid in color. Typically standard black fawns and sables have the deepest hues of red when selected for red. While the most diluted coat colors such as lilac and Isabella have a lighter beige fawn. My hypothesis from years of breeding is that the least diluted coat colors black have more pigment in the hairs to begin with- not just in the black hairs but in the fawn hairs as well. Which is why I have seen super super dark red standard black fawns with black noses , and only orange, at most, fawns in lilacs with light grey noses. These puppies could all simply be referred to as standard fawns, or sables. Or one might call them starting from the left: red fawn, standard fawn, sable, red sable, Another angle showing how sable covers the coat vs fawn. From top to bottom I would call these puppies standard fawn, red sable, sable, and red sable. Again, its up to the breeders discretion. We could simply call them all fawn or all sable as well. Tan points is a recessive gene and requires two copies to make the pattern. Tan points create lighter socks, chest, eyebrows, and cheeks over the base coat color of the dog. The remainder of the dog is their base coat color i. This dog is cocoa and tan. This dog is lilac and tan and also carries brindle. The tan points are muddled as the brindle gene covers them up. Tan and brindle dogs are also referred to as trindles. Solid is a recessive gene and requires two copies of the gene to display the coat pattern. And so, we have one locus with three possible genotypes, meanings we have 2 x 3 genetic combinations that can fill this gene. Ay is dominant to at, which is dominant to a. Currently the American Kennel Club ranks them at number 4 in their long list of most desirable. These dogs make their point communicating with expressive eyes, energetic attitude and possibly the Frenchie Talk. French Bulldogs are excellent watch dogs who adapt well to family life or single. They don't mind being inside most of the time. They get along well with cats and other pets and they like to make friends with your guests and family who drop by. No wonder this a favorite dog for city life from Europe to the US and beyond. The Frenchie dog breed comes in a variety of unusual colors. This article will look at rare colors found in French Bulldogs like merle, lilac, blue and more. Those colors come in pied only if the mother and father are both pied in theory. Rare colors in French Bulldog puppies can be exceptionally expensive and there is some debate about how healthy a rare colored Frenchie can be. Frenchies are one of the few breeds that come in a bewildering variety of colors. Most Frenchies are Brindle. This is a dark colored coat mixed with lighter color strands of hair and the most frequently found color in the Frenchie. Fawn is a lighter tan colored coat that can range from very light to a dark reddish tan. These French Bulldogs often have a darker face mask and ears with some brindle streaks thrown in for variety. The third most common color in this breed is white. White French Bulldogs have a very porcelain white coat and most of the time come with a darker mask. Frenchies with tan points - black and tan Frenchie, blue and tan Frenchie, lilac and tan Frenchie, chocolate and tan Frenchie etc. Trindles - French Bulldogs which have brindle in their tan points. All black French Bulldogs - with no trace of brindle is also quite rare. The Blue French Bulldog is one of the rarest colors. For that reason alone people pay very high prices for them. There is usually a waiting list for blue aren't so much blue as gray puppies. You can expect to pay twice or triple as much for a blue French Bulldog than the average price for a standard French Bulldog. Blue Frenchies are quite striking however can be prone to Color Dilution Alopecia or CDA ;a recessive inherited condition that causes patches of hair thinning or loss. This is most commonly seen in dogs with blue or fawn coats. The puppies are born normal looking, but the hair thinning and loss symptoms can start at 6 months up to several years later. It is most often associated with Blue Dobermans. CDA is not curable but it's fairly easy to manage. It is important to mention that our blue Frenchie never suffered from any symptoms to his coat. Not all blue Frenchies will be prone to the coat problems however, your vet can help you keep your blue French Bulldog healthy and happy if any issue arises. Blue Frenchies get cold easily - Some owners have stated the blue Frenchie gets cold easily, we are unsure if this is just a myth or based on actual research. Either way French Bulldogs can't regulate their body temperature well. Having any Frenchie in cold climate is not ideal due to their short coat. If you live in a cold climate there are ways you can keep your Frenchie warm. Always dress your French Bulldog with our specially tailored for Frenchies hoodies , Frenchie pajamas etc. The blue Frenchie skin condition can also impact your grooming regime. We have not experienced any of the above with our blue Frenchie. We also know plenty of the standard color Frenchies who suffer from skin conditions and allergies. We are not trying to promote or discourage buying the standard or rare colors we simply don't discriminate over colors. We love all our French Bulldogs friends that come in all colors of the rainbow. What are the different coat colors of a Blue Frenchie puppy? All Blue Frenchie - meaning all blue without any other colors to the coat. Blue Pied Frenchie - Frenchies with blue coats and patches of white or cream on their bellies, chest, legs etc. Blue fawn Frenchie- Frenchie coat that looks like a mix of blue and fawn. Blue brindle Frenchie - Blue coated French Bulldog puppy with brindle streaks. Blue merle Frenchie - a combination of different patches and streaks that are irregular and unusual. Blue and Tan Frenchie - Blue coated French Bulldog puppy with tan points usually around paws and face. A sable Frenchie usually looks like a fawn Frenchie with darker black hairs covering throughout the coat. There are rare Frenchies with cream or tan sable coats as well. Isabella French bulldogs Isabella color in French bulldogs come from dilution of the recessive gene. A Frenchie puppy can be born with a blue coat and mature to a more of a pale greyish brown or golden coat. For a puppy to acquire this rare coat color he or she needs to have the genotype dd. DNA of an Isabella Frenchie puppy will be ddbb which means that he or she will have two copies of each chocolate and blue gene. The Isabella Frenchie is the only lilac that is testable for the chocolate gene therefore some French Bulldog breeders consider the Isabella to be the true lilac. This rare French bulldog color is usually the most expensive due to their stunning looks and variety of rare coats. Isabella Frenchies usually look different with lighter shades of noses and eyes. Why are they so much more expensive than other popular breeds? Most Frenchies can't have live babies the normal way. They have narrow hips that aren't designed for natural birth. The high price tag reflects the expense of artificial insemination and c-sections to deliver the puppies. They also require constant attention and care when they are born. They require many health and genetic exams. These dogs have always been expensive. Reports have it one of the wealthy individuals named Robert Williams Daniel who survived the Titanic had his Frenchie along with him. While Robert survived when the ship sank on April 15th, sadly his French Bulldog did not make it. Many breeders would agree good breeding practices can greatly reduce the risks of genetic disorders that can lead to hearing loss, hip problems, and respiratory illness in French Bulldogs. Buying a well bred French Bulldog can help avoid a lifetime of vet bills and care. You are much more likely to get a happy, healthy dog who can enjoy a full, rich life. Merle is a pattern in a dog's coat. Merle French Bulldogs can have tiger stripes, spots, or patches. These come in different colors and patterns and are determined by heredity and genetics. Health issues can occur when two merle dogs are bred, therefore breeders usually mate a merle parent with a solid coat parent. While Merle French Bulldogs can be quite exotic and strikingly beautiful, this kind of breeding can come with a number of serious problems from skeletal defects to blindness to deafness to increased fetal mortality. This is why it is extremely important to choose a reputable Frenchie breeder. The blue merle is the rarest of colors that exist in the Frenchie breed. They are best described as gray with spots or how we like to call them cookies N' cream. They are so different from the standard common French Bulldog however, being that rare may not be a great thing especially when one considers all the health problems blue and merle Frenchies can have. It is important to mention that some merle French Bulldogs can live a healthy uneventful life. It is critical and essential to find a reputable breeder with good breeding practices especially when considering a rare color Frenchie. Also expect a blue merle to come with a hefty price tag. One of the most in-demand of rare colors is the Lilac French Bulldog. The lilac Frenchies are only produced occasionally and usually by breeders limited to the West Coast of the United States. They have a purple lilac coat color that can be quite attractive. Price is always higher than the already expensive standard French Bulldog puppy. Excellent Lilac Frenchies have a distinct color and vibrant eyes. This happens when they receive a combination of chocolate and blue DNA from both parents. As you can imagine, this rarely occurs. The Lilac coat can range from cool blue to a very classy looking silver and purple hue. Some have white markings on their chest and face. Another rare trait are their light colored eyes. This remains from the time they are puppies throughout life unlike the standard French Bulldog. The rarest colors of French Bulldogs are blue, lilac, blue and tan, and chocolate and tan. Add that Merle coats. A blue merle is perhaps the rarest of them all. In a world where a standard French Bulldog costs several thousand dollars, these rare colors can sell for tens of thousands. Since rare color Frenchies are prone to health and genetic problems , it is extremely important to find a reputable breeder who uses responsible breeding techniques with the right precautions otherwise you may be sinking your life savings into a dog that will be at the vet all the time, will be sick and may die prematurely. Rare Frenchies are just that - rare. Active breeders may only see one every few years if at all. Most rare colors are produced by breeders who specialize in producing them at a more frequent rate. Breeding rare color French Bulldogs is serious business. Most rare color breeders are running family operations dedicated to become experts in producing the highest quality rare French Bulldogs possible. Breeders expect to spend a significant amount of time answering your questions and sending you information. Be sure to ask them questions about the health of the puppy, their bloodline, and what to expect. The Frenchie is sweet and charming. It's no wonder so many people love their little Frenchie. These dogs are compact, muscular, lovable, and oh so smart. They are just right for apartment life and smaller homes with diminutive yards. Rare colors in French Bulldogs are perhaps the most exciting development in this already delightful breed. Rare colors in this breed can come with health issues so it is imperative to seek a reputable breeder who specializes in rare colors which will greatly reduce the risks of genetic disorders. They surprised me. She is now a mom to a Lilac , Brindle, and a pure Black babies. So exciting. I have a six month old male frenchie. When will he be sexually mature to breed? He has a blue tan coat I believe. Do I get a free puppy after? Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Jera Benedict June 02, I have a black and tan make frenchie. I have several female frenchie owners asking what is my stud fee. He is 1 year old. He has the markings if a rottweiler. He has never been sick, has all his shots and was bred by a private breeder a former veterinarian. I have read numerous reports that I should beware of illness and disease. How rare is it to never have healty issues with the Blue Merle? Thank you so much for all the info! Where can I find info about it? Thanks Jules April 13, Very interesting reading thank you! Both parents are Kennel Club registered and Mum has Champion bloodlines. He has really strong red eye in the dark, does this mean he is a true Lilac? Thank you. I had to send AKC pictures for color matching. Frenchiestore Team March 03, Hi Georges, It sounds like one of the parents for your future Frenchie puppy is blue which is a rare color in French Bulldogs. Rare colors in the Frenchie breed can come with health concerns so it is vital you get your puppy from a reputable breeder who specializes in rare colors and does genetic tests etc which will greatly reduce the risks of genetic disorders in your Frenchie puppy. Thank you for your question, we hope we can continue giving you valuable information about the Frenchie dog breed. Thank you for reading and commenting on Frenchiestore blog, we hope we can continue giving you valuable information about the Frenchie dog breed. Gracias Joe A wonderful article. I learned a lot from reading this and gained some insightful information. Thank you for providing. Laurie October 02, Hi Benita, Thank you for the feedback. We hope we can continue giving you valuable information about the French Bulldog breed. We hope you found valuable information about potty training your Frenchie and other related topics that will help with bringing the puppy home. These sweet, mild-mannered pups are as playful as they are affectionate. However, one of the most difficult parts of choosing a French Bulldog to add to your family is deciding which color your new pup should be. There are nine AKC-recognized Frenchie colors, but more than two handfuls exist. However, such is not the case for the French Bulldog. As a matter of fact, there are 9 Frenchie color combinations that are accepted by AKC standards for show dogs and so many other color combinations otherwise. Although they appear to be pure white, these pups are technically considered to be pied. This is one of the accepted color standards for an AKC show dog. However, instead of a bright snowy white, this color is more of an off-white or eggshell color. Like the white French Bulldog, there will be no other patches of color around the body. They range anywhere from a light sandy brown French Bulldog to an almost deep reddish-brown color. One thing to note is that Fawn colored pups often come with a black mask or a darker fawn or black stripe down their backs. White and Fawn French Bulldog Image Credit: Vikafoto33, Shutterstock In this particular color combination, the dominant color is white while the accenting color is fawn. Again, the fawn may range from dark to light in different shades. And just like its opposite, this color is an AKC-recognized combination. The brindle Frenchie is another AKC-accepted coat. Brindle and white is another dog show certified color