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Life Span Did You Know? The Dutch Shepherd is a herding dog that originated in the Netherlands in the s. The Dutch Shepherd was a versatile, intelligent, and independent working dog commonly used by farmers and shepherds to guard flocks of sheep, herd them, and keep them away from crops. They were also known to be a reliable farmhand that would herd the cows for milking and pull milk carts. The Dutch Shepherd would also alert farm owners when strangers came onto the property and even kept the chickens away from the garden kept for use in the kitchen. These dogs were bred to be sturdy in order to adapt to herding over harsh rural regions and so that they had few demands in a sparse environment. The first breed standard in the Netherlands was developed in .The AKC currently recognizes the Dutch Shepherd a part of the Miscellaneous Class, which means the breed does not yet have full recognition. But, they have been given the Herding Group designation. Although they have maintained their herding and farm dog skills, the Dutch Shepherd is also a good fit for work as a police dog, search and rescue dog, tracking dog, and even a guide dog! A Dutch Shepherd is a loyal, affectionate companion and a highly intelligent dog breed. They make a great addition to a family as they get along well with children and other animals. These dogs are also active, alert, and watchful, which makes them a good watchdog. Because they were bred to be guard dogs and herding dogs, they may be suspicious or wary of strangers. As with any dog, socialization early and often results in a well-rounded dog that is confident in a variety of situations and with different people. Because the Dutch Shepherd is a high energy working dog, they are generally not a good fit for apartments. These dogs thrive in larger homes with yards where they can run or on a farm or ranch where they can roam and work. They tend to be a good fit for most climates. As with many dog breeds, they can be sensitive to extreme heat or cold. The Dutch Shepherd is a generally healthy dog breed. As with any dog breed, there are some health conditions to be aware of including hip and elbow dysplasia, thyroid issues , and goniodysplasia. Goniodysplasia is an eye defect that can result in small drainage openings, which can prevent eye fluid from outflowing normally. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of both of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns you may have. High intelligence and an intuitive nature make the Dutch Sheperd highly trainable. This dog breed is able to work alongside their owners or deal independently with their tasks. But, obedience training is necessary to keep this dog mentally stimulated and to let them know what they are expected to do. This dog breed has independence and a strong character that can be a challenge for first-time dog owners when it comes to training, which can result in an obstinate dog that makes its own decisions. Dutch Shepherds tend to be a better fit for active owners and families who have experience with dogs. First-time owners can do well with this dog, but enlisting the help of a professional dog trainer or enrolling in training classes is recommended for effective obedience training. Common coat colors are gold brindle or silver brindle, but the rough-haired coat type can sometimes be so curly that it loses its brindle look. Each coat type has its own grooming needs. The short-haired coat type requires brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during the heavier shedding sessions twice a year. The long-haired coat type only requires brushing about once a week. The rough-haired coat type tends to be quite curly and only needs to be brushed once a month. During seasonal changes twice a year, their coat also needs to be hand-stripped to help keep them comfortable. For all coat types, bathing is on an as-needed basis. Checking in on their nails monthly and trimming as needed is usually sufficient. You want to make sure their ears are dry, free of wax buildup, clean, and clear of debris. This can help prevent ear infections. Dental care for dogs is often overlooked, which is why dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. You can also use vet-approved dental hygiene chews or treats, or even a specially-formulated dental care diet, to help supplement your efforts. By getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience, you can help make grooming a much easier process for both you and your dog throughout their life. It may even become a bonding time that your dog looks forward to! This dog breed is a working dog with a lot of energy, so they need more than just a few walks every day. The Dutch Shepherd is known for being a competent working dog, which means they need a job to do to be happy. That, paired with their trainability and high energy, make them a good fit for dog sports. Generally, Dutch Shepherds are a good fit for herding trials, tracking events, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Dutch Shepherd usually stands between inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Dutch Shepherd generally lives years. They were often tasked with herding the sheep to pasture in the morning and bringing them back to the barn in the evening and expected to do so on their own without prodding or guidance. Featured Dutch Shepherd Article. This video highlights how critically important it is to provide a working protection dog breed with appropriate training and socialization so the dog knows the difference between a friendly person or animal and a potentially dangerous situation. In other words, the Dutch Shepherd is thought to not be a manmade dog breed. In an age where dogs come in literally every shape and size, finding a natural dog breed is quite rare. It also means many see a strong resemblance between the Dutch Shepherd and the wild wolf, which tends to be the case when there has been less human manipulation of the breed genome. Dutch Shepherds were found in rural areas and were then developed further to work as all-purpose herding, livestock guarding, and droving dog. The breed was first noticed in The Netherlands, which is where the dog gets their breed name. The German Shepherd was always intended to be the perfect herding and livestock guarding dog. The breed founder, a former German cavalry officer named Captain Max von Stephanitz, was said to have crossed the first German Shepherds with wild wolves to obtain his ideal dog. Today, German Shepherds are second only to the Belgian Malinois as the breed of choice for K-9, military, police, and private protection and security work. This bodes well for any hybrid breeding program built on these two breed lines. Dutch Shepherd personality and temperament Dutch Shepherds are herding dogs through and through. Dutch Shepherds also have a strong prey drive and chase instinct, which means if your family already includes other small prey-type family pets, they may not be safe with a Dutch Shepherd in the house. Overall, Dutch Shepherds are lively, smart and fun-loving, but can be somewhat stubborn, too. This is common with herding dogs that have been bred to work independently from their people. Since a Dutch Shepherd will always have a mind of their own, it will be up to you to train and socialize your dog to behave in appropriate ways for daily life in a family and local neighborhood. German Shepherd personality and temperament The German Shepherd dog breed would not be as popular as this dog is without some pretty stellar personality and temperament traits. However, the GSD, as fans of the breed call them, can also be a real handful, especially in puppyhood. These dogs are also herding dogs, which means your German Shepherd is going to herd you, your kids, your pets, and anyone else they regard as under their care and protection. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix personality and temperament Overall, the Dutch Shepherd and the German Shepherd dog breeds are actually quite similar in their temperament and personality. Both dog breeds need a similar type and level of early and ongoing socialization and training to temper their protective and herding instincts and socialize well into a family and community. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd Mix: Size, Height, and Weight One of the big concerns many people have when they are trying to decide on a dog breed is size. How big will your Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd dog grow up to be? How tall will your dog be? Will you be able to find space for a big dog bed, travel crate, food, and toys? Dutch Shepherd size, height, and weight According to the North American Dutch Shepherd Rescue charity, these dogs typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds and stand between 23 and 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulders. Females are generally slightly shorter and smaller than males in adulthood. German Shepherd size, height, and weight According to Vetstreet , the German Shepherd dog typically weighs between 50 and 90 pounds and stands 22 to 26 inches tall from paw pads to shoulder tops. Here again, females are typically but not always slightly shorter and leaner than males in adulthood. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd size, height, and weight Dutch Shepherds and German Shepherds are quite similar in height, weight, and overall build and size. These dogs are built to stay constantly on the move, herding and moving groups of livestock and keeping watch while navigating difficult terrain. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd Mix: Training and Exercise Needs When you choose a large, powerful dog like the Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix, you also take on the great responsibility of helping to train and socialize your dog to live in a family and community. Your dog will need to learn from you how to tell the difference between a friend and a threat. Your dog will also rely on you to get their daily activity and exercise needs met. Dutch Shepherd training and exercise needs The Dutch Shepherd is smart, athletic, and energetic. However, as Precision K-9 Training points out, these same traits mean that you should never ever use negative or punishment-based training methods with a Dutch Shepherd. A Dutch Shepherd dog will be smart enough to quickly learn new skills provided they are taught in a positive, affirming, rewards-based framework. Dutch Shepherds can be destructive if they are neglected, isolated from their human family, or too often left alone. These dogs want to be with their people all the time and need lots of attention to stay healthy and happy. Training must be positive and affirming — and it must also be frequent, early, and ongoing. A German Shepherd needs to learn early in life how to manage their inbuilt chase and protection instincts. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd training and exercise needs The Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix dog is going to be a high-intensity companion canine to own and care for. Your dog will need plenty of attention, play, and activity every single day. If you leave a Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd alone, you are likely to come home to a big mess made by a bored, lonely pup. So it is important to consider whether your time and lifestyle will permit making your dog the center of your world. Some people are quite allergic to protein dander found on the skin and in the saliva and urine of dogs, which can make learning about shedding even more important. In this section, we take a look at whether, how much, and how often a Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd dog might shed. Dutch Shepherd coat care, shedding, and grooming The Dutch Shepherd has the traditional double layer working dog coat that nearly all working dog breeds have. In puppyhood, a Dutch Shepherd will have a single layer puppy coat. Around the age of six months, the puppy coat will start to shed out and the adult double layer coat will begin to grow in, which may take another six months to conclude. During this time, you will see a lot of shedding, and this will be something to get used to because Dutch Shepherds shed both year-round and seasonally. To further complicate matters, Dutch Shepherds are bred in three coat types: short hair, long hair, and rough hair. Each coat type has different brushing and grooming needs. The short hair is the easiest coat type to care for and the least prone to tangles and mats. To best predict the amount of brushing, grooming, shedding and overall coat care your puppy might need in adulthood, it is important to find out as much as possible about the coat type of the Dutch Shepherd parent dog. German Shepherd coat care, shedding, and grooming German Shepherd dogs have the traditional double layer working dog coat. The outer layer is medium length and the inner layer is shorter and very thick. During coat blows, you may want to brush daily. Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix coat care, shedding, and grooming As you can see, here is one of the areas of greatest uncertainty when you choose a Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd mix dog. Either way, however, you can look forward to lots of year-round and seasonal shedding. Unfortunately, as you will notice in this section, the German Shepherd has an all-too-short life expectancy. Since both dogs are prone to similar joint issues, it is important to take your time and do your research to pick the healthiest, sturdiest puppy. However, the American Dutch Shepherd Association highlights the following known possible genetic health issues you need to be aware of: Hip dysplasia. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Dutch Shepherd is known for being affectionate, obedient, and reliable. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd Dog Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Dutch Shepherd German Shepherd Dog Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Dutch Shepherd History Just by looking at the name of the Dutch Shepherd, you can get a good understanding of its past. It comes from the Netherlands and was used to herd work alongside a Shepherd. They are a popular breed not only for their ability to herd sheep, but they are also good watchdogs for everything. Centuries ago they would pull carts and do many miscellaneous tasks. They have evolved to work with Police Departments, search and rescue, and guide dogs. They are incredibly intelligent dogs and are easily trainable. They can still be seen working and herding on some farms and ranches today. Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. It became common for police departments and those looking for true working dogs to import their dogs from Germany because the American dogs had such bad health problems.

