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He does not have the gene to make a rose-nosed puppy. They display slightly smaller curls than some pups, but it is still not a tight curly fleece. As adults, they will have a coat similar to Tilly, their mom. This coat is easy to care for, does not mat easily, and is easy to brush out regularly. The first two pups pictured have a different dad, they are out of Riley, and the other four are from Sam. Also, note that Riley's pups have a rose nose, and the others have a black nose. These two display tight fleece. Keep short for easy management, or brush regularly to avoid mattes. The first pup had a slightly curlier coat than the others and was fluffier as an adult. You can also see the rose nose on the caramel pup 3 versus the black nose on the apricot pup 6. The black pups range in colors; the first black Australian labradoodle puppy is solid but already showing signs of silver showing through around his nose and will likely silver out as he matures. The other two black pups are phantom or sable, with adorable brown eyebrows—two caramel pups with rose noses and one apricot pup with a black nose. You can see three of each type in this litter. The pups in positions 1, 3, and 6 are tight curls, and the other three are loose. An equal distribution of rose noses, 3 rose and three black. Gypsy makes a wide range of sizes in her litter. In this litter, the Australian labradoodle puppies range in weight, at age 1, from lbs. 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 Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. 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. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You.

If you notice any symptoms, take your dog to the vet immediately. What To Feed an Aussiedoodle Like any active dog breed, Aussiedoodles need a well-balanced diet that gives them the energy they need to play and grow. To support growth, Aussiedoodle puppies should eat a food designed specifically for the puppy life stage. Once they reach their first birthday, they can be switched to adult dog food. Aussiedoodle puppies need to eat more frequently—between three and four times a day on a consistent schedule. If your pup tends to wolf down her meals, consider using a slow-feeder bowl , which makes it difficult for her to devour a meal in large bites. Avoiding raised dog bowls and exercise around mealtimes can also help deter bloat. The dog food packaging will give guidance on how much to feed your dog based on weight, but speaking to your veterinarian about portions is the best way to keep your pup healthy. Nutritional Tips for an Aussiedoodle Active dogs need food that meets all of the nutritional needs set out by the Pet Food Institute. Proteins help your Aussiedoodle create the energy she needs for running and playing, and fats help her keep her wavy coat healthy. Behavior and Training Tips for Aussiedoodles Aussiedoodle Personality and Temperament Aussiedoodles are generally friendly and loving dogs that, when well socialized, get along with other pets and children. Each Aussiedoodle's energy level can vary. Those that take after their Australian Shepherd side may need more activity than those who lean toward the Poodle parent. Both breeds, however, are extremely intelligent and need ample stimulation to keep them from getting bored. Puzzle toys or treat containers that require dogs to figure out how to access snacks are also a good option. Aussiedoodle Behavior Australian Shepherds were bred to herd, and Poodles have hunted waterfowl for centuries. Those not given enough stimulation can turn to destructive behaviors, like chewing or digging. Otherwise, they might chase after neighborhood animals—or even cars. Aussiedoodle Training Aussiedoodles love to play and to have a task to accomplish. Teaching your Aussiedoodle to stay, and come when called, is vital for pet parents. Otherwise, their strong herding instincts and urge to chase can put them in dangerous situations. Fun Activities for Aussiedoodles. She's a whip-smart crossbreed with Australian shepherd and poodle parents who's a bundle of energetic fun, devoted companionship, and glamorous good looks. An Aussiedoodle's intelligence , loyal heart, and eagerness to please makes her a wonderful canine companion for families with children. Playful and outgoing, these genius pet pals need consistent positive reinforcement training and boundaries to ensure a happy, productive, and safe environment and a chance for them to live up to their potential. Appearance If you're wondering what a full-grown Aussiedoodle might look like and how big she'll be, well, it might be anyone's guess! Truly one of the most diverse poodle crossbreeds , Aussiedoodles have numerous coat color and texture variations, mainly because of the merle qualities of their Australian shepherd parents and the range of solid colors from their poodle parents. There's actually some science to help explain the good looks of an Aussiedoodle. For example, the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory at UC Davis notes that some genes might prompt more fur curl, while other genes determine a bushy muzzle, fuzzy eyebrows, and the dominance of merle dappling. Or she may have tight, fluffy curls with more solid versions of those colors. Red merle and blue merle Aussiedoodles are usually the product of a white- or cream-colored poodle parent and a merle Australian shepherd parent because the merle gene is dominant. Merle or piebald genes also play a part in the variance of eye color in Aussiedoodles. Their expressive round eyes are truly striking: They might be bright blue, soft green, light amber, or deep brown. Some dogs even have heterochromia, a condition that produces two eyes of different colors. Although both Australian shepherds and poodles have long, narrow snouts, Aussiedoodles usually have round heads, short muzzles with occasional mustaches, and big, boopable noses. The best part is, their ears are always wooly and floppy! This hybrid dog breed comes in varying sizes and weights because of her poodle parents. Toy Aussiedoodles are likely the offspring of toy poodles , for example, and can easily race around the coffee table. They're usually under 20 pounds and about 14 inches tall. If you'd like a miniature Aussiedoodle, find a breeder featuring a miniature poodle as a parent. She'll be a better running partner at about 30—40 pounds and 20 inches high. Many people search for Aussiedoodles with standard poodle genes, who tend to be much more athletic. She'll top out at around 75 pounds and 25 inches tall at her shoulder. Temperament Ready to go? So is your Aussiedoodle dog! Whether to the park with the kids, on a hike with your camping buddies, or a simple but high-energy romp through the backyard, she's positively thrilled to be jumping, running, fetching, and any other "-ing" verb. Poodles are known for their love of water and retrieval, so it's possible your Aussiedoodle might also be an outdoor adventurer. Who knows? She might even be a good doga buddy , too! An Aussiedoodle's temperament is loyal and loving, says Tracy, who owns Far Hill Aussiedoodles in southwest Iowa with her husband. They adore people of all ages, which is why they're such terrific family dogs, eager to please, and easy to train. Start Aussiedoodle puppy training early to bring out her optimal qualities. Having a plan to be intentional in training early on can lead to a fantastically well-rounded and well-behaved four-legged member of your family," Tracy says. He says because these dogs are so intelligent, professional training is an essential investment. Aussiedoodles are also top candidates for therapy and service dogs because of their tender people skills and need for purpose. As the offspring of two highly intelligent breeds, an Aussiedoodle is happiest with a lot of social interaction and both physical and mental enrichment. Activities like rousing games of Frisbee and canine sports such as rally, obedience, and field events are great outlets to keep your Aussiedoodle engaged. If left home alone too long, especially with nothing to do, she might develop separation anxiety, so Singletary says Aussiedoodle owners should plan to train and entertain their high-energy companions. Australian shepherds were originally bred to herd livestock, and these genetics could still be at play in your puppy. A positive reinforcement-based training plan should include redirection, teaching your dog to ignore fast-moving things, or better yet, come to you on cue when the urge to chase kicks in. As with any puppy, it's important to slowly introduce other small family pets and create opportunities for safe, appropriate introductions. Living Needs According to Tracy, because a full-size Aussiedoodle can get rather large up to 75 pounds! How much exercise is too much? This is rarely an issue with an Aussiedoodle. Singletary agrees. It prevents health issues down the road when they're older and less active," he says. So this might influence the type of fencing necessary at home or leash training for public areas. Generally, Aussiedoodle shedding is relatively minimal—to a point. Because there's no sure way of knowing what traits came from which parents, you'll have to be prepared for at least some floof. If you have an F1b Aussiedoodle, this means you have offspring from one of the purebred parents and a F1 dog. Depending on what type of F1 or F1b fur consistency your Aussiedoodle inherited, you might only have to groom her once a week or so with a slicker brush to remove loose hair, but probably twice a week during spring and fall because of the floof. If your dog's fur has more of a poodle vibe, professional grooming is probably a better option to keep her looking spiffy. Plan for Aussiedoodle haircuts every couple months. However, it's not as often as you might think. So use regular brush time as a chance to bond while you check ears , teeth , and nails. Now, the big question: Are Aussiedoodles hypoallergenic? The Mayo Clinic reinforces that no dog is truly hypoallergenic , regardless of the type of coat. A veterinarian can test your Aussiedoodle for this protein level and provide recommendations. Tracy also suggests spending quality time with another Aussiedoodle to see how you react before making one part of your family. Knowing a little about her purebred parent lineage helps you create a better long-term health care plan with your veterinarian. Australian shepherds and poodles are both relatively healthy dogs, but here are some key aspects to watch out for: According to the Australian Shepherd Association , key health risks for these dogs include hip and elbow dysplasia , hereditary eye defects, and epilepsy. The Poodle Club of America notes that this breed is prone to Addison's disease , which affects the adrenal glands, as well bloat and hip dysplasia. Proper weight management and appropriate levels of exercise for an Aussiedoodle can help prevent hip dysplasia, though it can also be an inherited condition. Tracy recommends selecting a puppy from a breeder who's mindful of these issues and is conscientiously testing to avoid them. The AKC notes that both of these European-based breeds are extremely intelligent and quite people-oriented, although they're listed in different classification groups herding and non-sporting, respectively. The Aussiedoodle's origin story is a mystery, but like many poodle crossbreeds, they've grown in popularity since the s, probably riding on the cute little tails of: The goldendoodle , featuring a golden retriever parent. And a sheepadoodle , who has an Old English sheepdog … well, you get the idea. Why all the interest? In addition to other attractive characteristics Aussiedoodles inherit from their parents, poodle genes might help some people enjoy a snuggly canine friend while reducing their reaction to pet allergens. One important point to keep in mind: Some hybrids such as Aussiedoodles are often the product of puppy mill schemes. Unfortunately, when particular dogs are in high demand, there's a greater chance they're not born into a healthy environment with a focus on their well-being, so it's essential to carefully research any pup you want to bring home. Here are some ways to spot a potential puppy scam : A breeder offers multiple mixed breeds for sale. A website states specific wait times for puppies. A breeder offers to ship puppies. A popular Instagram page is Aussiedoodles Daily , where you can see the extraordinary range of colors, faces, and personalities of these dogs! Just a little mixup when the breed immigrated to the U. Was this page helpful? Vocality level 5 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. The Australian Shepherd, one of their breeds of origin, is a herding dog, so this instinct may kick in at times! It is important to train your Aussiedoodle with this behavior in mind early on. You can consult with a professional trainer for the best method to do so. Because they are outgoing and sweet dogs, they do make great family pets and usually get along well with children and other animals. Be sure that introductions with other pets are done slowly and keep your Aussiedoodle socialized from the start to ensure success with other animals. Upkeep Mental stimulation and proper exercise are key in the health and happiness of your Aussiedoodle or any Aussie mix. They need to work those brains! While they can thrive as an apartment dog with lots of daily exercise, they would also do exceptionally well in a home with a fenced in yard that they can run in. Due to their intelligence, they would also be good candidates for agility or flyball, or just working basic training tricks. The fur of an Aussiedoodle can vary from wavy to tight curls to shorter coats. Depending on the Aussiedoodle, professional grooming may be required every two to three months. In addition, basic care like regular nail trims, ear cleaning, brushing, and teeth brushing are required. The Aussiedoodle is a newer occurrence, dating back to the late s or early s, possibly originating in North America. This smart and sweet mix may have existed due to accidental breeding before then, until their appeal as pets was recognized. It is easy to see why Aussiedoodles and Aussie mixes in general have gained popularity in the last 20 years, as they are adorable, playful and smart companion pets. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The Aussiedoodle, sometimes also called an Aussiepoo, is a mixed dog breed that is more popular in the US than they are in Australia. They are a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. Their friendly, sweet nature makes them a good fit as companions and as working dogs. They can often be found serving as therapy dogs, service dogs, and emotional support animals. Both of the dog breeds in this cross are intelligent with friendly dispositions. As such, Aussiedoodles tend to be intelligent, friendly, and affectionate dogs. This mixed dog breed is very playful and gets along well with children and other people and animals. They make great companions that are devoted to their families and love to be around their humans. Because of the Australian Shepherd in the cross, your Aussiedoodle may inherit herding instincts. If your Aussiedoodle starts showing herding behavior, it can be curbed early on by training to redirect that energy towards more positive outlets. The Aussiedoodle adapts well to change. They do well in most climates, but, as with any dog, do not typically do well in extreme hot or cold. They are best-suited for active families and homes with yards where they can romp around. Aussiedoodles can do well in apartments, as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. However, they do not like to be alone for long periods of time and they can develop separation anxiety. If you do have to leave your Aussiedoodle alone, make sure to leave them plenty of challenging toys and puzzles to keep them occupied. Although sometimes mixed breeds win the genetic lottery, they can also still sometimes be prone to the health conditions common to both of the parent breeds. The Aussiedoodle is generally a very healthy dog, but some common health issues to be aware of include hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia, deafness, and epilepsy. Checking the genetic history of the parents and asking for the results of any health screens can give you an idea of what to expect in a puppy and allay any health concerns. The Aussiedoodle is known for being an intelligent crossbreed. This often makes them highly trainable. They are also sensitive and eager to please, which means they respond best to positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Early socialization and training help your Aussiedoodle puppy grow into a well-adjusted dog. Due to their high energy level, they tend to be a better fit for intermediate to experienced dog owners that know how to handle their energy and keep up with them. Their intelligence, paired with their high energy level and working group background, means they are often easily bored and do best when they have a job to do. The busier and more engaged their job keeps them the better. They also love learning new tricks! Without a job to do, they will find ways to entertain themselves, which can result in unwanted or even destructive behavior. Between the Australian Shepherd and the Standard Poodle , the Aussiedoodle coat colors and patterns vary greatly. With the Poodle in the mix, this mixed dog breed can pick up some hypoallergenic qualities and is often low-shedding. However, they have can long, straight fur, a curly coat, or something in the middle, so be prepared for regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting. You may also need to have them professionally groomed every months. Start getting your puppy used to you handling their paws and ears and brushing their teeth early on. Daily brushing is ideal to help keep tartar buildup at bay. An Aussiedoodle will generally have a moderate to high energy level. A good walk a few times a day paired with some active playtime and plenty of attention will keep this pup happy and healthy. Aussiedoodles are also active and athletic enough to compete in dog sports. They tend to be a good fit for flyball, agility, rally, and obedience. They may also love to swim, which is a great activity to help them expel extra energy. In addition to going swimming with your dog , you can also take your Aussiedoodle on a hike with you or on trips to the dog park. Aussiedoodles are medium-sized dogs that usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Looking at the size of the parents, particularly the mother, can give you a good idea of what size to expect in your Aussiedoodle. An Aussiedoodle generally lives for years. Aussiedoodles are fantastic companions and highly intelligent. Featured Aussiedoodle Article. 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 Aussiedoodle Overview Aussiedoodles are a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. They are medium to large dogs, with a height of inches and weight of pounds. They have a wavy or curly coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, blue merle, and sable. Aussiedoodles are known for their friendly, loving, and intelligent temperament. They are good with children and other pets, and they make great family dogs. They are also active and playful dogs, and they need plenty of exercise. Here are some of the specific traits that are common in Aussiedoodles: Friendly and outgoing. Aussiedoodles are typically very friendly and outgoing dogs. They love to meet new people and make new friends. They are also good with children and other pets. Loyal and affectionate. Aussiedoodles are very loyal and affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and spend time with their families. They are always happy to see their loved ones, and they make great companions. Intelligent and easy to train. Aussiedoodles are very intelligent dogs, and they are easy to train. They are eager to please their owners, and they respond well to positive reinforcement. Active and playful. Aussiedoodles are active and playful dogs. They need plenty of exercise, such as long walks, hikes, or games of fetch. They are also good at agility training and other dog sports. Some Aussiedoodles are hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Overall, Aussiedoodles are wonderful dogs that make great family pets. They are friendly, loving, intelligent, and active. If you are looking for a loyal and devoted companion, an Aussiedoodle may be the perfect breed for you. However, it is important to note that not all Aussiedoodles will exhibit all of these traits. Some Aussiedoodles may be more reserved or independent than others. It is important to do your research and meet a few Aussiedoodles before you decide if this breed is right for you. Grooming: Aussiedoodles require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. This can be expensive and time-consuming. Exercise: Aussiedoodles are active dogs and need plenty of exercise. This can be a challenge if you have a busy lifestyle. Training: Aussiedoodles are intelligent dogs and can be easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn at times. If you are considering getting an Aussiedoodle, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared for the commitment. They are wonderful dogs, but they do require a lot of care and attention. Aussiedoodle Highlights Aussiedoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Australian Shepherd or Poodle parents. Many Aussiedoodle owners claim that they are hypoallergenic dogs and may be better for allergy sufferers, though no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Aussiedoodles are smart dogs and require mental stimulation. If they become bored, they may act out in destructive ways. Some Aussiedoodles have wavier coats, while others have tighter curls like their Poodle parents. Aussiedoodles with shorter hair may be better for allergy sufferers, but it is not a guarantee. Aussiedoodle History The Aussiedoodle mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Australian Shepherds and Poodles in the late s or early s, likely in North America. It makes sense why the Aussiedoodle started booming in popularity, given how smart, playful, and cute the Poodle and the Australian Shepherd are. Even though the Aussiedoodle mixed breed 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 breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Aussiedoodle rescues, or check with breed-specific Australian Shepherd or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Aussiedoodle Size As the Aussiedoodle is a relatively new breed — and there are size variations ranging from toy to standard for the Poodle — there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Poodle and Australian Shepherd parents, you can expect Aussiepoodles to range in size from a small-to-medium size. Most weigh in at 25 to 70 pounds and range in height from 10 to 15 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. No matter their size, whether they are a smaller Aussiedoodle from a Toy Poodle or a larger Aussiedoodle from a Standard Poodle, you can expect this dog to have a lot of energy. You can keep your Aussiedoodle occupied with long hikes, walks, beach days, or retrieval games. Australian Shepherds are herding dogs, so your Aussiedoodle may try to round you, kids, or other things up! They are also incredibly smart, thanks to both their Australian Shepherd and Poodle parents, so your Aussiedoodle will require a lot of mental stimulation. If bored, Aussiedoodles can easily become destructive. Aussiedoodles also love to be around their humans. Like the Australian Shepherd, Aussiedoodles will sometimes get closer and stick with one or two of their favorite humans. Aussiedoodle Health The Aussiedoodle breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Australian Shepherd and Poodle also face. 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. Some of the most common health ailments Aussiedoodles suffer from include:. This isn't one of those click-bait articles with an intriguing title that is meant to draw you in, and then, WHAM--the article is about why you should adopt an Aussiedoodle. That isn't what I'm doing here. I want to talk to you about Aussiedoodles and why they may not be a good fit for your family. And in learning why they may not be a good fit, you may discover that this breed is ideally suited to your lifestyle! But remember, that's NOT why I'm writing this article.Our mission with Rebecca Creek Retrievers is to educate the public about Aussiedoodle puppy ownership and training. I am not fulfilling this mission without being completely transparent about the breeds and types of dogs we produce. So why am I "dogging" on Aussiedoodles? I obviously like the breed since they are an integral part of my program. I have come to appreciate, respect, and love the cross between the Standard Poodle and Australian Shepherd. I have carefully procured breeding dogs of each pure breed that complement each other in temperament and structure. Many breeders will take a Poodle and an Aussie Australian Shepherd and breed them together without consideration for structure or temperament. These breeders might be focusing on pretty merle coats or striking blue eyes. Learn more about Aussiedoodles on TellTail. Oftentimes, miniature dogs are created simply by breeding only the smallest dogs from every litter. These small dogs are coupled, and the smallest pups are kept and bred. And the cycle continues. Sometimes, no consideration for health, structure, or temperament is taken into account because the main focus is size. I'm not saying that all miniature dogs are poorly bred. I would love to have someday miniature varieties of my well-bred poodles and hybrids doodles. Still, I've yet to find breeding dogs that exemplify their standard counterparts in structure, temperament, and health that are owned by breeders who will share them with me. If you want a mini doodle Aussiedoodle mini size , please consider finding a breeder who rigorously performs health and temperament tests. Pedigrees Are Important Please look for a breeder with registered dogs or one who can provide, at minimum, three-generation pedigrees for every breeding dog. Registration is not as important as having honest pedigrees. A dog can be unregistered, but the breeder can still have access to quality pedigrees that show that dog's lineage. This is important to prevent inbreeding. Without a pedigree, a breeder cannot be sure if they are inbreeding. Because "mini Aussies" are not registerable, while Miniature American Shepherds are, many breeders of mini and toy Aussies do not have pedigrees. They cannot effectively prevent inbreeding in their programs. An ethical breeder will be willing to furnish a copy of pedigrees for their dogs upon request. A pedigree is not the same as registration papers. A dog's pedigree refers to the lineage or family tree of the dog, including information about the dog's ancestors and their characteristics. My husband has a family member with a phenomenal small standard Australian Shepherd. His owner called him a "miniature Aussie. We met the dog, and he wasn't miniature at all! He was a slightly smaller-than-normal Aussie. We interacted with him over a weekend vacation and just knew that Chet the Aussie and our small Standard Poodle, Chloe, needed to have puppies. He is much smaller than an Australian Shepherd; however, he looks identical to one in structure and other physical features. He does not have short legs and prick ears. He looks like an Aussie, only smaller! This proper structure indicates sound breeding decisions by his owner and we are so proud to have Chet at the foundation of our Aussiedoodle lines. Chet comes from the foundation Miniature American Shepherd stock. Many dogs from this original breeding stock are not registered with large pedigree databases such as the AKC. The Miniature American Shepherd was created by carefully breeding small Australian Shepherds together over many generations. The Miniature American Shepherd is now an AKC-recognized breed thanks to the hard work of hundreds of focused breeders! Genetics are so interesting, and the companies that offer these testing services are constantly evolving to keep up with changes in the registries, such as the AKC. The puppies were not only gorgeous, but they were sweet, intelligent, and entertaining. They remain to be one of our most popular litters to date. We learned a lot from the first litter of Aussiedoodles. We knew that we would need to continue to carefully select breeding pairs based on structure, health, and especially temperament. These Aussiedoodle puppies displayed a very balanced mix of herding and protection traits from the Australian Shepherd or Miniature American Shepherd , as well as the enhanced intelligence and composure of the Standard Poodle. Three Generations in the Making We kept one of the pups from that very first litter of Aussiedoodles out of Chet and Chloe, born in , so we could someday breed back to a Standard Poodle to create even more predictability in coat type and temperament. Opal, a dog from our first litter of Aussiedoodles The puppy we kept from that first litter of Aussiedoodles is named Opal. She is a red merle Aussiedoodle. She whelped three outstanding litters for our program and has helped us grow our Aussiedoodle lines. Opal matured to be one of the most amazing dogs we have been privileged to own. She was raised in a Guardian Home and spent a lot of time here with us, too. Opal displays minimal herding behaviors but is fiercely loyal