combination. The brindle patches are commonly located on the mask and neck area of the dog. However, brindle patches may be found along the body. This is yet another color combination accepted by the AKC. These pups have a predominantly fawn coat with secondary Brindle accents. Their coats are solid black with no traces of any other colors or brindling. There is also speculation that this color has been linked to alopecia more so than other colors. Blue Brindle French Bulldog. Acceptable The numbers in the right column are the official AKC registration codes for the coat color. Brindle French Bulldog One of my favorite color patterns, which also happens to be one of the most popular, is the Brindle. Rather, brindle refers to both a color and pattern. At the same time, there are thin black colored stripes that give the coat a unique texture. Still, I admit they look the best on a Frenchie. However, pied is very different from Brindle. In this case, pied refers to a white base color with patches of dark color. These patches and spots can range anywhere from dark gray to brown or black. It really depends on the dog. However, the problem with pied Frenchies is that they lack pigment — which can potentially lead to heath problems down the line. Though this pattern is recessive, it can be specifically bred for. If you think about it, Pied is the exact opposite of Brindle. Just make sure you acknowledge any potential issues. However, you can definitely find one with a little patience in your search. The cream color of the French Bulldog is pretty self-explanatory. They have a solid coat with their iconic eggshell color seen in the base of the pied Frenchie. Again, cream is not a color exclusive to French Bulldogs. Some even owners prefer the mask because it adds a nice contrast. For this reason, expect to pay a premium price if you want to get your hands on a Cream Frenchie. Frenchies with a fawn color can come in a tan, or with a reddish-caramel. Like with the cream variation, a Fawn Frenchie does not have any spots or patches. However, the only other color markings can be a subtle mask or markings in other places around the head and ears. In addition, these markings tend to be darker than the coat color. The contrast of the tan color with the often black mask looks really good in my opinion. Few will have the chance to ever witness the blue fawn. But what causes this French Bulldog to produce this blue hue? According to French Bulldogs LA , the blue is the result of inheriting a recessive black dilution gene. Blue Fawn French Bulldogs have a double recessive dilute gene, as well as two genes for the fawn color. For instance, some of these dogs come in a darker blue coat, which is generally caused by a copy of the brindle gene. A blue fawn dog will usually have a dark shade of fawn as the base, with a blue hue most noticeable on the ears and back. Or, it can be in all three places. A copy of these genes are carried over — one from each parent. The result is a gorgeous gray color base with a noticeable blue shade. But what really sets them apart from the Blue Fawn is the brindle pattern on top of the blue coat. Most of the time these dogs will develop light-colored eyes as well. For this reason, expect to pay premium dollars if you plan to get your hands on one of these. However, these colors are arguably even more rare than the others on this list. The means that one copy of the recessive gene must come from each parent, making it slightly more difficult to breed for. What we do know is that Chocolate Frenchies can range from a light milk chocolate color to a dark brown chocolate. In addition, their eyes also will vary greatly in colors — such as yellow, green, gold and more. Black Frenchie The last but not least is the classic Black Frenchie. You can expect the coat to be glossy and smooth without any brindling at all. Black means black, without a trace of brindle. Just by browsing online puppy marketplaces and adoption sites, I see plenty of them. And by that, I mean breeders have to specifically breed for these colors or at least attempt to. For example, blue merle Australian Shepherds are okay. This genetic defect is potentially harmful because it creates known abnormalities in how pigment color gets distributed to the hair of the coat. In short, this can lead to stunted growth of fur, which may eventually lead to hair loss. Also, with hairless patches on the skin, French Bulldogs are susceptible to secondary skin infections. Doing so will only make things worse. At the end of the day, is it really worth getting a Blue French Bulldog if potential and serious health problems may arise? No matter what color, a French Bulldog will be an affectionate and endearing companion for years to come. Most of the time, these colors are the result of a recessive gene as opposed to a dominant gene. Plus, most ethical and reputable breeders tend to avoid them if possible. However, if the breeder advertises and charges a premium for these colors, I would stay away. What do you think of these Frenchie colors? Let us know which is your favorite in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. Black Frenchies Pure black Frenchies are quite easy to recognize as they possess no traces of other colors. What we mean by that is that they have a solid black coat color with no brindle pattern more about that later! Pure black French Bulldogs are actually not as common as one would think, which makes them rather special. Red Frenchies Like the name suggests, red French Bulldogs have a light brown coat with a reddish shade. These puppies usually have black markings around their muzzle and eyes called a mask, and they also tend to have a white patch on their chest. Red fawn Frenchies Red fawn French Bulldogs are essentially the same as red Frenchies with a reddish shade of fawn color, but their coat has a sort of ashy shine. These puppies also tend to have a black mask and dark markings around their eyes and ears. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Beige Frenchies The color beige in Frenchies is also very similar to red, but it is a lighter shade of fawn. Beige French Bulldogs usually have a black mask but can also be maskless. Cream Frenchies Cream Frenchies have a unique eggshell color. Their coat is distinctively different from even the lightest fawn colors, being almost white with a bit of yellow in it. Cream Frenchies have no markings on any part of their bodies, so it is considered a solid color. Their nose, lips and paw pads may be pink or a somewhat darker almost black color, and in rare cases they may have forever blue eyes. Blue Frenchies Blue French Bulldogs are essentially grey whose color may vary from light grey to almost black. What makes them stand out is the bluish shine in their coat that is most visible when the light touches them. They often have a white chest which gives them an even more appealing look. These beauties definitely attract a lot of attention: blue has arguably become one of the most wanted Frenchie colors in the world. Blue fawn Frenchies Blue fawn in French Bulldogs is a combination of a light fawn color and blue. More specifically, these puppies have blue parts around their muzzle and eyes instead of black, and their light coat has a beautiful bluish shine. Similarly to blue, this rare French bulldog color has become one of the most popular among our adopters in recent years. Lilac Frenchies Lilac French Bulldogs are often mistaken for blue Frenchies, but they are much more unique and harder to come by. Lilac Frenchies have a very light, almost ashy or silver color which gets lighter and lighter as they age. To produce this rare and beautiful color, the parents have to be blue and chocolate or at least a chocolate carrier. Lilac French Bulldogs usually have light-colored eyes such as yellow, light brown and blue which are glowing red. Lilac fawn Frenchies Lilac fawn Frenchies look very similar to blue fawn Frenchies, but they are much rarer! Lilac fawn French Bulldogs have a light fawn coat color with an ashy or silver shine rather than blue, and their mask is also of a lighter, ashier grey. They have light eyes that are glowing red, and similarly to lilac Frenchies, both of the parents need to carry blue or chocolate to produce this unique color. Lilac sable Frenchies Lilac sable French Bulldogs are almost the same as lilac fawn Frenchies, but these puppies have black fur growing evenly all over their bodies, especially on their back. This gives their coat a bit of a darker shade rather than being ashy. Platinum Frenchies The platinum color in Frenchies is optically similar to albino but retains some luster in their coat as opposed to the pure white seen in albino. It is also similar to a light cream color but it is off-white or sort of silver-looking. What makes them special and highly valuable for breeding purposes is that they carry the most colors in French bulldogs: whichever color a platinum Frenchie is mixed with, the puppies will be of that color. They are certainly very rare and unique dogs. Similarly to lilac Frenchies, they are the combination of blue and chocolate but they have a much more unique greyish liver coat color. Isabella Frenchies are extremely hard to come by, which makes them incredibly valuable for breeding purposes. White French Bulldog Even though white is considered a standard French Bulldog color, an all-white Frenchie is still very rare. They are not to be confused with cream Frenchies who have a more yellowish shade of white. Sometimes pied Frenchies more about that below! Chocolate Frenchies You have probably guessed already that chocolate French Bulldogs have a chocolate brown base coat, which may vary from a light to a really dark brown. The chocolate gene is considered rare in the Frenchie world so these puppies are quite unique. Check out our. They originated around the s in France as the result of mixing very small British Bulldogs. The French tended to prefer these smaller dogs over the larger ones, so they were the options that were often imported into France. Over time, this led to the French Bulldog. The original Bulldog became too different from those developed in France, so they became their own breed. These stocky, compact dogs are pretty popular companion animals. They come in many different colors. For instance, French Bulldogs come in brindle, fawn, white, and brindle and white. They are disallowed in a lot of different colors as well, though. Many of these dogs are extremely expensive. You can expect to find them for tens of thousands of dollars in some cases. Producing rarer colors is no joke. A usual breeder may only produce a rare color every few years. Even a breeder that specializes in a rare color may only get a couple of dogs a year. Some of these dogs are prone to health problems due to their rarer coloration. For this reason, finding a good breeder is significant. Many of these dogs are difficult to find. Plan on staying on a waiting list for a long time before you end up with one of these colors. It may take a year or more before one becomes available. Most breeders that sell rare colors are running family operations. Often, the current owner learned from their parents, who may have even learned from their parents. They have carefully cultivated these genes over a very long time, which is why they can produce puppies with such an unusual color. Most of these breeders are experts on dogs. After all, you have to be after dedicating so much time to these canines. We recommend asking these breeders all of your questions. Be sure to ask about genetic testing and the health of their dogs. Where the puppies are raised is often crucial for socialization purposes. Sable Sable French Bulldogs are not the rarest by any means. However, they can still be challenging to find and often cost more than other French Bulldogs out there. They are technically another version of fawn, which is an official color recognized by the American Kennel Club. Instead of the usual fawn color, these dogs have a fawn coat with black tipping. Many of these have a reddish pigment alongside their basic fawn coloration, which will make them look a bit tanner. The exact shade of their fawn color can vary widely. Some are pretty dark and have much more black tips; others are incredibly light. There are no known health problems associated with these colors. Blue Blue is one of the most well-known rare Frenchie colors. This is mainly due to social media, where many celebrities have shown off their blue dogs. Many people describe them as a slate color. There is some controversy surrounding this dog breed. To understand why this color may cause different health conditions, it is essential to understand how it comes about. To have a blue coat, the French Bulldog must inherit two copies of the dilute gene. This gene is recessive, so the dog has to have two copies. Otherwise, their other genes will cover up the color, and they will simply be a carrier. However, this gene affects more than just the color of the dog. It seems to play a role in the health of their coat as well. Many dogs with the blue gene are at a higher risk of color dilution alopecia. This condition causes patches of hair to thin and fall out. It sometimes includes flaky and itchy skin as well. No studies have been done yet. However, many other breeds with blue coloration do have this disease, so there is a good chance it will affect the Frenchie. This is quite expensive for a dog, especially a smaller one like the French Bulldog. Chocolate The chocolate gene is recessive. For this reason, Chocolate French Bulldogs are pretty rare. For a dog to be chocolate, they must inherit a recessive chocolate gene from their parents. Otherwise, a dominant gene will cover the recessive gene up, preventing the dog from looking chocolate at all. These dogs vary in shade. Some are darker brown; others are light brown. They tend to have lighter eyes like most diluted dogs. You can find them with eyes of green, brown, golden, and bright yellow. There are no known health conditions associated with this color. We may simply not know about the potential health complications yet. Lilac Lilac French Bulldogs are also quite rare. They are one of the rarest colors out there. One reason they are so rare is that they must inherit both the blue and chocolate gene. Both of these genes are rare in themselves. The dilute gene that causes the dog to become blue dilutes the chocolate and causes it to become a lilac color. Usually, this means the dog is very light blue and may even look silver. Most have lighter eyes and a pinkish tint to their face. This is more expensive than either the blue or the chocolate. As you might expect, these dogs are prone to the same health problem as the blue Frenchie. After all, they do have the same genetics. However, you should be aware that they may be more prone to certain skin conditions. Cream Cream Frenchies have an eggshell-like color. They are sometimes mistaken as white French Bulldogs. However, they are not nearly as lightly colored. They have a tan-tint that sets them apart. Furthermore, these dogs will also have darker lips and eye rims. This color is one of the few on this list that the AKC accepts. Therefore, it may appear in dog shows occasionally. However, its rarity