On June 15, , pug pups were born. A tiny, glossy, black purebred pug named Darla is the mother. There are visiting pug parents on-site. They are prepared to be adopted. Will arrive with first shots, a health exam, veterinary health certificates, and limitless love! Web Page: perfecthouseofpugs Call us with: xxx-xxx-xxxx View Detail Pug puppies available now They are great companion dogs, they love spending time with their human family and being part of your day. They are very cute Pug puppies and will be a great gift for someone. They are very playful with kids and other house pets. Kindly contact us with the name of the breed directly via xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. View Detail 4month pugs Full bread pugs for sale all male pugs are black and one beige girl pug Buy Now Pug puppies for adoption Akc reg male and female puppies. Home raised with children both parents on site. Pictures available. Brindle , fawns. All are loving, friendly and very playful. Have been raised with children and other pets. Puppies raised in the home and with excellent socialization are accustomed to household sounds, children, and other people. Puppies receive routine deworming, a vet check, vaccinations, and microchipping. Puppies are now prepared to depart for their new homes in perpetuity. I have no room For them. The money will go to daughters college fund. View Detail Pugs pugs pugs pugs Our pugs had a small litter and we are know looking for a good home and family. Both parents are super sweet and have so much personality, you will fall in love instantly. They will be 8 weeks on February 9. Perfect time for Valentines Day! View Detail Pug puppies Beautiful pug puppies available for a loving home. Purebred with 1st set of vaccinations done. Dad is a very little pug, and mom is a very small, delicate little lady. She has been a wonderful mother and is raising happy tiny puglets that are accustomed to being around our kids, family pets, and cat. Every puppy will depart with a puppy bag, a microchip, and their initial vaccine. There are 3 tiny girls and 2 small boys that are ready to go to their forever homes and are available for viewings. Call me at any time to set up a visitation time to see our puppies. Vaccinations up to date. Email: massespudgypugs gmail. Their pups are bred to carefully chosen AKC champion-line stud dogs. These breeders work hard to better the breed standard by working closely with other reputable breeders. They strive to raise Pugs with great temperament, confirmation, and health. Pups are sold to approved homes only and come with a two-year guarantee on any hereditary conditions. Once pups are eight weeks old they can be sent home to their new families. They will have all current vaccinations and deworming, and will have been socialized and litter box trained as well. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time. We have answers. Yes, no problem! In addition to being petite size, pugs can also be extremely laid back. That can be a good thing when it comes to those who are short on space or extra time to spend exercising with your new pooch. They love to nap and will be content to snooze on the couch much of the time, just be sure you still walk them as needed! Can I only browse local breeders? If you find your perfect pup a few states away, then you can work with one of our expertly selected breeders or businesses on transportation to you. How are Pug breeders Los Angeles chosen? Choosing the right breeders and businesses, with proven track records, is of the utmost importance to us when we are reviewing applications. When choosing Pug breeders in Los Angeles, we only want to associate with those who can demonstrate their commitment to animal welfare. Read more about our requirements on our Breeder Pledge page and then start your search for Los Angeles Pug puppy for sale. Pug puppy for sale Los Angeles can range in price based on exactly what you are looking for and which breeder or business you go through. For instance, a breeder with decades of experience in a big city may have a higher price point than a new breeder in a smaller town. These factors in addition to physical characteristics of the dog all go into the price. The difference in working with Uptown Puppies to find your Pug Los Angeles and doing it on your own online is all of the hassle and time it takes when it comes to truly vetting up to dozens of breeders. How can I avoid puppy mills when searching for Pugs for sale in Los Angeles? Puppy mills are a sad reality when it comes to searching for a new Pug for sale Los Angeles and the internet can be ripe with scams and bad actors just wanting to take your money. Unfortunately dogs that come from puppy mills are typically neglected and do not get the proper care, making them have a higher chance of sickness and vet needs down the road. Do you have Pug mixes too? Cross breed or mixed Pugs like the popular Daugle or Pom-A-Pug are becoming more available as they become more popular and provide additional variety when you are in the market for Pug puppies Los Angeles. Pugs come in only a few colors typically, but the two cross breed mixed can come in more varieties, providing more options for you to choose from! What type of dog is the Pug? Pugs are a well-known and attractive small sized toy breed that comes from China originally. After being brought to Eruope and even gaining notoriety through being a pet of the Dutch Royal family, they continued their rise and are now one of the more popular breeds in the US. They have great personalities in addition to their noteworthy good looks! What are Pug grooming needs? Pugs can be pretty low maintenance for their grooming, and only require the standard bath, nail trim and teeth cleaning. Find your Pugs for sale Los Angeles now! How large are pugs typically? Pug puppies for sale Los Angeles are pretty small compared to most breeds. They grow from a cute little puppy to approximately ten to eleven inches tall and generally can weigh from fourteen to eighteen pounds once they are full grown. Although they are a petite breed, pugs are also stout little pooches, making them less fragile than other similar breeds.

Rarity What makes fluffy Frenchies so rare? Like we already mentioned, fluffy French Bulldogs are still hard to come by despite the huge demand in recent years. Why is that? Frenchies that carry only one LH gene have regular short coat, but they are still valuable for breeders. If such a Frenchie is bred to another carrier of the long hair gene, they are likely to produce fluffy puppies, although the chances of that are still quite low. Long-haired pups are only guaranteed if two visual fluffy French Bulldogs are bred together. Their size depends not only on genetics but on their lifestyle as well how many times you take them for a walk, do you have a backyard, do you have other dogs or pets and even the food that you give them. Male Frenchies are usually stronger and stockier than females, they have bigger heads and wider chests. Female Frenchies tend to be a bit smaller and less muscular. On average, they weigh about 5 lbs less than males: their adult size is around 25 lbs, while boys can go up to 30 lbs. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owner. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a fluffy Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. Even though fluffy Frenchies are most popular among French Bulldog breeders, any responsible dog owner can become the parent of one these amazing dogs. Another thing to consider is your financial situation. Buying a fluffy Frenchie is one thing, and maintaining them is a whole different story. Each pet has to visit the vet regularly to get the compulsory shots, which costs money. Not to mention any sickness, which can easily happen at any age. Vets are not cheap, but having pet insurance helps to lower medical costs. All French Bulldogs are prone to overheating due to their flat-faces, but fluffy Frenchies are in even more risk because of their thick long coat. So, if you live in an area with a hot and humid climate, you might want to opt for a regular short-haired Frenchie puppy instead. Their price ranges on a wide scale and is largely determined by their color and gender: standard colored fluffy puppies are valued around 10, USD while unique ones like lilac tan and merle can go up to 19, USD. Female Frenchies normally cost more than males. FAQ What makes fluffy Frenchies fluffy? Fluffy Frenchies have the rare long hair — LH gene also known as the Fibroblast Growth Factor which gives them their furry look. Do Fluffy French Bulldogs Shed? Regular grooming is recommended for them, especially during spring and fall. Why are fluffy French Bulldogs more expensive than other Frenchies? Fluffy Frenchies are much rarer and more unique than short-haired Frenchies because of the rare LH gene they carry, which makes them more expensive as well. When looking for a fluffy Frenchie, you will most likely come across cheaper offers than the prices detailed above. Make sure to do your research and get your fluffy Frenchie from a reputable breeder, and you will have a happy and healthy furry family member for at least a decade. Puggle puppies will not only give you the love and support you need to keep your relationship with them healthy, they will also provide you with a loyal companion and a loyal friend for life. Puggle dogs are very intelligent with a high energy level. This energetic and intelligent breed tends to get along well with all members of the family including young children and those with different lifestyles. A puggle puppy is a crossbred between a pug and a dachshund. These dogs are some of the most popular and common among dog owners in the United States. Puggle puppies should not be left alone for long periods of time because this breed tends to be destructive. Puggle puppies will also need lots of socialization so that they will learn how to behave appropriately around people and other dogs in the future. Puggle dogs are very loving and affectionate dogs. They are great companions and will always want to please you. They are excellent at finding ways to cheer you up, whether it is by playing with your feet or giving you a hug when you come home from work. Puggle dogs also love getting attention from you, so when you bring a new addition into the family be sure to give them lots of extra attention and love. He is incredibly lovable and caring. The puggle puppies that are born in January or February will grow to about ten inches and become almost two feet tall. Puggle puppies can be quite heavy at times because they have a high metabolism. They do very well in families with other puggle dogs because they are highly sociable and happy dogs. If you decide to get a puggle puppy, be sure to get him from a trusted breeder. You should never buy puggle puppies that have been ill treated or even adopted from a pound because these animals have more health problems. You should always ask for medical records on the puppies that you are considering buying. Another good reason to get puggle puppies is that they are inexpensive. The puggle puppy you buy today can cost you less than twenty dollars. Anything you can save will help in the future. This includes buying your puggle puppy. Puggle dogs are very good with children. They will immediately want to get hold of you whenever you come home from work because they know that they will get their favorite toy or food when you come home. The puggle puppies that are properly cared for can last up to ten years. These dogs are very loyal and have a tendency to get along with other dogs well. However, they are not known for being great with children. When you are getting a puggle puppy, make sure that you do your research before you make a final decision on one particular puppy. There are so many to choose from that it can be overwhelming. You want to make sure that you get a healthy puppy that has all of the right characteristics. You should also get puggle puppies that are cute, adorable, and fun. Puggle puppies are fun and will make a great family pet. Similar Posts.

All dogs are spayed or neutered. Read each bio very carefully, as not every rescue Frenchie is suited to every home. Our adoption fees offset only a portion of the veterinary expenses for the dogs in FBRN. As these costs rise we have had to increase the adoption fees as one measure to try to keep up with expenses. Our Available Dogs page is updated weekly, so check back often! We are currently reviewing the applications that the dog has already received. Please do not attempt to apply for a dog with a Pending Adoption banner. Your application will not be processed without the fee. If you experience any problems completing the application or you do not receive an auto confirmation for your application, please contact FBRN at [email protected] Thank you. Fees have recently risen. You may see some dogs of the same age have different fees. We elected not to raise the fees on dogs that were posted before the increase. Our fees can be found on the Adoption Info page. Any communication will come through email. Please never share any personal information with anyone who indicates they are a volunteer unless it is coming through the correct channels. If you have received a FB messenger message, please send it to [email protected] so we are aware. In the meantime, check out our Foster Page to see if we might be a good match! Read more about the pups that are currently up for adoption. Read More… Foster Dogs FBRN is being faced with an increasing number of dogs who are ill, handicapped, or need expensive veterinary care before being placed. Meet our Foster Frenchies and please consider sponsoring one of them to ensure that they receive the care that they need. Read More… Surrender a Dog Life has thrown you a curve ball and you must surrender your French Bulldog… we are here to help! Read More… Volunteer We welcome you to join us in our efforts to rehabilitate and rehome needy French Bulldogs. We have many options for you to choose from, depending on your circumstances, time and resources. Our organization is composed solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes. Read More… Contact Us Learn about the many ways that you can get in touch with us. He has a Staffie sister, Lettie, who he adores and who has taught him so much with her gentle patience. He has doggie friends at daycamp he sees once a week. He is the best snuggler ever! He used to be a resource guarder, but will now bring you his toys for a treat! He loves our daily walks and meeting people. Thank you FBRN for picking us to be his family- we love him so much! Despite being mostly blind and deaf, Ham is thriving in his golden years, especially with his folks now working from home. Thank you FBRN for our goodest good boy! We are so grateful for every day with him. She had cherry eye surgery in March right before Covid quarantine and the surgery was a success. A gigantic thank you to FBRN for allowing me to adopt this perfect little nugget. All Rights Reserved. A c 3 Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID: .Powered by Geeks4Rent. This team of volunteers rescues Frenchies from puppy mills and even local