and quietly protective of her family. She finished her training at just 1. We are so proud of Opal and her breeding and training accomplishments! We kept a puppy named Sadie from one of Opal and Otis' litters that was whelped in .Sadie is cream in color. When we chose to keep Sadie, we considered things like health, structure, and temperament. Sadie had a curly coat and did not test positive for merle. This is important because the cream coat color can hide a merle coat pattern, and all cream Aussiedoodles should be tested for merle before breeding! Sadie is now of breeding age and has matured into a phenomenal Aussiedoodle. Sadie represents our second generation of Aussiedoodles! She is considered an F1b Aussiedoodle. Sadie does not display any herding behaviors. She is fun to train, spunky, and active like the Australian Shepherd. She is witty and uber-smart, like the Standard Poodle. Her Guardian Home raised Sadie, and her favorite thing is to go squirrel hunting with her owner. We hope Sadie will make her debut as a mother in ! Sadie's puppies will represent our third generation of Rebecca Creek Retriever Aussiedoodles! We called these puppies "Golden Aussiedoodles. We DNA-tested every puppy. We chose to try this cross because we wanted to bring in some of the English Golden Retriever sturdiness structure and add even more genetic diversity to our Aussiedoodle lines. Remember, an Aussiedoodle is a mixed-breed dog. Why not add a bit of Golden Retriever to enhance this fantastic cross even more? Here is a photo of one of Opal's Golden Aussiedoodle puppies: River, one of our Golden Aussiedoodle puppies We decided to keep River from this litter and add her to our breeding dog lineup for our Aussiedoodle lines! So far, River is maturing to be a beautiful dog and a well-behaved, loyal, intelligent, and trainable Aussiedoodle. We hope River will make her debut as a mom in ! River's puppies will also represent our third generation of Rebecca Creek Retriever Aussiedoodles. Oakley is a registered, purebred Australian Shepherd who belongs to an Australian Shepherd breeder in Texas and his breeder is terrific! Oakley the F1 Aussiedoodle This litter of F1 Aussiedoodles born in was another excellent example of this famous doodle cross! We kept a puppy from this litter and placed her in a Guardian Home. We named her Oakley, after her sire. Oakley displays some herding characteristics and many retriever characteristics! She lives with her Guardian Home on a acre farm in Missouri! It's a little far from our home here in South Texas, but her owners are family members, and we couldn't be happier about the extra-special life she lives. Oakley enjoys herding and protecting her flock of chickens! Sometimes she is even caught eating a few of their eggs. I guess it's fair payment for such quality guardianship! Oakley on a tractor with her owner We hope Oakley will make her debut as a mom in ! So, we have been working through several generations to continue producing the best Aussiedoodles! I withdrew all these dogs from my program before I bred them! I am sharing the following information without photos or identifiable information regarding the breeders of these puppies and dogs. The breeders I worked with were responsible and ethical, and in every one of these situations, these breeders made ethical decisions to help me place these puppies and dogs in loving pet homes. Ethical breeders understand that despite our best efforts in health testing and selecting compatible breeding pairs, many things like genetics can still be out of our control. That is why looking for a breeder with health testing and temperament testing practices is imperative. It is also essential to purchase a puppy with a very sound purchase contract and comprehensive health warranty. One puppy that we purchased in hopes of him becoming a stud for our program was diagnosed with congenital eye defects at just a few months of age. This was discovered through my routine but rigorous health testing practices. Thank goodness I opted for eye certification through a board-certified opthalmologist! This defect would have most certainly been passed on to offspring. I spent thousands of dollars on purchasing and testing this puppy, only to have to retire him early from my program. This puppy was placed in a loving pet home that understands his condition. Another puppy that we purchased with hopes of him becoming a stud for our program was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia at just over a year of age. We raised this puppy for an entire year from 8 weeks of age and fell in love with him! We discovered his elbow dysplasia right before we officially began his orthopedic testing. He started limping one day, and we proceeded with radiographs of the joints. We were saddened to learn that we could not breed this beautiful puppy. I spent thousands more dollars on purchasing and health testing this puppy and a full year of raising and training him in our home, only to have to retire him early from my program. This puppy was also placed in a loving pet home that understands his condition. We purchased a 1-year-old dog from a breeder to breed her someday to produce Aussiedoodle puppies. After owning her for an entire year and watching her fully mature into a 2-year-old dog, we decided that her temperament was not the right fit for what our customers look for in an Aussiedoodle puppy. This dog was very healthy and sound! She was also very sweet and loyal. But she had way too much energy and herding drive for our comfort. This decision was particularly difficult. It's one thing to retire a puppy or dog early because of health issues. It's especially difficult to retire a friendly, beautiful, healthy dog due to minor temperament nuances. However, this is where Rebecca Creek Retrievers and other very discerning Aussiedoodle breeders stand apart from backyard breeders. We select only the very best of the best to breed and propagate our lines! Look for an Aussiedoodle breeder with these same standards. Australian Shepherds are not. Aussies are herding dogs. So the thought of crossing the two breeds made me cringe before I carefully tried it myself. And the practice of crossing these two breeders together still makes me proceed with great caution and careful planning. A new breeder is probably not experienced with owning and training both breeds, the Poodle and the Australian Shepherd. I wasn't, either! I am experienced in owning, raising, training, and breeding breeds: the Australian Shepherd and similar Miniature American Shepherd , and the Standard Poodle. I'm also experienced in owning, raising, training, and breeding the Aussiedoodle! Here is the potential problem with pairing an Aussie and a Poodle. Two breeds with conflicting instincts retrieving vs. Please ask your breeder how they choose their breeding pairs and how those pairs will complement each other. Ask to see photos and videos of past puppies and pictures and videos of how these puppies have matured into functional adult family pets. An ethical breeder should be more than willing to answer questions like these about her dogs and their breeding choices. Sadie, F1b Aussiedoodle puppy Aussiedoodles can be phenomenal dogs when bred using careful calculations and scrutiny from breeders. Selecting complimentary breeding pairs will result in puppies that are intelligent, sweet and charming and that have appropriate energy levels and impulse controls. Health testing all breeding dogs thoroughly helps us choose breeding pairs with a high chance of producing puppies without inherited health issues. We have found that our Aussiedoodle puppies often display both instinctual behaviors of herding and retrieving very well. These herding behaviors are not usually apparent until weeks of age and sometimes much later. This is typically after puppies move in with their new families. These behaviors will surprise a family that is not prepared for them. Herding behaviors can manifest in the following but not limited to ways: Nipping at clothing or body parts while you or your children are walking attempting to herd people Jumping up and nipping at the face in an attempt to get your attention Chasing, barking and biting moving household objects such as brooms, mops, etc. These instinctive behaviors require intense obedience training and proper daily stimulation to relieve the pressure of these instincts. We encourage owners to provide an outlet for these behaviors rather than attempting to suppress them , such as lure coursing, herding trials, or even just playing a nice long game of fetch every day! These instinctual behaviors need to be appropriately fed and nurtured to keep your Aussiedoodle happy and well-behaved. We send all of our puppies home with a FREE 6-week online puppy training course because we believe in early obedience training and proper socialization. We highly recommend starting your obedience training with Baxter and Bella's Online Puppy Training School if your breeder does not offer free training for your puppy. Color or Health? A Golden Aussiedoodle puppy I want to address another aspect of the Aussiedoodle: coat color and markings. Australian Shepherds are a breed built around recessive color genetics and susceptible color gene mutations. These include the recessive "tan point" phantom genes and the dominant merle mutation. That's right--the merle color gene results from a mutation. When breeding dogs are selected and paired with a primary focus on color traits, other essential characteristics such as health, structure, and temperament are de-prioritized or ignored. We select our breeding pairs for health, structure, and temperament first. Our litters include various colors and patterns: black, brown, apricot, cream, merle, phantom, parti, and abstract. We embrace all of these colors and patterns. We are breeding Aussiedoodles because we enjoy their personalities. We are selecting breeding pairs that complement each other in health, structure, and temperament, with little regard for color or pattern except for the merle mutation. Merle dogs attract a lot of attention. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so I can't say that merle dogs attract attention simply because they are beautiful. However, there is no denying the fact that they are indeed very unique in appearance! A red merle Australian Shepherd Merle is a color mutation that does not behave the same as other color traits. Two merle dogs should never be bred together, as this can result in blind and deaf puppies. When two merle dogs are bred together, the puppies are known as "double merle. All merle dogs should undergo extensive health testing before breeding to ensure that they do not have any health problems related to this mutation. Some dogs are genetically merle they carry the merle mutation but do not have a merle coat pattern. They are known as "cryptic merles" or "hidden merles. If a cryptic merle is bred to a merle, the resulting offspring can be double merle, meaning they are at a high risk of being born with severe congenital defects. This is why finding a breeder who thoroughly health tests their breeding dogs and understands how genetics work is crucial when looking for an Aussiedoodle puppy. Your dog's color will not affect your lifelong relationship with the dog. It is crucial to keep the above statement in mind when looking for an Aussiedoodle puppy for sale because it's true! The color of your puppy will not determine the puppy's temperament or personality. But the color of your puppy might affect his health. Take all of this information into account when interviewing breeders. We subject all our breeding dogs, including our merle dogs, to rigorous health testing to ensure that breeding pairs will produce puppies with a low risk of being born with health issues. A Golden Aussiedoodle puppy Do you think an Aussiedoodle is the right breed for you and your family? I recommend having a family meeting and writing down all the things important to you in a brand-new puppy for your family. Remember that your new puppy might live years, decide what traits or attributes may affect your long-term relationship with him. Keep reading to find a checklist to help you make this critical decision. Let's get back to that. Here are the most popular reasons people adopt Aussiedoodles and why you should not if these are your reasons: I want an Aussiedoodle because they have blue eyes! This is a vain and insignificant reason to adopt a dog that needs specialized care and training. Your Aussiedoodle puppy's eye color will not be a reflection of his adult temperament and personality. I want an Aussiedoodle because they are merle! Not all Aussiedoodles are merle. Color and coat pattern will not affect your lifelong relationship with your Aussiedoodle. I want an Aussiedoodle because they don't shed! Aussiedoodles are not hypoallergenic. The Aussiedoodle is a mixed breed dog; unless you DNA test each puppy, you will not know their coat genetics or whether they will shed. Most Aussiedoodles will shed a little bit. If you have severe allergies, proceed with caution. Also, keep in mind that lower shedding equals more grooming. I want an Aussiedoodle because I had Australian Shepherds growing up, and now I want one that doesn't shed. An Aussiedoodle is not an Australian Shepherd. It is a mixed breed dog resulting from two very different pure breeds. While your Aussiedoodle may remind you of your past Aussies, it will remain a very different type of dog and should not be compared to a purebred Aussie or a purebred Poodle. Remember, lower shedding equals more grooming. Your Aussiedoodle will need regular grooming by a professional, whereas an Australian Shepherd would not. I want a more miniature doodle. I don't want a big dog! The Aussiedoodle is a mixed-breed dog. Predicting adult size based solely on your puppy's parents is an uphill battle. Adult size and weight depend on many generations of genetics. Your breeder needs to be knowledgeable about their parent dog's generations back to accurately predict adult size and weight. I want an Aussiedoodle because they are so smart! Aussiedoodles are easy to train if you are an experienced trainer or follow a structured training program such as Baxter and Bella. Aussiedoodles are more intelligent than you can prepare for, which means without training, they will create their own rules and you will NOT like the rules they come up with! After our first litter was such a success, we decided to work towards making the Aussiedoodle a permanent part of our program. Opal the F1 Aussiedoodle with her puppies Here are some things that we LOVE about our Aussiedoodles that are unique to the breed: Aussiedoodles are lower-shedding dogs than their purebred Australian Shepherd counterparts. The level of shedding will vary significantly between puppies and puppies in the same litter. However, we appreciate that Aussiedoodles shed less than Aussies and are typically easier to groom than purebred Poodles. This is a double-edged sword, as discussed earlier in this blog post. If you are not interested in becoming a dog trainer, this is not the breed for you. Aussiedoodles will develop very naughty habits quickly without training. However, if you are hands-on with your dogs and love to train, this breed is for you! Aussiedoodles thrive with constant engagement and stimulation. The sky is the limit regarding what you can teach these dogs. Our Aussiedoodles outsmart and outperform even our purebred Poodle puppies and consistently surpass them in training classes. The aloof and witty Poodle combined with the goofy and wiggly Aussie is magical. These puppies are just fun to sit back and watch. Aussiedoodles are loving and loyal. Like the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle, these dogs love their people and are undyingly loyal to their owners. Aussiedoodle Adoption Checklist Are you ready to become a dog trainer? Proper training requires time and money. Are you ready to invest both into your puppy? Are you ready for the grooming requirements that low to non-shedding dogs come with? Are you ready to spend hours a day training, caring for, and playing with your Aussiedoodle? If your schedule does not allow for that time, are you ready to hire a qualified individual to step in and help? Typing "Aussiedoodle rescue near me" or even "mini Aussiedoodle rescue near me" may heed a few pages of confusing and sporadic search results. There are no rescues to date that specialize in the Aussiedoodle. In other words, no Aussiedodle Rescues offer Aussiedoodle puppies for adoption. There is no Aussiedoodle Rescue organization in Texas. Adopting a rescue Aussiedoodle can be risky and may not be a good decision for a beginner dog owner. Oftentimes a rescue Aussiedoodle has behavioral problems that make the dog difficult to own as a pet. The rescue Aussiedoodle may also have health problems that caused it to be surrendered. Ethical breeders require their customers to contact them before rehoming their Aussiedoodle. If you find a rescue Aussiedoodle chances are it did not come from an ethical breeder. Please do your due diligence in considering the possible implications of adopting a rescue Aussiedoodle.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. Courage and loyalty are attributes the Boxer is usually described with. With a good work ethic, playful demeanor, and a goofy face, this dog breed ranks among the top 10 in the USA for a while now. Their nobility and elegance came to focus after the originally working breed Boxer became unemployed during the early 19th century. The breed name derives from the way they defend themselves with their paws while playing. It really appears as the dog spars with the front paws. There is no doubt one might be tempted to get bring home one of these loving fellas. The growth in dogs has much to say about their health and potential — but how? While growing up dogs that suffer from some diseases might stagnate more than others. Boxers are a medium to large dog breed and are pretty safe from the usual bone and muscle disorders in larger dogs. However, hip dysplasia remains one of the most common issues. Reputable breeders will let you meet the parents and give you contacts from owners of puppies born in previous litters. Most Boxer puppies will correspond just fine to the ranges mentioned for their age. It is super important to not rush the growing process. Dogs that are overweight can experience problems later on in life that might have been avoided by maintaining an appropriate body condition. Moreover, the veterinarian can have the pup checked for possible health conditions causing the slow growth. Photo by otsphoto on Shutterstock Even with late bloomers, there is no reason to worry. Some dogs experience growing episodes sooner than others. The same rules apply to puppies that grow too fast. Damage due to wrong feeding can be avoided by using high-quality premium food and sticking to the recommendations according to weight and age on the labels. Never miss out on consulting your vet on the topic first — they will be glad to guide you through it! Boxer Growth Stages Until they reach adulthood, Boxers go through 3 growth stages. The general difference between the growth stages is how fast the puppy grows during the period and how they appear in posture and body condition. The first stage is from birth until they are 2 weeks of age. After the second week, the growth rate slows down. Most breeders wean the puppies off around the 4th-5th week. At 18 months of age, you can probably introduce your companion as a fully developed, curious, and independent adult Boxer. Boxer puppies have somewhere between 2. At the end of the first stage, they can reach around 4. At 1 month of age, their stuffed muscle figure comes at about 5. By the time they are 16 weeks old, males weigh lbs .Male Boxers are expected to have approximately lbs .In the next six months, the growth slows down to about lbs 0. Male Boxers should weigh around lbs kg by the time they reach 6 months of age. Female boxer puppies are expected to have lbs kg when they are half a year old. Since the Boxer qualifies as a medium to large breed, it takes longer for them to reach their full-sized version compared to other smaller breeds. There are exceptions when Boxers complete the growth at 20, even 24 months. Female Boxers that are done growing up weigh approximately lbs kg and stand .Their male counterparts have between 60 and 70 lbs kg and are 23 to 25 inches cm tall. In the meantime provide quality food, regular exercise, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the standard dimensions of the breed. On the other hand, there is a handful of those that are larger than the standard too. Genetics is the most probable cause for this. Rarely do Boxers end up being smaller than the rest due to low production of the growth hormone. Luckily growth hormone problems in Boxers are very rare and other breeds such as the Miniature Pinscher, Spitz, or Karelian Bear Dog are more prone to the condition. Growth defects in dogs can appear due to Dwarfism Achondroplasia. Minor deformities can be surgically corrected, but again with a dubious prognosis. In Conclusion Understanding the growth chart will help you understand what role nutrition, diet, and exercise plays and adjust accordingly. Getting rid of excess weight or ruling out health issues is something you and your vet can work on together. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. 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. 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Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Blankets, pillows, and towels. The mother GSD and her litter need a quiet place to stay. It should be spacious, clean, and comfortable. If money is not an issue, you may purchase a commercial whelping box and a washable vet bed. But if you want to be thrifty, you can just make use of a clean cardboard box. Just make sure that the box is big enough for your GSD to stretch out comfortably. You may also buy a heat pad. It will provide warmth to the litter. Instead, put the heat pad under the whelping box, with one end on top of the box. Cover it with a towel to avoid overheating. The whelping box should be close enough to an electrical outlet so you can easily plug in the heat pad once you need more warmth for your Litter. Make sure they stay warm by providing a heating pad and lamp. You may add blankets, pillows, towels, or even old newspapers and a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Be careful though because puppies might get entangled and suffocate if the blanket, pillows, and towels are not taut. Puppy milk replacer, baby bottle, or feeding syringe If the litter is abandoned or orphaned, ask your vet to prescribe milk formulated for German shepherd puppies. Purchase a baby bottle or syringe for feeding. If you leave newborn German shepherd puppies with their mother, give her the first two days to bond with her litter and feed them. Once you see that your GSD has accepted her litter and is feeding them, you can put the puppies in a box beside their mother. She will take care of cleaning and nurturing her pups while continuing to feed them with her milk. But if she still refuses to take care of her pups, you must take matters into your own hands. To do this, place a clean towel or a washable vet bed inside a cardboard box. Keep the box beside your GSD but make sure that she cannot get in touch with her pups. Plug the pad into an electrical outlet and adjust the heat to maintain its temperature at 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The pups can get hypothermia if their body heat drops below 94 degrees Fahrenheit. See also How long should a puppy chew on a bully stick and when to take the bully stick away? Now, put your German shepherd puppies under the warmth of the heating pad at 95 degrees F and wait for them to feed. Only put three puppies per towel or one puppy per section of the vet bed for ease in feeding and monitoring. A mother GSD can produce about 4 to 5 cc of milk every hour. This means that she will need someone to feed her pups every 2 or 3 hours. To correctly use the eyedropper, put your puppy on its stomach and tickle its throat to induce swallowing. Repeat this process until you see that the pup has emptied the eyedropper. Pups will probably fall asleep after feeding. To avoid suffocation, place rolled-up newspapers in their box the pups can use them as pillows when they sleep. These are only temporary until the mother GSD starts to take care of them by licking them clean and keeping them warm with her presence. Weighing scale To make sure if the German shepherd puppies are gaining enough weight, monitor their weight by using a weighing scale at least 4 times a week. If the puppies are not gaining enough weight, they may not be getting enough milk or nourishment so consult your vet right away. Use a wet cotton ball or washcloth to massage or rub gently the anal region. A mother GSD can give birth to 4 to 9 puppies in one litter, 6 as the average. Newborn German Shepherd Puppies Newborns especially 1 to 3-day old German shepherd puppies are vulnerable so before you do anything, consult with your vet especially if you are inexperienced. Right after your GSD gives birth, check the 1-day old German shepherd puppies if they are breathing. If you notice a puppy having breathing difficulties, use a suction bulb syringe to suck out the blockage and clear its airways. Most of the time, they just sleep or eat. They usually eat every two hours during their first week of life. If the puppies are orphaned, you may wash them gently using a warm and moist cloth. Avoid over-bathing the pups because it can cause dehydration. You will notice some of them wagging their tails as well which is adorable to look at. The puppies will gradually open their eyes for the first time in 2 weeks. They will be curious so expect them to move around to inspect their surroundings. Instead of crawling, they attempt to use their legs even though their legs may shake. Check their weight to see if they are gaining well and continue keeping them warm and clean. Their ears will open so they can hear the sounds around them. Though their legs still shake when they attempt to walk, they can finally stand on their own. They will begin to socialize and explore their surroundings more so you should not separate the puppies from each other. They will start teething so they tend to bite everything. They will also be interested in eating solid food. The puppies can walk well at 4 weeks so they will continue socializing with their siblings, their mother, and their handler through playing. They can begin eating solid foods for the first time now that their teeth are fully developed. The puppies can be fully weaned when they reach 6 weeks because they become independent of their mother. They also improve their social skills by playing not only with each other but also with people. Not to worry because this is just a normal phase. This is a good time to expose the puppies to various sounds, places, and people. Teach them basic commands but focus on socialization and bite inhibition. If the puppies are not fully potty trained , train them now. At 9 weeks, the weight of male German shepherd puppies normally ranges from 9 to 10 kg while the females would be from 7 to 9 kg. Their height ranges from 12 to 15 inches. See also How to Crate Train a German Shepherd Puppy When the German shepherd puppies reach 10 weeks, their ears will become pointy but sometimes the ears are floppy. Their height and weight will continue to grow as long as they are adequately fed. By this time, your puppies should already know how to gently use their mouth in dealing with humans so you can enhance their training by teaching other basic commands. When they are done, let them play so that they learn how to do this on their own. Be patient because it takes time before they get the hang of it. If after 24 hours it still refuses to eat, use a baby bottle or feeding syringe to feed the puppy. Prepare a milk replacement formula using evaporated milk mixed with egg yolk, using two egg yolks for every half cup of milk. To avoid bacteria growth, boil the water first before mixing everything and store any leftover formula in the fridge. Gradually increase the proportion of milk replacement formula and decrease the proportion of puppy chow until you wean them off milk replacement completely. Your GSD puppy may have parasites because stools may look like pebbles or tan-colored, small balls which can be a sign that they have swallowed something in their litter box. This is particularly common when they are still with their mother because they tend to eat the feces of the other pups. Diarrhea can also be caused by stress, which is common for a newborn GSD puppy that has been removed from its mom. If this happens, make sure you give them enough attention and place your hand gently on their body to calm them down. Conclusion German shepherd puppies are truly a sight to behold from birth to adulthood. 