still means that more common colorations often overtake it. Pure Black Completely black French Bulldogs are difficult to find. Be sure to ask for pictures of the dog before settling on a puppy. Many people are very drawn to the utterly black coloration. However, they tend to be rarer, so you may end up paying a bit more for them. Black and Tan As the name suggests, a black-and-tan French Bulldog is almost all black, except for a few tan markings. These markings are usually on their face, ears, neck, and chest. Some dogs have more tan markings than others. The exact shade also varies quite a bit. Some are lighter and may fall into the fawn category. Most will be a darker brown, however. Despite not being completely black, these dogs are still more expensive than your average Frenchie. You usually have to find a breeder specializing in black dogs, as they can be difficult to find otherwise. There are no health problems associated with this specific coloration. Black and White Black-and-white French Bulldogs are primarily black but with a few white markings. Piebald dogs are almost entirely white with a few different spots of color. However, black and white French Bulldogs will be primarily black. The white markings usually only occur on their neck and chest. Some may have more white markings on their face, belly, and legs. The extent of the white markings varies widely and can be difficult to determine until the dog gets older. Merle Merle is probably one of the most controversial French Bulldog colors. While Frenchies naturally carry the genetics for the genes we have previously discussed, this is not true for the merle gene. The genetic code for this color had to be introduced to the genetic line somewhere. It is expected that most merle French Bulldogs have Chihuahuas somewhere in their pedigree. It is a dominant gene, so the dog only needs one to end up as a complete Merle. This gene only affects the coloration on a black-based coat, not a red one. However, it will make them more prone to health problems. The main problem with the merle gene is that it has been shown to cause health problems in all the dog breeds that it affects. We may not have exact data on Frenchies, as the merle pattern is infrequent in this breed. However, we know that it negatively affects the Chihuahua, which is likely where the French Bulldog got the merle gene. These dogs are prone to a variety of eye problems. The merle gene affects how the dog makes pigment, including in their eyes. Therefore, many of these dogs end up with some sort of eye issue, such as microphthalmia , ocular pressure problems, and colobomas, among others. Hearing problems are common as well. One study found that dogs with single merles have a 2. Luckily, many dogs adapt well to being deaf or blind. In many cases, you may not notice that your dog is deaf or blind until months down the road. Blue Fawn The blue fawn French Bulldog is fawn but with the dilution gene. However, they do have the gene to make blue puppies, so they are commonly referred to with blue in their name. They often have signs of dilution on their mask, noses, ears, and paw pads. They also have a slightly different mask color, which is how they are distinguished from regular fawn Frenchies. They also have lighter eye color, as the dilute gene tends to affect their eyes as well. These dogs vary widely in cost. While they may not look very exotic, they are often sold for more because they can produce blue puppies. However, those sold without breeding rights are often relatively inexpensive. Often, they look the same as a lilac. They also have the same genetic code: two copies of the chocolate gene and two copies of the dilution gene. The only reason this color gets its name is that the chocolate is testable. This means that the breeder genetically tested the dog to ensure that it was carrying the chocolate gene. This is the only way to ensure that the dog is an Isabella Frenchie. It has to be tested. Because the extra testing goes into proving that these dogs are true lilacs, they often cost more. They are easily one of the most expensive French Bulldog colorations out there. Currently, these are the most difficult French Bulldogs to find. You have to go to a breeder specializing in this coloration and then likely sit on a waiting list for a long time. Due to their increasing popularity, there is a chance that they will become less rare in the future. After all, breeding two Isabella French Bulldogs together will give you a litter full of them. The only colors currently accepted by the AKC are white, cream, fawn, and variations of these colors. Markings are allowed as well. One of the main reasons these colors are accepted above others is because they were the most common colors when the breed standard was written. The breed did carry these genetic traits for the most part since they were first bred. Many of these colorations have just now come into the forefront. The most expensive color is the Isabella Frenchie. This color involves the dog inheriting two copies of two rare genes. These genes are rare by themselves. When you try to breed a puppy with both, it often takes a considerable amount of time and effort. Plus, these dogs have been genetically tested to ensure that they do have the two-color genes they look like they have. Often, dog colors can be a bit confusing. Knowing precisely the genetics a dog has is very helpful to breeders, as it helps them breed the specific puppies they want. Often Isabella dogs are purchased by other breeders to produce more Isabella dogs. These dogs easily go for high 4-figures or even 5-figures. What is the best color for a French Bulldog? The color only affects aesthetics in most cases, though some do affect health. You may like how lilac dogs look but not be willing to pay thousands of dollars for them. Some people consider the best colors to be those without any health problems attached. This would make all colors suitable except for those with the dilute gene and the merle gene. Truthfully, this eliminates many rarer colors, as many of them rely on the dilute blue gene. French Bulldogs tend to be expensive anyway. A Frenchie is a Frenchie — no matter what they look like. What is a platinum French Bulldog? These dogs are not particularly rare, though they are rarer than some other colorations. These dogs can easily cost a few thousand dollars extra. Are Tan French Bulldogs rare? French Bulldogs with any sort of tan marking tend to be rarer than some other markings and colorations. Often, there are plenty of tan puppies available at any one time, but you may have to pay a bit extra for them. These markings are not the rarest by any means. However, if they are added to another rare coat, you can expect them to be quite a bit more expensive. A black Frenchie with tan markings is often more expensive than a plain black Frenchie — who are usually expensive anyway. You often have to find a breeder that mainly produces puppies with tan coloration. Otherwise, these dogs can be hard to find. Breeders often have to have dogs on hand with the tan coloration. What color is my Frenchie? Figuring out the color of your French Bulldog can be challenging. Sometimes, this is easy to figure out. Other times, not so much. If the parents had a recessive coat color, it is often easy to figure out what genes they passed onto the puppies. However, parents with dominant coat colors can be carriers of other genes. The only sure way to know the genetic code of your dog is to get it tested. Their coat color has been proven. Someone genetically tested it instead of guessing based on what they looked like. Conclusion There are many rare French Bulldog colors out there. Many of these are pretty expensive, as you might expect. More coat colors are being produced all the time, primarily because it pays to produce rare Frenchies. However, some of these colors are prone to health problems, so be sure to do your research before you buy something simply because it looks nice. The last thing you want to buy is an expensive dog that also has expensive health problems. In the end, what French Bulldog you want to purchase depends largely on your aesthetic preference. If you want a rarer dog, you should plan on waiting longer and paying more. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

You have come to the right place. This variety of German Shepherd has a beautiful coat and many dog lovers would like to own one. Below, you can find out what makes this pup so special, some myths debunked, and why finding a pup for yourself may be harder than you think. What is a Bi-Colored German Shepherd? Black and tan are the most common hues associated with this breed. So, what are bi-colored German Shepherds, in that case? This term traditionally refers to German Shepherds that are almost completely black , except for small spots of lighter color throughout their bodies. These patches of color can be found near their legs, under their tails, in their eyebrows, or the face. At first glance, a lot of bi-color German Shepherds are mistaken for black German Shepherds. This is because black is the predominant hue and the patches of lighter shades may be quite small or well-hidden. If a dog has even a small portion of another color, however, they are classified as bi-color German Shepherds. It should be noted that this term is only applied to German Shepherds with this specific coloring. The easiest way to know if a German Shepherd falls into the bi-color category is to check under the tail with black puppies. If there is a lighter patch of color, these pups can be classified as bi-color. Not everyone sees bi-colored German Shepherds as having a coat of a different color. Many breeders classify bi-colored pups as simply having a pattern of their own. Despite this, the AKC does approve and accept bi-colored dogs. These pups may be more readily accepted in working lines , however, where they tend to do better. Many German Shepherd enthusiasts may never see a bi-colored pup in real life, but just how rare is this dog? And is it possible to find one for your family? This distinction belongs to solid white, solid blue, solid red, solid grey animals. There is also the fact that this breed is more common than most people realize. They are often mistaken for being black German Shepherds. Increased awareness of what bi-colored German Shepherds look like may result in more of these pups being identified. All reputable breeders only consider health, physical traits, and intelligence when breeding animals together. They will often ignore coat colors as this has little bearing on the wellbeing or desirability of the puppies. Such breeding methods could ensure that the bi-colored German Shepherd continues to be an elusive hue for this breed. What Causes the Bi-Color Coat? It is only natural to wonder where these German Shepherds get their bi-colored coat from and why it is rarer. To understand this, you will require some background information on German Shepherd color genetics. If either of these colors is present in parent dogs, there is a higher chance of the puppies having coats with these hues. Black, on the other hand, is a recessive gene. This is why there are fewer numbers of all-black German Shepherds. Unless both parents carry this recessive gene, the more dominant colors will overshadow this darker hue. Even with two black German Shepherds, there is no guarantee that all the puppies will be black. As such, bi-colored German Shepherds also carry recessive genes. This makes it less likely for one parent to pass on the genes required for bi-colored dogs. This is why there is almost no way to predict whether or not puppies will be bi-colored. Instead, it is the luck of the draw. It also depends on the breeder you go to if you want a pup for yourself. How Much are Bi-Colored Puppies? As stated, bi-colored puppies will often show up in a litter without warning. This can make it difficult to determine how much these dogs cost. For the most part, the price will depend on the breeder. Some people may sell these puppies for the same cost as regular Shepherds as they are similar in every way to their counterparts. A few breeders may capitalize on this unusual coloring and charge more for this unusual coat. There is quite a bit to appreciate and understand about bi-colored German Shepherds. Apart from their unique coats, however, they are just like any other dog in their breed. Their coat certainly does make them a more exciting prospect, though, and a great addition to any family. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. As such, many breeders will not be motivated to sell this animal and might keep it so that other people do not breed it. You will often need to work with a specific breeder who is open to creating this coat pattern in order to get a Bi-Colored German Shepherd. Bi-Colored dogs can look black, and many people mistake them for being black at first glance. This is especially true with short-coated dogs, which might hide the lighter hair in their coat really readily due to their thick and short coat. This coat color comes through in the working dog lines more than show dog lines. You might have better luck getting this color of dog if you work with a hunting dog or sporting dog breeder. These breeders are less focused on the AKC aspect of being a breeder and more worried about the athletic performance of their dogs. Color is a very secondary item on their list in most cases. This coat pattern actually comes in Agouti, grey, brown, and black. You might not be able to see the lighter parts of the coat very well in the grey and light brown coats, but they are there. A breeder will know what to look for to recognize this coat pattern in dogs that are not black. Von Stephanitz saw the foundational German Shepherd dog in the German countryside after he joined the military. He fell in love with the beauty and personality of the dogs, and he quickly decided he wanted to have some of his own. As a result, he got a breeding pair, and he started making litters of dogs. He created his own registry as well, using his dogs as the foundational example animals to help guide the breeding program. This allowed the breed to be seen by more people and to become more well-known. Once the original breed registry dissolved, the Second World War helped save the breed from falling out of favor again. The German military used dogs for a variety of purposes, and they became well-known as police animals in the US as well. Today, German Shepherds are still some of the preferred dogs for military and police personnel due to their loyalty, athletic ability, and intelligence. The Bi-Color German Shepherd has never been intentionally bred for. This is an outcropping of a small number of genetic pairings, and it is not as common as black coats or black and tan coats. However, this color pattern can certainly come through in some letters, making it a color choice that you can opt to make. A Bi-Color German Shepherd can be hard to recognize. These dogs might appear all black or all brown to you when you first look at them. It takes looking under the armpits or along the belly or on the muzzle to really see the lighter hair peeking through in their coat. Many people are still not sure that they see any lighter hair unless