animal shelters. They can also be contacted in cases where a family can no longer care for their dog for whatever reason. Families who want to bring home a French Bulldog are methodically evaluated. This is in place to ensure that the dogs are placed in suitable homes. With the Chicago French Bulldog Rescue managed by volunteers, this organization is always on the lookout for volunteers that can help in the fostering process, evaluation, training, and assist in the various fundraisers for the benefit of the rescues. This is a non-profit group that has been operating since , and its main objective is to care, love, and place French Bulldogs with their forever families and homes. A sad French Bulldog is lying on the floor. Rescue French Bulldogs aims to rehabilitate their rescues, but being a non-profit association, they mainly rely on donations to run their operations. Note that all the French Bulldogs that go under the care of Rescue French Bulldogs are surrendered to the organization anonymously. After confirming that the Frenchie is in a healthy state or existing medical conditions are treated, Rescue French Bulldogs initiate the re-family process. French Bulldog standing in the street with a woman. And they believe that a significant element in their mission is to invest in awareness about the breed and what responsible ownership entails. True to this commitment, other rescue groups contact them for additional resources to give rescued French Bulldogs a better second chance in life. As long as the dog needs a new home and another opportunity to belong to a family, the Village, without questions, accepts it into its fold. Any Frenchie is welcome, regardless of whether the dog is healthy or has behavioral problems or medical conditions requiring assistance and attention. The Village is committed to accepting all French Bulldogs and eventually finding them new homes. After a thorough screening and home visits, the Board and the coordinators decide which home a rescue will go home to. And the impressive fact about this group is they do what they do excellently with the help of volunteers alone. French Bulldogs feel dry and sleepy after taking a bath. They are responsible for the entire state of Texas and even help out nearby states of Louisiana and Oklahoma. And like all rescue groups, they also aim to rehome French Bulldogs after rescue and rehabilitation. Their rescues come from different sources. This includes Frenchies that owners surrender personally, those brought to the local pound and shelters, stray dogs, import brokers, commercial breeding kennels, and other private rescue groups. In particular circumstances, Short Mugs can get rescues from Louisiana and Oklahoma but only from these areas. The reason behind this is all the volunteers of Short Mugs are situated in Texas. Dogs up for adoption are also posted on their website, but these are not the entirety of the rescues as some are still being treated and rehabilitated. The adoption process varies based on the number of dogs for release and the number of interested individuals. Short Mugs Rescue communicates with all possible fosterers and adopters so they are aware of their application status. Short Mugs Rescue Contact Details:. Vocality level 3 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. Temperament The French Bulldog is a clown in a lapdog. They enjoy playing and entertaining their family, as well as cuddling and snoozing with their favorite person. They are amiable, sweet, companionable, and willing to please. A short walk on lead is sufficient to meet most of its physical needs. Frenchie snores and may wheeze and drool. Require minimal coat care Facial wrinkles should be regularly cleaned. Brachycephalic syndrome stenotic nares, elongated soft palate Intervertebral disk disease CHD seldom causes symptoms or problems Allergies History Where are French Bulldogs from? In the nineteenth century, the Bulldog was fairly popular in England, especially around Nottingham. The French women, especially, were attracted to these little Bulldogs, especially those with erect ears a common but disliked feature in England. Dog dealers brought more of the clownish little dogs to France, where they soon became the rage of Paris. The dogs were dubbed Bouledogue Francais. How big do French Bulldogs get? Some Bulldogs are quite small weighing less than 25 lbs, however, dogs in this breed on average, weigh 28 lbs. What are some French Bulldog facts and information? Facts French Bulldogs are best known for: Bat ears. Share A Story! French Bulldog Rescues In Florida A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. French Bulldog Rescues In Florida French bulldogs make excellent pets and deserve all the love and care they can get. They are small and adorable and have one of the best personalities among all dog breeds. This is why they have become a favorite breed for people who are looking for a new dog. For the people living in Florida, getting a french bulldog as a pet requires a bit of consideration. While they are quite playful, they do not do very well in hot climates as Florida has. This does not mean that you can not get a french bulldog as a pet if you live in Florida. It just means that you should take extra measures to ensure that they are comfortable, such as keeping a cool house and walking them in the late evenings when it might be cooler outside. If you are willing to make these concessions and are actively looking to adopt a french bulldog, this is the best place to start your search. We have curated a list of the best french bulldog rescues in Florida. We also provide you with the necessary information you need to know on how they work, how to adopt, as well as how to contact the rescue. These rescues are charged with taking care of these dogs and finding a good home for them. If you are in Florida and are looking to adopt a French Bulldog, this list is for you. Florida English Bulldog Rescue Odessa, FL This rescue is a nonprofit bulldog rescue dedicated to finding new forever homes for bulldog breeds. They have been rescuing bulldogs since .They have helped more than 1, dogs get new homes, and each of the bulldogs gets rehabilitation so that they can be a functional part of their new home. The thing about this particular nonprofit is that they do not focus on french bulldogs. In fact, on the surface, it looks more like their primary focus is English bulldogs. But they have stated that they are open to different bulldog breeds, including the French bulldog. The main difference between an English bulldog and a French bulldog is their size. Florida English Bulldog Rescue seeks out neglected and abused dogs and provides them with rehabilitation and new homes. They also provide a safe home for bulldogs who have no option but to leave their homes. They always have a bulldog ready for anyone who wants to take one home. You can view their available bulldogs here. If you are passionate about helping bulldogs get a better home, you can also help the organization through donations and sending supplies. They are always looking for volunteers.

House-trained, Story You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. She is NOT doing good in the kennel environment and feeds of the energy and is just super hyped up ALL the time - which is not good for her mental or emotional state at all. She knows sit and walks beautifully on the leash and rides in the car great. I recommend no other animals purely for the fact that she truly does need a few months to decompress with out energy from other animals. She is great with people and kids. I work on applications within 24 hours and so as long as I am able to reach references could have an application approved within days. It is a HUGE transition they make from the kill shelter, being vetted, on transport for 3 days and arriving in Maine where the temperature and such is very different to what they have only known. Weeks your dog is adjusting, settling in, learning things. At the 3-month point, your dog understands they are home, and have built up a trusting relationship where they feel loved and secure. Families will need to be prepared to travel to the rescue to meet and take home their new best friend. Sebec is located just outside the towns of Dover-Foxcroft and Milo approx. Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. September 13, , pm. The foot had already started to heal and a callous formed and so re-setting the break was not possible. It was thought that amputation might be needed, however, the vet decided to give her some time to see how she got on. Cinderella has been with a foster family and has been using her foot, she does run, play and jump and so thankfully amputation was not needed. However, where the break was and callous has formed, will be weaker and it is recommended jumping be limited and supplements to help strengthen her bones be given. The shelter is willing to forward x-rays to the adopters veterinarian who has the software to open the radiographs. She may occasionally need pain meds on cold days or at times when she has been a little too energetic and she will get arthiritis in the future so it is important to discuss with your vet for high quality supplements, food and potential treatments for arthiritis. It is a HUGE transition they make from the kill shelter, being vetted, on transport for 3 days and arriving in Maine where the temperature and such is very different to what they have only known. Weeks your dog is adjusting, settling in, learning things. At the 3-month point, your dog understands they are home, and have built up a trusting relationship where they feel loved and secure. Families will need to be prepared to travel to the rescue to meet and take home their new best friend. Sebec is located just outside the towns of Dover-Foxcroft and Milo approx. Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. September 13, , pm. Showing 1 - 21 of 21 resultsPage 1 - 21 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Ready to go now! This is our 5th litter and have zero health issues from past pups. They are Straight back, black and tan with black saddle. They are socialized, vet checked, health certificate, vaccinated, and ready for their new homes! They will be vet checked, de-wormed, and have their first vaccinations. Parents have great temperaments and are family.The litter consists of 5 girls and 4 boys. The water resistant bed has a plush fleece top that is perfect for lounging and a durable cotton bottom will hold up to the wear-and-tear of everyday use. This bright and stylish bed is great for all dogs but is especially great Shipping by seller German Shepherd Fredericton German Shepherd pups for sale! Father is Sable Mother is Black Both parents have a wonderful personality! Very outgoing and smart! Puppies will.Both parents live on site. Ready to go to their new homes on Sept .Woodstock Amazing well trained German Shepherd puppy. He is house, kennel, lead and leash trained. He has been brought up with a baby, children and other dogs as well as a cat.

Articles A friend of mine recently reached out asking for advice about the Labrador Bulldog Mix, so I decided to write a guide about this social and loving doggie breed. So, what is a Labrador Bulldog Mix? If you are considering adopting or buying a Labrador Bulldog Mix, it is important to know what to expect with this doggie breed, particularly when it comes to caring for the pooch. In this article, we will look at all the crucial information that will help your figure out whether the Labrador Bulldog Mix is perfect for you. A Bullador will usually have a large head and folded ears, with a somewhat short muzzle. Like its parents, a Labrador Bulldog Mix will have a strong body that could either be lean or muscular, depending on the parent your pup takes after. Size Another concern for people interested in this dog breed is size. How big does a Bullador get? A Labrador Bulldog Mix is a medium-sized pooch, bigger than the Bulldog, but smaller than the Labrador. You can expect a Bullador to weigh about 50 to 90 lbs. A fully grown Bullador will stand about 17 to 22 inches tall. Therefore, it is not surprising to find some Bulladors that are larger or smaller than this. The color of your Bullador pup will depend on the coat colors of its parents. Common coat colors for Bulldog Lab Mixes include tan, white, black, and brown. In most cases, Bulladors will have a bi-colored coat, rather than a solid color. So, do Bulldog Lab Mixes have many health problems? Despite being a hybrid, a Bullador can still be affected by many of the health conditions that affect its parents. These include: Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome is a condition that commonly affects the Bulldog breed. This condition causes obstruction in the airways, making it difficult for your pooch to breathe. If your Bullador inherits the short muzzle of its Bulldog parent, the pup can be at risk of developing brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome. Joint Problems Bulldog Lab Mixes could also be susceptible to various joint problems, including elbow and hip dysplasia. These conditions, which come from the Lab side of the family, make movement painful and uncomfortable for your pooch. Other Common Health Problems Other common health issues affecting Labrador Bulldog Mixes include skin problems, obesity, bloating, ear infections, and eye infections. Most of these health conditions are inherited from the Bulldog side of the family. Lifespan So, how long do Bulldog Lab Mixes live for? Provided your furry buddy does not get affected by any serious health conditions, you can expect a Labrador Bulldog Mix to live for about 10 to 12 years. Diet The Bullador comes from parents who are known to have a huge appetite, and therefore, you can expect that your Bullador will also have a similar appetite. This means that you will have to be careful so as to avoid overfeeding since we have seen that this doggie breed is prone to obesity. It is recommended that you feed your Bullador with food that is rich in protein, rather than grains and carbs. What I love about Pet Plate is that they will even help you develop a suitable meal plan for your canine buddy depending on age and size. Exercise To keep your Bullador from getting obese, you should ensure that your four-legged friend gets enough exercise every day. If possible, take your pooch out for a 60 to 90 minute hike or walk every day. Alternatively, if you have a big enough yard, you can purchase toys like the iFetch Interactive Ball Launcher for Dogs and play with your doggie in the yard. Since Bulladors are susceptible to bloat, avoid scheduling exercise sessions immediately after meals. Vet Visits Even if your pooch seems perfectly healthy, it is advisable to schedule regular vet visits for checkups. This way, the vet will discover any health issues early enough and treat them before they get serious. Are Bulladors Aggressive? Temperaments Of Labrador Bulldog Mixes Image from Instagram: amberchristine3 The temperament of the Labrador Bulldog Mix usually falls between the lively spirits of the Labrador and the calm, reserved nature of the Bulldog. Friendly And Safe For Families Bulladors are very friendly and eager to please, and will get along well with all family members, including small children. Your Labrador Bulldog Mix will also be comfortable around other pets, including cats and other dogs. Bulladors are also very loyal and protective towards loved ones, and they also have territorial instincts. Therefore, they can make good guard dogs. As a result, the mix is also a very intelligent dog. Due to their high intelligence, Bulladors would learn commands quickly. However, due to the Bulldog side of the family, they can sometimes be stubborn. This means that you will need to be patient when training your Bullador. Like with most other dogs, positive reinforcement works better during training. Moderate Energy Levels While the Labrador is an outdoorsy dog with lots of energy, the Bulldog is not very active, and therefore, the Bullador will have moderate energy levels. This means that these dogs are not very difficult to handle. If your Bullador gets bored, or if you leave them alone for too long, they will express their displeasure by chewing at the nearest thing, such as your furniture or your shoes. Do Bulldog Lab Mixes Shed? This means that this breed is not suitable if you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog. Since the Bullador is a shedder, you will need to brush the pooch regularly, say 2 to 3 times a week, and even more frequently during shedding season. We recommend brushing your dear fido using the Furminator Undercoat Tool. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. All you need to do is to give this vacuum a voice command and it will vacuum the floors by itself, and even empty itself. When giving your canine buddy a bath, use a special dog shampoo to avoid irritating their skin. A good example of such shampoo is Pro Pet Works all-natural organic 5-in-1 oatmeal pet shampoo and conditioner. Check Price on Amazon Other Grooming Requirements To keep your pooch clean and healthy, you should also regularly clean their ears, brush their teeth, and clip their nails once the nails start getting too long. If your Bullador has skin folds like their Bulldog parent, regularly clean these areas to avoid skin infections. Labradors are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of about 12 years, and therefore, you can expect Lab Mixes to have a similar lifespan. However, the lifespan of the Lab Mix will also depend on the other parent. If a Lab is crossbred with a dog with a short lifespan, the mix will have a shorter lifespan. Bulldogs are reserved, laid-back dogs and will therefore get along well with many other dog breeds, including Labradors. In addition, both Labs and Bulldogs have similar traits — intelligence and friendliness. To increase their chances of getting along perfectly, make sure that both dogs are properly socialized from an early age. Due to their health problems, Bulldogs have a relatively short lifespan of about 8 to 10 years, but a Bulldog Mix can live for much longer, depending on the lifespan of the other parent. For instance, a Bulldog Labrador Mix will live for 10 to 12 years, and sometimes even longer. 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 Bullador Highlights The Bullador is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog parents. The main colors of Bulladors are black, brown, white, tan and brindle. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors. They usually have short coats, and these pups are not a good choice for allergy sufferers. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week should suffice. Bulladors are prone to weight gain and are active dogs. They should get at least 60 to 90 minutes of brisk-paced walking or hiking. Depending on which parents genes dominate, they could need more or less. Their amiable temperament and size make the Bullador an excellent companion for children of all ages. With their easy going nature, Bulladors also get along well with other pets, especially dogs and cats. Bullador History The Bullador breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Labrador Retrievers and English Bulldogs in the s, likely in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems associated with purebreds and create an active, friendly companion dog. They continued to create Bulladors as demand for the pups climbed. Consider adoption if you decide this is the pup for you. Check your local shelters, look up Bullador rescues, or check with breed specific Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog rescues, as they will often help to re-home mixes. That said, as a mix between Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog parents, you can expect Bulladors to be in the medium to large range. Most weigh in at 50 to 90 pounds and range in height from 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder. However, being such a new crossbreed, they can be smaller or larger than average. Bullador Personality Bulladors can be extremely friendly like their Labrador parent with a hint of reservation from their Bulldog parent. While the Labradors tends to be more active than the English Bulldog, these pups are somewhere in the middle—usually more active than the English Bulldog but slightly less active that the Labrador. These rules are not set in stone, as they are a newer mixed breed. Both Bulldogs and Labradors are fond of kids, and Bulladors fall right in line. If a child is bothering them, they will probably walk away. Although, no matter how much a dog has a pre-disposition, they can be unpredictable. Never leave dogs alone with small children—ever. Bulladors have a prey drive and, if given a big yard to run around in, they may enjoy chasing birds and small critters. Socialization helps ensure that your Bullador puppy grows up to be a well-rounded, outgoing, friendly dog. Bullador Health The Bullador breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain proper care and regular veterinary checkups. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your pup healthy. They should get at least 60 to 90 minutes of brisk paced walking or hiking. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. If your dog has a pushed-in face, like their English Bulldog parent, they will be at a big disadvantage for extreme weather. These dogs have trouble breathing in the extreme cold, and trouble cooling down in extreme heat. One of the toughest jobs caring for any dog is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth a minimum of three times a week. If your dog has any folds on their face, make sure to check between the folds for signs of irritation and bacteria. Make sure the skin is clean and dry. You can wipe it down with a damp cloth or consult your vet for proper care. Bullador Feeding An ideal Bullador diet should be formulated for an active, medium-to-large sized breed. Look for a high quality dog food from a pet food retailer to make sure that your dog is getting proper nutrition. Bulladors love food and have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. If their face is pushed-in, like the English Bulldog parent they will have a double disadvantage. If you live in a place where the weather changes all four seasons, they should only be outside long enough to do their business during cold winters and the heat of the summer. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Bullador Children And Other Pets Their amiable temperament and size make the Bullador an excellent companion for children of all ages. 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 should ever be left unsupervised with a child. They may be less sociable toward new dogs. However, once they warm up, they will likely be good friends. Bullador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Bulladors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try English Bulldog or Labrador Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Labrador Appearance The Labrador is around inches tall and weighs about pounds. His weather-resistant coat comes in three standard color options: Black Yellow Chocolate Remember, a Bulldog Lab mix could inherit any number of the above mentioned physical traits. It will all be left up to chance and genetics! Bulldog Lab Mix Temperament Considering both the Bulldog and the Labrador are friendly, intelligent breeds, it comes as no surprise that their English Bulldog and Labrador crossbreed would be the same. Still, as with all crossbreeds, there are other personality traits that will be left up to chance when it comes to the English Bulldog and Labrador mix. Bulldog Temperament Being brave is a staple for this mighty breed who, despite his stout size, is celebrated for his unique perseverance and apparent imperviousness to pain. However, this breed is also adored for his approachable nature and calm, loving disposition. This is a people-oriented breed who does best when he is with his family. Natural Instincts and Destructive Behaviors A properly socialized Bulldog makes for a wonderful family companion, although he can have territorial instincts if not properly trained at an early age. Due to his courage, the English Bulldog makes a great watchdog, and he also gets along well with family pets he was raised with. However, the Bulldog has been known to show aggression towards strange dogs. Also, keep in mind that the Bulldog loves to chew and if he becomes bored, his chew toy of choice could become your furniture or personal belongings! Experts recommend plenty of chew toys and mental stimulation to keep this breed from becoming destructive. Early socialization will also be key to ensuring the Bulldog is well-rounded into adulthood. A prospective owner should consider obedience training as well beginning in puppyhood. Labrador Temperament The Labrador is a gregarious companion who gets along with just about everyone! With a loyal and intelligent nature, the Lab is eager to please and learns quickly. He is gentle and kind-hearted but he can be slow to mature and behave in a puppy-like way into adulthood. The Lab can also be a chewer, and his intelligence means he will need mental stimulation as well as exercise to keep him from becoming bored and destructive, just like the Bulldog. Early socialization and obedience training should be utilized with the Lab as well. What You Should Expect From a Mix Of course, as previously mentioned, your Bulldog Lab mix could inherit any number of the temperamental traits listed above. So, you must be prepared for any possible outcome. The most important way to ensure your puppy grows up confident, friendly, and happy is to socialize and train them well from a young age. Make sure they have plenty of mental stimulation to prevent destructive boredom. Spend some time with the parents of your puppy to see what their personalities are like. Training and Exercising your Bulldog Lab Mix Since both the Labrador and the Bulldog are intelligent breeds, you can expect a Labrador Bulldog mix to be clever and pick up new commands and tricks with ease. Both the Lab and the Bulldog are eager to please and they are likely to pass this sentiment on to their offspring. However, keep in mind that the Bulldog and the Labrador are both chewers and can be prone to destructive behaviors when bored. As previously mentioned, early socialization, obedience training, plenty of chew toys, exercise, and mental stimulation will help to alleviate undesirable behaviors. But what about exercise? Exercise Needs The Bulldog and the Labrador are quite different when it comes to their exercise needs. So, owners should look at their individual puppies and use their judgement, or speak to their vet if unsure. Lab Exercise Needs The Labrador is a very athletic and energetic breed who needs about an hour of exercise a day, plus lots of playtime in the backyard. Long walks and games of fetch or Frisbee are an excellent choice for an active Lab, and of course, he does enjoy swimming. This purebred dog needs a family that can offer enough exercise. Without enough exercise, Labs can easily become overweight and unhappy. Bulldog Exercise Needs This is at odds with the Bulldog. The unhealthy conformation of the Bulldog breed has led to some real problems with exercising. Short walks and a game of tug-of-war are enough to keep this breed in shape. His flat face means breathing can be quite difficult, particularly on hot days. We will look more at these problems in a moment. Bulldogs should be kept indoors during especially warm days, as they can be prone to severe breathing issues which can be made worse by heat. Also, unlike the Labrador, who loves to swim, the Bulldog cannot be left alone in water that is deeper than his elbows. If it does, the puppy will likely have the health issues that accompany this face shape. This means overheating and over-exercising can be a real problem. Moderate exercise is usually enough for one of these puppies, but sadly, some may even struggle with this amount. Bulldog Lab Mix Health and Care As many of us know, purebred dogs have been excessively bred throughout the years by breeders struggling to maintain breed standard. What has resulted is a very small gene pool in which genetic disease is continuously passed down to new generations. Supporters of crossbreeding point out the practice enlarges the gene pool and in turn may reduce the chances of health problems being passed down. But, there is still no guarantee that cross breeds are healthier. In fact, many specialists argue that purebred dogs and crossbreed dogs are still equally susceptible to inheriting genetic diseases. For more information on the conflict of crossbreeding, click here. Bulldog Health Issues While it is true that many experts insist cross breeds are healthier than purebreds, the reality is that there is no guarantee of what you are going to get with a hybrid dog. In this case especially, prospective owners of a Bulldog or Bulldog cross need to be aware of the health issues of the breed. The Bulldog suffers from a very serious breathing issue called Brachycephaly Airway Obstruction Syndrome as a result of his squashed face. This is unpleasant and dangerous for the dog and can be devastating for an owner both emotionally and financially down the road. The Bulldog also suffers from an issue known as Screw Tail , which is a health complication resulting in dogs with very curly tails, like the Bulldog. There are a number of other health problems your Bulldog crossbreed could face that you should be aware of. With a lifespan of years, you might not get to enjoy your dog as long as you would like. Other Bulldog Problems The purebred Bulldog is also prone to: Overheating Skin issues like allergies, eczema, dry skin, and acne Arthritis. Structural health problems English Bulldogs and Labrador Retrievers are two beloved dog breeds. Even the most robust Labrador, when crossed with a purebred Bulldog, cannot guarantee a healthy Bulldog Lab mix. Bulldogs vs Labradors These two breeds were created for very different purposes but both have evolved from their original jobs to become beloved canine companions. The Bulldog is a low to medium energy pet, not much of a barker, and good with children and other animals. This sweet natured dog is unfortunately burdened by some significant health problems linked to its