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. A few things are as cute as a litter of German Shepherd puppies, but the idea of caring for all those bundles of fluff can be overwhelming. So, what do you do after your German Shepherd gives birth? After the whelping process is over, clean the mother GSD as much as possible, without disturbing her or the puppies. Instead of using soaps and disinfectants, clean your dog using warm water and a washcloth. Remove soiled bedding from the whelping box and replace it with clean towels or blankets. If your female German Shepherd is about to give birth, you need to be prepared to step in and care for her newborn puppies if necessary! Read on to find out how to take care of newborn German Shepherd puppies to raise a healthy and happy litter. It may come as a big surprise, but German Shepherds are very self-sufficient during birth. Though your GSD is more than capable of giving birth to puppies on her own, you should still be there to offer her support and help out in case of an emergency. Wrap the puppy in a towel and continue rubbing their back to stimulate them to breathe. Keep in mind, delivering the puppies is a messy business and there will be some drainage and waste in the area for the next couple of weeks. Your best bet to keeping the mom and the puppies clean and safe is to set up a designated nesting box before the delivery. Proper hygiene is the key to ensuring the health and well-being of both mom and her pups. Besides using towels and blankets you can also use a heating pad or a heat lamp inside the nesting box. If you decide to use a heating pad, choose a quality product and make sure that it is set at an appropriate temperature. Nose Suction Bulb Sometimes, puppies are born with excess fluid and mucus inside their noses and rely on you to clear their airways and help them breathe properly. As mentioned earlier, delivery is messy so make sure that the bedding inside the nesting box can be easily removed and disposed of. Remove the soiled bedding and replace it with clean sheets once a day to maintain hygiene inside the whelping box. By the end of the second and the beginning of the third week, the puppies will open their eyes and become more active. Feeding German Shepherd puppies spend their first week of life nursing and sleeping! However, you should start weaning your puppies when they are around three or four weeks old. Three weeks old German Shepherd puppies can eat wet puppy food or puppy kibble mixed with water as it is easier to chew. If this happens, have your vet prescribe you an artificial puppy formula to feed to your pups. During the first week, keep the temperature inside the room between 86 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In the second week, you can lower the room temperature to 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the puppies turn three weeks the ideal temperature for them is around 71 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure not to exceed 65 percent humidity, since too much moisture can cause diseases. Use a humidifier or place the nesting box in your laundry room to maintain ideal humidity levels. Weigh the Puppies Use a baby scale to weigh your puppies regularly to ensure they are gaining weight. Puppies are generally checked over and weighted two weeks after birth and then again at four weeks of age. However, you can use baby scales to weigh your GSD puppies at birth and then every other day to see if they are gaining weight and developing as expected. Once their baby teeth start to grow your puppies can start eating wet puppy food, or kibble soaked in water. By the time your puppies reach seven or eight weeks of age, they should be transitioned to solid food. Nevertheless, there is no harm in wanting to be prepared to welcome the new puppies the best way you can. Caring for a litter of newborn German Shepherd puppies can be a daunting idea, especially if you never raised puppies before. Related Articles:. The following is a brief how-to guide on taking care of newborn German Shepherd puppies before, during, and after birth. Getting Ready for Delivery 1. It is generally best practice to puppy-proof the area make sure that there are no hard, sharp objects protruding from the walls or floors , and make sure that it is in an isolated part of your house to avoid nuisance. In addition, it will be very difficult for you to move the mother during the pregnancy, so make sure that this area is ideal before she goes into labor. Prepare a Checklist of Supplies Preparing a preliminary checklist of supplies that you will need for the mother and her pups can be very helpful. Remember that this list should contain everything that you think that you may need before the puppies arrive. Here are some items to include in your preliminary checklist: 2. It is best practice to line the bottom of your nest with sheets and towels so that it can be easily removed and washed after birth. The mother will defecate most frequently when she first goes into labor we recommend having a diaper-changing razor nearby , so you want to make sure that whatever you choose to line your nest is easily removed and disposed of. You should consider using a heating pad or heat lamp in your nest area. Also, make sure that you have an extra blanket nearby because even if the heating pad is set on the proper temperature setting, it can still drop after hours of use. The extra blanket can also be used in combination with the pad if you need to increase the temperature of your nest area. The purpose of these two items is to provide a den-like environment for your mother and puppies after they have been delivered. Generally, puppies are checked over at 2 weeks after birth and are weighed then in addition to 2 weeks after that. However, you can get a baby scale to weigh the puppies as often from there on out. In addition, you will want to check the temperature outside of the nest to make sure that it is not too cold or too hot. If you are having trouble regulating the temperature inside and out, it may be a good idea to put your female GSD in an enclosed whelping box. You will want to be sure that you have a pair of gloves, sterilized scissors, and a sterile area in which to perform the procedure, as well as some thread and some antiseptic solution. Ensure the Environment is Clean and Comforting During and after the birth, you will want to ensure that the area in which your mother and babies are being kept is clean and comfortable. Here are a few tips that you can use to make the area clean and comfortable for your dogs. Make sure to clean the birth area as best you can. The easiest way to do this is by using a solution of warm water and vinegar 3 parts water, 1 part vinegar. Keep a squeaky toy around for fun and entertainment purposes only. In addition, you should keep it hidden until the puppies are old enough to enjoy playing with it at about 2 weeks. Remove unnecessary items from the area to ensure there is enough space for the mother and her pups. Disinfect this area well so that it remains sterile. Try your best to limit external stimuli for your mother while she is in labor, such as the presence of children, loud noises in the area, and anything else you can think of that might interfere with her birthing process. Watch Out for Some Warning Signs During Pregnancy If you have done everything you can to prepare for the birth of your puppies, you should be all set when it finally happens. However, just like everything in life, not everything goes according to plan! Sometimes, there are warning signs that something is amiss with your female GSD. What you need to be aware of are the following things: She appears to be in pain or otherwise uncomfortable before giving birth. She stays in the same position for several hours while giving birth to her puppies without showing any signs of labor e. She begins to bleed excessively from the vagina. She seems extremely tired and unable to get up or do much at all. This could signify that it was born prematurely and needs some extra care before being left with its mother. She has a long break that lasts more than several hours. This is when they need to rely on their mother GSD to provide everything they need to survive. Although the mother should be able to provide for the puppies most of what they need, sometimes she might need a little bit of help. Check The Newborn Puppy Right after the birth, make sure that the puppies are breathing properly. If a puppy does not appear to be breathing or if it seems like they are having trouble breathing, take them out and rub firmly across their back while covering them with a towel. If this is the case, you should keep her warm at all times by dabbing some alcohol onto her rear-end and massaging it gently until she warms up again. The puppies will be able to regulate their own temperatures at this point. At this time, they are too early in their development to drink regular mother milk, let alone puppy food and solid food. So instead of milk, a puppy must be fed a yellowish substance called colostrum during the first 12 to 24 hours of life. This substance is so critical for newborn German Shepherd puppies as it contains all the antibodies they need to help them fight off disease at an early age. In fact, most newborn puppies who have been deprived of colostrum will die within the first week. You can either find another feeding mother, or you can feed them yourself with artificial formula. Whichever you choose, make sure to consult with your vet first before doing so. Related Questions 1. A German shepherd dog can carry her puppies anywhere between 63 to 68 days. Larger breed dogs like the German shepherd tend to carry their puppies longer than smaller breeds. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Puppies How to Care For a Newborn German Shepherd Puppy German Shepherd puppies are the cutest pets, but can be very fragile at an earlier stage of life, making it impossible for them to fight and survive alone. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about newborn German shepherd puppy care. However, these little babies are often born blind, deaf, and toothless. Since these pups are so fragile at an earlier stage of life, it is nearly impossible for them to fight and survive alone. Unfortunately, due to lack of care, many German Shepherd puppies easily succumb to unfortunate circumstances. It is essential to know that newborn puppies generally require a lot more care and attention than adult dogs. Here, we will dive deep into the world of newborn German shepherd puppies so you know how to take care of them. Important Things to Know About German Shepherd Puppies Newborn German Shepherds are blind until they are between 8 and 14 days old and deaf until they are 5 to 8 days old. These unique-looking puppies are typically born with dark blue or grey eyes, but their physical features keep changing and evolving as they grow. If the first litter of a German Shepherd has more than four puppies, it can render the mother incapable of providing them ample care. This means that there is a potential risk of the newborns getting sick, dying, or becoming very weak until you intervene. Care for the Pups During their Birth Once your German Shepherd has given birth, you will need to check all the puppies to ensure they are breathing properly. Generally, the mother cuts the umbilical cord and cleans up her puppies by licking them gently. She typically starts with their genitals, moves on to their legs, and then finishes with the rest of their bodies. You can start by using a disinfectant to clean the cords and then rub their bodies with a clean towel until they dry. Adjust the Temperature and Humidity Before delivering, a German Shepherd mother searches for a safe and private space enough for her puppies to be born it. So, as a dog parent, it will be your responsibility to provide your pup with a big enough box to suit her and her puppies. Therefore, adjusting the temperature of the nest is a rather significant part of keeping these pups healthy. Generally, German Shepherd mothers are the primary heat source for babies. However, if, for any reason, the mother cannot be in the box, you must provide the puppies with other heat sources, such as a warm lamp or a heating pad. The best way to maintain ideal humidity levels for the puppies is to install a humidifier or keep the nest in your laundry room. Feed the Puppies A significant part of caring for your newborn German Shepherd puppies is providing them with the right amount of nourishment. The best way to do this is to allow nature to take the wheel. The puppies will be nursed by their mother immediately after the birth, even without the pups unable to see her nipples. A German Shepherd mother typically lactates for two months. However, if the mother is unable to provide her pups with this nourishment, you will have to search for other sources. Take Note of Hygiene Maintaining the hygiene of the puppies and their nest is an integral part of keeping them in good health. However, it is best to maintain a clean environment by disinfecting the nest and replacing the blanks or towels once a day. Additionally, you must only start bathing the puppies after 45 days of their birth. Wrapping Up This article only provides you with the basics of newborn German Shepherd puppy care. Discover how to create a joyful, healthy home for your pet. Subscribe to your weekly rundown of practice, real life ideas and training tips straight to your inbox. We offer practical, real life ideas and training tips for a joyful experince, with your pet. All rights reserved. The German Shepherd is a widespread breed of service dog that is popular with breeders. This breed develops into a beautiful large size body with well-developed muscles giving the dog the ability to perform well in many different environments. With proper care and competent training , an owner will get a loyal and devoted friend. Raising German Shepherd puppies is a responsible and difficult task which will require a lot of patience and love. Of course, we can easily fall for these German Shepherd newborn puppies whose photos look so cute on the Internet and in magazines but they also need competent care. Litter size The normal litter size for this breed is often of interest to novice dog breeders and this information is especially relevant for those who have their first experience with a young bitch. Amongst German Shepherd breed experts, there is consensus that the normal litter size is generally driven by genetics and the conditions or the timing of mating do not have a significant influence. A shepherd dog can give birth from 1 to as much as 15 puppies but in most cases a little less than the median of this range is more typical. Basically, you can expect a litter size of five to six puppies, which is really the optimal size. Of course, a healthy bitch is able to feed twelve babies, but it will be much more difficult for her, and the babies may not grow strong enough. Mating Experienced dog breeders recommend no more than one mating per year, otherwise it may affect the physical appearance and health of German Shepherd newborn puppies and the health of the mother herself. First two weeks of the German Shepherd newborn puppies Learning to care for the puppies during the first two weeks of their lives is particularly important. The condition of a German shepherd puppy immediately after birth, already speaks volumes to the fact that he is absolutely helpless as babies are born blind and deaf. However, despite this obstacle, their sense of smell is already quite developed and they perfectly feel the maternal scent and look for nipples of the mother by touch. Moreover, newborns instinctively know that the rear nipples contain more milk, so a struggle begins between them for the most advantageous places. Hearing in newborns starts functioning three to four days after birth. In the first hours after birth, babies are susceptible to various kinds of infections and they are especially vulnerable in cases when the health condition of the mother is not good. Real life experience shows that those who were born last have a much higher survival rate than those who came out first. If there are more than six newborns in a litter, the owners will need a lot of strength and patience to help the mother hatch and provide the conditions necessary for their survival. The litter will need to be divided into two areas and newborns fed in two steps. It is recommended to set up two box or containers to separate the group. In that case, you will need the help of a nurse dog who could take over some of the feeding responsibilities. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead in case the need comes up. There are certain criteria for selecting a nurse dog: Height at withers more than 50 cm Strength Health Milk availability It is important, to pay special attention to the weak and small puppies and place them against the rear nipples. Monitoring of German Shepherd newborn puppies You will need to closely monitor the behavior of newborns, weigh them daily and record the results in a log book. In doing so, you can track the evolution of the babies and identify those that may have development issues. In the first week, babies suckle their mother about twelve times a day, then the frequency drops to eight and in the final days it will go down to four times. At first, the mother stimulates the physiological functions of the puppies by licking them. Once the German Shepherd newborn puppies begin to eat a little solid food, the mother stops doing it. Keep in mind that from that point on you will have to take care of the cleanliness of the birthing area where the bitch lives with her puppies. If you notice that the mother does not really care for the babies, you will need to massage their abdomens. You can do so with a cotton swab dipped in sunflower oil. When the babies are five days old, the dog owner should start changing the litter in the box on a daily basis. Make sure the area where the litter is set up is warm but well ventilated and that nothing can contribute to suffocation of the puppies such as fabric, attachments, etc. On the seventh day, trim the small claws of the front legs as they can scratch the mother while feeding. If the case she has wounds, lubricate them with synthomycin liniment. In that case, wash them with a weak potassium permanganate solution, rosehip oil or sea buckthorn oil and make sure that she does not lick that area. Feeding of German Shepherd newborn puppies You can start feeding puppies once you notice a decrease in their daily growth, despite the fact that they become restless, whine and try to crawl. Appropriate timing is crucial as rushing the process is just as dangerous as delaying it. If you start feeding too early, the mother will have less milk production, which is a source of vitamins and antibodies to various infections. In fact, breast milk is the best whey that protects droppings from all sorts of infections. In general, feeding can start around the fourteenth day. In cases where the shepherd mother has problems with lactation, you can start on the twelfth day. You can give milk from a cow, sheep or goat by mixing egg yolk and powdered milk into it. A bottle with a nipple is suitable as a feeding tool and the hole should be of such a size that milk does not pour out, but drips. The frequency of feeding in case of insufficient lactation in a bitch is every three hours and three times a day with normal lactation. Learning to care for Shepherd puppies A one-month old German shepherd puppy is not much different from its younger counterparts, but it is much larger. Its weight is from two and a half to four kg and height at the withers is from 19 to 21 cm. Once the puppy starts eating solids, the diet should be optimally balanced. The young German Shepherd is growing fast and his food intake must be nutritious! Meals should be provided at regular intervals with 6 meals a day being the optimal frequency. Then, gradually increase the amount of servings and decrease the number of meals. The main principle is that each meal should provide the shepherd puppy with the necessary complex of vitamins, fats, carbohydrates and proteins. One serving of food is usually around g. Only select premium quality food for large dog breeds and make sure they contain all the necessary nutrients. Alternatives to processed food are natural products cottage cheese, porridge with meat broth, grated vegetables, boiled eggs, boiled or raw minced meat. Both approaches in their pure form have their advantages and disadvantages. Get the help of a dog nutritionist, if needed. Good luck! Related topics of interest to our readers. Gestation length according to accurate hormone measurements in dogs Please note that these values are averages and individual dogs may have slight variations. Getting Ready for Delivery Before giving birth to its babies, a female German shepherd begins exploring private and safe places for her puppies this process is called nesting. For the comfort of the mother and the safety of the puppy, keep some blankets and towels in the whelping box. She begins to spend more time in her nest. This way you will not have to distribute her puppies in hidden places. Taking Care of German shepherd Puppies Newborns cannot see or hear until 5 to 8 days of age. Puppies do not stand until at least 2 to 4 weeks of age. Same for the barking behavior. If left in the litter or orphaned, or if its mother is unable to produce enough milk, or if the suckle reflex for the puppy is poor, ask your vet for the Lactose-Free weaning milk prescribed for German Shepherd Puppies. Check if the temperature is warm enough as the puppies cannot control their temperature at this stage. You do not need to bathe them this time, because the mother GSD cleans her litter by constantly pressing. If the puppies are orphaned, you can wash them gently using a warm and damp cloth. Mothers for German shepherds , depending on her experience and the size of the litter, work an average of 6 to 18 hours, usually to deliver puppies. When new contractions begin, arrange the already-born puppies with a heating pad fitted in a small box and keep them away until the next puppy is born. Immediately after birth, check that each puppy is breathing properly. Observe closely their movements to make sure there are no faded puppies. German shepherd giving birth for the first time Usually, after birth, the mother cuts the umbilical cord and cleans the puppies by gently pressing their bodies. She starts with the genitals, then the legs complete with the rest of the body. She may not do so if she has no experience, or when she is exhausted after childbirth. This colostrum is very nutritious for babies. Hygiene Mother GSD, by licking its genital area, encourages her litter to urinate or defecate, but if left in the litter, you should stimulate them with potty cleaning essentials because new-borns cannot do this on their own till the first 2 weeks of life. Gently massage the anal area using a damp cotton ball or washcloth. Use a suction bulb syringe if something obstructs the nasal passages of the puppy. Also Read: When do German shepherd ears Stand up naturally? Track the growth and condition of each puppy. Using the Baby Scale, weigh each puppy immediately after birth and log its weight. Healthy German Shepherd puppies weight is about 0. Well-fed puppies sleep quietly, while air-swallowing puppies appear to be well-fed, but behave satisfactorily, initially crying and wandering around a lot, then, not moving enough. German Shepherd puppies are completely weaned and completely independent from their mother by 8 weeks of age, so it is best to train them to avoid behavioral problems. If puppies are not trained to be considered completely stupid, train them now. If necessary, bottle feeding with a canine milk replacement formula can be introduced, following veterinarian guidelines. Puppies should be fed every hours, including overnight. Weaning Introduce a small amount of softened puppy food to start the weaning process. Consult with a veterinarian for appropriate food and feeding guidelines. Start offering puppy food mixed with milk replacement formula, gradually reducing the formula over time. Begin to introduce the puppies to lapping from a shallow dish of water. Socialization Continue handling and gentle interactions to build trust and positive associations with humans. Introduce the puppies to new sounds, sights, and experiences in a controlled and safe manner. Allow supervised playtime with littermates to encourage socialization and development of motor skills. Veterinary Check-up Schedule a veterinary visit for a check-up, deworming, and vaccination recommendations. Hygiene and Cleanliness Clean the whelping area regularly, ensuring a warm, dry, and comfortable environment. Puppies may begin to crawl and explore, so provide a safe space with appropriate bedding. Monitor the puppies for any signs of illness or abnormalities and seek veterinary assistance if necessary. Sleep and Rest Puppies spend most of their time sleeping and should have a designated area for uninterrupted rest. Ensure the sleeping area is quiet, warm, and away from drafts or excessive noise. Provide soft bedding or blankets for comfort. Checklist of essential items for the Newborn German Shepherd Puppies and Mother Here is a list of things newborn German Shepherd puppies and their mother need: For Mom Whelping Box : A safe and comfortable place for a mother to give birth and nurse her puppies. Bedding: soft, clean bedding for the whelping box to keep mother and puppies warm and comfortable. Food and water bowls: Provide easily accessible bowls for the mother to have food and water. High-quality dog food: Provide a balanced and nutritious diet that meets the needs of the mother during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a veterinarian for specific recommendations. Freshwater: Ensure a constant supply of clean, fresh water to keep the mother hydrated. Medical Supplies — Keep a first aid kit on hand that includes items such as wound cleansers, gauze pads, and other basic medical supplies in case of emergencies or complications. For newborn puppies Help Box: A safe and warm environment for puppies to grow and develop. Bedding: Soft, clean bedding to keep pups warm and comfortable. Heat source: A heat lamp or heating pad is set to a low temperature to provide adequate warmth for puppies, since they are initially unable to regulate their body temperatures. Milk Replacement Formula — If nursing is not possible or additional supplementation is required, a high-quality canine milk replacement formula is available. Nursing bottles or syringes — can be used to provide supplementary feeding if puppies are unable to nurse from their mother or if necessary. Weight standard: Check the weight of the puppies regularly to ensure proper growth and development. Vet Contact Information — Have the contact details of a veterinarian with experience caring for puppies handy for any emergencies or questions. Identification bands: Use different colored bands or collars to help distinguish between puppies and track their progress. Socialization and nurturing toys: As puppies get older, introduce appropriate toys and objects to stimulate their senses and encourage early socialization. Remember to consult a veterinarian for personalized recommendations and guidance based on your specific situation and the needs of your German Shepherd mother and puppies. The mother should be given small, frequent meals throughout the day to support her energy requirements while feeding the puppy or during nursing. How often should newborn German Shepherd puppies be nursed? Puppies should nurse from their mother every 1 to 2 hours during the first few weeks of life. They have small stomachs and need frequent feedings to meet their nutritional needs. When should I start introducing solid food to the puppies? Solid food introduction typically begins around 3 to 4 weeks of age. Start by offering softened puppy food mixed with milk replacement formula, gradually transitioning them away from exclusive nursing. Consult with a veterinarian for specific recommendations. How do I keep the whelping area clean? Clean the whelping area regularly to maintain hygiene. Remove soiled bedding promptly, wipe down surfaces, and replace it with fresh, clean bedding. Use pet-safe disinfectants as recommended by your veterinarian. When can I start weaning the puppies from their mother? Weaning usually begins around 3 to 4 weeks of age when puppies start showing interest in solid food. Gradually introduce softened puppy food and reduce the amount of milk replacement formula or nursing sessions. Monitor their progress and consult with a veterinarian for guidance. Final Thoughts In conclusion, newborn German Shepherd puppies and their mother require special care and dedication. Here are some key points to keep in mind: Proper nutrition is very important for mother and puppies. Make sure the mother gets a balanced diet that meets her needs during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. Newborn babies depend on breast milk for nutrition. Make sure they nurse frequently, usually every 1 to 2 hours to meet their nutritional needs. Monitor their weight gain to make sure they are thriving. Provide a clean and comfortable helping area for mother and baby. Keep the area warm, dry and draft-free. Clean and replace bedding regularly to maintain cleanliness. Gradually introduce solid food to puppies at 3 to 4 weeks of age. Start with soft puppy food and gradually transition them away from exclusive nursing. Check with a veterinarian for specific feeding guidelines. Socialize puppies from an early age. Handle them carefully, expose them to different sights and sounds, and introduce positive human interactions. This helps them develop into well-adjusted and sociable dogs. Look for any illness or abnormalities in the mother or puppies. Seek veterinary help immediately if you notice anything concerning. By providing proper nutrition, a safe environment, and early socialization, you can give newborn German Shepherd puppies the best start in life and ensure the well-being of both mother and her precious offspring.