the dog has a lot of contrast between the light and dark areas of its coat pattern. This coat color can also vary widely in its contrast. This means that the lighter parts of the coat might not be as light as you might expect. In some cases, however, the contrast will be really striking and noticeable. It can be easy to think that a Bi-Color German Shepherd just has some aberrant light hairs here and there. Just like regular German Shepherds, this breed lives for about nine to twelve years. There are many factors that can impact the lifespan of your dog, such as your dog getting cancer, having an injury, or being very active compared with being very sedentary. Always be sure that your dog is eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise. These factors are key to keeping your pet in the best health possible. German Shepherds live an average amount of time for a large dog breed, so you will not need to worry about them having a very short lifespan like a Great Dane might. You will need to make sure that your German Shepherd gets fed a quality kibble dog food that offers them joint support and a healthy balance of nutrients. If you are not sure what dog food to get, your vet can help you to create a feeding plan for your pet. Some people like to feed raw food to their dogs, but you will need to be sure that there is the right balance of nutrition in these foods for your German Shepherd. Not all of these foods are created equal, and some are not made to be healthy and well-balanced. The same can be said for feeding your dog raw meat as well. If you cannot get butcher cuts for your dog, you should avoid feeding real meat products due to the risk of contamination or dangerously high levels of fat. It can be a lot harder to feed your dog with raw food than you think. Kibble diets are very easy to feed, very stable, and can be trusted to give your dog everything that it needs to be in great health. This is one of the key benefits of feeding this type of food, and your dog will thank you for taking care of their health by feeding well-balanced kibble food. You should be sure that you are ready to commit to giving your dog at least a half hour of walking, running, or playing every day. Your dog will probably need even more time playing and moving around than half an hour, but you should make this your bare minimum. This breed was created to be a working companion to humans, and this is what they find to be the most comfortable. Keeping your dog busy can be as simple as teaching them lots of tricks, working with them on leash skills and manners, or taking them on hikes or long walks. Keeping your German Shepherd busy is key if you want them to have a long and happy life with you. Make sure that you have enough time and energy to keep your German Shepherd exercised adequately before you get one. Trainability and Intelligence This is one of the smartest dog breeds around. German Shepherds learn quickly and retain information really well. When these dogs feel connected with their family, they will work very hard to do anything that they are asked to do. You can count on your German Shepherd to embrace most tasks with joy and without complaint. For many dog owners, there is nothing as rewarding as working with a dog that loves to do what they are told. Top that off with the extreme intelligence of this breed, and you have a recipe for training success. These dogs also love to learn new tricks even into adulthood, so you should have no trouble continuing to learn and grow with your dog over the years that you own them. You can easily use your German Shepherd for agility work or for hunting. There are lots of great ways that your dog can compete, even if the dog show world is not the place for them due to their color. The Bi-Color German Shepherd comes from strong hunting dogs and working dog genetics, so they are always eager to help you to take care of tasks, learn new skills, and protect your home and property as well. Be sure that you do not encourage your dog to be aggressive toward people, as this can set a bad example for the behavior that you want your dog to show. You might have more consistent grooming to do if you get a long-haired German Shepherd, but both coat types are relatively easy to take care of. You will need to get some quality grooming tools to have at home. Most German Shepherds only need to see the groomer during the two times out of the year that they shed. This will be at the changing of the seasons. Also, be sure that you are not washing your dog too much. German Shepherd coats are made to repel water, to be easy to keep clean, and to be tough enough to handle running through the woods and the brush. Remember, these were sheepdogs in the beginning. Their coats are very practical and can be trusted to be pretty low-maintenance all year long. The bi-color coat pattern does not make them more prone to any specific kinds of ailments. This is more common in all dog breeds that are large and have deep chests. This might be the cause of a big meal, followed by lots of exertion, or it can just happen spontaneously. Surgery is necessary to correct this health issue. Hip and elbow dysplasia — By far the most common Shepherd ailment, this condition causes the hips or elbows, or both, to be unstable and wobbly. Dogs with this problem might fall down, have a hard time running or jumping, and be in quite a bit of pain. Eye issues- Some German Shepherds can be prone to eyesight issues. This is often checked out by the breeder, and all puppies should be certified to be free of these problems. Degenerative Myelopathy -This condition can cause weakness in the hind end, loss of coordination, and pain. It is a lot like ALS in humans and just as hard to treat or manage. While this list of problems might look discouraging to you, when you work with a skilled breeder, you should be able to get a certification saying that your dog will be free from most of these conditions. Breeders that care about their dogs will take the time to test the parents of all of their litters to try and avoid creating dogs with health issues. Since this coat pattern is rare, you might think that it will cost you more to get a dog with this coat pattern. In some cases, breeders will be trying to create this coat pattern, leading to higher costs to get a puppy. You might also need to be on a waiting list for a very long time to get a Bi-Color German Shepherd since this coat pattern is by no means guaranteed, even when breeding dogs that carry the right genes to make it possible. Make sure that you do not get taken in by breeders charging very high fees just because of the unique coat color of their dogs. Remember that these dogs can not be AKC registered, which means that there is a ceiling to how much they should cost. You should always trust your gut, and if the person that you are dealing with does not seem like they are upfront, look for another breeder to buy from. It is not worth it to struggle to make a deal to get a dog from someone who might not be a responsible breeder in the first place. Now that you know some more about the Bi-Color German Shepherd, you should feel more prepared to decide if you want to have one or if you think this is not the right breed for you. Make sure that you are ready to give your dog enough exercise each day, and also be sure that you feel that you are skilled enough to work with a large dog that is very driven. A dog trainer can help you to get the skills on board that you need to train this kind of dog if you are in doubt. The Bi-Color German Shepherd loves kids, having a job, and spending time with humans. This is one of the best dog breeds out there for beauty and intelligence, and getting a unique coat pattern in the deal can be a great combination! If you have been thinking of getting a family dog, a Bi-Color German Shepherd is a great choice. She especially enjoys combining her lifelong love of dogs with her passion for writing. Read more about her.

Breed Info If you are thinking of getting a German Shepherd you may have wondered do German Shepherds drink a lot of water? This article will answer that question, explain how much water your GSD should be drinking on a daily basis, and things that could cause your German Shepherd to drink more water than normal. Yes, German Shepherds are large dogs and as such will drink more water than a smaller dog. In addition, German Shepherds are very active so they will need more water to keep hydrated than more sedentary dogs. Normally, dogs should drink an ounce of water for every pound they weigh on a daily basis, but I found that many German Shepherds drink a little more than one ounce per pound. My German Shepherd is 72 pounds, so that means she should be consuming around 72 ounces of water daily. However, there are various conditions that could cause your German Shepherd to need to drink more than this on a regular basis. If it seems like your dog is drinking excessively, look to see if any of the below conditions are present that would increase their need for water. When it is hot outside, your GSD will drink more as a way of cooling themselves down. Conversely, colder air tends to be drier, and the dry air can make your dog dehydrated, thus you may find your pup drinking more in the wintertime as well. Exercise Another reason your German Shepherd will drink a lot of water is because they have been physically active. Just like humans get thirsty when exercising, so do dogs. So, if your GSD just finished running around, expect them to be thirstier than normal. Medication There are a lot of medications that have the side effect of causing thirst in dogs. When my girl was put on antibiotics and an anti-inflammatory, the vet told me to expect her to need more water than normal. If your dog was just put on a new medication, that could be the cause of the extra drinking, but check with your vet to be certain. Illnesses Another reason a German Shepherd will drink more water is because they have some sort of illness. Conditions such as cancer, liver disease and diabetes require your dog to drink more water and their body tries to fight off the illness. Also, as stated above, sometimes the medications they are on to help with the illness also increases their thirst. Diet What your dog eats directly affects how much they drink. Dogs that consume a dry kibble will usually need more to drink than a dog that is on a wet food diet. Also, if you give your dog the occasional human food treat like peanut butter , bread , bacon , or fries you may find that they drink more after consuming these foods. Food that are dry, sticky, or salty will cause your dog to take some extra trips to the water bowl. Age Age is another factor is to consider when looking at water consumption. Puppies are known for drinking quite a bit. This is normal though because as your GSD pup is growing their bodies need more water to support their developing system. Older dogs can also drink more because elderly dogs are more prone to developing conditions that would cause thirst such as diabetes, various infections, liver or kidney disease among other illnesses. If you have an older dog that has been drinking more than normal, make an appointment with the vet just to be sure nothing more serious than dehydration is going on. Final Thoughts German Shepherds can definitely drink more water than some other dog breeds. Heavier water consumption is normal for a large active breed like German Shepherds but there are also other factors that can cause your dog to drink more such as age, illness, medication and the weather. An automatic water bowl is a great tool for providing fresh water all day long. And so as large and active dogs, German Shepherds tend to lose a lot of water from their bodies throughout the day. This then causes them to get thirsty and rehydrate. Simply put, German Shepherds drink a lot of water simply because they need to. In general, dogs need to drink at least an ounce or about 0. Meaning, a German Shepherd male that weighs an average of 71 to 88 pounds will generally drink 71 to 88 ounces or 2 to 2. While a female German Shepherd that weighs an average of 62 to 70 pounds will drink 62 to 70 ounces or 1. Instead, they cool themselves by panting to evaporate water from their tongues and mouths. In doing so, their bodies lose a lot of water that needs to be replaced. With that, German Shepherds that are exposed to extreme heat or physical activities need much more water than usual. Diet The type of food a German Shepherd eats also factors into water consumption. Those who eat wet canned food will tend to need less water than those fed exclusively with dry food. A combination of both may either increase or decrease water intake. Age German Shepherd puppies have their own set of rules when it comes to water intake and actually need more water than adults at one point. Medication Some medications may also increase thirst due to increased urine production and other side-effects. For instance, psychogenic polydipsia is a condition characterized by increased water intake for seemingly no cause or reason. Instead, this condition is often associated with boredom, stress, and attention-seeking behavior. So increased thirst and water intake can most definitely be a cause of concern. But the real question is, when should you worry? But to be certain, you can try to look for other unusual symptoms apart from excessive drinking. For instance, if you notice your German Shepherd excessively panting, has dry gums, and being lethargic, then it is most likely dehydrated and needs veterinary care immediately. Do also check for excessive urination as that may indicate a number of major diseases including kidney disease or diabetes. Final Thoughts To recap, German Shepherds drink a lot of water, but mostly because they need to. As large and active dogs they need to drink plenty of water daily to stay hydrated and function properly. So provide your German Shepherd free access to fresh and clean water all the time. Again, excessive drinking may indicate underlying medical conditions and warrant a visit to the vet. Post navigation. Simply pull the skin on the back of its head and let it go. If the animal is hydrated, the skin will easily return to normal. Here are other ways to prevent dehydration or help a dehydrated dog: Keep Your Dog Indoors The heat from the direct sunlight makes a dog lose water in the form of sweat or saliva. Thus, keeping it indoors will help lower its body temperature and allow it to stay hydrated. Feed it Wet Food You can buy wet canned food or prepare things like soup. To prevent them from ingesting disease-causing bacteria, you should close the toilet seat every time possible. Prepare A Cool Treat To make hydration fun for your german shepherd, you can prepare some ice pop by freezing a mixture of water and watermelon juice. Monitor the Liquid Intake To monitor how much water your dog drinks, buy a cup and refill it every morning. Repeat the process the next day as well. Feed A Homemade Electrolyte Solution You can treat initial signs of diarrhea or vomiting in dogs with this easy homemade electrolyte solution: Things You Need. Jan Reisen points out that how much puppy drinks depends on activity level, size, and age. Puppies consume more water than adults. When