distinctive head and body structure. The Labrador Retriever was first developed in Newfoundland, Canada as a working dog for fishermen. The breed then became a valued sporting dog, retrieving waterfowl and other game brought down by hunters. Besides being a popular family pet, the Lab is also used extensively as a service dog for the disabled, and as a working search and rescue dog. When you combine these two dogs, any of these features in any combination can be prominent. But they can take more after one parent than the other when it comes to physical characteristics. The English Bulldog is a thickset, medium sized dog. Adult males are about 50 pounds and females should be around 40 pounds. They are stout dogs, generally inches tall at the withers. Labrador Retriever males range from pounds; females are pounds. Like all cross-breed dogs, an individual Bulldog Lab mix puppy could end up falling anywhere between the small and large ends of the height and weight scale. Generally, their weight can range from around pounds and they can be between inches tall. The average Bullador will have a muscular, sturdy body, large head, and somewhat jowly face. Like overall body size, the head size and shape and droopiness of the face can vary from one dog to another. Labrador Bulldog mix coat The Labrador Retriever has a double coat, with a short top coat and a warm undercoat that sheds seasonally. The Bulldog also sheds, but generally less than the Lab. Expect your Bulldog Lab mix to have a short, dense coat. There are three recognized coat colors for the Lab, all solid: black, yellow, and chocolate. The English Bulldog has a much wider range of coat colors and patterns. Recognized colors are red, white, fawn, and fallow—in any combination. Markings include brindle, piebald, ticked, masks, and tipping. Bullador coat color can be any shade of brown from dark to light, and also black or white. Markings can be brindle, brindle with white, and piebald black or brown with white is common. Keep in mind that your mixed breed dog could have more of an outgoing Lab temperament, more of a placid Bulldog temperament, or a combination of both. For the Bulldog Lab mix, this is especially true if your dog has the famous Labrador energy and enthusiasm. Bulldog and Labrador mix exercise The typical Bulldog will have a much lower energy level than a Lab. Because of their short noses, Bulldogs often have difficulty breathing during exercise in extreme hot or cold weather. Labs are high-spirited and very active dogs. They enjoy lots of interactive play sessions and outdoor activities, including being in and around the water. If your dog favors its Lab ancestors in physical appearance and energy level, expect an active dog that needs regular exercise. Remember that the activity of short nosed dogs should be monitored in very cold or hot weather. The big problem here with a Bulldog Lab mix is you could have a dog with the enthusiasm of the Labrador, but the breathing problems of a Bulldog. Bulldog Lab mix health The most important consideration in the decision to acquire a Bullador is the possible health problems your dog could inherit, especially from the Bulldog side. Common health problems of Labs include centronuclear myopathy a type of muscular dystrophy , exercise induced collapse, hip and elbow dysplasia, and certain heart and eye diseases. Reputable breeders will test for dysplasia and have the results certified and available for your review. In , an important genetic study of the Bulldog was published. Researchers found that the breed has an extreme lack of genetic diversity, due in part to breeders selecting for the desired Bulldog physical traits. Sadly, many of these characteristic traits cause Bulldogs to suffer from significant health problems. The researchers concluded that even with drastic changes to Bulldog breeding practices, such as outcrossing with other breeds, the existing Bulldog genetic stock is so unhealthy that there is little chance of improving the health of future generations. Brachycephaly Short muzzled dogs like Bulldogs and Pugs are brachycephalic, and often suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. Dogs with BOAS have difficulty breathing, especially during exercise and hot weather. The breed also has a very large tongue and palate, as well as a lower jaw that is pushed forward. All these features combine to produce life-threatening health problems such as sleep apnea, exercise intolerance, gagging, pneumonia, and heatstroke. Brachycephalic syndrome is the leading cause of death in the breed. Chondrodysplasia and hemivertebrae Chondrodysplasia is an inherited skeletal disorder like dwarfism in humans that has been incorporated into short legged breeds like the Bulldog and Dachshund. Dogs with this condition can suffer from a variety of painful problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, luxating patella, and hemivertebrae. It is a congenital deformity that creates the desired curled tail of these breeds, but it also causes serious spinal abnormalities. Skin and dental problems in Bulldogs Bulldogs are prone to chronic skin conditions because of the excessive folds in the skin. Conditions like dermatitis, acne, and folliculitis are common and require regular treatment. Excessive skin folds on the face can also cause eye problems. The undershot jaw of the Bulldog can lead to tooth overcrowding and other dental problems. Bulldogs are more prone to dental health issues than other breeds. Their brachycephaly can make anesthesia risky, an important consideration when a dog needs frequent dental procedures. The average life expectancy of the Bulldog is a depressing six years. And they are not six comfortable years. Labrador Retrievers have a lifespan of 12 years, quite a bit longer than a Bulldog. The Bullador usually loves children and can get along fine with other pets. Read on to learn more about these fun dogs and see if they might be right for your family! Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Bullador Puppies Image Credit: Charles Brutlag, Shutterstock Bulladors are a popular choice among pet owners for their playful, affectionate, and loyal nature. These puppies are known for being friendly and sociable, making them great family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, making them suitable for first-time pet owners. Their short, dense coat is easy to groom and comes in a variety of colors such as black, brown, or brindle. They have a moderate energy level and enjoy playing and going on walks, but they also have a tendency to be more relaxed and laid-back than purebred Labradors. Because they are fairly common, you may also be able to find a Bullador in an animal shelter near you. Adopting an adult dog can give you a better idea of their health and temperament. It can also save a life! They tend to be friendly, sociable, and playful. Both breeds are intelligent, although a Bulldog can be a bit more stubborn. This means training your Bullador may be more challenging than training a Labrador. However, with consistency, it can be done. Bulladors are very loyal to their families. They are also companion dogs that like to be near you all the time. They do not do well when left alone for a long time. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Bulladors are excellent family dogs. They are friendly and playful. Like both of their parents, Bulladors grow very fond of their families and like to be around them all the time. They like to fetch, go on long hikes, run with their owners, or do just about any other activity as long as it is with you. While Bulladors are not usually aggressive, they are medium to large-sized dogs so they should always be watched around small children. They are also protective of their families and will not hesitate to protect you if needed. Yes, Bulladors generally get along quite well with other pets. Even if they are a little wary of a new doggy friend at first, they will usually warm up to them after a while and live together without any problems. A post shared by Jennifer Quast gualcomole Things to Know When Owning a Bullador: Bulladors can be wonderful pets if you are willing to give them what they need to be happy and healthy. It is important to do your research before getting any dog and the Bullador is no exception. The following will give you a breakdown of what you need to know before deciding to bring a Bullador into your home. In general, Bulladors need high-quality large or medium-sized formulated dog food. Like both of their parents, Bulladors really like food. If they are not monitored, they will overeat and gain weight which can contribute to a host of health issues. The activity level of your dog will also impact how much and what kind of food they should eat. They like most outdoor activities including running, hiking, fetch, swimming, tug-of-war, and anything else you can engage them in that will stimulate their bodies and minds. Bulladors also like spending time running around and playing in a fenced yard. This is ideal if you have children. Without enough activity, they may become destructive and bored. They will also gain weight quickly if not getting enough exercise. The earlier you start training them, the more successful you will be. They respond very well to consistent training with positive reinforcement. If you are not familiar with dog training, you should consider working with a professional trainer. Their coat is short and they shed a moderate amount. Regular brushing can help with shedding. You should also check their ears at least once each week for signs of infection and brush their teeth regularly. The combination of the two leads to a dog that is healthier than a purebred Bulldog, but still prone to some health concerns that any potential Bullador owner should be aware of. Often these can be treated by careful monitoring of the diet and working with your veterinarian. Eye Conditions — Both Bulldogs and Labradors can develop eye conditions so Bulladors are also prone to them. These can lead to worsening eyesight as your dog ages, or even blindness. It is a painful condition and can prevent your dog from moving around comfortably. This can, in turn, lead to obesity and all the related health problems that come with it. Obesity — Bulladors love eating and if they have other conditions that prevent them from being active, they will put on weight quickly. Obesity can lead to heart disease, cancer, and other debilitating health conditions. This can be fatal if not recognized and treated right away. Both English Bulldogs and Labradors can be prone to bloat. This can lead to serious breathing problems. Male vs Female There are no noticeable differences in size, temperament, or health between male and female Bulladors. Usually, they will be two or more colors. Some common color combinations are black and white, tan and white, or tan, brown, and white. They Make Good Watchdogs Even though Labradors tend to be very friendly with everyone they meet, Bulldogs are a little more territorial and wary of strangers. Most Bulladors seem to inherit this characteristic from their Bulldog ancestry. When you combine the two, it can be difficult to know which type will win out or if your puppy will end up somewhere in the middle. Bulldogs tend to be short and muscular while Labs are longer-limbed and usually thinner. A post shared by Otis otis. These dogs are great companions for the family who can keep them active and healthy. A healthy lifestyle is the best way to ward off some of the degenerative health conditions Bulladors are prone to. In return, your Bullador will shower you and your family with affection. This breed will be a loyal, loving, and playful friend for everyone in your household. Looking for more crossbreeds? We have full lists of both Labrador Retriever and Bulldog Mixes! A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement.

We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Lancaster Pennsylvania and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Reserved by Michael B. Welcome to Creek Hill Farm! We are very serious about making sure our pups go to homes where they will be loved, have adventures, and be able to stretch their legs. We feel our responsibility is to make sure they are healthy, safe, and used to a variety of situations, but most of all that LOVE people! We do ask that each puppy go to homes that have yards or close access to a dog park. They would not be suitable for being in a crate for long hours. They are eager and intelligent and although we feel that crate training is a good idea, Labradoodles are not a good fit for hours in the crate. We bred her to a standard poodle so the pups are F1b. A little more about the parents: Dixie is our family dog and supervises our three acres here in Lancaster County. She follows the kids faithfully around the barn as they do chores and amuses herself chasing barn mice. She is — although we might be biased — ridiculously smart. We took her to an 8-week training course and she easily outperformed all the other dogs in the class. We felt like champs because the lead trainer kept picking her to do all the demonstrations. We are always impressed by his lilting gait and the elegant way he carries himself. From prior experience we expect the puppies from these two to be a good combination of both of them. We expect the pups to grow to about pounds. They will be up-to-date on shots and will be dewormed at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks and will have had their vet check before pickup. They come home with a starter pack of puppy food they will be eating Great Lakes and a blanket that smells like their mama and littermates. They can also be microchipped upon request. Here we raise and show quality Boer goats, plus we raise and show rabbits on a national level and have been involved in the county 4-H program for nine years. Feel free to google us online to see that we are real people and that you can trust us. Ourdog, Ben, is absolutely the best! He is gentle and loves to play. He is off leash trained in our yard, but uses his leash well for walks. He is very smart and is a true family dog! The Kunjappu family takes great care of their animals. We continue to keep in touch and update the family with pictures and they are thrilled to hear from us. We got our F1b labradoodle puppy from here at the end of and it was nothing short of an amazing experience. Our puppy is just under 1. This means that every breeder offers a health guarantee up to 30 days after purchase. Here at Creek Hill Farm, puppies will have their health record explaining what shots the puppy has had at the time of sale. To preserve your rights of the dog health guarantee, you must take your newly-purchased dog to a licensed veterinarian for examination within 10 days of purchase. If a veterinarian determines, within 10 days of purchase, that your dog is clinically ill or has died from an injury sustained or illness likely to have been contracted on or before the date of sale and delivery, you may return the dog for a complete refund. Once you have been approved as eligible for a remedy under a Pet Purchaser Protection Act, you will receive a list of potential remedies available to you.