We strive to produce dogs with correct breed conformation, sound genetics, and an amazing temperament. Our dogs have their OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals hips, elbows, heart and eye clearances as well as a DNA panel specific to genetic diseases prevalent to our breed. Our Retrievers are not only perfect indoor companions, but love to be out in the show ring, retrieving on land and dock diving. Deciding to bring a dog into your home is a big and life changing decision! We look forward to talking with you about our wonderful breed and guiding you through life with a golden! Join The Family What Others Say We absolutely love staying in touch with our families and following along as our babies grow. Here are some words from our families! I found adventuresoftrinitypups on instagram and every day I looked forward to watching the videos and pictures of the most beautiful looking and well-behaved Golden Retrievers I have ever seen! After watching them for almost a year I decided to message the person behind the account to inquire about finally adopting my own Golden Retriever because my heart was set on wanting one from Trinity Retrievers! My husband and I drove all the way to South Carolina from New York to pick up the cutest little golden ever, whom we named Toby. The rest is history! He is the best and most well-behaved Golden Retriever, and we are constantly receiving compliments about Toby's temperament and appearance whenever we are in public because he is a perfectly bred Golden Retriever. He has even traveled with us on a handful of vacations! It was well worth the drive and I would only recommend her, and already have in the past, to anyone interested in adding a Golden Retriever to their family! We also hope to get Toby a sibling sometime soon and have kept in touch with Kristin so without a doubt will be getting one from Trinity Retrievers to add to our family! Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for South Carolina Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in South Carolina? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in South Carolina? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Welcome to Carolina Gilded Retrievers! We are a family-owned and operated breeder of American Kennel Club-registered golden retrievers. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Travelers Rest, SC, our state of the art kennel is situated on a 6 acre plot of land with plenty of room for our puppies to grow and develop. At Carolina Gilded Retrievers we believe that a hands-on approach to our dogs and puppies is key, and as such we built our kennel just a stone's throw away from our own house. Our dogs are our pets first and foremost. They are treated as family members and it is important that each of them receive their dedicated time with us, go on adventures, car rides, and trips. We enjoy finding each dog's desired activity whether that be agility, therapy work, or hunting. Our Values What We Breed For At Carolina Gilded Retrievers we breed our puppies for three main criteria: health, demeanor, and structure beauty , making them ideal for companionship, therapy, and service. The naturally loving temperament of the golden retriever breed is further magnified in our puppies by the hands-on love, care, and attention they are given from day one. For the first three weeks of their life they are under hour supervision. Females are all assisted during their delivery, and carefully watched prior to their delivery date. Beginning at 3 days of age, we begin our puppy curriculum which lasts until take home day. We believe it is important to set our puppies and families up for success from the beginning. Beginning at 3 days of age and continuing until 16 days of age, we engage our puppies in Early Neurological Stimulation exercises. We follow the Empowered Breeder puppy curriculum which begins at 3 weeks of age, as well as, the potty training process. From week we begin to have various novelty and exposure activities in the whelping pen. From weeks , the puppies have their own dedicated "puppy bowl" room and astro turf play area, where we offer the puppies a wide variety of exposure activities, objects and textures. Think wagon and stroller rides, to ball pit and tunnel fun, to a variety of toys that are different shapes and sizes. In addition, we begin sound desensitizing and the puppies are exposed to a wide variety of sounds such as fireworks, train noises, clapping etc. At 7 weeks of age we perform the Volhard Aptitude test. Our Commitment To You Carolina Gilded Retrievers is committed first and foremost to the health and well-being of our dogs and puppies, but we also take great joy in helping our clients find the perfect puppy for their needs. We go above and beyond for our puppies and their new families at every turn. Our extended puppy family is ever-expanding, and for us this business is a genuine labor of love. Share 0 Shares The Golden Retriever is a great companion for many active individuals out there, and they also tend to behave very well around children and other pets. This also makes the Golden Retriever a popular choice for many families. However, it is still always important that prospective Golden Retriever breeders do their research about the breeder before they bring a Golden Retriever puppy home. Looking up some basic facts about the Golden Retriever before obtaining one is always a good idea. There are some other things such as what gender and coat color you would like your Golden Retriever puppy to have. However, the most important thing to consider when getting a Golden Retriever puppy is whether or not a breeder is reputable. Here we have compiled a list of some of our favorite Golden Retriever breeders that are perfect for those who are looking for Golden Retriever puppies in South Carolina. Of course, it is still important that you look into these breeders yourself in order to ensure that they will make a good fit for you and your family. Trinity Golden Retrievers Trinity Golden Retrievers South Carolina These Golden Retriever breeders are dedicated to bettering the Golden Retriever breed by carefully breeding their dogs to ensure that they have great temperaments and genetic health. In order to prove their lines this breeder enters their dogs into AKC-run conformation events. All of their dogs also come from established pedigrees, many of them being championship-winning. Additionally, this breeder also gets their dogs OFA health testing for the hips, elbows, eyes, and heart as is recommended for the Golden Retriever breed. Many of their dogs have also received genetic testing for the conditions that can affect Golden Retrievers. This prevents harmful genetic conditions from being passed onto their puppies. Puppies are also kept in good health with up-to-date vaccinations, deworming, and vet visits. Name of Owner.

However, like any other canine, they are susceptible to health issues, one of which is diarrhoea. While dietary changes can cause temporary diarrhoea, the continuous presence of loose or watery stools can signify something more serious. In this blog post, we will take a look at how to identify and treat Goldendoodle diarrhoea. We will cover common causes of the problem, what signs to look out for, whether they need veterinary care and simple steps you can take to restore your pup's health. The Signs of Goldendoodle Diarrhoea Diarrhoea is one of the most common conditions that can affect any puppy or adult dog. The first and most apparent sign of indigestion is frequently loose, watery stools. Your dog can also have discomfort or strain when using the restroom. If their faeces has a strong odour or contains mucus or blood, this could indicate a more severe problem. For instance, they may seem lethargic or uninterested in food and even refuse to eat. Other common symptoms of diarrhoea include fever, drooling, nausea, dry heaving or retching, a painful abdomen, unusual weight loss, vomiting and thirst, which can lead to dehydration if not taken care of. If your pup eats something unusual or has recently been switched to a new diet, this could be causing their symptoms. In cases like these, discontinuing the new food and giving them a bland diet of rice and boiled chicken until their digestive system returns to normal is recommended. Severe cases may require veterinary care. Treatment Options for Goldendoodle Diarrhoea Diarrhoea is a common issue in dogs and while it can be unpleasant, it's usually not severe and can be treated at home. Ensure you are feeding your dog high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs and does not contain artificial ingredients or fillers. Consult your veterinarian if you're unsure which diet is best for your dog. Be sure that your dog always has access to clean water. Probiotics Probiotics are another popular choice for treating diarrhoea in dogs. Probiotics come in different forms such as powder, tablets or capsules and can be added to their food or given directly as a supplement. We suggest using a powder because your dog is more likely to take it. Treating Parasites and Infections If the cause of your Goldendoodle's diarrhoea is parasites or an infection, it must be treated with appropriate antibiotics or antiparasitics prescribed by a veterinarian. Follow all your vet's administration and dosing instructions to ensure proper treatment. Managing Stress-Related Colitis Stress-related colitis can cause chronic diarrhoea in dogs. To manage this illness, stress levels must be as low as possible. Try providing your pet with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation in activities like walks and playtime. Consider incorporating natural supplements such as probiotics into their diet to help promote gastrointestinal health and support the immune system. This may help minimise the symptoms of the disease. Gastrointestinal Food Gastrointestinal food is an essential aspect of treating diarrhoea. The food should be high in fibre and low in fat as this can help reduce symptoms of diarrhoea. When selecting the food, choosing a brand formulated for this condition is crucial. The food should contain prebiotics, probiotics and enzymes that can help balance the microbiome and improve digestion in your pet. It is advised to give them multiple small meals throughout the day as opposed to one large one. This may lessen the likelihood of developing severe diarrhoea and blood in the stool. As always, speaking to your vet before making any dietary changes is crucial to ensure your pet gets the nutrition they need. Prevention of Severe Goldendoodle Diarrhoea Diarrhoea can occur due to various causes, including infections, allergies or dietary issues. While taking your pup to the vet if they experience diarrhoea is essential, it's best to take some preventative steps at home to ensure it doesn't become too severe. Before you look out for prevention options, make sure you get your hands on the mini Goldendoodle breeders list and get familiar with their characteristics. This list outlines everything you need to know about the genetic and health testing requirements on the parent dogs, giving you a health warranty on your mini doodle. Feed Them Quality Food One of the main ways to prevent severe diarrhoea in your dog is to feed them quality food. Avoid buying cheap dog food containing unhealthy fillers and additives that can cause digestive problems. Ensure your pup has a balanced diet that meets its nutritional needs. Consider feeding your Goldendoodle a raw diet as this can be easier for their digestive system to process. Offer Clean Water Make sure your Goldendoodle has access to clean water at all times. Stagnant water can contain bacteria and parasites that could lead to digestive upset and vomiting. Give your pup fresh water daily and clean out their bowl regularly so they can stay hydrated and healthy. Practise Proper Hygiene Practising proper hygiene is another critical factor in preventing diarrhoea in your Goldendoodle. Make sure you clean up any waste promptly and avoid walking them in areas containing parasites or other contaminants. Regularly groom your pup so they remain free from dirt and debris that could lead to digestive upset or vomiting. Vaccinate Regularly Vaccinating your Goldendoodles is essential for keeping them healthy and preventing severe diarrhoea. It helps to create protective antibodies - proteins essential to fight off infections. Regular Deworming Procedure Regular deworming of Goldendoodles is essential to their preventative care program. Deworming should be done as early as weeks of age, followed by monthly treatments until six months. After that a regular deworming schedule should be established, depending on the risk of exposure to parasites. An annual faecal examination, as well as regular deworming, helps to detect parasites and can prevent severe diarrhoea in Goldendoodles. Regular deworming, a healthy diet and routine preventative care can drastically reduce the risk of digestion issues. When is the time to seek veterinary treatment? In some cases, mild diarrhoea can be treated at home with dietary changes or over-the-counter medication. If your Goldendoodle's diarrhoea persists for more than 24 hours and if it's followed by other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, blood in the stool or if your dog appears to be in pain or discomfort, it's important to seek veterinary help right away. Diarrhoea can quickly lead to dehydration, which can be especially dangerous for puppies, senior dogs or dogs with pre-existing health conditions. Your vet can help diagnose the underlying causes of your dog's diarrhoea and provide appropriate treatment to help your furry companion feel better. Conclusion Diarrhoea can be a troublesome issue for pet owners. It is essential to take the necessary precautions to prevent it from occurring and to recognise when it is present. When you detect indigestion issues, it is crucial to identify the cause and take the proper steps to treat it, such as providing your dog with a bland diet, increasing their water intake and providing probiotics or other supplements. With the right approach, you can help your Goldendoodle get back to feeling better in no time. Our mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of all pets through dedicated care and support. Customer Care. Why Does My Goldendoodle Have Diarrhea March 10, by glory bashorun If you are a proud owner of a Goldendoodle, you may be concerned if your pup is having diarrhea. Diarrhea in Goldendoodles can be caused by a variety of things, such as dietary issues, infections, and parasites. Many of these issues can be easily diagnosed and treated, but it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so that you can take the necessary action to keep your Goldendoodle healthy and happy. In this blog post, we will discuss the common causes of Why Does My Goldendoodle Have Diarrhea and how you can best manage it. Why Do Goldendoodles Get Diarrhea? Goldendoodles or mini Goldendoodles are a hybrid breed of dog, which means they are prone to digestive issues due to their mixed genetics. When your Goldendoodle has diarrhea, it can be caused by a variety of different things, from dietary indiscretion to food allergies to an underlying medical condition. If your Goldendoodle has diarrhea, it is important to contact your veterinarian to determine the cause and get treatment. One of the most common causes of diarrhea in Goldendoodles is diet. Make sure your pet is getting the right balance of nutrients from high-quality pet food. Poor nutrition can lead to digestive issues, so it is important to pay attention to what your Goldendoodle is eating. Infections and parasites can also cause diarrhea in Goldendoodles. It is important to keep your pet up to date on vaccinations and deworming to reduce the risk of infection. If your Goldendoodle has chronic diarrhea, it is important to have them checked for an underlying medical condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease or pancreatic insufficiency. Avoid giving your Goldendoodle table scraps or fatty treats, as these can cause digestive issues and diarrhea. In addition to monitoring their diet, be sure to provide plenty of fresh water for your pup to help rehydrate them and flush toxins from their system. Giving your Goldendoodle natural probiotics and digestive enzymes may also help with digestion and restore gut health. Lastly, make sure your Goldendoodle is getting enough exercise; a lack of physical activity can lead to digestive issues. With the right care, your Goldendoodle can be back to its happy, healthy self in no time. Avoid foods that are high in fat, sugar, and salt. Make sure your Goldendoodle always has access to clean, fresh water. Make sure your Goldendoodle gets plenty of exercises. Avoid giving your Goldendoodle human food as treat. Human food can be difficult for dogs to digest and can cause stomach upset. Talk to your veterinarian about the right type of parasite control for your Goldendoodle. If your Goldendoodle is experiencing severe diarrhea, contact your veterinarian immediately. Finally, consider switching to a hypoallergenic food formula if your Goldendoodle has a food allergy or sensitivity. Hypoallergenic formulas are designed to be easier on sensitive digestive systems and can help reduce the symptoms of diarrhea. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Goldendoodle is healthy and comfortable. When is Diarrhea Serious for My Dog? If your Goldendoodle has been experiencing diarrhea for more than 24 hours, it is important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. If your Goldendoodle is exhibiting any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian right away. Dehydration can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary care. If your Goldendoodle is experiencing diarrhea for more than 24 hours, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Make sure they are eating a balanced diet with fresh, high-quality ingredients and avoid processed foods and commercial pet foods that contain too many fillers. Consider adding cooked oatmeal, carrots, or pumpkin to their meals. It is also important to watch for food allergies. Goldendoodles can be allergic to certain foods, so keep an eye out for any signs of an allergic reaction such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching. If you suspect your pup has a food allergy, talk to your vet about switching to a hypoallergenic diet. Additionally, it is best to avoid giving your Goldendoodle salty treats or snacks, as too much salt can cause dehydration and diarrhea. By following these tips, you can help reduce the risk of your Goldendoodle suffering from diarrhea. If the issue persists, however, you should consult your vet. Conclusion Diarrhea in Goldendoodles can be quite concerning for pet owners. While it may be caused by something as simple as a dietary issue, it can also be a sign of an underlying health issue. To ensure that your Goldendoodle is properly diagnosed and treated, it is important to seek the advice of a veterinarian. It is important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your vet to help your pup feel better. Prevention is key to keeping your Goldendoodle healthy and happy. By Jennifer Nelson Pet owners always want to make sure that their Goldendoodle is in good shape and does not get sick. They may work hard to provide them with a good diet, plenty of exercise, and lots of love and attention. But on occasion, it is possible that the Goldendoodle is going to get diarrhea. But what are some of the reasons your Goldendoodle is dealing with this problem? Why Do Goldendoodles Get Diarrhea? Diarrhea in your Goldendoodle may be because of a parasite, an intestinal obstruction, an infection, or a change in their diet that causes food allergies or a food intolerance. When your Goldendoodle gets diarrhea, you need to be on the ball and make sure that they are able to get outside quickly for a few days. The good news is that while this can be an annoying problem, the cause of this issue will usually clear up within a few days and you do not need to worry. We will discuss when this diarrhea issue becomes serious enough that you need to call your vet in a bit. There are several causes of why your Goldendoodle is getting diarrhea. One is that they have a parasite. Worms are the most common parasite that can cause it. If there is an intestinal obstruction of some kind in the stomach of the Goldendoodle, then they may run into diarrhea as well. Often it can be a viral infection that is causing the dog not to feel that well and they may struggle with diarrhea in the process. If you have recently changed the food of your dog right before the problems started, then it could be this change that is the problem. Some Goldendoodles have food allergies or a type of food intolerance that can cause this issue as well. When you notice that your Goldendoodle has diarrhea, you need to stay calm. This does happen and it is usually not a big deal for the dog. Sometimes the cause of the diarrhea is as simple as your puppy or dog sniffing around and eating something bad. And since these dogs are curious and will try everything, it is possible that this can cause the issue. Your Goldendoodle ingesting food outside of the normal puppy kibble can cause the dog to get diarrhea. You should monitor this issue a bit to tell when it is time to go to the vet. Some of the things that you should look at when it comes to your Goldendoodle and having diarrhea include: Color The poop should always be a brown color, even when they have diarrhea. If the poop is not brown, especially if it has blood in it, then it may be a good idea to take them to the vet. This could be a sign of a worse problem. Coating If there is some mucus or another type of coating on it, then this is a sign that something else is wrong. If it is free of coating, it is usually not something to worry about. Contents When you look at the diarrhea, you should see that it is free of any large objects. If there are some white specks that look like noodles, then this is a sign that the Goldendoodle has worms or another parasite. This is a sign that it is time to take the dog to the vet right away. Consistency The poop should be soft but still solid enough for you to pick up. Hard stool is a big sign that the Goldendoodle is dealing with constipation. If you feel like anything is off with the diarrhea for your dog or your dog does not seem to be able to eat or drink for several days, then it is time to work with your vet to see what is wrong and get them some relief. Once the diarrhea starts in your Goldendoodle, you may wonder what some of the steps are that will help to get it to stop. If your Goldendoodle is showing some of the common signs of diarrhea and is acting fine with lots of energy, then you probably do not need to visit a vet and can just let it all pass. Some of the things that you can do from home include: Feed them a bland diet The more bland you can make the diet, the better it is for your dog. Options like boneless and skinless chicken and white rice are a good option. Cook the chicken all the way through to avoid any bacteria that will make things worse: Chicken, rice, and pumpkin are bland yet full of nutrients that can be good for the body. Gastrointestinal food If you do visit a vet, it is likely they will suggest this kind of diet. You can find some of this food at the store. One brand that does well is Royal Canine food. Probiotics If your dog tends to get diarrhea often, a probiotic may be a good option to help with this. Keep them hydrated It is easy for your dog to get dehydrated during this time, especially if the diarrhea lasts for a while. Give them plenty of water to drink to make them feel better. With a little bit of time and a bland diet that will not aggravate the stomach you will find that your Goldendoodle will feel better and the diarrhea will go away. Most of the time the diarrhea that your dog has is not going to be a serious issue at all. It can clear up on its own without a lot of work on your part. However, there are some times when the cause of the diarrhea can be more severe and it is a good idea to watch out and get your dog some help when this happens. Some of the signs that it is time to call your vet about the diarrhea that your Goldendoodle has are: The diarrhea lasts for more than 24 hours or it looks like it is getting worse. There are other symptoms that start to show up along with the diarrhea like lack of appetite and vomiting. When these signs start to show up, it is indicative that there is a bigger problem going on as well. Being ready to visit the vet may be a good idea to make sure that your Goldendoodle will be fine. How to Avoid Diarrhea in My Goldendoodle? The good news is there are a few steps that you can take to help limit how often your Goldendoodle has this problem. These steps will not guarantee that the problem will never happen, but they can limit how often. Some of the steps include: Make sure that you get the Goldendoodle dewormed on a regular basis. Your vet can set up a schedule with you to help with this problem. Make sure that the Goldendoodle gets their vaccines on time each time. This is another thing that the vet can help with. Avoid giving the dog any raw food. Raw food can be an issue because there is the potential for different pathogens to be in it that the dog is not used to and this can cause issues in the digestive tract. Feed the dog food that is high-quality. Do not allow your dog to eat rocks or another unusual object that is going to block the digestive tract from working very well. If you are able to avoid some of these issues, you will find that the frequency of diarrhea in your dog will go down quite a bit, making it easier to take care of them. It will pass in a day or two and is caused by a little irritant to the stomach for the Goldendoodle. With the proper diet and some care and attention, you will be able to take care of the dog and help them get over this issue as well. Change in treats or overall diet Ingesting poisons or toxins Ingestion of foreign objects such as fabric, bones and toys Viral infections such as distemper, coronavirus or parvovirus Liver or kidney disease Parasites — Giardia, coccidia, whipworms, roundworms or hookworms Bacterial infections, including salmonella With all these potential causes, how do you know whether your dog will need to visit the vet? When should you contact your vet? If your dog has had a single episode of diarrhea but is otherwise acting normal, it's likely not a cause for concern. Track your dog's bowel movements to see whether your pup starts to feel better on his or her own. More than two episodes might be cause for concern as these could indicate a health problem, so it's a good idea to contact your vet if your pooch experiences two or more bouts of diarrhea. If your pup is straining to pass a stool but only passing small amounts of watery diarrhea, they could be experiencing a painful blockage due to the ingestion of a foreign object such as a toy. This is a veterinary emergency and needs veterinary attention right away. Contact your vet or head to the nearest emergency animal hospital for care. Recurring bouts of diarrhea over a short period of time could be a sign of a very serious health issue, particularly if your pup is very old, very young, or has a compromised immune system. Infections such as parvovirus are extremely serious, contagious and life-threatening. Contact your vet right away if your pooch is experiencing repeated episodes of diarrhea. Dogs showing other symptoms as well as diarrhea should also be seen by a vet as soon as possible. If your dog has any of the following symptoms, contact your vet right away to make an appointment: Lack of Appetite Signs of dehydration Sunken dry-looking eyes, dry nose, or dry, sticky gums Unusual drooling Weakness Vomiting If your pooch is displaying any symptoms that cause you concern, contact your veterinarian. Your vet will let you know whether your pet's symptoms indicate that an examination is necessary. How can you stop diarrhea in dogs? When it comes to treating diarrhea in dogs it's essential that you never give your dog medications formulated for people before consulting your vet. Many human medications are toxic to dogs and could cause further health complications for your pooch. If your pup has had one or two runny or soft stools, you may want to give your dog some time to recover by simply fasting for 12 to 24 hours. A bland diet for 24 to 48 hours may help to resolve your pup's issue. Plain-cooked white rice with a little chicken and some canned plain pumpkin not pumpkin pie filling may help to make your pup's tummy feel better. Once your pooch feels better, gradually reintroduce their regular food. Other things that might help to soothe your dog's upset tummy include natural yogurt, probiotics, peeled boiled potatoes, cottage cheese, egg with no oil added, specially formulated dog foods, and medications prescribed by your vet. When it comes to your pup's health it is always best to err on the side of caution. By taking your pooch in for an examination you give your vet the opportunity to determine the underlying cause of your pup's diarrhea and recommend the most effective treatment. Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. Chronic diarrhea in dogs is a serious health issue. If your pup is suffering from diarrhea, contact our Baltimore vets today to schedule an appointment. We can treat your dog's diarrhea and help your pooch feel better. Practical poop tips and tricks for doodle owners struggling with chronic diarrhea Updated: Mar 25 Does your doodle seem to always have an upset stomach? I'm talking.Rest assured that this is, unfortunately, a very common problem. You are not alone. Before we get to the tips and tricks, I need to write a disclaimer. I am not a vet. This article is not intended to diagnose or treat any serious medical conditions. Before starting any new treatment or regimen, please consult with your board certified veterinarian. Ok, that's out of the way. I'm not a veterinarian! And I'm not pretending to know more than one. But, I am an experienced dog breeder. So I have come up with many different regimens that work to make your puppy's gut healthier. Genetics, genetics, genetics First of all, let's address probably the most common cause of sensitive stomachs--genetics! Unfortunately, somewhere down the line, we introduced some bad genes into our poodle and doodle communities. Poodle hybrids have become well known for having ultra sensitive stomachs, and nobody really knows why. Except that your puppy could very well be genetically pre-disposed to having a sensitive stomach. Many breeders, like myself, are working hard to breed away from these traits by NOT breeding dogs with these sensitivities. We have experienced sensitive systems in our bloodlines in the past, and it is not fun to deal with. As breeders, it is our job to breed away from undesirable traits. We are fighting an uphill battle against backyard breeders and puppy mills who are not selecting breeding pairs for health and vitality, so these bad genes will continue to be passed on. If your puppy has a genetic sensitivity, it is important that you find a protocol that works for him and stick with it forever. Food allergies are a lot less common than you think So, you switched your puppy to a poultry-free kibble and his itching and diarrhea stopped? That's great! The problem probably wasn't "chicken. Higher quality kibbles use higher quality ingredients. Your puppy was probably sensitive to the lower quality fillers "chicken meal," or "chicken by-product meal" that cheaper kibbles are full of, not "chicken. How about commercial dog treats? Your puppy could be sensitive to the ingredients in those foods, too. To know for sure, why not test for sensitivities? We have so many tools available to use today. Why are pet owners still trying to solve their problems blindly? Try one of these food sensitivity tests so that instead of trying 10 different kibble formulas, you can find one that suits your puppy's individual needs. Click here to order. Our favorite is the Spectrum Veterinary allergy test. Parasites are more common than you think Puppy owners need to stop blaming breeders for every little problem they have. Sure, breeders have a lot of control over a puppy's health and wellbeing for the first 8 weeks of it's life. But once you bring your puppy home, you need to take control of his health. You need to take responsibility for his well being. Parasites are everywhere. They live inside every animal that walks barefooted, eats off of the ground, eats dirt whether on purpose or by chewing on a dirty toy , and drinks water that has been sitting outside for any period of time. Do you pick up sticks off of the ground with your mouth? Do you drink from puddles, or from a water dish that has been sitting on the ground outside? That is why you don't have parasites. You can't prevent exposure to parasites--please don't try! Eating dirt and playing in dirty water is good for your puppy. It's fun, enriching, and builds his immune system! But I need you to understand something. Once you pass the four week mark of bringing your puppy home, parasite problems are your problem, not your breeder's. Parasites work quickly and efficiently, and they're very good at what they do. Your puppy can leave your breeder completely clear of parasites, and pick up eggs or larvae all are microscopic as soon as he hits the ground in his new home. Just 30 days or less! Puppies are still building their immune systems, so they are more susceptible to damage and infection from parasites. The most common form of damage is to the digestive tract, since that is where the most common parasites call "home. After the puppy leaves the breeder, they have no control over what the puppy is exposed to. Deworming is a part of routine pet care, and should be done several times a year. It is possible you are deworming your dog regularly and you don't even know it! The most common combination products used that contain broad spectrum dewormers are: Trifexis Sentinel Nexgard Spectra If you do not use any of the products listed above they are very strong products and many dogs have adverse reactions to them , then it is important to talk to your vet about deworming your dog a few times a year. The exception to the rule I mentioned above that if your puppy tests positive for parasites after you have had him home for four weeks or more, then the breeder is not to blame. Here are the exceptions to the rule: Coccidia Giardia These parasites are species of protozoa. They are much smaller than other parasites, and the same dewormers that kill other parasites do not kill these protozoa. Coccidia and Giardia, like other parasites, are everywhere. You cannot avoid them! Giardia most often lurks in water it doesn't have to be dirty water! Traditional disinfectants won't kill these tough protozoa. These protozoa are species specific, meaning dogs get giardia from other dogs. And dogs get coccidiosis from other dogs. Your infected puppy or dog cannot infect you. And no, your puppy didn't get giardia or coccidiosis from your chickens, goats, or from the birds flying over your yard. Your puppy "inherited" these nasty protozoa from his mom! Most dogs are carrying these protozoa around in their systems, and constantly shedding them in their feces. These dogs are not ill from these protozoa because their immune systems are very strong. Many breeders do not include protozoa eradication in their routine deworming protocol. Not because they're lazy, or ignorant, but because it did not used to be considered the "norm" for breeders to use prophylactic protocol against protozoa. Therefore, many new puppy owners experience bouts of infection from these protozoa for two reasons: When a young puppy changes homes, there is stress involved you don't always "see" this stress, but it is there. This stress weakens your puppy's immune system and makes him more susceptible to infection and illness. Again, many breeders do not include protozoa eradication in their routine deworming protocol. It is possible your puppy's breeder did not use prophylactic treatment to get rid of these protozoa in your puppy's system. So here's the thing about coccidia and giardia--it is possible for your puppy to leave your breeder feeling well, and then fall ill just a week later after joining your new home. And, it's not necessarily your breeder's fault. Some breeders have caught on to the prevalence of coccidia and giardia in certain regions, and have added protozoa prevention protocol to their already rigorous deworming protocol. But many breeders still do not know about this protocol or the desperate need for it. It has been shown in some loose studies that oregano oil has strong and effective antibacterial properties. Adding oregano oil to your sensitive puppy's daily regimen could help in preventing future illnesses. Not food allergies--remember, true food allergies are a lot less common than you think. Pets are sensitive to low quality ingredients, just like we are sensitive to fast food and junk food. When we eat too much greasy fast food and get an upset stomach as a result, we don't then go on saying that we are "allergic" to fast food. We understand that too much junk is not good for us, therefore, it makes our bodies feel sick when we eat too much of it. Why don't we think this way about dog food? Too many people are feeding their dogs junk food for every single meal. When your dog eats junk all the time, he is going to feel like junk all the time. And for many dogs, what owners think are food allergies, are actually just normal bodily reactions to junk food. Teaching you how to read ingredient labels and buy good dog food is a job for a whole separate blog post. But here are some practical tips when it comes to choosing a dog food: Ignore labels like "organic," "all natural," "free range," etc. Don't buy literally into the hype. All commercial dog food companies are using by-products of the human meat industry. Be it, different levels of quality, but--all dog food is made from plant and animal by-products. What is important is what by-products are selected, and how the ingredients are used in the recipe. Meat should be the 1 ingredient. A single word meat source should be the very first ingredient in your kibble. This is non-negotiable! Having real meat as the first ingredient ensures that your kibble contains muscle meat. Lower quality kibble will have meat by-products such as "bone meal," or "chicken by-product meal" listed. Some might not have any meat at all, if you read the ingredients carefully! Avoid "exotic" meat ingredients like venison, kangaroo, or rabbit. These meat ingredients are not regulated like more common ones chicken and beef , and therefore these meat ingredients can actually be much lower in quality, but they're priced significantly higher. For example, the kangaroo meat in dog food is obtained from Australian bounty hunters who are paid to kill these animals in mass quantities, because they are overpopulated and destroying the environment. The meat is not approved for human consumption, so it is made into dog food! So many people pay exorbitant prices for a kibble that contains an exotic meat because of the assumption that an exotic meat is somehow healthier for their dog. There is no research that supports that exotic meats are better for your dog. Avoid peas, lentils, beans, squash, and pumpkin. These are trendy new "fillers" being used in modern boutique dog food formulas. These ingredients are nothing more than plant by-product fillers being pawned off as "healthier" ingredients. Wheat middlings are distillery by-products, and have been used for centuries as animal feed. We know a lot about the ingredient and how dogs are able to utilize it. There is little to no research supporting the use of newer, "trendy" ingredients in dog food peas, lentils, squash, etc. Corn is not your worst enemy. Just like chicken is not your worst enemy. Low quality ingredients are your worst enemy. Higher brands split certain ingredients in order to make the ingredients more easily digested, and therefore, nutrients more bioavailable to dogs. In other words, they split an ingredient ahead of time so that the dog's body doesn't have to do it during digestion. For years, a popular dog food rating website claimed that ingredient splitting was a fraudulent way for dog food companies to use more fillers in their formulas. I used to believe this, too. The myth needs to stop circulating! Higher quality brands use ingredients that are going to give you the most nutrition in the most highly digestible form. You can spend more money now on a premium diet, or you can spend more money later in vet bills. Vet bills that are incurred on your senior dog because he is developing conditions in his old age that have been caused by eating a poor diet his whole life. In addition to a premium kibble, we suggest adding a few supplements. A raw egg on top of kibble a few meals every week is a great way to add in some extra healthy protein and fat. Some fish oil a few times a week keeps skin and coat healthier. A daily pre-biotic, digestive enzyme, and antioxidant supplements is also a great idea. High quality kibbles are sprayed with probiotics look for probiotics on an ingredient list and so a daily probiotic is not needed. Stop it with the treats Giving your dog too many junky commercial dog treats could greatly affect a sensitive system. Your dog's ultra premium kibble is perfectly balanced to ensure optimum nutrition. When you feed too many junky treats, that balance is thrown out of whack. You're now working against yourself by feeding a high quality kibble, with very low quality dog treats. Try some of these all natural options when it comes to "treating" your dog: Raw, whole carrot. Abdominal pain or discomfort Vomiting If you notice ongoing diarrhea in your goldendoodle, make sure you visit your vet as soon as possible. How to Prevent Diarrhea in Goldendoodles There are several things you can do to help prevent diarrhea in your Goldendoodle pup: Feed your Goldendoodle a balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and size. Avoid foods that contain artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers as these can cause digestive issues. Monitor what your Goldendoodle is eating and make sure they don't have access to any foods or ingredients that could cause them harm. Common foods and ingredients to avoid include chocolate , onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, and xylitol. Choose the right type of food for your Goldendoodle. High-quality dry kibble is usually the best option as it contains all the nutrients they need in one meal. This is especially true for a goldendoodle with a sensitive stomach. You may also want to consider adding wet food or raw food into their diet if they're not getting enough nutrition from kibble alone or they have trouble eating hard kibbles. Monitor how much food your Goldendoodle eats each day and adjust their portions accordingly. Too much food can lead to digestive issues like diarrhea while too little can cause malnutrition. By following these guidelines, you can help reduce the chances of your Goldendoodle developing diarrhea and ensure they remain healthy and happy. Home Remedies for Goldendoodle Diarrhea If you have a Goldendoodle with diarrhea, there are several home remedies that can help. The most common remedy is to feed your Goldendoodle a bland diet of boiled chicken and white rice. This helps to settle the stomach and provides an easily digestible meal. You can also add canned pumpkin to the diet, as it is high in fiber and helps firm up stool. Rice water is another hydrating solution that can be given to your Goldendoodle in small amounts throughout the day. It's important to remember that if your Goldendoodle's diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours, you should take them to the vet for further examination. Tips for Managing Goldendoodle Diarrhea Caring for a dog with diarrhea can be a difficult task, but it is important to ensure that your Goldendoodle is getting the proper care and nutrition they need. It is important to monitor their stool consistency and make sure that it does not become too loose or watery. When caring for a dog with diarrhea, it is important to feed them a diet that is easy on their digestive system. This means avoiding foods that are high in fat, as well as foods that are heavily processed or contain artificial ingredients. Instead, opt for lean proteins such as boiled chicken or fish, cooked vegetables, and white rice. These types of foods will help your Goldendoodle's digestive system recover from the episode of diarrhea more quickly. When to take your goldendoodle to the vet? If your Goldendoodle is experiencing diarrhea for more than 24 hours, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible as they could be experiencing chronic diarrhea. Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of things, including parasites, infections, food allergies or intolerances, and intestinal obstructions. Your vet will be able to diagnose the cause of your dog's diarrhea and provide an appropriate treatment plan. Your vet may recommend tests such as fecal exams and blood work in order to determine the cause of your Goldendoodle's diarrhea. Depending on the results of these tests, they may prescribe medications such as antibiotics or anti-diarrheal drugs in order to treat the underlying condition causing diarrhea. In addition to medications, there are other treatments available for Goldendoodles with diarrhea. These include dietary changes such as feeding a bland diet of boneless and skinless chicken breast and white rice; adding probiotics or yogurt to their diet; increasing fiber intake; and avoiding foods that may trigger allergies or intolerances. It is important to follow your vet's instructions when treating your Goldendoodle's diarrhea in order to ensure that it resolves quickly and safely. With proper care and treatment, most cases of Goldendoodle diarrhea can be resolved quickly and without any long-term effects on your pet's health. Improving Gut Health in Goldendoodles Gut health is a major factor in the overall health of your Goldendoodle. A healthy gut helps to prevent digestive issues such as diarrhea, and can also help to improve your pup's immune system. When it comes to improving gut health in Goldendoodles, there are several things you can do. One of the most important is to make sure that your pup is getting a balanced diet with plenty of fresh, whole foods. This includes lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. You should also avoid processed foods and treats that contain artificial colors or preservatives. In addition to providing a balanced diet, there are certain foods that have been shown to improve gut health in Goldendoodles. Canned pumpkin and boiled potatoes are two examples of these foods. Canned pumpkin is high in dietary fiber which helps keep the digestive tract functioning properly, while boiled potatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals that help support a healthy gut microbiome. Raw food diets have also been found to be beneficial for improving gut health in Goldendoodles. Raw diets consist of unprocessed meats, fruits, vegetables, and other natural ingredients that provide essential nutrients for optimal digestion. The enzymes found in raw food can help break down food more efficiently which can lead to better absorption of nutrients by the body. Conclusion Diarrhea in Goldendoodles can be caused by a variety of things, including parasites, infections, food allergies or intolerances, and intestinal obstructions. It is important to take your pet to the vet if their diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours so they can receive an appropriate treatment plan. Also, poop containing blood might indicate that your Doodle has caught parvovirus. Parvo in dogs is very easily spread and can cause severe complications. Parvo poop may contain blood, so it appears red, very dark brown, or even black. Puppies with parvo may experience yellow colored poop. Usually, parvo poop is very liquid-y and has a very strong, foul smell. But always discuss this with your vet and follow their exact guidelines. You should also provide your Doodle fresh drinking water at all times. This only applies to adult dogs with no underlying medical conditions. Puppies and dogs with illnesses should not be fasting. So what helps a dog with diarrhea fast? During the fast, you can prepare your dog rice water, which helps with stool consistency. But what can I give my dog to harden his stool? A bland diet of plain boiled white rice and chicken breast without skin and bones is usually recommended, especially after the fast. But do not add any seasonings or fats fatty foods can worsen diarrhea! Also, plain cooked eggs or boiled potatoes without skin or seasonings can be helpful. Plain boiled white rice and chicken breast Plain boiled potatoes At first it may be necessary to give your dog only small portions at a time. Bland food helps soothe an upset stomach and firm up the stool. After a day or two you can gradually introduce regular dog food back into their diet. The dog elimination diet includes only one type of protein and one type of carbohydrate over the span of 8 to 12 weeks. But this should only be done if your vet recommends so. Divide the daily amount into smaller portions that you can feed your dog throughout the day. Dog Diarrhea — Pumpkin Remedy The American Kennel Club recommends 1 to 4 tablespoons of pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin to bulk up the stool and to balance the PH level of the large intestines source. Again, the pumpkin should be as clean as possible, so: no additives, sweeteners, or canned pumpkin pie fillings. As always, discuss this with your vet first. Smaller dogs should not eat as much pumpkin as larger dogs. Plain eggs are a great bland food that your Doodle could benefit from. Banana is another plain food that you could feed to your Doodle as a diarrhea remedy. You can try mashing up a few small pieces of peeled banana without any seasonings. In mild cases of diarrhea, a piece of plain bread could help. However, since wheat has a higher protein content, it may cause allergic reactions and, in turn, more diarrhea. Also, regular bread has a relatively low nutrient content. Rather, opt for a bland diet of rice and chicken. In cases of simple diarrhea, vets usually recommend the hour fast and the bland diet. If your Doodle suffers from an allergy, the elimination diet or special dog food may be required. These can include Imodium, metronidazole, tylosin, Panacur, Drontal and Dolpac. Imodium for Dogs For severe cases of diarrhea, your vet might recommend Imodium to help combat dehydration caused by diarrhea. However, never give your Doodle Imodium unless your vet has instructed you to do so. It can cause severe constipation, bloating, and even pancreatitis. Furthermore, some breeds have a hard time breaking down certain drugs. For example, Aussiedoodles may carry the Multidrug Sensitivity gene. In conclusion, dog diarrhea is not a pleasant experience either for you or your Doodle. However, most of the time it is harmless. As long as you keep an eye on their behavior, know what symptoms to look out for, treat them with a bland food diet, and keep in touch with your veterinarian, your Doodle should get better in no time. It is not intended to be a substitute for qualified professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like.

They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. 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. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. They've won the dog personality popularity contest for so many years, as Labs are devoted to their owners—always willing to show you their affection and receive your adoration in return—are highly intelligent, and are happiest doing any and all family activities. Their enthusiasm not only makes them fun to be around, but also makes them a hard-working breed. Labs are companionable, bonding with all family members, and famously friendly to every person and pup they meet. While they have high energy and require lots of activity , they are eager to please and highly trainable. Appearance Thanks to their role as a hunter's companion, the Labrador retriever is a sturdy dog, weighing in at anywhere from 55—80 pounds. Labs come in three colors: chocolate, black, and yellow. While black Labs were an early favorite with breeders, all three types of Labs are common today. Some breeders do offer "rare" Labs, including polar white, fox red, and even silver, but these are simply variations of the three original Lab coloring combinations. Their top coat is short and thick. Their undercoat is softer and helps provide protection from the weather, especially cold temperatures and water, a nod to their original role as retrievers. A Lab's tail serves a purpose in their heritage as well. They are thick and tapered, an "otter tail" that acts as a rudder when Labs swim. But watch out on land—this happy breed gets to wagging their tail often and eagerly, and won't stop if you happen to be in the way. Yellow Labs might be easy to confuse with golden retrievers. Though both are friendly pups and popular with families, they distinctly different breeds. Temperament "The ideal disposition is one of a kindly, outgoing, tractable nature; eager to please and non aggressive towards man or animal," the breed standard says. They are friendly with new people and animals they meet. Tops in the personality department, Labs are also highly intelligent, making them very trainable. They do have lots of energy, so you'll need to stay active with them, but they are also happy to relax at home for family movie night. What many veterinarians do find, however, is that each Lab is an individual with his own personality. Some Labs are more mellow, while others can be higher energy. Some tend to be more anxious dogs. And you can even have a Lab that is a bit of a goofball. But no matter what personality your Lab puppy grows to develop, one thing is always the same. Living Needs Labs adore their owners. They will want to live indoors and sleep as close as possible to you—or even on you. They like to get outside to play, but don't leave them unattended for too long as they may prove they have a naughty side. Labs have been known to dig and chew, so invest in plenty of sturdy chew toys to keep yours entertained. If properly introduced and trained, Labs can also get along well with other pets in the home including cats , other dogs, and small animals. They are competitors, doing well in agility, field tests, and at dog shows. And they absolutely love to swim. Care When you welcome a Lab to your home, be prepared for lots of shedding. Grooming isn't substantial, but brushing your dog daily will help reduce the tumbleweeds of fur scattered about your house from their thick double coat. They should be bathed every other month to keep them smelling fresh. Brushing their teeth a couple of times a week, keeping their nails trimmed —likely once or twice a month—and checking their ears for redness or odor should also be on your Lab care checklist. A daily minute walk or a lively game of fetch will help your pup burn off some of his energy. Lack of activity could lead to undesirable behavior, but don't overdo it—this "workaholic" breed is apt to exhaust itself. Don't let Lab puppies run and play on hard surfaces for their first two years so they don't damage their joints. Of course their reputation for good behavior precedes them, but that doesn't mean you can skip training sessions with your Lab. Training is important to ensure they don't grow to become too rowdy. Introduce Labrador puppies to other humans and animals early to help socialize them properly. This, coupled with ample positive reinforcement , will allow your pup to grow into the friendly Lab many know and love. Health Labs are a pretty hearty and healthy breed , living 10—12 years. But, as with all breeds, there are some common conditions to be aware of. Elbow and hip dysplasia , heart disorders such as tricuspid valve dysplasia TVD , epilepsy , and hereditary myopathy or muscle weakness can all affect Labs. They can also face eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Owners should also be aware of a condition called exercise induced collapse EIC. Labs may also develop hot spots —or acute moist dermatitis—cold tail, and ear infections. History A bit misnamed, Labs actually come from Newfoundland—off the northeastern coast of Canada—not Labrador, according to the Labrador Retriever Club. Descended from St. John's water dogs, Labradors are a traditional waterdog used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company. At the end of the work day, Labs were then happy to head home to spend the night with the fishermen's families. They became increasingly popular starting in the early s, when they were brought to England by nobles who appreciated their work ethic and disposition. Public Domain It may be hard to believe, but by the s, Labs were almost extinct because of government restrictions and tax laws—the same laws that led to the St. John's water dogs' extinction, according to the Canadian Broadcast Corporation. Thankfully saved by English breeders, they were introduced to the U. After World War II, the Lab's popularity took over and grew for decades until they ultimately achieved the status of America's—and England and Canada's—most popular pooch. Fun Facts In , for the 29th year in a row, the Lab was voted the number one most popular breed. King Buck was the model Labrador retriever featured on a U. Another famous Lab is Ben of Hyde , born in .Considered the first documented yellow Lab, today most lines of yellow Labs can be traced to his bloodline. The star of the show, Marley, is actually several different Labs who played the role to reflect the various age stages of Marley during the film. His family adopted another chocolate Lab, Seamus , after Clinton's presidency ended. Was this page helpful? One can easily recognize their breed since they are primarily selected and trained to be human companions. They are always featured in magazines and news articles due to the geniality and popularity among dog owners. Labs can be seen as a part of law enforcement for detection and screening, or a therapy dog that helps people with disabilities such as blindness and autism. Their loyalty, kindness, and obedience makes them the best candidate for these roles and also being the best buddy at home. Labs are considered the most versatile breed among dogs. Labrador Retriever Characteristics Labs are identified with having a medium well-built body that is perfect for their easygoing and sporty lifestyle. Females are normally smaller and their height ranges from .Their counterparts, the male Labrador Retrievers stand .Labrador Retriever Life Span — Male and Female Labrador Retrievers are very fun to be with, and anyone will want to spend their whole life with the best companion like them. Their average lifespan is between years. They wag their tails to strangers, fellow dogs and are the most loving with kids. Labs make a great partner because of their affection and loyalty to their owners. They have become a popular and favorite breed. That is why they are always featured in photos, commercials, and news where they stick with their owners no matter what. They have saved someone from an accident, or are just plainly eating dog food in a commercial, being a good boy — or girl. This dog breed is remarkably obedient and intelligent, making training easy. They are playful and hyperactive. Labrador Retriever Exercise With their high level of energy, Labrador Retrievers need their exercise. The recommended activities for Labrador Retrievers are daily walking, running in the park, training, chewing on some pet toys, and fetching games — anything that helps them release their stored energy. Be careful though, they are known to be very enthusiastic about being active that they exhaust themselves if you do not intervene and stop the playtime. Labrador Retrievers who lack activity may resort to undesirable behaviors like chewing some items in your house or digging a hole in your backyard just to release some of their pent up zest. So always remember to keep them busy and train them properly. Labrador Retriever Training Training is crucial and yet natural for this breed. They produce an exemplary outcome for Labrador Retrievers themselves and their owners. They are easy to train due to their unparalleled enthusiasm and intelligence. There are different types of training for a Labrador Retriever depending on the career they are going to take. Labrador Retriever History This dog breed, despite its name, Labrador, actually came from Newfoundland, which is an eastern province in Canada. They were initially called St. The Labradors were brought to Britain through ship trading because they were known to be great companions of fishermen. Englishmen took notice because they recognized the skills of the breed as great retrievers, and used them for sports like hunting or water fowling. Labrador Retrievers have always been considered as an awesome helper or partner throughout history with their personality and traits. Their short weather-proof undercoat is perfect for outdoor activities and water sports. Their dedication to their owners and trainability are highly praised even then. The Labs were almost extinct by the s because of the new tax and government restrictions made in Canada for dog owners. They disappeared from their homeland, but thanks to the English fans of this breed and the Malmesbury family, they were protected and saved. In , the Kennel Club acknowledged the Labrador Retriever as an independent and specific breed. Years passed and the Labs from Britain were imported to the US and are now among the most favorite breeds in America. Labrador Retriever Health Problems The energetic and easy-going lifestyle of a Labrador Retriever makes them healthy in general, but like other breeds, they can still have some health issues that most pet owners should look out for. Most of their common health problems involve musculoskeletal and eye-related issues. Here are the common diseases and illnesses with Labs: OCD Osteochondritis Dissecans — OCD is a condition that causes painful rigidity to the elbows and sometimes