puppies start eating solid food, half a cup of water every two hours is reasonable. After weaning, a puppy needs half an ounce to an ounce of water per pound of body weight. An eight-week-old puppy might require 20 ounces of water daily. One of the reasons water is so vital to your German Shepherd puppy is because of its influence on the metabolic process. This process includes breathing, blood flow, brain activity, and digestion. Sufficient water, which makes up most of the blood supply, allows the blood to transport oxygen and clear away toxins that can harm your puppy. Because insufficient water negatively impacts this process, a dog is at risk of organ damage. How much water your puppy gets also allows them to regulate their body temperature. However, panting is a double-edged sword, in that your puppy loses more water during this process. When hot weather or heavy physical exertion is making your puppy pant more, the dog will require more water. When everything functions correctly, your dog will have an appropriate energy level. An adequate energy level helps ensure proper health. Taking up the water at night is a good idea, although you will need to make sure you have a consistent schedule. Water and food for your puppy should be taken up two or three hours before your family usually goes to bed. Any changes in how much your puppy drinks may require closer evaluation at your next vet visit. Even young German Shepherd puppies have good instincts about self-regulating their water usage. However, diarrhea, excessive urination, fever, and vomiting can all dehydrate your puppy. A diet of too much dry food can also cause dehydration. Making sure you know the dehydration signs so you can check your puppy for them makes a difference. Wendy Bedwell-Wilson emphasizes the importance of proper hydration and also points out a couple of ways to find out if your dog is adequately hydrated. Skin that snaps back into place is a sign of a well-hydrated dog, while skin that slowly snaps back is a sign of dehydration. Sticky or day gums are a sign of dehydration. Also, gently press their gums and see how long it takes for them to change back to a healthy pink color, no more than three seconds. When your German Shepherd puppy is mildly dehydrated, gradually give them smaller sips of water. Ice cubes can help provide extra hydration relatively quickly. You can also try an electrolyte powder mix, as these are quite effective. If your puppy is severely dehydrated, evidenced by a loss of skin elasticity, consider this situation a medical emergency. When your puppy has severe dehydration, IV fluids may be necessary to restore proper fluids. However, there are a few things you can do to encourage more drinking. The cleaner both the water and the bowl are, the more they will entice your dog. When you see your puppy drinking water out of the bowl, praise the dog and give them a treat. German Shepherds are very responsive to rewards, and associating drinking water with a reward will encourage them to do so even without prompting on your part. Offering the water in the form of ice cubes can be an enticement for a dog. Dogs often love ice cubes as a treat that provides plenty of amusement. Another bonus is that, if your puppy is teething, the ice cubes can provide relief. Using chicken or bone broth to flavor the water can also entice your dog to drink more of it. Sometimes the added flavor provides an incentive that water alone does not. However, make sure you check the water for freshness because broth can spoil. Sometimes, all you need to do is make water a little more interesting for your puppy. Dogs love the variety as much as we do. Your German Shepherd Dog can, in fact, consume too much water. Overhydrating, also known as water intoxication, can be just as dangerous as dehydration in its own way. If your puppy is showing symptoms, veterinary help might be necessary. When your dog plays in the water a lot of swims, they may accidentally swallow too much water. Drinking too much water at one time can also lead to this problem. It is important to always supervise your dog around water. Water intoxication can make your dog feel very sluggish and lose coordination, including having a staggering gait. Nausea, vomiting, and bloating are some of the gastrointestinal symptoms that might occur. Dilated pupils, excessive drooling , and pale gums are also signs of water intoxication. When your dog has these symptoms after having had a lot of water to drink or has been swimming, overhydration is very likely. Top Dog Tips highlights the importance of seeking veterinary help. More severe symptoms might include difficulty breathing, collapse, coma, or even death. Possible treatments include IV fluids for electrolyte balance, diuretics to help the dog urinate, and mannitol in case water intoxication has caused cranial pressure. Any water ingested can still be absorbed without intervention. There is nothing wrong with innocent water play, as seen in this video. Water is an important part of the overall metabolic process, which includes digestion, brain activity, blood flow, and breathing, as well as kidney and liver function. It also helps young dogs grow big and strong. Recommended Videos And, since a dog cools by panting, drinking water is essential for replacing the moisture that evaporates from their tongues, nasal passages, and lungs during the process. Lastly, a well-hydrated dog has a moist nose, which aids in their ability to smell. One of the best ways to make sure your puppy is drinking enough water is to set up a schedule. Instead of leaving a bowl out for them to drink at will, ration their intake. Every few hours, measure the appropriate amount of water into their drinking bowl and call your puppy. Encourage your pup to drink the water, and when they do, reward them with praise and a few minutes of playtime. When you add potty training to the mix, you need to be mindful of a few other factors. First, you want to reduce water intake at night since the goal is to work your pup up to a full 8 hours of sleep. Make sure they get a drink after the evening walk, say half an hour to an hour following a meal. Then put the bowl away for the night. This works especially well if you otherwise confirm that Fido has had enough liquid during the day. Overheating and illnesses, especially those that include vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, put puppies at risk of dehydration. Chewing on ice cubes adds an element of fun while it aids in hydration. Flavor drinking water with chicken or beef broth. Put a treat at the bottom of the bowl. Overhydration If it seems your puppy is drinking too much water, pay attention. Dogs, and puppies, in particular, are super curious. Your little buddy may just be playing in the water bowl, which is more of a behavioral issue than a medical problem. But if you think your puppy is doing more drinking than playing, they may have an underlying medical issue that needs to be addressed immediately. Symptoms of overhydration include:.

Kreative Kennels is a working line Professional German Shepherd breeder. We offer german shepherd puppies for sale , personal protection dogs for sale , police dogs for sale , family protection dogs for sale , family companion german shepherds for sale. We are striving to breed great working line german shepherds for the military, border patrol, police departments and family companions. We are breeding dogs that exhibit excellent prey drive, courage, intelligence and also have a ton of energy. We have purchased some of the best german shepherd stud dogs available in the Czech Republic and Germany for use in our kennel. The same is true for our females. Kreative Kennels employees have personal contact with all of our german shepherds every single day of the year. We also evaluate the performance of each dog after its training session. We test all of our german shepherds dogs in real life surroundings. Kreative Kennels located in California is a relatively new venture that came about as a result of a present. We began researching pedigrees and titles, unable to quell our interest in the beauty of the working line German Shepherd. We have high expectations for these dogs; their pedigree and ability is that convincing. Our german shepherd stud dogs and breeding females are carefully selected. Their list of accomplishments speaks for itself in regards to quality. German Shepherd Dogs are the perfect dog to own. Their impeccable training allows them to be not only a superb guard or protection dog but also the perfect addition to any family. Feel free to contact us to schedule a visit or discuss any of our fine dogs. Any reproduction of any part of this website is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use any of the content of this site, Please contact us at npalffy kreativekennels. Demand is strong especially in uncertain times and we recommend early reservations. Many litters sale out completely before they whelp. Shipping is available anywhere in the United States! All of our German Shepherd Puppies are raised with a family environment which assures each has an outstanding temperament for any family. Our GSD puppies are bred to create the most intelligent, versatile, good-natured temperament, and devoted companions possible. German Shepherds make excellent pets for families and many also provide personal protection of life and property. Baumwolle German Shepherds is located in Bunker MIssouri with shipping available to you, sometimes personal delivery. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in the World today. They are considered by many to be the pinnacle of canine evolution. German Shepherds are fearless, brave, cleaver, hard-working and their ability to learn quickly make them ideal for any home. There is no better companion than our large Red and Black coated German Shepherds because they are courageous and loyal. .Early Reservations are Recommended!!! Thank you for visiting our website and contact us for the most up-to-date German Shepherd litter information. We are conveniently located in Wisconsin, two hours from Chicago. This makes us easily accessible to animal lovers all around the country. Shipping is also an option and our location means cross country shipments are not a problem. We also provide stud services in East Troy, WI. The Roche family has been raising and providing show quality German Shepherd puppies for sale since .Each of our dogs is raised in our home which socializes the animals and gives them a stable environment as they are starting their lives. We introduce the puppies to the outdoors at four weeks. At six weeks of age we begin their NuVet supplements which gives them an advantage as they begin their lives. German Shepherds are known as an exceptionally smart breed of dog. They are frequently utilized as bomb sniffing dogs as well as K-9 officers and for search and rescue operations. Because they possess such a good nature, they are also excellent pets for families with kids. For these reasons and more, German Shepherds are the most popular breed of dog in the world. Because of our strict breeding standards and excellent bloodlines, our dogs are highly sought after. They are extremely trainable, loyal, and hearty. We are also members of the American Kennel Club. Because we are a relatively small kennel, we are able to treat each animal with the individual attention it deserves. This ensures that the quality of our dogs is of the highest standard. We are a family-owned, professional German shepherd breeder located in beautiful Larkspur, Colorado. Our dogs in our breeding program come with clear-in-the head character, safe nature, and stable nerves. We welcome your visit to our kennels in Douglas County, Colorado. We believe in our German shepherd puppies breeding program, you should too! Our kennels in Larkspur, Colorado, we breed German Shepherd Puppies with world-class parents, top working, show line pedigrees. Confident, self-assured puppies bred for families. We are confident in our purebred German Shepherd puppies; you will be too. Click Here Working line German Shepherds Our working German Shepherds with full working titles are bred with focus and the ability to work, eagerness to learn and accomplish the given role they were originally bred for. Clear in the head, safe nature, and stable nerves to function in any environment with courage, intelligent and stability to exceed your expectations. The most sought after world-class and world champion pedigrees in the world! This is the best puppies you can get, unmatched in every aspect of the top working show line German Shepherds. Click Here Trained German shepherds Our trained puppies include potty and crate training, socialization skills within a family home environment including other animals, cats and dogs. Object orientation in building confident, self-assurd puppies with motivation to perform. Our puppies live with our families, our children, interacting daily in our homes. Click Here German Shepherds Buying an older puppy or a young adult trained German Shepherds can be risky and could end with disastrous results. We are number 1 out of 50 Top rated breeders in America!!! Rated by happydoggo. There are scams out there who use our brand. Their website may look exact the same since they duplicate our website or their domains look similar. Our website is vomragnar. We take payments only over the phone by a credit card or with quick pay Zelle. Our brand name is patented. We are licensed breeders in Illinois. These phone numbers has Chicago Illinois area code. Please do not trust scammers and beware. We are the top rated German Shepherd licensed breeder located in the Northwestern suburb near Chicago, Illinois. We show and train our dogs with known World Champion trainers. We offer German Shepherd puppies for sale as well as trained adult German Shepherd dogs. Our German Shepherd puppies range from 8 weeks old to young males and females. We ship dogs within United States and Worldwide. Please contact us about pet transport information. Owned and operated since by Natalya Babenko. Not interested in award-winning show dogs? No Puppy Mills Our puppies are our babies. All of our puppies have plenty of wide open spaces to get all of the physical exercise their growing bodies need Puppy Power We work hard to match the perfect pup for you and your family. Give us your preferred puppy specifications and expectations and we will do our best to surpass them Breeding purebred West German Showline German Shepherds are our passion. If you share our passion and is looking for a German Shepherd breeder that specializes in providing the highest quality show dogs, protection dogs, working dogs, service dogs or family companions, your search just ended. You can reserve the puppy over the phone and pick up the puppy at 8 weeks old. Our Chicago kennel has several litters each year. However, we strive to breed healthy dogs with best bloodlines in mind. We breed dogs with good temperament and character. We breed to the established SV Standard. They are black and red, solid black, and red sable in color. Our dogs are raised and socialized in a home environment with children and other dogs. We are proud of our achievements! Take a look at the latest show results. Why To Choose Us.