Thankfully, it is very preventable with proper vaccination. This virus was discovered in the s and rapidly became a serious threat to canine health. This is primarily because the virus is hard to kill, can live for a long time in the environment, is shed in large quantities by infected dogs, is highly contagious, and is often fatal without appropriate treatment. This is why the parvo vaccine is considered a core vaccine for puppies and dogs. While the highly effective parvovirus vaccine has decreased the risk to properly vaccinated dogs, this disease is still widely prevalent, especially in puppies and poorly-vaccinated adolescent dogs. Parvo is an infectious DNA virus that commonly causes severe illness in young and unvaccinated dogs. Heart muscle cells of very young puppies can also be damaged by parvovirus. Although parvovirus is most common in puppies and adolescent dogs, it can also affect adult or senior dogs, especially if they are unvaccinated. Symptoms of Parvo in Dogs A dog infected with canine parvovirus will usually start to show parvo symptoms within days of infection. An infected puppy will often show lethargy as the first sign, and they may not want to eat. They will also often have a fever. As the virus progresses, your dog will begin to suffer from abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may be severe. Very sick puppies may collapse and have a high heart rate , difficulty breathing, and hypothermia due to the degree of dehydration and infection. Causes of Parvo in Dogs Parvovirus is an incredibly contagious disease that spreads quickly and efficiently. While canine parvovirus is not airborne, it can be found on many surfaces. However, it is susceptible to diluted bleach and some specialized cleaners commonly used in veterinary hospitals. Can Humans Get Parvo? Parvovirus is species-specific, so humans have their own version of the virus. This means that humans cannot get parvovirus from dogs, and dogs cannot get parvovirus from people. Cats also have a type of parvovirus that causes severe disease, known as feline panleukopenia. While dogs cannot get feline parvovirus from cats, cats can become infected with canine parvovirus. They most often have much more mild clinical signs than dogs do, but there is a strain of canine parvovirus that can cause severe illness in cats. The feline parvovirus vaccine, which is part of the core FVRCP vaccine , may offer some cross-protection against canine parvovirus. How Is Parvovirus Diagnosed in Dogs? Are There Parvo Tests? Fecal ELISA tests enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay are the most common way of diagnosing a dog with parvovirus in a clinical setting. The test requires a fecal swab and takes about 10 minutes. While this test is accurate, a negative result does not necessarily rule out parvovirus in a symptomatic dog, as they may not be shedding the viral antigen at the time of testing. Further testing may be needed in these cases. Stages of Parvo The stages of canine parvovirus are the same as most viral infections. Infection The puppy or adult dog is exposed to parvo via fecal material from an infected dog. Incubation There is an incubation period usually days in which the dog is infected with parvovirus but not yet showing symptoms. During this period, the virus specifically seeks out the most rapidly dividing cells in the body—typically, it starts attacking the tonsils or lymph nodes in the throat. Once it has multiplied and entered the bloodstream, the virus will seek out other sources of rapidly diving cells. The most hard-hit areas are: Bone marrow Cells that line the walls of the small intestines In very young puppies, parvovirus can also infect the heart, which causes inflammation of the heart muscle, poor heart function, and arrhythmias. Illness When the virus infects the bone marrow, it attacks the young immune cells, which leads a drop in protective white blood cells. This is where the worst damage happens. How do you treat parvo in puppies? First, your veterinarian will run blood tests to confirm your puppy has parvo. Therefore, hospitalization is strongly recommended for puppies with parvo symptoms. Some patients might have to stay in the hospital for three to five days depending on the severity of the case very sick puppies might stay in the hospital for up to ten days if they require intensive care. Puppies infected with parvo will be placed in an isolation ward to prevent transmission between doctors, nurses, or other animals in the hospital. They will also receive IV fluids, pain medication, anti-nausea medication, and antibiotics. A nasogastric tube might also be necessary in order to provide nutritional support. Frequent vet visits will be necessary to check blood sugar levels and electrolytes on a daily basis. This option may not be possible depending on the severity of the infection. Pro tip: Treatment for parvo can require 10 days of hospitalization. Without pet insurance that could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Luckily, routine puppy vaccinations, which can be covered through pet insurance plans, include vaccinations for parvo. These vaccinations require multiple shots and vet visits, so pet parents should take some time to compare pet insurance plans and find a policy that will cover this routine care. Most parvo patients recover if aggressive treatment is used and therapy is started before severe dehydration and septicemia occur. Most puppies that make it through the first three to four days will recover completely. Recovery usually takes about a week, but it depends on the severity of the case. Some breeds, such as the Doberman Pinscher, English Springer Spaniel, and Rottweiler, have a significantly higher fatality rate than other dog breeds. Puppies continue to shed the parvovirus for up to ten days after recovery, so make sure to keep any animals recovering from the virus away from unvaccinated or partially vaccinated dogs. How can you prevent parvo in puppies? Parvovirus is preventable through vaccination. Puppies shoulbe be vaccinated against the virus every two to four weeks starting at six to eight weeks old, up until they are at least 16 weeks old. The last shot at 16 weeks is required for coonfidence in lasting immunity. Until the round of vaccines is complete, they should be kept away from public areas where other unvaccinated dogs could be, such as dog parks. Ensure that all dogs in your home are vaccinated. Pregnant females can also be boosted with a parvovirus vaccine weeks before giving birth in order to transfer higher levels of antibodies to the puppies. Your vet will help you make the final decision about a vaccination schedule that best fits your pet. You should also be extra careful when socializing your pet. Until puppies have received all of their vaccines, they should be allowed to come into contact with unvaccinated dogs. Avoid dog parks as well as other places where canines gather and try to socialize your puppy in less public environments such as your home. The stability of the parvovirus in the environment makes it very important to properly clean and disinfect contaminated kennels, crates, bedding, and other areas where infected canines are kept in order to keep the spread under control. Your vet can provide specific guidance on cleaning and disinfecting agents for your home. Key Takeaways Parvo is one of the most contagious and potentially life-threatening canine diseases. Understanding how it spreads, the clinical signs, treatment options, and what you can do to prevent parvo in puppies will help keep your pet healthy and happy. Schedule your CPV vaccines as soon as possible, get in touch with your vet should you have any concerns. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Puppies are especially at risk for contracting the potentially life-threatening virus. As a German Shepherd owner, you want to make sure you are doing everything in your power to keep your dog healthy and happy. Treatment will be effective in the overwhelming majority of cases. The important thing is to start treatments as soon as possible and make sure you are prepared for every possibility. Contents What Is Parvovirus? Parvovirus is a serious and highly contagious illness that targets dogs. It does not harm humans but you are still capable of carrying the virus and spreading it to your dog. It attacks the digestive system causing your dog to have severe intestinal distress and become unable to retain fluids or nutrients. It also lowers their white blood cell count so that they are less able to fight off the virus and any other infection that tries to take hold while your dog is sick. Parvo is spread primarily through fecal matter and it is very, very contagious. Even a small speck of parvo carrying fecal matter brought in the house on the bottom of your shoe could be enough to get your unvaccinated dog sick. And if any pet in your house has it, strict quarantine is essential to keep your other pets safe. While it is so easy to spread, parvo is specific to dogs. So if your dog has parvo, your cats and the humans in your family are safe. When left untreated, parvo has an extremely high mortality rate. Symptoms Of Parvo In Dogs Symptoms start to become noticeable about 5 or 6 days after the dog has been infected. If left untreated, vomiting and diarrhea and the lack of appetite will become so severe that the dog will dehydrate and starve. Essentially, parvo will weaken your dog until it no longer has the strength to fight the virus. This is a painful and tragic process to watch. We are not trying to scare you but simply prepare you and make sure you understand just how important it is to get treatment for your dog as soon as you notice these symptoms. These symptoms indicate a serious illness that might be parvo or might be something else but, in either case, should be treated. When left untreated, parvo will almost certainly kill your dog. With treatment, however, most dogs will recover. So with those statistics in mind, read more about what treatment actually involves. Parvo Treatment Once parvo takes hold, you and your German Shepherd will have a tough road ahead of you. However, survival is possible and, in fact, if treated, the overwhelming majority of dogs will survive a battle with parvovirus. The biggest health risk is dehydration. With the diarrhea and vomiting, your dog is losing a lot of fluids. They will not be able to drink water quickly enough to replace the lost fluids. Alongside dehydration, they are losing a lot of nutrients and their lack of appetite prevents them from restoring those lost nutrients. As their body weakens from these things, they become less capable of fighting the virus and they became more susceptible to secondary bacterial infections. Because it requires an IV, most parvo cases are treated by hospitalization which can get expensive. It is possible to do this treatment at home. But you will need instructions and training from your vet to learn how to administer the IV and how to care for your German Shepherd properly while it heals. If you plan to do home treatment, you also need to be prepared to invest a lot of time into caring for your pup while it recovers. Your German Shepherd should not be left alone at any point while it is battling parvo. Someone needs to be with them at all times. Treatment at home will involve: Quarantine. Keep your sick dog quarantined to a specific room or area of the house until they are virus free. You need to be extra vigilant about cleaning and keeping your home sanitized during this period. Thoroughly clean food and water dishes with soap and water daily. Vacuum and mop times per week. Wash your hands before and after handling your ill dog. It is possible to learn to do an IV on your own. Do not skip this. Dehydration is the most pressing threat followed by nutrient loss and bacterial infection. Your vet will likely prescribe a course of antibiotics that are probably given via injection. Make sure that you administer these as instructed and use the full course of treatment even after your dog appears to be fully recovered. Relieve symptoms. Use other medicines or herbal supplements like the one mentioned below to help alleviate the painful symptoms of parvo. This will keep your dog more comfortable and help give them the strength they need to recover from parvo more rapidly. Here is one of our favorite herbal supplements for treating parvovirus: Paxxin All-Natural Parvo Aid This is an herbal supplement created to help animals recover from Parvo. It helps treat the symptoms like digestive distress and it also stimulates appetite. If given to your dog before symptoms show for example, if you suspect they might have contracted parvo , it is very effective at eliminating the illness before it has a chance to cause serious damage. However, if symptoms are visible, this will not be a strong enough treatment on its own. As mentioned, keeping your dog hydrated via IV bags will be essential. Preventing Parvovirus Prevention is the best way to keep your dog healthy and happy. It is the cheaper and nicer option. There is a vaccination that you can get to make your German Shepherd immune to parvo. You can get your dog vaccinated at the vet or buy an injection and do it yourself. Here are a few things to be aware of when you are getting your dog vaccinated: Your German Shepherd should be at least 8 weeks old before you start the vaccinations. So if your puppy is still too young to get vaccinated, make sure to be extra vigilant about the other at home prevention methods discussed below. The first vaccination will happen in a series of typically 3 separate vaccinations. These are given every 3 to 4 weeks. Dogs that are currently sick or pregnant or suffer an immune system disorder should not be vaccinated. So if any of those things are possible, see a vet before vaccinating. If your dog has had allergic reactions to other vaccines in the past, talk to your vet before giving it the parvo shot. Overall, vaccination is the best way to keep your dog safe from parvo. So the parvo vaccination is your fail safe that will ensure your dog is protected. At Home Prevention Whether our dog is too young for vaccination or otherwise unable to get the vaccine, at home prevention is important. Parvovirus is highly contagious and super easy to spread. It can also survive an unusually long time even without a host. So the best thing you can do to prevent Parvo at home is to practice proper sanitary methods that keep your home clean and free of parvo. Parvo spreads primarily through fecal matter. So feces in your yard could be hosting the deadly virus. Minimize this threat by either training your dog to use a specific section of the yard only for easier clean up on your part or just make sure you are regularly scooping poop from your yard. Keep unvaccinated pets indoors. You have more control over the indoor environment than the outdoor one. Clean floors and surfaces with diluted bleach. Mix about half a cup of bleach with a gallon of water. Use this mixture to clean floors. This will help remove any lingering parvovirus. Leave shoes outside. You could unknowingly be tracking in parvo from the outside world across your carpet and floor by wearing shoes in the house. Take them off before you come in to keep your home parvo free. Wash your hands. Wash your hands as soon as you come home. Especially if you have come in contact with any other dogs while you were out. Keep watch for symptoms. The earlier you can catch parvo, the better. Keep an eye out for the symptoms described earlier. Consider using Parvaid or something similar if your dog might have been exposed. For example, if you took them to a dog park or you caught them eating feces or recently took them to the vet. This can stop the virus in its tracks. With this information, you are now prepared to protect your German Shepherd from the dangers of parvo. And if your dog already has parvo, get them started on treatment immediately. So remain alert, and remain dedicated to their health. Your German Shepherd can beat this! Last Updated on October 18, by Post navigation. While most dog owners carefully vaccinate and protect their dogs, it seems parvovirus is on the rise and that all too often, we hear of another beloved dog becoming ill or even dying of the disease. How Do Dogs Get Parvo? Dogs catch parvo by coming in contact with an infected dog, infected feces or infected surfaces, and parvo can live in the environment for months. Highly resistant, the virus can live in the environment for months, and may survive on inanimate objects such as food bowls, shoes, clothes, carpet and floors. It is common for an unvaccinated dog