in the shoulders. Excess feeding of high protein foods or treats that encourage faster growth is considered to be one of the causes of this disease. It can be dislocated partially or completely. Some Labs may show symptoms like an irregular way of walking and also signs of pain. Others may not show any symptoms at all. Labs with this condition are best not to breed to avoid passing on the DNA. Elbow Dysplasia — Similar to Hip Dysplasia, this disease is hereditary and it usually occurs to larger dogs. This causes supple limbs that are painful and uncomfortable for your canine. Vets would suggest getting surgery or prescribe a pain reliever medicine. Early cases result in an inability to see with dim lights, and then progress to a full loss of vision even in the day time. It whitens the lens of the eyes, and blocks the light from coming into the retina. It grows gradually and can affect dogs of any age. Treatment available for dogs that have Cataracts involves removal surgery, which normally has a high success rate. Myopathy — This disease is due to the muscle tissues or fibers not functioning properly. This makes your canine friends really weak, causing rigid movements and muscle tremors. This may be acquired from birth or due to injury or a developmental issue. There is no cure for this and keeping your Labs warm and well-rested helps with lessening the symptoms. Since it gets worse over time, some owners are given the option to euthanize their pets and are advised not to breed. Ear Infections — Labrador Retrievers are prone to ear infection due to the way their ears are made and their lifestyle of loving the water. If your dog shows frequent head shaking or you notice a change in their ear odor, have them checked. Weekly cleaning is necessary to maintain good health for your pet. Cold Tail — When you see your dog trying to catch or bite their tail, they are either playing or they have a cold tail. This condition causes tail pain and becomes flaccid. It is common for Labrador Retrievers and is not alarming since it goes away on its own. This results in inflamed red spots on the skin surface. Treatment includes proper hygiene, hair trim, and antibiotics. This requires a surgical emergency because the gas in the stomach creates pressure in the blood flow, which makes it fatal for the dog. There is still no accurate information about what causes this illness but the chances of getting it gets higher as your dog ages. Pups get them as soon as they are born and some may survive it and others just perish. TVD is caused by having an abnormal shape of the tricuspid valve. There is no current treatment yet for this disease. Phenobarbital and Potassium Bromide are common medications for pets. It is highly advisable to have your labs undergo a full-scale evaluation and EIC DNA test to detect diseases as early as possible. This will also help breeders to determine which dogs are okay to prepare for breeding. It is important for them to be around their human companions, and to have their playtime and exercise like running outside and playing fetch in the park. They love affection and attention from their owners. Leaving them alone for too long at home or in your backyard may result in an unhappy Lab. Given their enthusiasm for activities and burning energy, they enjoy chewing anything for hours. Giving them a toy to chew for hours will keep them happy and content. Another thing to consider is to settle them in a kennel or a place of their own so they will not create a mess or destroy things in your house accidentally. Since they are overly joyful creatures. Nutrition and Feeding for Labrador Retriever When caring for a Labrador Retriever or any pet in general, you must think about how, what, and how much to feed them. Over time, dogs grow and have their preferred food. It is best to feed your Labrador Retriever with foods that are high in protein and fat. Feeding them high-quality food is the best option. It also depends on if you want them to eat commercial food or homemade meals. Knowing your dog is fundamental in learning how to feed them properly. Not all dogs are the same. The amount of food you need to feed your Labs depends on their age and size. But in general, they should be fed cups of dry food spread out to 2 meals a day. Treats are helpful in training and keeping your Labs happy, but anything excessive is always not a good idea. These 2 layers help them become more resilient to cold and water. Their coat is one of their best assets since they can easily go in and out of the water without ice crusting in their fur. Black coats of Labrador Retrievers were a favorite by breeders before but the demand for golden yellow and chocolate brown increased, which made them a staple color for Labs too. There are some fans that breed Labs with white and fox red coats, which can be considered rare. Regular nail trimming should be done. Long nails cause Labs to be uncomfortable with their feet. This also helps to avoid scratches and being hurt when your Labrador Retriever excitedly jumps on you. Brushing their teeth often to keep your canine friends clean and healthy is a must. It helps prevent any mouth issues like gum disease, the buildup of plaque and tartar, and tooth decay, which causes bad breath. One thing to consider that is common with Labs is the excessive shedding of their coat. Having a vacuum for the area where your Lab mostly hangs out is a thing to consider to manage all the furs that fall out. Brushing their coats frequently helps with their loose hairs. Remember, grooming is not just about making sure they are polished but it can also be a time for you to spend more time with your dog and check for potential health issues. They are easy-going, lovable, and have low aggression, which makes them okay with being touched, petted, and cuddled. Labs enjoy being with kids since they can match their energy and glee. They will happily play together for hours and are very affectionate towards children. It is important to supervise them, no matter how kind and friendly your dog is. This is to avoid any biting or tail and ear pulling on either side. Training your dog on how to act towards children will help them have a better and safe interaction. Reiterate to your kids not to bother any dog when they are sleeping or eating. This is why there are specific breed rescue groups that take in and look after these neglected Labs. Dogs that are rescued are put up for adoption and these groups ensure that they are given to families that will provide a new home where they will be loved and taken care of. Breed organizations are founded to be the keeper and provider of information about Labrador Retrievers. They organize social gatherings for fans and set up activities or conventions for them. Breed clubs can also raise funds for research and development for Labrador Retrievers. They can also set the rules and regulations about the breeding of their particular breed. If you want to check out any Labrador Retriever rescue list or participate in a Labrador Retriever breed organization, you can contact your local community in charge of Labs or the National breed club, the National Labrador Retriever Club Inc. More About This Breed Bench shows in England require Labrador Retrievers to have a working certificate to become a champion in their contest. There is an anti-interbreeding law requested and set by the fans of the breed due to the excessive inbreeding done with Labs. Labrador Retrievers are great swimmers, thanks to their water-resistant coats that keep them insulated and their webbed toes for swiffer swimming. It is said that the nobility in Britain normally refers to territories as a whole. Since Labrador is near Newfoundland, British people referred to it as one place. Another theory is that since they are seen swimming in the Labrador Sea, it often makes others think that they got their name from it. Labrador Retrievers are fast. With them being athletic and full of stamina, Labs can hit mph at full speed. But this veterinary medicine treats everyday pain in.December 16, For aches and pains, we humans have a lot of options when it comes to relief, both natural and pharmaceutical. After a nice evening run, warm water and heating pads.December 14, We know how important your dog is to your family. Pet owners hate to see their pets in pain or discomfort, and at times, administering any kind of.November 30, .Conclusion About the Breed You must have seen at least one Labrador Retriever for real because they are the most commonly owned dogs in America. They are affectionate, intelligent, athletic, muscular, easy-going, and love to stay around people, which makes them the favorite choice of almost every American family. Their intelligence and loyalty make these high-energy dogs perfect for adventurous, outgoing people who are looking for a medium-large-sized four-legged companion. On the other hand, if you need a fun-loving, super-friendly, and completely harmless dog, this one is also your go-to choice. Labrador Retrievers come with huge hearts, which may contain an immense amount of love for all the family members. Due to the very same reason, this dog is being used as a therapy dog in old age homes and hospitals. Since they are easy to train and understand commands really very quickly, this breed has won various agility and obedience competitions. Besides, they have served the military and police forces for a long time as rescue dogs and for drug and explosive detection. And have we mentioned their extraordinary performance as assistance dogs for disabled people? All in all, this single dog offers a one-in-all sort of package to its owner as with their versatile and colorful personality, they can transform, from a companion dog to a show dog to a rescue dog to a field retriever, in a wink. The Labrador Retriever club has confirmed that this dog breed originated in St. John, the capital city of Newfoundland, Canada. By , these St. These dogs help their owners retrieve the lost fish and ducks, haul fishing nets, and fetch ropes. Although the lineage of St. In around , the second Earl of Malmesbury brought these dogs to England to be used as retrievers whereas, in the reign of the Third Earl of Malmesbury, these dogs began to get referred to as Labradors. When this dog breed was thriving in England, it nearly got extinct in Newfoundland around the year .The reason behind this near-extinction situation was the strict tax laws and government restrictions. The government of those times even constituted a law that one family could keep only one pet dog, and if they chose that pet to be female, the family had to pay a heavy dog tax. Still, somehow, the breed managed to survive and in , the kennel club officially recognized it as a separate breed. On the other hand, the American kennel club AKC recognized this popular breed in .Since the count of Labrador Retrievers was still alarmingly low in America and Canada, the breeders over there began to import British Labs to their countries. After these untiring efforts, Labrador Retriever dogs finally got categorized as the most popular dog breed by the national breed club of America, by the end of world war ii, in .However, Adjutant, the oldest living Labrador, managed to live for about 27 years. Therefore, a Lab puppy should never be allowed to go outside when the temperature is above ninety degrees Fahrenheit. A Labrador can hold its pee for about hours so you better schedule their bathroom breaks accordingly. Labrador is one of those few dog breeds that communicate through their body language rather than barks and growls. If a Labrador loves you, it will express it with its wagging tail, licking, and following you everywhere around. Unlike other dogs, this Lab breed can sense your sadness by reading your facial expressions and change in your pointing gestures. The best age to bring Lab puppies to your home is when it gets eight weeks old. Research has shown that the Labradors have tendencies and enough emotions to hold grudges. They remember past events quite clearly and can throw tantrums for some time. Even though it happens once in a blue moon, a Labrador Retriever can bite with a strength of about PSI. Labrador Retriever Appearance When it comes to appearance, Labradors are divided into two major categories; one containing thicker, blocker, and heavier bodies called the English Labradors and the second containing lankier and taller dogs called the American Labradors. Generally, all these deep-chested dogs feature sturdy and squared body frames, supported by athletic legs. Size The height of a fully grown Labrador Retriever depends upon its gender as males are mostly taller than females. Generally, a male Lab may grow up to cm tall, whereas the size of a female Lab could be cm. Considering the maximum size to which a male Labrador Retriever could grow, these strong dogs are classified in the category of medium-sized dogs. Weight Again, based on sex, the healthy weight range of a Labrador may vary. Generally, a 6-month-old, male Lab may weigh around kgs, whereas the weight of a female Lab could be between kgs. However, some Labs may even put on an extra weight of about 45 kg due to their uncontrolled greediness and appetites. Coat Labrador Retrievers are also special when it comes to their coat type. They feature a hard, dense, and thick double coat that consists of both hair and fur. The outer coat comprises wiry, short, and dense hair, whereas the undercoat consists of soft and smooth fur which is weather-resistant and insulating. Besides, some Labradors also look big and fluffy as they have long hair on their bodies. This condition is quite rare and caused by a non-dominant, recessive gene. Likewise, some Labradors come with a sparse undercoat which makes them look like single-coated canines. Color Labrador Retrievers are divided into three major types as per the coat color; chocolate brown, black, and yellow. The most dominant and common breed type is the one comprising black Labrador. Besides these common colors, some Labs also feature silver, fox red, and polar white, but these options are super rare. In addition to this, many Labs come with some white markings or small patches on their chests that are acceptable. However, any Lab that possesses coat color other than what is mentioned above, is considered mixed bred canine. Labrador Retriever Temperament and Personality Speaking of their temperament, they are fun to be around since they are light-hearted, playful, emotional, and smart. Since their bodies contain a huge amount of pent-up energy, these dogs are the happiest when busy. You can leave a Labrador Retriever alone at home for hours. Just make sure they have easy access to the bathroom and someone who could feed them after some hours. Even though Labs can do well on their own for some hours, but make sure to compensate for those absenting hours by playing with them. Remember that an ignored and bored Lab may develop separation anxiety really quickly. And as we stated before, they are more emotional than other dogs, their damaged emotional health can also have adverse effects on their mental and physical health. After developing separation anxiety, a Labrador Retriever may exhibit anxious behavior like chewing doors and furniture, digging, winning, pacing, growling, and barking. Similarly, as this dog ages, it grows even calmer. Even though Labs are known for their super friendly and social natures, these dogs can be the best watchdogs, if trained properly. On the other hand, when not trained, the same dog might help the intruder to come inside your property. Likewise, these dogs can be reliable guard dogs since they can sense the danger and do whatever it takes to protect their owners. But again, it all depends upon their training. Labrador Retrievers make excellent family dogs due to their sweet nature, gentleness, and protectiveness. Generally, Labs love the whole family, but they tend to make one member their favorite. Resultantly, the dog will be more protective and compassionate towards that one person. Speaking of their behavior towards other pets, Labradors can chase small animals around, due to their strong retrieving and ducking instincts. Labrador Retriever Health and Care Generally, a Labrador Retriever is considered a healthy breed but still, some Labs may develop the following health problems; Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is the most common hereditary disorder, which usually attacks very strong dogs with a tremendous amount of energy, packed in their bodies. In this condition, the hip joint and thigh muscles get partially detached from the pelvic socket. Resultantly, your dog feels restlessness and discomfort while walking or moving rear limbs. As the condition worsens, his rear limbs may get completely immobilized. The only treatment to cure this condition is surgery. And to prevent it from transmitting to the next generation, make sure to have a proper DNA test of your cured Lab, before taking him for breeding. Some other forms of this disease are elbow dysplasia and knee dysplasia which affects the elbow and knee of your labs. Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia Tricuspid valve dysplasia is a heart disorder that is found in Labrador Retrievers more commonly these days. Some puppies, somehow, may manage to survive, but most of them die in a couple of weeks. Resultantly, when the pain worsens, they bites at tail, causing the limber tail. Besides Labrador Retrievers, other Retrievers including Golden Retrievers, are also prone to catch this disorder. Progressive Retinal Atrophy This condition attacks the eyes of your Lab, destroying his photoreceptor retina cell and turning him first into night blind and then completely blind. Acute Moist Dermatitis As the name suggests, this disease is about skin that develops an acute bacterial infection due to insufficient hygiene. Ear Infections Since Labrador Retrievers have floppy ears, they are highly prone to catching ear infections if not cleaned properly. Use specially formulated dog shampoo and cleaner and clip your dog hair to prevent them from matting. Even though the overall grooming requirements of the Labrador Retriever are low, they shed a lot which means they need regular brushing. Trim their nails, brush their teeth, and feed them good-quality dog food. Lastly, this sporting dog breed needs vigorous exercise to stay mentally and physically fit. Thus, take them for daily walks and play with them for about one hour daily. However, avoid overdoing it since exercise-induced collapse is quite common among Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retriever Training Labrador Retrievers are one of the easiest dogs to train, but only if you employ the right technique and stay consistent. Since Retrievers are quite protective of their families, they might feel threatened and jealous around unfamiliar people. Therefore, to tone up their positive, friendly, and social nature, socialize your Labs with new people and new pets. Instead, they might begin to feel scared of you, which in turn might fuel their escape-artist nature. On the other hand, you can get a Labrador pup from an animal shelter for free. Some of those Labs offered by the rescue groups are even neutered and vaccinated, which saves you from additional costs too. Related Guide:. Thrives on exercise and athletic activities Steady-tempered and dependable with everyone Peaceful with other animals Very responsive to training The Bad Needs a goodly amount of exercise, not just a couple of short walks around the block High energy and exuberant jumping, especially when young Sheds a lot Risk of serious health problems Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Books by Michele Welton "Respect Training for Puppies" or "Respect Training for Adult Dogs" is a step by step guide to help you bring out the best in your pup so you can enjoy a calm and well-behaved dog, no matter what his age. Get your book today. A healthy dog is a happy dog, so buy your copy today. Chocolate Labrador. Developed as hunting dogs to fetch and carry birds back to the hunter, Labs love to carry toys around. How big are Labrador Retrievers? Usually they're inches at the shoulder, with males typically in the higher half of that range, and females in the lower half. Weight can be as low as 55 pounds, but is usually pounds. Unfortunately, the trend seems to be for heavier and heavier Labs, with a lot of individuals topping 90 pounds. I say unfortunately because heavier weight isn't good for their joints. This breed was supposed to be a medium-sized hunting retriever who could fit comfortably in a bird blind or a small boat. Show type Labrador Retriever. Much stockier than field type Labs. Are there different "types" of Labrador Retrievers? Not officially. There's only the one breed. They come in several colors, yet they're all Labrador Retrievers. For hunting and field trials, though, black Labs are by far the most common color. In my obedience classes, yellow Labs are often the calmest and most mild-mannered. In contrast, the chocolate Labs I've worked with have all been very energetic. Of course, it might just be coincidence! But apart from color, you'll definitely see Labs who look quite different from other Labs. Different builds, different body shapes. In particular, Labrador Retrievers used primarily for hunting and field trials look very different from Labs you see at dog shows that emphasize conformation. They have a narrower head, longer muzzle, lankier body, and a sleeker coat. Labs from show lines are heavier-boned and stockier, with a large blocky head and dense coat. To me, those dogs don't really look like the classic Labrador Retriever. But they do tend to be very sweet dogs with mellow temperaments that fit well into many families. How much exercise do Labrador Retrievers need? Many owners don't give this breed the exercise it deserves. These athletic, bouncy dogs need regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become bored, which they may express by becoming rambunctious and destructive. Labs also need mental stimulation, which means interesting activities that keep the mind stimulated: For example, a challenging dog sport agility, rally obedience, musical freestyle, tracking, flyball, frisbee, field trials ; interactive dog toys; a homemade obstacle course; fetch games and tricks. Black Labrador Retriever. Black is the most common color. Are Labrador Retrievers easy to train? Yes, training most Labrador Retrievers is easy. They housebreak quickly and are usually willing to please. But this breed is strong and energetic, especially adolescents. Many Labradors between one and three years old are dropped off at animal shelters or rescue groups because of dog behavior problems such as pulling vigorously on the leash and jumping on people. Focus on teaching loose-leash walking, indoor calmness, and no jumping. All of these are taught in my puppy training book, Respect Training For Puppies. Are they friendly with strangers? Yes, most Labs are happy to see everyone. They'll bark when someone comes to the door, but they're not protective. This is a friendly, trusting breed. Are Labrador Retrievers good with children? Most Labs are among the best possible dogs for children. However, remember my cautions about exuberance and jumping. Young Labs up to two or three years old romp and jump with vigor. That means things can go flying — including people. If your Lab has been allowed to jump on people, you should stop this behavior immediately. Jumping can injure people, and even when it doesn't, it puts a dog in a heightened state of arousal that isn't good for him. If you don't yet have your dog and your home includes toddlers or infirm adults, you might consider skipping the challenging puppy and adolescent stages. Look into adopting an adult Labrador Retriever from a rescue group. Adults have a more settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. Are Labrador Retrievers good with other pets? Most Labs are fine with other dogs and cats, fine with livestock, and even fine with very small pets such as rabbits and ferrets. Of course introductions should be made properly. Don't just plunk a baby bunny onto the floor and let your full-grown Lab loose in the room. Even a friendly dog can make mincemeat of a small fragile creature simply by jumping on it. Labrador Retriever puppies hardly shed at all.Grooming: Do Labrador Retrievers shed a lot? Are they easy to groom? For such a shorthaired dog, Labrador Retrievers shed more than you might think — on the high side of average at least. The bulk of their shedding occurs twice a year, for three weeks in the spring as their thicker winter coat switches to a cooler summer coat, and three weeks in the fall as their summer coat switches over to a winter coat. But they also shed some all through the year. Labs need more brushing than some other shorthaired breeds because of the high shedding. If you don't diligently pull out the dead undercoat during regular grooming sessions, it will all fall out on your floors and furniture. On the plus side, obviously Labs need no trimming! Yellow Labrador. How long do Labrador Retrievers live? Are they a healthy breed? Labrador Retrievers typically live years. Many Labs do live to 12 or 13, but usually with chronic health issues such as arthritis. Unfortunately, an increasing number of beloved Labs are lost in middle age to inherited forms of cancer or heart disease. Common orthopedic diseases in Labradors include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and luxating patella loose knee joints , each of which causes chronic pain and lameness and can require expensive surgery. Labs are very prone to rupturing the ligaments in their hind legs — expensive surgery again. And if one hind leg ruptures, the other is likely to follow at a later time. Another surgery. It's a good idea to have pet insurance when you own a Lab. A number of eye diseases cause blindness in Labrador Retrievers. The breed is at higher-than-average risk for an emergency gastrointestinal syndrome called bloat, which can kill a healthy dog within hours. One example of an odd neuromuscular disease is called exercise-induced collapse. As the name suggests, affected Labradors who have been vigorously exercising suddenly begin swaying, collapse, and require a rest before they can move again. Here is a complete list of health problems in Labrador Retrievers. The three major colors of Labs are black, yellow, and chocolate. What colors do Labrador Retrievers come in? Officially, Labrador Retrievers come in black, yellow, and chocolate. They also come in silver gray , but this color is frowned on by breed purists. These are just made-up names for yellow Labs whose shade of yellow happens to be golden or reddish or whitish. Whatever the shade, it's still just a yellow Lab. Chocolate also comes in shades: from light coffee to deep chocolate brown. Now, what about silver Labrador Retrievers? The official breed clubs, and breeders who show their dog in the conformation ring, state that silver is a disqualified color for showing purposes. In fact, most Labrador breeders insist that silver dogs aren't even purebred. Their position is that the silver gene infiltrated the Labrador's gene pool by crossbreeding Labs with Weimaraners. I think they're probably right. I think that one or more Weimaraner crosses probably did introduce the silver gene at some point. However, since genetic diversity is a good thing in living creatures, I don't view cross-breeding as an evil thing. So if there are some Weimaraner genes floating around in a silver Labrador, that wouldn't bother me. On the other hand, if I wanted a dog who could be counted on to look and act like a Lab, you're more likely to get that in a Lab who isn't silver, especially if the silver breeder is still using Weimaraners in his breeding program. And based on the appearance of some silver "Labs", there are breeders who are still crossing in Weimaraners. But almost certainly silver Labrador Retrievers are here to stay. Even though they can't be shown, the AKC still accepts them for registration. However, in a funny twist, those registration papers don't say silver. Remember, the AKC says that Labs can only be black, chocolate, or yellow. So they register silver Labs as Chocolate, because they consider silver to be a dilution of the chocolate gene. In other words, according to the AKC, your silver Lab is actually a chocolate Lab also has inherited dilution gene that washes the chocolate into a silvery gray. It doesn't end there. Some silver Labs aren't silvery gray, but dark charcoal gray. Yellow, black, and chocolate Labrador Retriever puppies. I'll be happy to show you how to raise and train your new family member. Or check out my training tips to teach your Labrador Retriever puppy to be well-behaved. Also see my advice on Labrador Retriever health care , including feeding and vaccinations If you don't have a Labrador Retriever puppy, but you want one.I can help you with that, too. Labrador Retrievers are the most common breed in the United States, so they're very easy to find. The problem is finding one with the best chances of staying healthy through the years. First, you need to think about the different types of Labrador Retriever we talked about earlier. You can buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from a show breeder who breeds Labradors to match a detailed standard of appearance for the dog show ring. Or you can buy one from a performance breeder who emphasizes an energetic temperament and strong working drives for hunting. But how they prioritize those two goals can vary greatly. Or you can just hop onto Craigslist and buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from someone who "just breeds pets" or "just had one litter. Not unless the seller has done the proper health certifications on the puppy's parents. One huge difference between a responsible breeder and an irresponsible "puppy producer" is — health certifications. You might choose to accept that risk. But then you need to be willing and able to pay a couple thousand bucks for future surgeries and lifelong meds if your Labrador Retriever ends up with cataracts and crippled joints. Labrador Retrievers are often available from dog rescue groups. Labrador Retrievers may be turned over to Rescue because they shed too much or need more exercise than the owner was prepared to give. Or perhaps they pull on the leash or jump on people. You would need to provide these dogs with the exercise and training that they are lacking. Labrador Retrievers more often, Lab crosses and mixes are frequently found in animal shelters. However, shelter personnel can be overzealous in labeling every medium- to large shorthaired black dog as a "Lab cross. Did you know there's a quick and simple DNA test that can tell you definitively which breeds make up any given dog? What breeds are similar to Labrador Retrievers? The Golden Retriever is similar to a Labrador in being a great all-around family dog and a great choice for first-time owners. Compared to Labs, Goldens tend to be even more outgoing toward everyone and more eager to please. Goldens do shed more than Labs and have a greater risk of health issues. Compared to Labs and Goldens, the Flat-Coated Retriever needs more exercise and interesting activities to keep them busy. This is not a good breed for a casual or couch potato owner. Flat-Coats also suffer from serious health issues. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a great dog for experienced owners. Compared to the Lab, a Chessie has a stronger temperament, needs more exercise, is more reserved with strangers, and can be bossy toward strange dogs. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. Behavioral and personality based Labrador characteristics If you are thinking of bringing a Labrador into your life you need to know what you are getting into. This honest review and assessment of Labrador Retriever characteristics and temperament, will help you decide whether or not one of these magnificent dogs is the right companion for you at this point in your life. The origins of the Labrador have had a profound influence on his appearance, personality and behavior. This was a job requiring a waterproof coat thick enough to withstand very low temperatures, and an ability to swim in strong currents and for long periods of time. A talented dog Labrador characteristics diverged them into many different roles over time. From therapy dog, to military dog, to companion — and his competence at everything he is asked to do, has defined him. He is clearly a dog of many talents. Physical characteristics of the Labrador Retriever The Labrador retriever is a sturdily built medium to large dog. He may weigh anything from 50 to 80lbs once adult, depending on his breeding. He has a well-proportioned body with a healthy balance between length of leg and length of spine. What does a pedigree Labrador look like? The distinguishing features of the Labrador Retriever are well known. His body is powerful and well muscled and ends in a thick tail that tapers to a point. His full length muzzle houses a good cooling system and a strong set of jaws with a full compliment of 42 large white teeth. English Labs have a broader chest , heavier build and blocky head. American Labrador characteristics are more reminiscent of their working ancestors, with a slimmer shape and less rigid conformation to the breed standard. The coat has a shining slightly oily surface and the individual hairs are straight. Although a slight ripple can be seen along the back of some dogs once the adult coat is established. A thick undercoat and the water resistant top coat keep your Labrador warm in the coldest water. And a quick shake on emerging from the sea or lake, sees the majority of the water removed from its repellant surface. The genetics of Labrador coat color is interesting and more straightforward to understand than many other breeds of dog. Strictly speaking Labradors come in only three colors. Yellow , Chocolate , which used to be called Liver, and Black. Yellow shades range from the palest white to a deep red. You can also get dilute versions of each coat color that express as champagne , silver and charcoal respectively. Overall appearance of the Labrador His sleek water resistant coat, soft flapped ears and thick otter tail give the Labrador an almost seal-like appearance. In the water, this likeness is intensified. He looks as at home there as he clearly feels, swimming low in the water and confidently powered by strong webbed paws. On land he is equally sleek and powerful, giving the overall appearance of a fit and healthy canine athlete. For a moderately large dog he is surprisingly agile, capable of jumping heights well in excess of a metre. His easy going, tolerant temperament and love of water are hallmarks of the breed, but of course, not all Labradors fit this breed description precisely. It is fair to say that sometimes poor temperament traits such as aggression and nervousness can appear in the breed. But is it also fair to say that this is not the norm. Special Labrador characteristics Born from generations of being bred for retrieving in the shooting field, the Labrador has some special and important breed features. His gentle mouth, is capable of carrying delicate items with great care, and his urge to pick up and carry things is strong. His ability to track items by scent alone is extraordinary and it is no surpise that Labradors are so sought after by bomb disposal teams, customs and excise authorities and those engaged in sports where tracking is involved. Labrador Retriever Personality Many people are convinced that their Labrador has a sense of humor, and some Labradors are extremely playful, and not just as puppies. Others can be bumptious, clumsy, and bouncy, especially when young. Temperament, abilities and general personality may of course vary somewhat from individual to individual. English Labrador characteristics tend a little more towards the serious, where American Labs are more sensible, driven and high strung. Retrieving ability in Labradors Most Labradors, even those from show stock have an inborn urge to retrieve things. This is often reflected in their fondness for carrying things around in their mouths and even chewing things up. The instinct to bring those things back can be more variable! Who are Labradors well suited for? Despite the fact that Labradors are so popular, some people are not well suited to life with one. The Labrador is a large dog that is boisterous and destructive when young, sheds copious amounts of hair and has a particular affection for mud and rolling in dead things. Labradors are social and affectionate dogs. Daily dog care is essential if you work full time. If you are not house proud and have time to exercise train, and simply be with, an athletic, affectionate, and powerful dog. You might well enjoy life with a Lab. They are built for companionship; their warm, friendly natures make it easy to shower them with the affection they so eagerly receive. Here are all the dog care and breed characteristics you need to know about the lovable Labrador Retriever. Breed Background Labrador Retrievers originated in Newfoundland from a medium-sized black dog which was bred in the s to retrieve game and fish. Labs were brought to America during the increase in popularity of Scottish-style shooting and gamekeeping, and went on to become the first dog to grace the cover of Life magazine , and a few years later, a U. Because of their intelligence and ease of training, Labs slowly but surely replaced other breeds as the most common guide dogs, and also became popular choices for assistance dogs, search and rescue dogs, and contraband detection dogs. But above all their other traits, Labs are fun! They love nothing more than to play in the garden, splash in a lake or pool, go exploring, or meet new people and other animals. This is a breed that loves to feel included and useful, eagerly joining in on your everyday activities before carrying your wallet from the car to the kitchen for you. Outgoing and energetic, these dogs need a lot of stimulation to keep from getting bored. And while they are affectionate, Labs are often too busy to remember that they want to cuddle! Puppy training and early socialization is crucial for their development and will give them the chance to grow into polite and devoted adults. The fact that they are eager to please and extremely clever means they are a pleasure to train, and their love of both food and attention makes it easy to reward them! Kind, affectionate, and loving, Labradors are a great choice for a family pet. They get along well with other pets and children, although their lively nature can sometimes be too much for younger children to handle. However, this is different for every family, and personal preference is the only real deciding factor! Typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. Yellow, brown, or black coat which retains color in maturity. Red coats are not recognized as official Labrador Retriever colors. Thick, short double coat which sheds moderately. Generally, it requires brushing once or twice a week, or slightly more frequently during their shedding season. Their coats are actually water and ice resistant! Exuberant and boisterous, Labrador Retrievers require a recommended 60 minutes of exercise a day, including swimming, hiking, walking, and endless games of Frisbee and fetch. Treat-filled puzzle toys are a great idea, since they keep your clever pup busy while providing some mental stimulation! Few breeds can boast that they are not only easygoing and friendly, but intelligent and loyal too. Honestly, Labs make it easy for us to love them. What better way to love your pets than to look after them properly? If you are looking for a kind-hearted and experienced Veterinarian for your family animals, contact All Aboard Animal Hospital today to set up an appointment for your sweet furry companion! Dixie Hwy E. Pompano Beach, FL,

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. I was dumped, along with my friend, in my foster mom's neighborhood, in the dark during a thunderstorm. I was left to wander on my own and fend for myself. It was absolutely terrifying and I didn't trust that people were trying to help me. After about 3 weeks of being homeless and starving on the streets, ACS finally caught up to me and I ended up at the shelter. But thank goodness my foster mom saw that I was at ACS and after getting spayed and current on all my vaccinations, she came and got me! Now that I know I am safe and my belly is full, I know that I can trust the good humans again and I get to show my true, silly, fun-loving personality. There can never be too much snuggling as far as I'm concerned. I love to sniff around in the backyard but I don't love the water. When my foster mom waters the plants, I run back inside, away from that scary hose! I love to play tug of war with my rope toys and am learning to chase and bring back the ball. I am crate trained and sleep like an angel through the night. I mostly go potty outside, but because I was a street dog and used to going wherever I was, I have had the very rare accident inside, but only a handful of times. And my foster family is helping me remember that I'm only supposed to go outside so I should be an ace at that in no time! I love frozen blueberries, broccoli and cucumbers gotta keep my girlish figure! But my foster mom and sister are working hard with me to teach me the difference between "sit" and "stand" and also working on teaching me to stay. I want to make my foster family proud, so I'm trying hard! I have not been around small kiddos, but I think I would like them - I like anyone who wants to snuggle me! The only thing I don't like are kitties so no feline sibling for me. I am a sweet, sweet girl who just wants to be with my human. I will be your best, most loyal friend forever!

The Frenchie is a very sensitive breed of dog. Simply scolding hyper behavior or crying and whining will get you nowhere. This may in fact only worsen the behavior. There are several ways to calm down a hyper French Bulldog. A French Bulldog that gets a case of the zoomies and runs around in quick bursts of energy for a couple minutes is normal. A French Bulldog that is constantly running around the home and getting into all sorts of mischief is not. This is where you step in to calm down your French Bulldog. They do however require daily exercise, especially as puppies. One of the best ways to curb a hyper Frenchie is through a routine of daily exercise. Walking is a perfect activity to do with your French Bulldog. This not only allows your French Bulldog to blow off some of that extra hyper energy, but it strengthens your bond with the dog. A minute daily walk can be the easiest solution to calm down a hyper French Bulldog. Mental exercise is often overlooked as a means to calm a dog. French Bulldogs are relatively smart, and do enjoy a good challenge and engaging activity with the family. Simple activities like tug-of-war, fetch, and basic obedience training can drain a lot of energy from a Frenchie. These sorts of activities can attend to both their physical need to burn off energy, but also leave them calm and content after a big session of training and mental exercise. I believe that training in one form or another should happen every single day for minutes. Not just when your French Bulldog is a puppy, but for the rest of their life. Consistency with training is great for reinforcing good behavior, and managing energy. Distractions Giving a hyper French Bulldog a distraction can be an excellent way to focus their energy and produce a calm end result. A perfect distraction is a good chew toy or food puzzle. These types of distractions allow you to carry one with your daily routine while providing your French Bulldog with an enjoyable activity. After all Frenchies love to chew, and giving them permission to do so with an assigned toy or puzzle is a win win. There are a wide variety of options available. Things like Kongs, and puzzle treats are amazing ways to keep your Frenchie busy. Works every time. Check out some of my other top recommendations on my resources page. These are some of the best chew toys and food puzzles on the market. Guaranteed to keep your hyper French Bulldog entertained, and leave you with a calmer Frenchie in the end. Sometimes hyper behavior can take the form of stress and anxiety. For a French Bulldog this can be a real issue that prevents them from being able to calm down in the home. Especially when left alone. French Bulldogs are prone to separate anxiety. Separation anxiety in Frenchies is common due to their extreme attachment to their family unit. Cases can range from mild sadness, to full blown anxiety resulting in destructive behaviors and distress. No matter the severity, there is a way to manage this anxiety. Exercise Just like calming a hyper French Bulldog, an anxious French Bulldog will benefit from exercise. That extra energy that is being channeled into anxiety will melt away with a good walk every day. In the cause of separation anxiety a brisk walk before you leave the home works great. A tired dog is a happy dog I always say. When a French Bulldog has been exercised properly before you leave the house, they have little energy left over to give to their anxiety and stress. Training Separation anxiety is a behavior that can be trained away, or at the least dramatically reduced. Most of the time the reason a French Bulldog suffers from separation anxiety is due to the behavior of the owner. A few corrections, with some consistent practice can go a long way. Crate training is one of the best ways to stop separation anxiety before it starts. Giving your French Bulldog a safe, comfortable place to be when you are away can make a huge difference in their behavior. Slowly introduce the crate to your Frenchie in a very positive manner. This is a place they can go to relax, be calm, and rest. Invite them into the crate and reward them once inside. Repeat this process a number of times. Rewards should be given in a calm and positive manner. The goal is to not excite your French Bulldog. Once they are used to going in the crate, gently close the door. Reward them. Wait a minute, and if they are calm, gently open the door, reward them, and repeat. Do this a number of times and gradually increase the duration they are inside the crate. Eventually move to leaving the room, then eventually the home. Always reward calm behavior. Soon your French Bulldog will realize this crate is a place to be calm and relaxed. Desensitization Training Similar to the crate training, desensitization training works in a very similar process of gradually increasing time away from your dog and rewarding calm behavior. Desensitization training is basically getting your French Bulldog accustomed to the idea of your coming and going from the home as a non event. This solely relies on your behavior as the owner to be successful. Simply leave your house without an excitement or eventfulness. Get up, grab your keys, step outside the door of the house, and wait there for 1 minute. Come back in with the same calmness as you left. Your French Bulldog may be super excited to see you, even though you have been gone for literally 60 seconds. Ignore this excited behavior, and reward them with calm affection once they have reached a calm and balanced state of behavior. Repeat this process over and over again while gradually increasing the time you are gone. Eventually your French will become desensitized to the routine of your coming and going. I used this exact method with my Staffy as a puppy and with consistent practice it worked amazing. Supplementation Sometimes a hyper French might need some supplementation in the form of a natural non-sedative calming chew or CBD oil. These supplementations have proven to work great with dogs that suffer from anxiety. Consult with your vet first for any severe anxiety symptoms. As a added layer of comfort for a French Bulldog with mild separation anxiety, storm stress, or firework stress, a calming chew or CBD is great. I have a great resource page with some of the best CBD oil brands on the market with a full breakdown of each. If you would like to learn more about CBD oil for French Bulldogs head over there to get the details. French Bulldogs love affection and sometimes a stressed or anxious Frenchie just needs some calm, soothing attention. Inviting your dog to join you on the couch for a cuddle can help them settle in and relax. Try not to make a big production of things. Even petting them while they are in a state of anxious panting or pacing can confuse them and make the problem worse. They may think you are rewarding their anxious behavior. Instead make an inviting situation available to them. If they decide to join you on the couch, let them settle into a cozy spot and then gently give them a nice massage or calming pet. A massage works much better to calm a dog than a stroking petting motion. We are encouraging a state of relaxing with this setup. Final Thoughts French Bulldogs have specific needs, and as an owner it is your job to identify and attend to these needs as best as you can. A calm French Bulldog is one that is getting adequate exercise, training, affection, and attention. Hyper Frenchies can be a result of the lack of one or all of the above. Some methods of calming a French Bulldog that is hyper or anxious can seem tedious. But trust me they work, and the results are worth the effort. This post may come across as painting the French Bulldog as a neurotic and needy breed of dog, and I assure that is not the intent. I only wish to address hyper or anxious behaviors that you may notice as a guide to help keep and maintain a calm French Bulldog. The French Bulldog is generally a calm dog by default. As I mentioned at the very beginning. Sometimes however they may need a little energy management to keep a calm and peaceful household. These tips will get you well on your way to ensuring a happy, healthy Frenchie. Recent Posts. By Mac Daniels French Bulldogs are one of the most adorable dog breeds out there and they are very exciting and fun to have around because of how friendly and playful they can be. So, when do French Bulldogs calm down? Keep reading to learn more about the reasons why French Bulldogs become hyperactive and how to get them to calm down. How Hyperactive Are French Bulldogs? Signs of hyperactivity in French Bulldogs include running around very quickly, jumping, barking loudly, pawing or digging at the ground, having short attention spans, playing too roughly, being impulsive, and not listening to their owners. If you do not take care of your French Bulldog by training it and providing healthy outlets for their extremely high energy levels, their hyperactive behavior will eventually escalate into destructive and even aggressive behavior. Some of the aggressive behavior your dog might display includes baring its teeth, lowering its head, growling, pulling its ears back completely, holding its tail in an upright rigid position, and moving its tail back and forth rapidly. However, they usually calm down as they receive more training and learn how to release their energy. You can learn more in this article on are Frenchies calm dogs. So, whenever you notice that your dog is being unusually hyperactive, you first need to identify the reason behind its behavior in order to take the action needed to help your dog calm down. Reasons Why French Bulldogs Are Hyperactive Here are some of the reasons that could cause your do to display hyperactive behaviors: Lack of Attention or Boredom French bulldogs are very social and they love companionship. They enjoy playing around with their human friends and they crave being the center of attention most of the time. So, if French Bulldogs feel like they are not getting as much attention or playtime as they normally need, they will start getting bored which will lead them to become hyperactive in an effort to occupy themselves, show their frustration, and get their humans to pay more attention to them. Feeling Threatened or Scared If French Bulldogs do not receive proper socialization when they are young, they will be more likely to perceive new situations or new people as a threat. When bulldogs feel threatened or scared, they will become more hyperactive than usual as a way of coping with fear. Experiencing Separation Anxiety As mentioned before, French Bulldogs love companionship and they love being around their human friends. So, if they are left alone for extended periods of time, they will begin to experience separation anxiety which causes them to act and become hyperactive. Lack of Physical Activity French Bulldogs have high energy levels so they need to do various physical activities in order to release their energy in a healthy manner. If they do not do enough physical activities, they will seek alternative ways to release their high energy which can turn into hyperactive behavior. So, if they do not get enough calories or nutrients, they are likely to display more hyperactive behaviors than usual to communicate their need for a change in their diet. You also need to avoid leaving your dog alone for extended periods of time. It will and also help you build a healthier and stronger bond between you and your dog Engage Your Dog in Various Physical Activities Engaging your French Bulldog in various physical activities to help it release excess energy and tire it out. On average, a bulldog puppy needs to get around 30 minutes of physical exercise in a day while an older bulldog needs to get around 60 minutes of physical exercise in a day. Some of the best physical activities that will help your French Bulldog release excess energy include going on daily walks or runs, climbing stairs, as well as playing games like fetch or tug of war. Engage Your Dog in Mental Activities Engaging your French Bulldog in various mental activities is just as important as engaging it in physical activities. You can effectively engage your dog mentally is by playing games with it, teaching it to do new tricks, or making it track and find treats that you hide for it. Make sure your dog is eating enough calories as it would need to eat about calories worth of food per each pound of its body weight. Avoid any low-quality foods that have fillers, sugars, or byproducts. Socialize Your Dog at A Young Age You need to socialize your French Bulldog in order to teach it not to perceive new situations as a threat or act out in fear. To properly socialize your dog, you need to start at a very young age and allow your dog to interact with different scents, sounds, animals, and people. The best way to do that is to take your dog for daily walks in a busy park. Another way is to take it to socialization events which are often held by pet shelters so that various owners can bring their dogs to meet other dogs. You also need to use positive reinforcement to discipline the dog and get it to behave the way you want it to. Keep in mind that positive reinforcement should only be used when your dog displays the behavior you want it to. This is very effective because French Bulldogs love getting attention and this way you will be letting them know that their hyperactive behavior is not the right way they can get you to pay attention. The water spray is completely harmless and will only cause a little discomfort to your dog. With repetition, your dog will learn to associate being hyperactive with getting sprayed with water and will eventually stop misbehaving to avoid the punishment. Keep Your Dog Away from Stressful Situations There are some situations that might be too stressful for your French Bulldog causing it to feel uncomfortable. However, they can show hyperactive behavior which is medically known as hyperkinesis. Do French Bulldogs Hold Grudges? French bulldogs do not hold grudges. They have short-term memory so they do not have the capacity to recall when someone might have wronged them. French Bulldogs would not bite their owners unless they were provoked. With proper training and socialization, these dogs will be very loyal and affectionate with their owners. However, if they were abused or felt threatened, they might start biting their owners or others in self-defense. Are French Bulldogs Hard to Train? French Bulldogs are not hard to train. They are highly intelligent which makes them fast learners. They are also very eager to please their owners which makes them willing to respond to commands. However, keep in mind that training French Bulldogs is easier if you start when they are young. Some health problems that French bulldogs are prone to have include allergies, skin conditions, respiratory problems, hip dysplasia, and eye diseases. They may also be prone to obesity if not exercised enough. Helpful Resources. Destructive behavior. Separation anxiety can develop from being very attached to one person and when they are not around it brings on massive panic and unrest. The good news is that you can take action and help your dog out with some routines to put in place or look for a professional dog trainer. A good training routine to put in place is counter conditioning, this works by introducing something your Frenchie loves with something that is bad and causes anxiety. For example when you go to work or are leaving the house then to help the anxiety give your dog a treat or a dog, then hopefully after that your dog will get used to this routine and know what is going to happen. Here are a few points why you might have a hyper dog. The hyperactivity could be a sign of pent up energy and a release, so the action I would take would most definitely be to try going for a walk as soon as you get home to try and tire your Frenchie out or maybe go for two walks a day and some more playtime. This is a great trait and they might just be trying to tell you something. Age- Dogs are just like humans with immaturity and age, As you know with young children there full of beans and love to play, this is the same with pups. So it could be that your dog is still on the young side making them act a bit hyper, just be patient and they might calm down with age like we all do. Aid calming and soothing anxious or aging pets with Omega-rich cat and dog hemp oil by Billion Pets. Packed with Vitamins C and E as well as other healing nutrients that work synergistically, it promotes joint mobility, shiny coat, and relaxation for dogs and cats who fear loud noises or separation from owners. By promoting joint lubrication and swelling reduction, Billion Pets Hemp Oil for cats and dogs can help pets live happy, active lives. Veterinarian recommended pet hemp oil offers natural cat and dog relaxation. It is ideal for pets that hide or become nauseous or aggressive during travel, commotions or due to illness. Billion Pets Hemp Oil is a safe and effective calming aid for dogs and cats with no impact on personality. Support overall comfort and good health for your pet during all stages of life. Organic hemp oil promotes efficient digestive function which is critical to immune system strength. It also may alleviate the itching due to skin conditions and promote a sleek, shiny coat worthy of a Best in Show ribbon. Made in the USA with only the highest-quality organic hemp extract, our hemp oil for pets is non-GMO, cruelty-free, and contains no xylitol. Also seek advice from a vet because they can give you advice and possibly do health tests to rule out the possibility of a health problem resulting in hyperactivity. Sale The kindest way to ease your dog's fears Easy to put on and take off Machine washable Durable fabric that resists collecting hair For dogs 40 - 70 pounds and with a chest size of 24" - 32". Please do refer the Size Chart from the image section before ordering. Recent Posts. Even so, Frenchies enjoy spending lots of time playing, and they need their exercise. Usually , they will, but if you need to slow down some of that activity sooner rather than later, there are ways you can help direct that energy in the right direction. Are Frenchies Calm Dogs? Frenchies are generally recognized as being much calmer than other dogs, which is one of the main reasons many people choose them over other breeds. However, they can still be quite hyperactive in their younger years. Especially in the puppy stage, your Frenchie is likely to want to play all the time. Like children, Frenchies learn about their world through play. They need the chance to explore, test boundaries, and understand what they can do, which comes from playing. While Frenchies grow up to be fantastic apartment dogs, they still count on you to wear them out and keep them happy. Common puppy destruction is likely to occur with Frenchies, as it would with any other puppy breed. Your pup may bark incessantly or chew on everything in sight, leaving you wondering what to expect and whether you can ever count on your precious Frenchie calming down. Thankfully, a lot of the energy is outgrown over time. Why is My French Bulldog so Hyper? And the answer is, you can usually figure out why your Frenchie has so much energy. A tired dog is a happy, well-behaved dog, which is certainly the case with Frenchies, commonly said among dog owners. When you get a dog, you take on the responsibility for an animal to meet all of its needs— including mental stimulation. Your pup needs to be mentally stimulated or find something to do to alleviate boredom. Some Frenchies are timid by nature, and they find that even more scares them than would normally scare a dog. These dogs may bark and grow anxious when people are walking by or cars on the road. This can lead to hyperactivity as the nervous energy has to go somewhere. Likewise, your pup could have experienced some trauma that led your pup to develop phobias, and that could be the root of the nervous energy. Frenchies, like all dogs, need t get proper exercise, which usually includes a schedule to walk them. Your pup will mellow with age, but in the first years of life, you can expect your Frenchie to want to run around regularly. They Are Aging and Experiencing Cognitive Decline Sometimes, Frenchies start to get more hyperactive, especially aimlessly, as they age. This can be a sign of cognitive decline, especially if you notice that it happens at night. Little French Dog is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. The good news is, if your dog is still young, he is likely to calm down with age, especially if you make sure to accommodate for all f the