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Well, you get the German Shepherd Lab mix, a lovable crossbreed with all the great personality traits you could ever want in a family dog. Also known as Lab Shepherd mixes or Shepradors, these mixed breed canines are highly sought after. The parent breeds are some of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Like all crossbreeds, Shepradors combine the physical and personality traits of their parents, resulting in a one-of-a-kind companion. Because they are a designer dog , there are no established breeding guidelines or standards. Oftentimes, pedigree information is scarce as well, creating a lot of unknowns. Canines are fully capable of crossbreeding on their own. In fact, many of the purebred dogs we know today are a result of centuries of careful breeding. As we mentioned earlier, this crossbreed is a direct result of breeding purebred German Shepherds with Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retrievers have a very long history that dates back all the way to the s. Back then, they were working dogs that often helped out fishermen. Eventually, these dogs made their way to England where they became companions for European royalty. German Shepherds were working dogs, too. However, their main job was to herd sheep and other livestock for farmers. Today, Labradors and German Shepherds are very popular the world over. .Though, they are popular for very different reasons. Typically, Labs are known for their companionship. They make great family pets and are often used as guide dogs for those with disabilities. Meanwhile, German Shepherds are revered for their athleticism and intelligence. German Shepherd Lab Mix Temperament The beauty of mixed breed dogs is that they take on traits from both of their parents. German Shepradors are a perfect example of this. These dogs are a joy to be around. Whether that required physical work or simply good behavior, these pups are up for the task! Like all dogs, German Shepherds and their subsequent crossbreed are products of their environment. Shepradors make great family dogs. The combination of intelligent thinking and loyalty can prove to be useful in a home setting. Your watchdog will do all they can to protect your home while still being down for cuddles. However, helping your pup grow up to be obedient and well-behaved is manageable. You see, these dogs are very intelligent. In fact, some might say that they are too intelligent for their own good. This mainly comes from the German Shepherd side of the dog. German Shepherds are notorious for being stubborn. Shepradors can take on that personality trait, making the training process a bit more challenging. They may require more time and patience to truly understand things. Another issue you might encounter with German Shepherd mixes is the need for regular mental stimulation. Because they are so intelligent, you must constantly challenge their minds to keep them happy. Like all dogs, Shepradors do best when positive reinforcement is the training method of choice. While dominance-based training used to be the go-to, several studies have shown that punishments do more harm than good. German Shepherd mixes thrive when you use a reward system. Showering your dog with praise and providing plenty of treats is the best way to instill the training techniques. Despite all of this, you may see pups with vastly different characteristics. Genetics is not an exact science. Dominant genes from one parent dog may take over, causing the puppy to look more like one breed than the other. As a result, the crossbreed is going to fall into that same category. You can use information about their parents for reference, but several factors will contribute to their true adult size. Generally, males can weigh upwards of 88 pounds when fully grown. They will stand between 22 and 26 inches at the withers. This is the point between the shoulder blades of the dog. Females are typically smaller than males. You may come across females as small as 35 pounds. Though, most will be around 70 to 80 pounds. As for height, females tend to be between 20 and 24 inches at the withers. Both of the parent breeds are pretty athletic, so most mixed pups will be as well. They fall somewhere in the middle. Depending on their activity levels, you might notice strong muscle development on their hind legs. These dogs usually have wide snouts and dark noses. Their eyes are large and brown. Some pups may have light eyes, but this is quite rare. Genetic variations in the parent breeds can lead to lighter eyes, but a vast majority are going to have big brown eyes. One characteristic where you will see a lot of variation among these dogs is the ears. Most Labs have large ears that flop down over the sides of the head Meanwhile, perky triangular ears are one of the most defining traits of the German Shepherds. The interesting thing about the ears is that you will have to wait and see whether they stand tall or flop down. Puppies are born with soft and fluffy ears. As they grow older, the cartilage in their ears may or may not strengthen to help them stand up. Some pups even have a combination of the two ear styles! Colors Coat colors can vary across the board with these pups. German Shepherds have an iconic tri-color coat. Distinct patterns of gold, black, and white cover the body. The most common is gold. However, black and pure-white Labs exist as well. They may have multi-colored coats or solid ones. Lifespan The average lifespan for a German Shepherd Lab mix is between 10 and 12 years. This falls in line with the life expectancy of the parent breeds. Generally, larger dogs tend to have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. Many factors will affect how much time these dogs have. Health issues and a poor lifestyle can cut that lifespan short. On the same token, extremely healthy pups are fully capable of living past 12 years of age. Possible Health Issues Like all dogs, Shepradors are not immune to disease and health problems. In fact, they may be susceptible to more issues. The problem with mixing breeds is that it opens up the possibilities of health complications in the future. Hereditary problems from both parents can be passed to the puppy. Unfortunately, German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are known to suffer from a few different ailments. Here are the most common health concerns to be wary of. Dysplasia is a musculoskeletal condition that often affects dogs later in life. However, it takes years to develop and can be triggered by issues as a young pup. Take hip dysplasia for example. Hip dysplasia can cause debilitating pain. Many dogs who suffer from it have a hard time standing up. They may exhibit signs of extreme weakness in the hind legs, resulting in a noticeably different posture. The hip sockets become malformed, causing mobility issues with the hip joint. While some dogs are born with it, poor development as a puppy can exacerbate the problem. There are treatment options for hip and elbow dysplasia. Veterinarians can perform surgery early on to correct the problem and provide relief. If your dog is already suffering from it, physical therapy and joint supplements can provide relief from pain. Bloat Contrary to popular belief, bloat is not an innocent gas problem with dogs. It occurs when dogs eat too fast or exert physical exercise too soon after eating. Excess air is swallowed, filling the stomach. Eventually, the stomach can twist on itself. This restricts blood flow throughout the body. Provide small meals and prevent your dog from playing for at least 30 minutes. To control fast eating, you can utilize slow-feeding bowls or puzzle toys. They create an obstacle that forces the dog to eat slower than normal, which can do a lot to prevent GDV. Ocular Issues Eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy, are pretty common with both parent breeds. The tissue within the eye can degenerate over time. This causes vision loss. From there, you can provide supplements or foods rich in beta carotene to slow its progression. Diet and Exercise Requirements Shepherd Labrador mixes are incredibly active dogs. They love nothing more than playing and getting tons of exercise. To make matters worse, a lack of exercise can turn into a lasting problem. You need to start your pup on the right foot and establish a healthy lifestyle right off the bat. Go for runs and toss chew toys around the yard. You can break up exercise time in manageable chunks throughout the day to make things easier. As long as you get those 90 minutes in, your dog should have no problem staying healthy. When it comes to diet, you must be just as vigilant! These dogs have insatiable appetites. However, you need to ensure that their food is meeting all of their nutritional needs. It should use wholesome proteins like chicken, beef, or fish. The dog food should also have complex carbs and healthy fats like fish oil. Steer clear of anything that has artificial ingredients or unnecessary fillers. Those foods will do more harm than good. The goal is to provide your dog with muscle-building protein that will keep their body in good shape. As a good rule of thumb, dogs will need about 30 calories of food for each pound of body weight. This usually amounts to about 4 cups of dry kibble a day. That said, foods can vary dramatically when it comes to nutritional density. We recommend splitting their caloric requirements into two small meals a day. One meal in the morning and one in the evening will keep their energy levels stable as they go about their active lifestyles. Plus, splitting the meals will help to avoid issues like bloat. However, thick coats need a bit of extra work. GSDs have double costs. The outer layer of hair is thinner and easier to manage. Meanwhile, the inner coat is thick and dense. It provides insulation in those cold winter months. German Shepherd Lab mixes can inherit that thick coat. They will go through shedding cycles a couple of times a year, resulting in a mess of fur throughout your home! With regular brushings, you can keep the fallout to manageable levels while keeping your pup clean. These pups make great family dogs. They get along just fine with kids as long as you socialize them early on. As always, you should never leave your dog alone with young kids. These crossbred dogs are fully capable of attacking people, so you should exercise caution and always keep a watchful eye. They should know not to pull their tail or agitate the dog in any way. Are German Shepherd Lab mixes good guard dogs? Shepradors make great guard dogs. Plus, they tend to be a bit suspicious of strangers. Are these dogs aggressive? This all depends on their upbringing. If you take the time to properly train and socialize these dogs, they will be gentle and loving. However, if the dogs are abused or trained with punishment, they could exhibit aggressive behavior. How big to German Shepherd Lab mixes get? Males can weigh as much as 88 pounds and grow to 26 inches tall at the withers. Do Shepradors get along with other dogs? German Shepherd Labrador mixes do just fine with other dogs. However, they must be properly socialized first. Exposure to other animals is key during their development. They should be introduced to new family dogs slowly to prevent any aggressive behavior. Do Shepradors make good working dogs? Thanks to their intelligence and high trainability, Labrashepherds make fine working dogs. They do particularly well herding livestock. Conclusion German Shepherd Lab mixes are a joy to raise. If you have an active lifestyle to keep them fit, they will be a great addition to your family. Treat them well and these pups will spend their lives being a loving canine companion. Search Dog Breeds. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases.

It's best to weigh the puppy immediately before giving it the medication, since puppies are still growing. Once you have an accurate weight, consult the dosage chart on the medication. It's very important that the dog receive enough medicine to treat the worms, but it should never receive too much medication. If you must fill your own syringe, dip the top into the liquid medication and pull the plunger back to fill the vial with liquid. Fill it to the amount prescribed by your vet or suggested on the packaging. Check to see if the medication should be given on a full or an empty stomach. For the medication to be effective, you need to follow these guidelines. The puppy should swallow it down quickly. Deworming medications are most effective if given to a pup several times. The number and frequency of dosages will differ based on the brand and type of medication the pup has been prescribed. Although they are effective after a single dose, they have no residual effect. This means the puppy needs more dewormer to kill each generation of worm as they hatch. For example, a typical dosage schedule involves medicating your puppy for 1—3 days in a row, and then giving the dog another 1—3 dosages 2 or 3 weeks later. Once the course of deworming treatment has ended, collect another stool sample from your puppy. Bring this sample to the vet and ask them to check it for worms. Your vet will examine this stool sample and be able to confirm that your puppy is free of worms. Stool that contains worms, blood, or mucus Coughing in the case of severe roundworm infection and, less commonly, lungworm infection Many of these symptoms can indicate other health problems like parvo in puppies with the exception of worms in poop , so you should always consult your veterinarian if you notice any red flags. Are puppy worms contagious to humans? Many worms commonly found in puppies are zoonotic, meaning they are transmissable between animals and people. If your puppy has worms and passed them onto you, it can cause diarrhea, intestinal pain, and secondary health problems in the respiratory, digestive, or cardiovascular systems. Certain people are at increased risk of infection by a contagious puppy than others, specifically: children, seniors, pregnant women, diabetics, cancer patients, and anyone with a compromised immune system. In addition to the worms people can get from puppies — including roundworm, tapeworm, and hookworm — there are other zoonotic puppy parasites you should be aware of like Lyme disease in dogs caused by ticks, as well as Giardiasis from giardia in dogs. The good news is that you can avoid sharing a zoonotic infection with your pet by following your vet's recommended deworming schedule, puppy vaccines, and parasite preventatives. When to deworm puppies Puppies should be dewormed every 2 weeks until they are 8 weeks-old, then again at 6 months-old. At that point, you can switch to an adult deworming schedule for dogs, which typically consists of a worming treatment every 6 months. However, you should onsider using a preventative therapy to defend your pet from an infestation, as parasites have high rates of re-infection after entering the bloodstream. It's best to begin a worming treatment before eggs laid by transplacental parasites pass through the stool. Therefore, most vets recommend starting a puppy deworming schedule as early as 2 weeks-old. Deworming Schedule For Puppies A typical puppy deworming schedule is administered by a veterinarian at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age, then again near the 6-month mark. How to deworm a puppy Deworming treatments are easy and effective to use. The typical treatment protocol is for a veterinarian to provide or supervise the puppy wormer administration for days and then repeat in weeks. The repeated dosing is used to kill the parasites that were still larvae or eggs during the first treatment but have since developed into adults. Be sure to speak to your veterinarian for a puppy wormer prescription; it is not recommended to buy over-the-counter wormers due to inefficient active ingredients and improper dosages. During your first vet visit , the veterinarian should examine your puppy's poop for the presence of worms and determine how much wormer to prescribe and on what schedule. How to administer puppy wormer There are many different ways to give your puppy a deworming treatment. Broad-spectrum formulas are available by prescription as well as over-the-counter, though they are not recommended. Dewormer can be administered as oral medication chewable dog treats, pills, liquid, pastes, and food additives or injectable shot administered by a licensed veterinarian. Can I deworm a puppy naturally at home? You need a vet's help in determining whether your puppy does indeed have worms and identifying what kind of parasite they are. Without this information, it is not possible to choose the correct medication to deworm your puppy at home. What happens after deworming a puppy? After deworming, you might notice dead worms in puppy poop. Sometimes, you might notice slight movement but the worms will go on to die. You should also expect your puppy to experience some diarrhea after treatment. Puppies with high worm burdens might become ill after deworming. This is because when all of the parasites die at once, the lining of the intestines becomes inflamed, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Luckily, this usually resolves on its own and your puppy should feel fine in a couple of days. What are the side effects of puppy wormer? In general, anti-parasite drugs have a very high margin of safety, which means that they rarely cause problems. How long will my puppy poop worms after deworming? Puppies will typically poop worms for days after a deworming treatment. How long does it take for the dewormer to work? Typically, multiple rounds of dewormer are required in order to kill the eggs and larvae. The number of rounds and length of treatment differs depending on the parasites for instance, treatment for roundworm infection typically lasts 4 weeks , as well as the severity and size of the infection. Does dewormer prevent worms? No, deworming puppies only treats a current parasite infection. While intestinal worms are typically not fatal, they can be a big nuisance. If left untreated, they can result in coat issues, lack of appetite, poor nutrient uptake, poor growth, intestinal upsets, organ damage, loss of consciousness, and even death. For this reason, it is very important to treat your puppy regularly for worms. How much does it cost to deworm a puppy? If your puppy has heartworms, your veterinarian will need to do bloodwork, X-rays, and other tests to determine how serious the infection is. Pet insurance can cover expensive veterinary treatments your pet might require throughout its life, and some plans include deworming. Many companies also offer pet wellness plans to help offset preventive pet care expenses, including the cost of vaccines for dogs , annual wellness exams , and standard fecal tests. Pawlicy Advisor can recommend the best pet insurance plan for your puppy based on its unique information. The platform also helps you compare plans from top pet insurance companies side-by-side, so you can understand coverage details and enroll in your favorite solution within a matter of minutes. Click the button below to get started. Is Pet Insurance Worth It? Key Takeaways Because puppies can inherit intestinal worms from their mothers, deworming schedule should be started early between two and eight weeks old. Intestinal worms in puppies can cause diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, poor growth, organ damage, and even death. Many parasites your puppy might have, such as hookworms and roundworms, can also infect you and your family, which is why regular deworming is so important. If you have any questions or concerns about treating your puppy for worms, be sure to contact your vet and stay away from natural homemade remedies. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Dr Alice Marshall - Vet BVSc Hons Alice is a honours degree veterinarian who has worked across private mixed veterinary practice, the animal nutrition and the animal pharmaceutical industries. She loves to communicate with owners about the importance of pet health and provide useful information to help them enjoy life with their pets. Brand-new puppies are full of love and keen to express it. Many do this by licking you, your face, your children. While it is nice to feel so loved, puppies can bring some parasites with them from their previous home. As some worms can be transferred to family members, including children, it is essential - for both their health and yours - to start them off on a preventative worming schedule from the start. What worms are puppies susceptible too? In Australia, puppies are susceptible to intestinal worms, including roundworm, hookworm, whipworm and tapeworm, and also to heartworm. Unlike intestinal worms which live in your puppy's intestines, heartworms live in a dog's heart. Why are puppies prone to worm infections? Puppies are incredibly susceptible to worms. They can pick up worms from their mother's milk, from other adult dogs at the breeder's or rescue shelter, and also through their constant desire to investigate, sniff at or eat most things they come across. Grooming and swallowing fleas carrying the infective stage of tapeworms can also lead to infection. Symptoms of worms in puppies Symptoms of intestinal worms in puppies include loss of appetite, diarrhoea or ill-formed stools, vomiting, poor growth, dull coat, or scooting dragging their bottom across the ground. In heavy infections, puppies can sometimes appear 'pot-bellied'. The good news is that common worms are easily controllable with a reliable worming schedule. Treatment of worms in puppies Worming your puppy from the day you get it is a good idea. This will help keep them, your house, and your family all healthy. Check with the breeder or rescue centre for how often they wormed your puppy, including when the last dose was, and continue that schedule. Puppies should be wormed every 2 weeks, from birth until 12 weeks of age. Then every 3 months. We suggest choosing an ' all wormer ' which will cover for all intestinal worms and tapeworms. You can also ask your vet for advice about worming brands and schedules - there are tablets, spot-ons and collars all designed to help. If you need assistance, your vet can also help show you the best way to give your puppy a tablet. For example, hiding a tablet within a puppy treat. Impact of not treating your puppy properly for worms Poor growth, intestinal upsets, and potential to infect human family members are all good reasons to treat regularly for intestinal worms. It is important to realise that worming treatments do not prevent worms; they only kill worms. So it's essential to deworm regularly. Ongoing worm prevention for puppies and adult dogs Because they can inherit worms from their mothers, worming treatment in puppies should be started early. Puppies should be wormed every two weeks until twelve weeks of age, then monthly until six months of age. Once they have reached six months of age, a puppy can transfer onto an 'adult' worming schedule. All adult dogs need to be wormed every three months for effective protection. For peace of mind when it comes to worms, it is always useful to understand how often and when you need to be worming your puppy. That way, you can ensure you are protecting their, and your, continued good health. Always ask your veterinary health team for advice if you have concerns for your pet. Related articles. In fact, they are inevitable! Tapeworm starts developing in the intestine of your dog after a span of every 3 months no matter how safe you keep him , where deworming is the only solution consult a vet before you choose to do something. The best you can do is, plan a monthly check-up of your dog to specifically focus on the parasites or keep a dose of dewormer intact. These teeth looking worms are usually developed from the egg, passed in the feces on infected animals which mature in the warm and damp environment. They usually stick to the paws of the dog and enters the body when the dog licks itself. The parasite infection can be minor to fatal depending upon the time period of the infection. In this scenario, it is important to take your dog through a deworming process after consulting the vet. You can opt for deworming your pet by medicating him the best available dewormers after consulting your vet. Importance of deworming for dogs-————— As a pet parent, you would only want good health and condition of your dog. Deworming is an important step in the direction of keeping your dogs healthy. In this context you must note that it is totally normal and natural a thing for worms to develop in intestine. However, they cannot be allowed to remain and multiply in there. When worm infestation exceeds the normal limits, it can cause fatal health conditions in animals. In fact heavy worm infestation may even lead to death. Moreover, this would not just be harmful for animals, but also for human beings. As a pet owner, you might often play with your pet or dog. You need to take care in this context that interacting with a severely infected dog can be pretty fatal for human beings. Thus deworming dogs on schedule is quite important. Deworming Medications: Best Dog Dewormer When it comes to worming, there are three alternatives available in market, i. Let us brief these three deworming medication alternatives for you- Syrups:— Deworming syrups are ideal for the purpose of worming puppies. Pups can be reluctant to eating tablets and so syrups will be better for puppies weighing up to 5 Kg. Recommended syrups: Beaphar Worex Suspension: The syrup offer efficient remedies to the worms and can ideally steer clear intestine of hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms and Whipworms. The syrup is proven safe for puppies. There is no need to keep puppies empty stomach and hungry for deworming with this syrup. Sky Ec Skyworm Deworming Syrup: Sky Ec is reliable deworming syrup for your puppy to kill away all the intestinal worms. Bayer Drontal Puppy Syrup: Good deforming syrup for pups. Petcare Praziplus DewormerFor Dog: The product boasts to be free from side effects and safe for pups. Bayer Drontal Plus Tablets: These tablets safely and effectively remove the regular intestinal worms with a single dose. Dosage: 1 tablet per 10 Kg Weight of puppy as per the Deworming schedule explained below. In case of normal tablets, you are required to give about 1 tablet per 10 Kg body weight of the dog. This mean if your pup weight 30 KG, it needs to be given 3 tablets. XL tablets: Giving tablets in a single dose can be troublesome in larger brreds. XL Tablets avoid the scenario. The general dosage for these would be 1 tablet per 35 Kg. So for an adult dog weighing above 30 Kg, XL tablets are ideal solutions. The brand is a common Vet recommended brand, making it a trustworthy brand. Sky Ec Skyworm Dewormer.