most common causes for it. Exercise Your Frenchie More The easiest way that you can cut down on hyperactivity is simply by exercising your dog more. Try taking a walk or two throughout the day. Play fetch in the yard or tug-o-war indoors. Exercising your dog will help release that energy that would otherwise be pent up and cause behavioral problems. There are many puzzle toys that you can load up with kibble or treats that your dog will then have to figure out to get back. They also cut energy down to alleviate hyperactivity. Train Your Frenchie Training your dog also works to cut down on hyperactivity. When you train your dog, you also have the added benefit of working with your dog physically and mentally at the same time. A lot of food on the market is the equivalent of providing a child with fast food or processed garbage day in and day out. Reward Calmness Finally, make it a point to ignore hyperactivity directed toward you barking, jumping on you, etc. This means that once your dog quiets down, you can shower her with attention. Or, when she sits down when you first come home, you pet the dog. By rewarding only calm behavior and ignoring bad behavior, you teach your dog that he has to be relaxed first to get what he wants your attention. However, if you notice extra hyperactivity, even after taking the time to implement the advice above and your dog is over the age of 4 or 5, it is usually a good idea to speak with a vet. Conclusion While puppy hyperactivity can be difficult to deal with, it is usually only temporary. In the meantime, remember that it will pass, and your hyperactive pup wants to spend time with you. The bottom line Why are French Bulldogs more active? Franchises are comparatively more active than other pups. Here we list you some reason that is a major cause for hyperactivity of your French bulldog pups: Boredom: In the case when you are a little busy and not giving proper attention and playtime to your puppy, then it will start getting bored. This boredom will make them bark and show hyperactivity. Also, when you work for a long time leaving your French bulldog buddy alone at home, they will get more active after seeing you. Exercise: Lack of exercise is the major reason for the French bulldog pup to show overactive behavior. The pup with less exercise will have more energy-packed in their tiny body to spend. Then they will start creating fuss to get their energy out. Fear: Fear is another reason that makes this bulldog buddy bark and shows hyperactivity. Also, the French bulldog is considered to be a timid breed, and they start barking at everything that they feel scary. Immaturity: Similar to a human child, puppies are also immature, highly energetic, and silly. Food: Hunger can also make this little creature making a fuss and destructing things showing hyperactive behavior. When you see that your pup is riling up mostly around mealtime, this means that the food you are giving is not enough to fill its cute little belly. So, if your little furry baby is not satisfied with food, then it will start acting out and start engaging in overactive behavior. How to calm down a French bulldog puppy The best way to calm this crazy ball of fur is to provide them with calming chews more frequently. In case when this creature still creating a nuisance, then make them spend their excess energy through exercise or agility sports. Below are some techniques to calm your French bulldog pup: Please provide them with proper and adequate exercise. Mental stimulation might help your puppy to calm down. You can give your furry baby some task to do like learning a new trick, finding something, or others to keep them busy. This will not only keep them busy but will also help them drain some excess energy. Training is the most common and effective way to calm your puppy down. Regular training for a set amount of time will be most effective to calm your buddy. Offer them less sugary food with fewer calories. You can also reward them with treats when they show calm and tranquil behavior and doing their task quietly. At what age do French Bulldogs puppies calm down? The excess excitement in your Frenchies puppy will start going down around 2 to 3 years of age. But your pup might take 4 to 5 years to calm down and stop displaying hyperactive behavior. The bottom line French bulldog puppies are the hyperactive tiny creature that gradually calms down with growing age. I hope this article helps you! Pin 0 Shares Owning a French Bulldog comes with a high level of commitment. You are bound to have seen all of those funny videos online of French Bulldogs acting all hyper and destructive, especially as puppies. Are French bulldogs hyper? French Bulldogs can be very hyperactive as puppies and sometimes into adulthood too. They require a lot of stimulation and exercise in order to curb destructive behavior. Whilst they do sleep a lot, when awake they will require a lot of attention from their owners. Our own personal experience We brought Claude home when he was around 9 weeks of age which is just around the right time to take a Frenchie puppy from his mother. Whilst we thought we knew what we were letting ourselves in for, nothing really prepared us for how high energy this breed can be. Continue reading to see what we learned about owning a hyper destructive Frenchie puppy. In the rest of this guide I am going to explain how we got on, what we learned, when our Frenchie finally calmed down, and particularly how destructive French Bulldogs can be without the right care and attention. How hyper are French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs are a hyperactive breed and will run and run until they can run no more. They love to play and will act like clowns even until their adult life. In the first few months of owning Claude meant we were constantly on our toes and having to put things out of reach that he wanted to chew and destroy. I would say that the puppy phase is without doubt the most hyperactive and destructive phase. Below you can see some examples of what we had to put up with and how we learned to cope with in the first few months of ownership. Are French Bulldogs hyper as puppies? Oh yes, French Bulldogs are hyper as puppies. During the puppy phase expect to have to deal with a lot of high energy and destructive habits. Their senses are developing, the world is a great big adventure, and they will be testing their own limits… and yours! However, there is such thing as hyperactivity in dogs which is medically known as hyperkinesis. Frenchies who display over hyper behavior, are frenetic, have short attention spans and act on impulse can be given medication. Your Frenchie could be hyper due to a mix of their genes, training, and how well they were socialised. After all, many Frenchies are extremely excitable. This is what to expect from the majority of Frenchies though — all of which is perfectly normal: 1. With Claude it would start by him running really fast down the corridor on the top floor in our house between rooms. He would also do it in out lounge by running around in circles, jumping up and down onto the couches at super speed. He actually hurt himself a few times doing this, so you need to puppy proof your environment where possible. French Bulldog owners have their own name for this hyper behavior; the Frenchie s. He would do it when anyone came into our house and also outdoors when being taken for a walk. There was one walk I took him on when he jumped up at a toddler and pushed the kid down due to being too hyperactive. That incident led me to working on this habit with some intensive training. You can see how I stopped him jumping up in this guide. Claude knew that once he was on his leash it meant he was off to the the local park for some excitement. However, having to walk with a Frenchie that would pull on his lead constantly did become very tiresome. We would also have problems where we could not get him to come back to us when it was time to go home. Claude would pull and strain at his leash for quite a few months until he was trained correctly. We ended up taking Claude to puppy socialisation classes which let him learn how to behave when being walked, despite the presence of other hyperactive puppies and people. I recommend that you take your hyperactive French Bulldog puppy to socialisation classes near you. This will help you to train them for not just leash walks, but also recall once they are off the lead. Are French Bulldogs destructive? As well as the hyperactive nature of a Frenchie puppy, you also need to be prepared for how destructive French Bulldogs can be. French Bulldogs are destructive when they are younger, and without training and care will continue these traits into later life. This breed needs a loving home to grow up. If you do leave them alone for long periods of time, especially when puppies, then you will see destructive habits that can be hard to break. Biting and chewing French Bulldogs puppies are big chewers, make no mistake! The puppies use their mouths to taste and test out everything they come across. This is what the end of our dining room table looked like after being chewed by our hyper destructive French Bulldog puppy. During this phase I recommend you invest in chewing and teething toys. I have put together a short list of the teething toys we used with Claude. The good news is that your French Bulldog puppy should stop the chewing behavior at around 8 months of age. For more advice on how to curb biting and chewing which is the main complaint new owners have about French Bulldogs being destructive, please read these guides: How to stop a Frenchie from chewing 2. Digging up your yard or garden French Bulldogs also love to dig. When we got Claude, I had only recently re-done our garden lawn and had to constantly chase him off the grass to stop him digging holes. One way you can stop your Frenchie puppy destructively digging up the lawn is by giving them something else to distract their attention. The reason Frenchies dig are wide ranging, including: They have an urge to escape and explore. They dig to find critters and interesting smells. They will occasionally dig when they are bored. They might even want to eat the dirt. They will also dig when they are anxious. I ended up building a small fenced off area to prevent this destructive behavior. If you want to read more tips on why they dig and how to stop it, read my guide to Frenchie digging. Peeing on the floor indoors Another piece of destructive behavior you need to be prepared for is the toilet training aspect. French Bulldog puppies will pee and poop on the floor in your house for often as old as 8 months. We developed a potty training guide which contains all the information you need to cope with this. Crying when left alone One of the harder aspects to cope with is how much attention Frenchie puppies need from you. They have been taken from their mothers and siblings, so of course, will want to get that reassurance and comfort from you. I can only compare it having a baby. If left alone for even short periods of time, your French Bulldog with exhibit destructive behavior such as chewing and sometimes even eating their own poop. French Bulldog separation anxiety is an actual thing click that link for advice on how to manage it. Are French Bulldogs high energy as adults? The good news is that things will get better providing you have socialized and trained the puppy as best you can. We also found that once Claude had been neutered at 8 months of age , he got a lot better and the hyper high energy reduced dramatically. Do French Bulldogs ever calm down? Yes, French Bulldogs do calm down eventually. The high energy behavior will reduce as they approach adulthood. Frenchies that are neutered or spayed between 4 and 9 months will also start to calm down and exbibit less high energy behavioural patterns. We learned that whilst French Bulldogs will sleep for 12 hours a day you can see the sleeping schedule in the graphic below , when they are awake they need lot of activity. French Bulldogs are high energy when they are awake so make the most of the time in the day when they will be sleeping — which is a lot as you can see here. We take Claude for two walks a day; one in the morning and one in the afternoon for around 25 to 30 minutes each time. My son also has a laser pen and plays with Claude in the kitchen with that to further wear him out. By doing so, our Frenchie is still hyper, but at the right moments and in the right way. One way you can do that is to make sure they have plenty of toys and fun things to do. Check out this list of Frenchie play accessories for more information. Want more advice on YouTube? There is a huge amount of advice on the French Bulldog Owner website about how to care for your dog from puppy through to adulthood. But if you want to see actual real video footage, I would recommend subscribing to our YouTube channel as we release weekly updates and episodes. Conclusion To conclude, French Bulldogs are hyperactive. French Bulldogs are destructive. However, the majority of this behavior will be curbed as they grow older providing you train and exercise your dog as you should do. Our own Frenchie did calm down eventually as he grew older. Owning a French Bulldog is a privilege, not a right. There are pros and cons to owning this breed so before you decide to buy, make sure a Frenchie is right for you: read the pros and cons to owning a Frenchie here. A sad and unhappy Frenchie will be a destructive one. If you have any concerns that your Frenchie could be depressed, read this guide to the signs of depression. The good news is that they eventually should calm down and become the tranquil, loveable doggies we all know and adore although their puppy-fueled energy can be endearing at times. Generally, excess excitement in your French Bulldog will gradually decline over time. Many French Bulldog owners notice their dogs begin to calm around 2 to 3 years of age. But it can take until 4 to 5 years of age for bouts of hyperactivity displayed to end. A common way to calm down dogs with excess energy is to provide them with calming chews every so often. I think this calming chew available at Amazon is one of the best. While that might be bad news for, say, your new slippers or your ability to watch a TV show in peace without being interrupted, it is also a sign of good health. A French Bulldog pup who is running around, getting into trouble, barking up a storm and generally being a pain in the proverbial butt is also a very healthy, happy pup. The truth is, once they do calm down you might long for the days when they had more energy instead of less. Have you ever noticed how much your French bulldog sleeps after a day of excitement and thought to your self, how many hours is my French bulldog sleeping per day? We created a recommended products page which links to every product we personally use for our bulldog. Yes, occasionally you might have one that is a bit more aggressive, but that is a relatively rare occurrence among the breed. That being said, Frenchies are a bit more boisterous as puppies and, as adults, quite a bit more calm than other dog breeds. On the other hand, the occasional French Bulldog is timid and will bark at anything that scares them or agitates them in some way. If your French Bulldog is home all day doing very little they will certainly appear to be hyperactive when you get home because they have tons of pent-up energy waiting to spring forth! Like a child asking hundreds of questions your French Bulldog puppy will, please forgive the term, hound you, until you give them what they seek; attention. French Bulldogs when younger are just like teenagers, full of spunk, back-talk and wanting to assert themselves, behavior that can seem hyperactive but is more a sign of their age than anything else. At least most humans. Both of these situations require two things; love and compassion. With a French Bulldog in its golden years. Here are 5 of them. Exercise can be an easy cure. Mental stimulation- Giving your Frenchie tasks to do, like finding something, learning a new trick, and other forms of mental stimulation are a great way to use up some of their excess energy Training- If you train your dog every day for a set amount of time they will start to calm down commensurate with how much you train them. Change their food. If it is, change it to something more natural and less sugary. Here are some of my favorite Dog and Bulldog Products Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful for your dog and bulldog questions. These are affiliate links, and I am compensated for referring traffic. But in all honesty, these are the exact product that I use or recommend to everyone. Food For Bulldogs: Royal Canin Bulldog was the dog food our breeder recommended for our bulldog with a bit of canned pumpkin added for each meal to give a bit of extra fiber Poo Bags: For poo bags we use Greener Walker poop bags. We have used them for over a year without having a single leak. Also, these bags are made to be friendlier for the environment. They are good for sensitive skin which bulldogs are known to have. I love this dog bed because it has an outer liner which can be replaced if it gets too beat up. To see all our most up-to-date product recommendations , check out this resource that I made for you! Print If you want an affectionate and irresistible companion, look no further than French Bulldogs! This breed is known for its unique appearance and lovable demeanor, making them a beloved choice among dog lovers. However, as with any breed, it is vital to consider their energy levels and temperament before bringing one into your home. One common question many potential owners have is when French Bulldogs calm down. It is important to note that every dog is unique and may have different energy levels and temperaments. However, French Bulldogs generally reach full maturity and calmness around years of age. This means that while they may have a lot of energy and be quite playful as puppies, they will eventually settle down and become more relaxed as they age. As with any breed, it is essential to consider the potential health problems that may arise. French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a compressed skull and short snout. This can lead to various health issues, including breathing difficulties and overheating. It is essential to remember this when considering a French Bulldog and ensure they receive proper care and attention to maintain their health and well-being. French Bulldogs, like many small dog breeds, are known for their energetic and playful nature, especially during puppyhood and adolescence. They start to calm down and become less hyperactive as they reach adulthood. On average, French Bulldogs begin to calm down around two years old. However, every dog is different, and the exact timing can vary depending on a range of factors, including individual temperament, lifestyle, level of physical activity, and overall health. Please note that even adult French Bulldogs will require moderate exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and well-behaved. A routine of regular walks, playtime, and training sessions can help manage their energy levels and encourage good behavior. Understanding French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are a unique breed known for their distinctive appearance and affectionate personalities. Examining their physical characteristics and temperament is essential to better understand this dog breed. Physical Characteristics French Bulldogs are a small dog breed, typically weighing between 16 and 28 pounds. They have a short, smooth coat that can come in various colors, including fawn, brindle, and white. One of the most distinctive physical features of French Bulldogs is their brachycephalic short-muzzled face, which may lead to health issues such as breathing difficulties and overheating. Temperament French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate and patient personalities. They are friendly dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals. However, it is essential to note that French Bulldogs can also be aggressive if they feel threatened or are not properly socialized. As French Bulldogs age, they may become more prone to health issues related to their breathing and mobility. Overall, French Bulldogs are a unique and beloved breed that requires special attention to their health and temperament. Energy Levels of French Bulldogs French Bulldogs have a reputation for being a playful and active breed. However, their energy levels can vary depending on their age and upbringing. Understanding the energy levels of French Bulldogs can help owners provide the appropriate exercise and care for their furry friends. Puppyhood During their puppyhood, French Bulldogs are generally full of energy and enthusiasm. They are playful, curious, and love to explore their surroundings. Puppies require a lot of physical exercise and lots of mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. Owners should provide them with plenty of opportunities to play, run, and socialize with other dogs. Adult Age As French Bulldog puppies grow older, their energy levels tend to decrease. They become more mellow and relaxed and may not require as much physical exercise as they did during their puppyhood. However, providing them with regular exercise and mental stimulation is still essential to keep them healthy and prevent destructive behavior. French Bulldogs that do not receive enough exercise or mental stimulation can become hyperactive, bark excessively, or exhibit destructive behavior. Owners should provide them with physical activities such as walks, playtime, or running in a safe and enclosed area. Providing positive reinforcement and discipline to prevent destructive behavior and encourage good behavior is also essential. Owners should set boundaries and provide appropriate toys and products to avoid tearing or chewing on furniture or other items. In addition, French Bulldogs are sensitive and intelligent dogs that thrive on human interaction and positive reinforcement. Owners should provide a loving and supportive environment and avoid abusive or harsh training methods. Professional trainers can also assist with socializing and training mischievous or jealous French Bulldogs. French Bulldogs can be active and playful during their puppyhood, but their energy levels tend to decrease as they grow older. Owners should provide regular exercise, mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement to keep them healthy and happy. With proper care and upbringing, French Bulldogs can be loyal and loving companions for humans. French Bulldog Pup at a Dog Show Training and Socialization French Bulldog puppies are known for their energetic and playful personalities but can also be prone to hyperactivity, anxiety, and aggression if not properly trained and socialized. Training and socialization are essential for helping Frenchies calm down and become well-behaved, happy, and healthy dogs. Obedience Training Obedience training and professional trainer advice can be crucial for teaching French Bulldogs basic commands and manners, such as sit, stay, come, and leave. It helps them understand what is expected of them and how to behave in different situations. Positive reinforcement, such as lots of praise, treats, and toys, is an effective way to motivate Frenchies to learn and obey. However, being patient, consistent, and gentle is essential, as Frenchies can be sensitive and easily distracted. Socializing Socializing is crucial for helping French Bulldogs become comfortable and confident around people, animals, and environments. It involves exposing them to sights, sounds, smells, and textures early and rewarding them for calm and friendly behavior. Socializing can prevent aggression and separation anxiety and promote bonding, learning, and mental stimulation. Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement is a critical component of both obedience training and socializing. It involves rewarding desired behavior and ignoring or redirecting undesired behavior rather than punishing or scolding. Positive reinforcement can build trust, respect, and confidence between Frenchies and their owners and enhance their motivation, learning, and happiness. Training and socialization are essential for helping French Bulldogs calm down and become well-behaved, happy, and healthy dogs. Calming Down Hyperactive French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are known for high energy levels, which can make them quite hyperactive and difficult to handle. However, with the right approach, it is possible to calm down these energetic pups and help them become more relaxed and well-behaved. Here are some tips on how to do just that. Physical Exercise Physical exercise is one of the most effective ways to calm a hyperactive French Bulldog. Taking your French Bulldog for a walk or run daily can help them release excess energy and feel more relaxed. Playing fetch or other games with them can also be a great way to provide physical exercise while bonding with your furry friend. Mental Stimulation In addition to moderate exercise, mental stimulation is essential for calming down hyperactive French Bulldogs. These dogs are intelligent, curious, and need mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Providing toys that challenge their minds, such as puzzles or interactive toys, can be a great way to keep them mentally stimulated. Training sessions and obedience classes can also provide mental stimulation while helping your French Bulldog learn new skills and behaviors. Routine Establishing a routine can also help calm down hyperactive French Bulldogs. Dogs thrive on routine and structure. Establishing a regular daily routine can bring comfort and reduce anxiety among individuals. Establish a regular schedule for feeding , exercise, and playtime, and stick to it as much as possible. This can help your French Bulldog feel more settled and less likely to act out. Tranquil Environment Creating a tranquil environment for your French Bulldog can also help calm them down. These dogs can be sensitive to loud noises and chaotic environments, so providing a calm and quiet space for them to relax can be beneficial. Consider providing a comfortable bed or crate for your French Bulldog to retreat when they need downtime. Playing calming music or using aromatherapy can also help create a peaceful atmosphere. Overall, calming down a hyperactive French Bulldog requires patience, consistency, and a willingness to provide physical and mental outlets for their energy. Following these tips can help your furry friend become a healthier, happier, and more well-behaved companion. This might seem like a lot of work initially, but trust us: it is worth it! In time, your determined pup will become calmer and more relaxed around you, other family members, and your social circle. Copyright CaninePals. All Rights Reserved. References and Further Reading:. Young French Bulldogs tend to have a lot of energy and enthusiasm for life and many go through the hyperactive stage as puppies. Your hyperactive puppy will probably have a short attention span, show little respect for boundaries and not listen to your commands during this stage of its life. Obedience training is a good way to get your Frenchie to settle down. Through training, your pup learns how to channel its excess energy and develop self-control. As your pup matures into an adult dog, he should become a calmer, more submissive canine pet. Are French Bulldogs Destructive? The hyperactive phase of your Frenchie is often accompanied by destructive traits and behaviors. Frenchies can also become destructive if left unsupervised or on their own for too long. Your house-trained pup may even start peeing or pooping on the floor of your home. They often develop close attachments to their owners and may even be clingy when left behind. If you work all day and spend little time with your pup, chances are your Frenchie will vie for your attention by acting up. In addition to personal attention, young French Bulldogs need exercise and mental stimulation. As your puppy grows older, his energy levels and excitement will gradually subside. Most French Bulldogs start to calm down around the age of 2 or 3 years old, although your Frenchie may still display times of hyperactivity for a year or two longer. If your pup has the energy to act up at 4 or 5 years of age, thank your lucky stars as you can still enjoy roughhousing together and taking long strolls in the park. One day, you may even miss that rambunctious dog that gave you so much trouble as a pup. How to Get My Frenchie to Calm Down Some dogs are more hyperactive than others due to their diet, upbringing, health problems or personal circumstances. Exercise Young French Bulldogs have lots of energy and require daily exercise to blow off steam and tire themselves out. This can be accomplished through daily walks, playtimes in the yard, running and chasing games and other physical activities that your pup enjoys. Mental Stimulation Frenchies are intelligent dogs. In addition to physical exercise, your Frenchie needs mental stimulation to keep him out of trouble. Invest in toys and games that challenge your pup and keep him occupied and entertained. Better yet, play together with your pup or take time to teach him fun tricks or constructive behaviors that will make him a better pet and companion. During training, your Frenchie will learn acceptable behaviors in the home and to respect boundaries. Positive reinforcement is key to training your dog successfully, so be sure to give your Frenchie lots of love, praise and treats when he obeys. If you lack the know-how or time to properly train your pup, seek the help of a professional trainer who will get the job done. Socialization Socializing your Frenchie at a young age is another way to curb its hyperactive tendencies. Fear, anxiety and stress are often triggers for hyperactive tendencies in a dog. Socializing your pup gets him used to new sights, scents, sounds, people and animals to reduce fear and anxiety of the unknown. Socialization can be as simple as exposing your pet to new environments on his daily walks, letting him approach other dogs or setting up playdates with neighborhood pets. A change of diet to nutritious puppy food that will aid in his growth and development could also be helpful in calming him down. Rewards Rewards could be another way to calm your Frenchie down. You can use some of his favorite treats to reward him for calm, tranquil behavior. When he starts barking or jumping around, order him to sit or stop and reward him when he obeys. Simply ignore his hyperactive behavior to show he will not get your attention that way and withhold rewards until he obeys. Aromatherapy Like people, your Frenchie can benefit from the calming effects of aromatherapy, particularly the scents of vanilla and lavender oils. Air freshener in either scent can be sprayed throughout the home to calm your pet down. In Summary When you own a French Bulldog, you get the best of both worlds — an active, fun-loving, adorable puppy and a gentle, affectionate, cuddly adult companion as your puppy matures into adulthood. Sharing is caring!