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? Given that they are experts in the field of animal health and welfare, they will know the best meal schedule for your dog. This is one of the simplest methods to keep your Bulldog happy and healthy. Therefore, by choosing the best food for your beloved buddy to eat, you could extend its life span! Some examples of dry dog food are dog biscuits, kibble, and flaked cereals. Before serving dry dog foods to Bulldogs, warm water or broth is frequently added to this to improve the texture and enhance the flavor. Canned Wet Food: Canned wet food is sometimes preferable to dry food because it has a lot more moisture and thus will keep your dog hydrated. Moreover, wet dog food is also more likely to be appreciated by your English Bulldog puppy because it is usually more flavorful. However, wet food may increase the likelihood of dental issues. Homemade Diet: Homemade diets can help you save money. This diet also allows you to have more control over the macronutrients your dog consumes. As a result, with a homemade diet, you can rest assured that your dog is only consuming the best ingredients. Raw Diet: Raw dog food can be purchased as a frozen log, or it can simply be prepared at home. However, keep in mind that it should be prepared using quality meat and healthy fats. When it comes to choosing the right food for a Bulldog puppy, you need to be sure that it has high-quality protein to allow its body to function properly. If you accidentally drop something on the floor, these canines will gobble it up. However, some foods are incredibly toxic and dangerous for English Bulldogs to consume, even in small amounts. Here are some foods that you should avoid feeding your Bulldogs: Chocolate: This delectable human food includes theobromine , a poison that impairs the kidney, heart, and other important organ functions of a Bulldog puppy. If consumed in large amounts, xylitol can cause severe liver damage to your Bulldog. Raw Bread Dough: This is extremely poisonous. Milk and Other Dairy Products: Providing milk and other dairy products could lead to puppy diarrhea and other digestive system problems. These human foods may also set off food allergies, which may result in crusty scabs around the mouth of your dog. Grapes and Raisins: These may be enticing to dogs as treats or snacks, but they could also contain mold and fungus, which can result in gastrointestinal discomfort, seizures , lethargy, or kidney failure. Tomatoes: These contain tomatine , a poisonous alkaloid that can cause muscle weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures. Avocado: This tasty human food contains persin, which takes dogs some time to digest. It may cause severe stomach pain, breathing problems, and a buildup of fluid in the chest. Mushrooms: If your English Bulldog puppy consumes wild mushrooms, you should treat it as an emergency because it can result in neurological symptoms, kidney and liver failure, and even death. Macadamia Nuts and Walnuts: These delicious Hawaiian treats rank among the most hazardous human foods for dogs. These nuts can cause hind legs to become paralyzed for anywhere between 12 and 24 hours after consumption. Aside from the listed foods, there are other foods that your Bulldog puppy should stay away from. Therefore, when your dog transitions from a puppy to an adult dog and also when they get closer to seniority, it makes sense to switch to a different diet. It could take some trial and error to find the best food for them. You can use the following transition chart as a guide for your English Bulldog puppy: Day. While the feeding guide on the back of the bag of food is a good guideline on how much to feed, puppies will go through growth spurts where they will be hungrier and need to eat more. Feed your puppy so that they stay thin, but not emaciated. If you see ribs sticking out, then increase the amount you are feeding by 10 percent. If you have any questions about how much you should feed your puppy, talk with your veterinary care team. How long do I feed puppy food? Puppies should be fed puppy food until they are done growing. Puppies stop growing at different times based on their size: Small- and medium-sized puppies: These pups grow faster and are considered mature around 9 months of age. Large breed puppies: These pups take longer to be skeletally mature and are considered to be done growing around 15 months of age for large breeds, like Labrador Retrievers , and months of age for giant breeds, like Great Danes , Mastiffs and Newfoundlands. That means that you will need to feed large breed puppies a food specially formulated for their needs for longer than you will need to feed puppy food to small or medium breed puppies. Adults Photo: Chewy Studios Age 1 year to years Two of the most common questions puppy parents have are 1 how long to feed puppy food and 2 when to switch to an adult diet. What do adult dogs eat? Adult dogs need at least 18 percent of their daily calories to be protein, and at least 5. An adult dog can eat up to 50 percent of daily calories as carbohydrates, but 2. How to choose adult dog food With so many options available on the market today, it can be difficult to choose a food when you switch to adult dog food. The statement should say that the food has been found to be complete and balanced based on formulation or AAFCO feeding trials. The size of your dog: Another consideration when choosing a food for your dog is the size of your dog. If you have a large breed dog, feeding a food that has been formulated for large breed dogs, like Eukanuba Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food , can help support joint health. Is the haircoat full and glossy? What about stool quality and quantity? If everything checks out, then the food is likely good for your dog. How much food to feed an adult dog When it comes to how much to feed, start with the feeding recommendations on the back of the bag and see how your dog does. How to switch to adult dog food The most seamless way to do this is to purchase a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food, and gradually mix the two dry foods together, increasing the ratio of the new kibble over the course of about a week. The important thing to realize is that because puppies are still growing, they need more calories and nutrition than adults. In fact, feeding an adult diet to a puppy could lead to nutritional deficiencies. Likewise, feeding a puppy diet to an adult could cause excessive weight gain and its related issues. This is important to avoid, since obesity is the most common nutrition-related issue for canines. Knowing when to switch to adult dog food will help your puppy grow into a happy, healthy dog. Read on to learn how and when to switch to adult dog food. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Dog Food You should switch to adult dog food when your puppy is within the age range of months old. As you can see this is quite a big range, so this is just a general rule of thumb. Fully grown, these cute little canines generally weigh 12 pounds or less. Most tiny dogs should reach their adult weight, such as it is, around months old. Fully grown, they generally weigh between 12 and 25 pounds, and they will typically reach this adult weight at months of age. These dogs will reach a total of around 25 and 50 pounds at around months of age. At months of age, these dogs will reach their adult weight of 50 and pounds. These dogs will typically reach their adult weight between 12 and 24 months. Puppy foods have greater quantities of certain nutrients, including calories, because puppies require more macronutrients and minerals than an adult dog of the same size and weight. This important stage of growth and development requires a lot of energy, after all! This is why puppies are at risk for nutritional deficiencies and malnourishment if they are fed adult dog food. Adult dog foods have been designed to accommodate the decrease of energy levels and growth that comes with maturity. For starters, puppies need more protein and fat than an adult dog of the same size. They also require higher concentrations of certain minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. For this reason, puppy food is more calorie- and nutrient-dense. You will find essential nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and chloride all in greater concentrations in puppy food. Sometimes puppy foods are also supplemented with things such as extra omega-3 fatty acids. These can support healthy eye and brain development. Keep in mind that larger breeds can be at a greater risk of developmental diseases as a result of overly rapid growth. This is why large breed puppy foods have a little less fat, calcium, and phosphorus. They also have a very carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This ensures that they develop and grow at an appropriate and healthy pace. With that in mind, the best way to transition is slowly. This can even potentially lead to your dog refusing or disliking that particular type of dog food, because they associate it with feeling sick. So ease into it. A few days later, increase the amount of adult dog food to 40 percent, and reduce the amount of puppy food to 60 percent. Follow this pattern of increasing the amount of adult dog food, and make sure that you are removing the same amount of puppy food that you are adding in adult food. And if you run into any difficulties getting your dog to eat the new food, make sure to check out our guide on how to get your dog to eat. It has some helpful tips that might make the transition easier. Bully Max: A Dog Food For All Ages Transitioning to adult dog food the right way is a simple but important step to ensure your furry best friend is healthy and happy. Just make sure you make the switch at the appropriate time based on the breed of your dog. One breeder I know takes theirs off puppy food at 6 months. Everyone has their own idea as to what to do, and you can ask several vets and get different answers. I just said what we do and it works well for my bullies, you do something different and it works well for you. Dobermans and other breed of dog need puppy food longer, because they grow different than bullies. Everyone has their own idea as to what to do. Click to expand.Debating dog food is always futile because each dog is unique even within the same breed. My vet recommends Science Diet which, to me, is crap food. I don't debate him because he has lots of healthy patients following his recommended diet regimen. I normally don't go by vet recommendations when it comes to dog food. I do my own analysis by matching all my research on dog food with all my research on the dog breed and coming up with the typical baseline and adjusting from there depending on my specific dog determined by parentage and day-to-day observation. And, the month standard is typical for english bulldogs according to their growth rate and body structure, matched with the puppy formula from everything I've read on the topic. Of course, we adopted our one and only bulldog at age 3, so we never had to apply it. If I was to get a puppy, I wouldn't bother with puppy formula and go straight to all stages food. But that doesn't answer the thread topic. A Doberman is completely different. A Doberman typically achieves most of his weight and height before the first heat cycle. So that's typically 60 pounds and 24 inches by 6 months of age - a very rapid growth spurt - and they usually don't grow much more than that in the next 6 months, usually just filling out muscle, with a maturity level achieved by 12 months. Doberman baseline is only 9 months on the puppy formula and I always opt for the puppy formula for dobies due to this growth spurt, although we had our dogs on puppy food until 12 months because they were from what many would consider a "warrior" line and did not achieve close to their expected weight until then. Doberman do not have a weight standard - you may see AKC dogs between 60 and pounds - which is different from english bulldogs who have a standard of lbs. So, all this spiel just to say - this is what's typical, then know your specific dog and adjust accordingly. They are very people-orientated and form a strong bond with their owners and family members, meaning that if left alone for long periods of time they can suffer from separation anxiety. As indoor dogs, English Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance and only require gentle daily exercising. Due to them being part of the Brachycephalic breeds short faced it is important to take extra precautions in the summer months, especially when exercising. They can overheat very easily so it is vital to keep them in cool and shaded areas within your household. A breed that loves their food but are at risk of becoming overweight easily if not given daily exercise. It has been known that English Bulldogs live longer if cared for correctly and fed a good, high quality diet to suit their individual needs. As they are a Brachycephalic breed they are more at risk of suffering from and developing allergies, so we would always recommend feeding them a grain free diet. This is due to the shape of their faces and the folds around their eyes and muzzle. Catching the problem early or preventing it from starting is important as skin allergies, especially an ear or eye infection, can be quite difficult to clear up once they have flared up or the longer you leave them. When you bring your new English Bulldog puppy home you should make setting up a routine a priority — this will help with the settling in period. You should stick to the food that the breeder has had the puppy on for the first week before gradually switching over, over a four-week period so your puppy does not experience digestive upset. Once your Bulldog reaches around eight to ten months old you can go onto the adult food and feed twice daily. It would also be beneficial to occasionally feed one of the other flavours from the sensitive range but we would recommend that the main part of the diet is the salmon. Grooming A low maintenance breed when it comes to grooming as they only require around three baths per year. They only shed a moderate amount of hair, but you should brush them weekly and you should clean in between their folds and wrinkles daily to prevent any bacteria causing infection. Thanks to its peaceful and loving nature, the popularity of the English Bulldog has soared in recent times. Through its displays of charm and affection, this is one breed of dog that is likely to bring love and warmth to any home. The potential benefits of raw Swapping Puppy Food Brands When you first bring your Bulldog puppy home you should feed him the same food that he was getting from the breeder or shelter for about three to four weeks. This will give him time to acclimate to his new surroundings and get used to being separated from his mom and siblings. Mix about three-quarters of the puppy food he eats now with one-quarter of the new food for the first two to three days. For the next two or three days give him equal portions of the old and new food. Finally, give him three-quarters of the new food and one-quarter of the old food for two to three days. Bulldog Puppy Diets The sheer number of different puppy foods to choose from can be overwhelming. Your breeder may be able to give you some guidance. Puppies need plenty of protein to promote strong bone, muscle, and joint growth. Guidelines on labels will give you an idea of the amount to feed your puppy, but ultimately each dog is an individual. Their body size, not what the label says, is a better indicator of a proper portion. A serving size can also vary depending on the type of food or brand as well. Special Requirements Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. Chewing and swallowing can also be a problem. This is because the palate, teeth, tongue, and tissue are the same size as that of a dog with a much longer muzzle. Many Bulldogs also suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome which causes serious breathing issues that can also make eating difficult. You might also find combining dry food with a good quality wet food is easier for them to consume. From three to six months, you can reduce it to three times a day. At six to 12 months old, you can feed him twice a day. Bulldogs are highly at risk for hip dysplasia. In fact, this study of 20 English Bulldogs found that none of the hips showed normal development and .Feeding a Bulldog Puppy Kibble Dry kibble is probably the most popular all-round puppy food choice. Make sure you choose a dry formula designed specifically for puppies. However, not all brands are created equal. Stay away from ingredients like corn.