to contract parvo-virus from the streets, especially in urban areas where there are many dogs. Areas that dogs typically catch parvovirus include veterinary clinics, groomers, training classes, parks, schools, shopping malls, residential neighborhoods, humane societies, rescues and dog shows. But parvo can live on any surface, nearly anywhere. Parvo Symptoms Parvovirus is known for its ability to cause bloody, foul smelling diarrhea, lethargy, severe vomiting, loss of appetite, which can lead to life-threatening dehydration, and can cause lifelong heart damage. Which Dogs Are At Risk? Puppies are most susceptible to contracting parvo, but dogs of any age can catch it. Unvaccinated dogs are more prone to contracting parvo. The breeds with the highest risk are German shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman pinchers, Labrador retrievers, and American Staffordshire terriers. Wolves, coyotes and foxes are also susceptible. Prevention The best way to protect your dog is through vaccinations. Puppies should be vaccinated at 6 — 8 weeks, receive boosters at four-week intervals until the puppy is weeks of age, and then again at 1 year. The puppy series is not complete before 4 months. A titer test to determine immunity can be performed by a vet. The best way to protect puppies from contracting parvo is to avoid areas that may be contaminated until full immunity. Treatment Dogs infected with parvovirus need immediate medical care. According to stats from The Merck Veterinary Manual, 8th ed. How to Kill Parvo If you suspect your environment has been infected with the parvovirus, you will need to disinfect all areas with a solution of 1-part bleach to 30 parts water. Let the solution sit on surfaces for 10 minutes. You may use on any non-material surface, including the soles of your shoes, dog dishes, toys, etc. Areas that are harder to clean, such as grass, wood, carpet, etc. Potassium peroxide brand names Trifectant or Virkon also kill parvovirus. Never use these disinfectants on your dog. There is also preventative medication available, meaning that you can protect your canine best friend entirely from this dangerous illness. What causes parvovirus, how is it spread? Parvovirus is highly contagious, meaning that it spreads very quickly amongst animals who are not vaccinated against it. The virus itself is contracted by coming into direct contact with an infected canine, or indirectly, such as by sniffing an infected dogs feces. One of the biggest challenges of parvo is that it is extremely resilient. Not only is there evidence that suggests it can live in ground soil for as long as 12 months, but it is also highly resistant to most cleaning solutions. Household bleach is pretty much the only disinfectant that can eraicate the virus. Since it is extremely contagious, most boarding kennels and dog shelters insist that an animal is fully vaccinated against parvovirus and free from the disease before they can be admitted. How quickly can you tell if your dog has parvovirus? Dogs that contract parvovirus will typically begin to show symptoms of the infection within days of being exposed. However, most deaths from parvo happen within 72 hours of the symptoms beginning and so it is essential that you seek treatment immediately if you believe that your dog may have been infected. Symptoms of parvovirus Parvovirus manifests in two different ways. Intestinal Parvovirus - This is the most common form of parvovirus as it is passed through oral contact with the virus, as described above. Cardiac Parvovirus - Much rarer, cardiac parvo is found in puppies under 8 weeks old who have been infected in-utero from their mother who carries the virus. Unfortunately, this type of parvo has a much higher mortality rate and puppies born with parvo rarely survive. Symptoms of intestinal CPV include: - Bloody diarrhea. The canine parvovirus CPV infection is a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs. The virus manifests itself in two different forms. The more common form is the intestinal form, which is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and lack of appetite anorexia. The less common form is the cardiac form, which attacks the heart muscles of very young puppies, often leading to death. The majority of cases are seen in puppies that are between six weeks and six months old. The incidence of canine parvovirus infections has been reduced radically by early vaccination in young puppies. Symtoms The major symptoms associated with the intestinal form of a canine parvovirus infection include severe, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, fever, vomiting, and severe weight loss. The intestinal form of CPV affects the body's ability to absorb nutrients, and an affected animal will quickly become dehydrated and weak from lack of protein and fluid absorption. The wet tissue of the mouth and eyes may become noticeably red and the heart may beat too rapidly. Dogs that have contracted CPV may also have a low body temperature hypothermia , rather than a fever. Causes - Most cases of CPV infections are caused by a genetic alteration of the original canine parvovirus: the canine parvovirus type 2b. The virus can also be brought into a dog's environment by way of shoes that have come into contact with infected feces. There is evidence that the virus can live in ground soil for up to a year. It is resistant to most cleaning products, or even to weather changes. If you suspect that you have come into contact with feces at all, you will need to wash the affected area with household bleach, the only disinfectant known to kill the virus. Improper vaccination protocol and vaccination failure can also lead to a CPV infection. Breeding kennels and dog shelters that hold a large number of inadequately vaccinated puppies are particularly hazardous places. Diseases or drug therapies that suppress the normal response of the immune system may also increase the likelihood of infection. Diagnosis - CPV is diagnosed with a physical examination, biochemical tests, urine analysis, abdominal radiographs, and abdominal ultrasounds. A chemical blood profile and a complete blood cell count will also be performed. Low white blood cell levels are indicative of CPV infection, especially in association with bloody stools. Biochemical and urine analysis may reveal elevated liver enzymes, lymphopenia, and electrolyte imbalances. Abdominal radiograph imaging may show intestinal obstruction, while an abdominal ultrasound may reveal enlarged lymph nodes in the groin, or throughout the body, and fluid-filled intestinal segments. You will need to give a thorough history of your pet's health, recent activities, and onset of symptoms. If you can gather a sample of your dog's stool, or vomit, your veterinarian will be able to use these samples for microscopic detection of the virus. Those puppies that have had one or two in the recommended schedule of vaccines will often have an advantage over those without in actual chances of recovery. The build up an immunity against parvo and all the other diseases, veterinarians recommended vaccination schedule is a loading dose at six weeks, a follow up four weeks later and another given four weeks after that. Six months after the last DHLP-P is given, a follow up parvo vaccination is given and then the vaccines go to an annual injection that is usually given with the law required Rabies shot. Parvo is a relatively recent disease. Its first reported cases occurred in and proceeded to lay waste to large numbers of the canine population. Parvo is a highly contagious viral disease that can be spread in a number of ways. Contact with the feces or vomit of an infected dog is the source of the infection but tracing it back to the contagious dog can be extremely hard to do. A puppy can come into an environment in which a contagious dog was in up to six months previously. Strays can spread it by sniffing with another dog through the fence. In , humans were and still are one of the main carriers of the disease. Dog breeders at that time were often wiped out as entire litters as well as their adult dogs became infected with the disease as would be buyers would go to several different sites looking for a puppy. These buyers would come into contact with an infected dog and carry the disease to each stopping place along the way on their hands, clothes or even shoes. With infection, the disease will often take one of two forms: the diarrheal and the cardiac form. Puppies not treated for the disease will often dehydrate and die quickly. Congestive heart failure in itself will cause the premature death of the puppy. A veterinarian who suspects parvovirus may run a series of different tests to prove the infection. One of the oldest and most reliable tests is to simply do a white cell count. A marked decrease in these cells is a good sign of parvovirus being present. There are also tests that can be run on a small stool sample, which most veterinarians can run in office with results given within ten to fifteen minutes. If the test shows positive for the disease, the owner then has to decide on a course of action. The preferred course is an extended hospital stay, IV fluids given through out the day, medications given to slow the gastrointestinal tract and antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. The cost of these treatments is high and only the owner can decide if they can afford to proceed and it must be remembered that even with the best of veterinary care, there is no guarantee that the dog will survive. The vaccines are fairly inexpensive and can be gotten not only through a veterinarian but also through feed and even some drug stores. They are injected under the skin with few puppies having reactions. Please do not use our website to attempt to diagnose or treat your pet. The consultation with your veterinarian is the best source of health advice for your individual pet. You should not rely, on the veterinary advice or any other information provided on this site for the diagnosis or treatment of any specific condition. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the medical condition or general treatment of your pet. GSD Resources.

Q: We have a Labrador Retriever who is 10 months old. He has all his adult teeth, so he should no longer be teething. But he is incredibly destructive still — he chews up everything he can get hold of. What can we do? A: Among veterinarians, there's a saying about Labradors : "Chew till they're two; shed till they're dead. In the same way, what you're dealing with now is also normal for many dogs. Retrievers, especially, are known for their love of chewing throughout their adolescence, along with the lifelong fondness many of them have for carrying items in their mouths. Carrying things back — retrieving — is, after all, the job they were developed to do. To get a handle on the chewing, your family needs to limit your dog's ability to get to those items you don't want chewed. While doing that, offer your dog lots of chew toys to satisfy this healthy, natural behavior, and work on rewarding your dog for making the right choices when he chooses what to chew. You also need to make sure your dog is getting enough exercise — at least a half hour of heart-pumping activity every day to take the edge off his youthful exuberance. Your veterinarian can advise you on choosing healthy, safe chew toys, and there have never been more choices. One perennial favorite is the Kong , which can be stuffed with goodies such as peanut butter and broken dog biscuits to make it even more appealing. If you catch your dog chewing something he shouldn't, don't punish him. Really, the fault isn't his, but rather your family's for not supervising him better. Instead, transfer his attention to a favorite chew toy and then praise him for chewing on that. Expect that your dog's perfectly normal and healthy interest in chewing will continue for at least another year. Why Labradors Like To Chew On Everything You come home after a long day at work to your destroyed furniture and wonder why your Labrador keeps doing that. There are a few reasons why Labradors chew on the furniture. Teething All puppies go through the stage of losing their baby teeth and having their adult teeth come out. This is called the teething stage and it is followed by pain. You will catch your Lab puppy chewing stuff because it helps relieve its pain. The teething phase for Labradors ends around six months of age. It will usually last to around the second year of age. Separation Anxiety Labradors are social dogs and they need consistent love and attention. This is a behavioral problem that manifests with barking, chewing, urinating, defecating, whining, and restlessness. If it is left alone for a longer period of time, make sure you have someone to check up on your pup. Boredom Everyone has a different tolerance for boredom. Some can chill for long periods of time, while others need constant stimulation. Some dogs may be licking your legs as a way to relax and pass the time. Labradors are high-energy dogs and they need their regular physical and mental needs met. You will catch your Labrador puppies chewing on your furniture if they become bored. This is a way to spend all that energy and frustration they have built up throughout the day. Make sure it gets enough exercise to prevent this behavior. Fabric Sucking Some dogs display behavior of licking, sucking, and chewing certain fabrics. The current scientific belief is that this is a behavioral problem that happens in puppies that get weaned too early. This is before it reaches seven or eight weeks of age. If this behavior is happening for a long period of time it might become difficult to distract your dog from doing it. This means that it has become compulsive. There are many behavioral specialists that can help with this problem. Relaxation And Habits You will wonder why do Labs chew everything and you simply can not find the reason. Your Labrador might be chewing for fun. There might not be a specific reason why it does that besides the fact that it finds it relaxing. The problem will become more serious once your Lab develops a deeply ingrained habit to chew on the furniture every time it wants to relax. Habits can be quite difficult to change so you should do some serious training to prevent them from developing. Hunger Your Labrador might end up chewing on your furniture or other things if it gets too hungry. A calorie-restricted diet will lead to more hunger and frustration. This is why you should feed it a healthy low-carb diet full of protein. If you notice your dog chewing and swallowing stuff that is not food, it might have a health condition called pica. You should consult your vet as soon as possible to prevent any more problems. Usually, health problems are not a common reason for chewing but they are possible. Some diseases can make your Lab aggressive. These include painful diseases like arthritis, ear pain, and stomach pain. They can also be diseases like thyroid problems, or mental diseases like anxiety and depression. Consult your vet if you suspect that your Lab is suffering from some illness. Now, here is how to stop a Labrador puppy from chewing furniture. Supervise Carefully One way to get rid of this behavior is with careful supervision and training. This might take more time of your day but it is an effective strategy. Keep an eye on your dog when you are around it. To make things easier, get a leash on it so you always have it in your sight. Once you are set up, observe its behavior. Then replace that item with something it can chew like a toy. Give praises afterward. Use A Chewing Deterrent Another way to stop your puppy from destroying the furniture is to use a chewing deterrent. This usually comes as a spray bottle filled with some bad-tasting liquid. You can spray this liquid on any object you want to preserve so it will stop your Lab from chewing it. If this is the first time you use this, follow these steps. First, apply a small amount of deterrent to a piece of tissue. Once it realizes it tastes bad it will spit it out or retch. Hopefully, it will learn its lesson and connect the smell with the taste. Once it smells that scent on the furniture it will avoid chewing it because of the bad taste. Ensure Proper Exercise Do Labs chew a lot because they are bored and filled with energy? Yes, they do. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs and they need proper physical and mental exercise. An adult Labrador needs around 1 hour of exercise every day. You can do daily walks, but you should also do some more demanding exercises. These include running, swimming, hiking, and playing games. You can also socialize your Lab with other dogs and let them play in the dog park. For mental stimulation, you should do regular training sessions or get some mentally stimulating toys for your Lab. Try Crate Training Another great way how to stop a Labrador puppy from chewing furniture is to use a dog crate. You first need to do some crate training so your Lab can get comfortable in its crate. Then, whenever you leave your home, or during the night, you can leave your Lab in the crate. Make sure that you leave some safe chew toys for your Lab inside the crate so it has something to do. Offer Other Things For Chewing We know at what age do Labs stop chewing everything, but you should also know to get them some chew toys. Chew toys may seem like a luxury, but they are essential for keeping your dog entertained and away from its destructive chewing habit. If your puppy is teething, get a rubber toy and freeze it. When it gets to chewing it will soothe its gums. One toy we like to recommend is the Kong chew toy. It is a rubber toy that is hollow on the inside and can be filled with food. You can also get other things like bully sticks, bully stick holders, rawhide bones, pig skin rolls, or other natural chews. When your dog chews on something valuable get its attention and try to exchange it with the chew toy. Once it gets the chew toy, give it some praise. Hide Your Valuables Do Labs grow out of chewing? But until then you need to make sure your valuables are safe. Another thing that is important to remove is the stuff that is dangerous to chew. This includes your dirty underwear and sanitary items like napkins and tampons. It might poison itself if it chews them. You should also remove the spoiled food if you have some lying around. Also, make sure you dispose of your trash appropriately. We talked about a few ways to prevent Lab puppy chewing. But never punish your Labrador for chewing. If you come home from work and see your furniture destroyed from chewing you might get upset. Dogs will only react to scolding if you do it right after it does something wrong. Another thing you might do with punishing your dog after it does something bad is to make the outcome worse. Some dogs crave attention even if it is negative. So it will do it again. This is why you should avoid punishing, and instead use positive reinforcement methods like the ones we already talked about. Labradors will stop chewing around the age of two years. However, there are many reasons why this behavior might continue. The most common reason for chewing in Lab puppies is teething. Luckily this process ends around six months of age. Other reasons include separation anxiety, boredom, hunger, illness, or just bad habits. Some fabrics can also cause your dog to chew on them compulsively. If you want to stop your Labrador from doing this behavior you should never punish it. Punishing will only lead to more destructive chewing and tension between you and your dog. Instead what you should do is properly train your dog. Remove your valuables from its sight, supervise your dog carefully, and get it some chew toys to replace the furniture. You can also use crate training and chewing deterrents to help you with this process. FAQ How to stop a Lab from chewing during teething? Labs need to chew on things during teething, but you should give them appropriate things to chew on, like chew toys. You can also give it ice cubes or frozen chew toys to chew on. They will numb the teething pain. Are Labradors good house dogs? Even though Labradors tend to chew until their second year, they are excellent family dogs. They are protective of their families but also very friendly. And they also love playing with kids. When do Labs stop chewing their beds? If your Labrador has an ingrained habit of chewing on its dog bed you should remove it for a while. Replace it with a firm mat and supervise it. With training, you will be able to stop it from chewing its bed and get back to normal. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. She is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions if she has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care, where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. Many of our regular posters understand the issues of separation anxiety very well. Preventing Separation Anxiety If your older dog has a separation anxiety issues, consider a consultation with a dog behaviorist. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help. If you have a young puppy , you can help them to avoid developing separation anxiety. You can teach your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need similar treatment, and you can introduce them to separation gradually when you first bring them home. Now, what about chewing for pleasure? This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Chewing For Pleasure Chewing for pleasure is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove or prevent in your dog. What we do with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favorite shoes. However, most people give their dogs chew toys and then wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. How do we keep playing and chewing interesting, and save your long-suffering furniture from harm? A few other toys and distractions can work well. For most Labradors, that means food! Dipping chew toys in savory spreads like yeast extract or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. However, in my experience, even long-lasting chews can become boring after a while. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Toys, like the Kong, that contain food but make the dog work to get at it, are a useful distraction that can also stop doggy boredom. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then, as the most important part, freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing The Right Kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones and in black extra strong rubber for really strong chewers. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to preventing destructive chewing in the long term. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit or suffer from boredom or anxiety. In a way, a Kong is an iPad for dogs! In young puppies, you want to prevent those habits developing in the first place. In both cases, this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, you need to physically prevent the puppy from indulging in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a magic command or cue to give their dog that will prevent chewing in their absence. Dogs like the smell of feet and Labs love to carry shoes around, looking very pleased with themselves. One thing you can do is teach your Lab to bring your shoes to you and hand them over, rather than running off with them. We invested in a shoe rack for our front and back porches and taught everyone to leave their shoes there rather than in the hall or on their bedroom floors. If your bedrooms are upstairs you can insist the family puts their shoes in their rooms. You can then place a dog gate across the bottom of the stairs so your pooch has no access. This kind of strategy is especially important with puppies. Before we adopt our first dog, most of us are used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables. They will still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. You should remind the family to pick up stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Now, what about furniture? One solution is to block access to that particular room except under supervision. Again, a dog gate or baby gate works well. If you have an open plan home, you can buy extended systems that can literally divide an entire room Another solution is to try some kind of spray on dog chewing deterrent Using A Stop Dog Chewing Spray You can buy spray on repellents that will deter some puppies and dogs from chewing. These are intended to deter dogs because of the odor. You can try spraying it on your table legs and see if it works. It is alcohol free and you can even spray it on your furniture and clothes. Make sure you buy a spray intended for furniture rather than for spraying on dogs that are nibbling themselves. They can be effective, but there are no guarantees. Think hard about providing your dog with more company or mental stimulation as well as breaking the chewing habit with barriers or sprays. Bear in mind that some puppies and dogs seem indifferent to the taste of the spray and will happily carry on chewing wood even when it you coat it liberally in unpleasant substances! I would swear that one of my dogs chewed things even more! Accordingly, in many cases, dog gates are the best option if a dog chews everything. Baby gates are fine. If you are interesting in finding out more about this then check out our puppies and baby gates article. If you are going to crate your puppy, you need to do so for very short periods of time and leave the enough puppy suitable chew toys to occupy his need to chew while you are gone. Crates are also really useful in vehicles and can save you from a lot of heart ache. One small dog can run up a very large bill when left alone in the interior of a car for a few minutes. Many years ago, my young Labrador ate through both the passenger and driver safety belts in our Landrover when we left him alone for less than twenty minutes. That was a very expensive lesson for us as a young hard-up couple. Using a crate in the vehicle is often a better solution, at least until your Labrador has got past the chewing stage. Check out our Travel Crates For Labradors section for detailed reviews. One problem that often crops up is puppies destroying their own bedding. What About Puppy Bedding? People often ask me what they can do about their puppy chewing up his own bed. This is a tricky one. None of us wants to see a puppy without a bed, but if your puppy is tearing lumps off his and swallowing them, you are going to need to remove it for a while. You can heave a sigh of relief and put away your gates and your bitter spray. If you are thinking about putting away your puppy crate, be aware that it is very tempting to de-crate big dogs too soon. This is because large dogs need large crates, and these crates are an unsightly nuisance in all but the biggest houses. Some will continue until they are around two years old. So, a little patience is required. Remember to be very generous with those frozen Kongs during the de-crating process, and for the next few months. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Habit Dogs that chew when they are bored We all have different boredom thresholds, dogs are no different. Some dogs are quite happy to do very little for hours on end, others, not so much. Labradors are intelligent, sociable dogs, and are particularly prone to boredom if left alone for long periods. One way of relieving boredom, if you are a dog, is to chew things up! Chewing as a means to relieve anxiety Ideally, all dogs need to learn to spend time alone from puppyhood onwards. A well adjusted adult dog is then happy to be left from time to time, and will simply sleep when you are gone. Dogs which are not taught to accept some periods of solitude in puppyhood, dogs which are left alone for far too long, or dogs that have had traumatic experiences when left alone may develop a disorder called separation anxiety. A dog which becomes very anxious when left, may resort to destroying your possessions, or even the fabric of your home, in order to relieve his anxiety. Which brings us to the point that the act of chewing is in itself, is very pleasurable and calming to many dogs. Dogs chewing for relaxation and pleasure There is no doubt that many dogs simply chew for fun. It relaxes them, and makes them feel happy. The problems arise, when that chewing activity is directed at the wrong items — your items! Relaxation chewing is particularly common in Labradors and other retrievers. This is probably partly because we have bred them to enjoy having things in their mouths. Unusual causes of dogs chewing Occasionally a dog will start chewing because he has some kind of medical problem. This is more likely to be the cause if the chewing starts quite suddenly in an older dog that has never had a chewing problem before. Is my dog hungry? Eating is a fairly transient affair for most Labradors in any case, so you can never hope to prevent chewing by giving your dog something to eat. Is chewing a habit? Like many other stress busting or pleasurable activities, chewing can become a deeply ingrained habit. Habits can be difficult to change and breaking a habit may involve physically preventing your dog from parts of your home. What about punishing dogs for chewing? There are a number of problems with punishment in general, but punishment for chewing is especially problematic. Many Labradors are quite attention seeking, they have been bred to work closely with their human partners and being together, is very important to them. Behind your back Most destructive chewing in older dogs goes on behind your back, or when you are out. Punishment can sometimes be a way to teach your dog not to chew things in front of you. It is however nigh on impossible to teach a dog not to chew things in your absence. Punishment only works, if it occurs during the bad behaviour. Effectively, all punishment does, is teach your dog to be more sneaky about chewing. Staying friends with your puppy Remember also, that punishing a puppy will not prevent him chewing — he needs to chew and chewing is completely normal and natural for him. What punishment will do, is make your puppy afraid of you. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing that can be avoided. Preventing your dog being bored Labradors need plenty of exercise and some company. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. He is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions, if he has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help him. If you have a young puppy, you can avoid separation anxiety developing by teaching your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. And keep separations very short to begin with. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two, have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need to be treated in a similar way, and introduced to separation gradually, when you first bring them home. Chewing for pleasure Of course there is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove, or prevent in your dog, and that is chewing for pleasure. What we do instead with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favourite shoes 2. This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Most people give their dogs chew toys. And wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. The ideal chew toy To really make chew toys appealing you usually need to add something interesting. And for most Labradors, that means food. Dipping chew toys in savoury spreads like marmite or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Why Kongs help stop Labradors chewing your things The kong is a hollow, tough, rubber toy that most dogs cannot destroy. The Kong Extreme is especially sturdy and great for very aggressive chewers. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then this is the important part freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing the right kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones, and in extra strong rubber black for really strong chewers. The red ones are suitable for most adult Labs. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to the long term prevention of destructive chewing. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit, or suffer from boredom or anxiety. What next? Avoid or break bad habits The final step in the plan is to break any existing bad chewing habits, and in young puppies, to prevent those habits developing. In both cases this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, it means physically preventing the puppy from being able to indulge in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a command or cue to give their dog, that will prevent chewing in their absence. Putting things away Before we have our first dog, we are all used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables, and for them to still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. The best way is to prevent your puppy having access to rooms with important items in them, and to teach yourself and your kids to pick up your stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Repellent sprays You can buy spray on repellents that will put some puppies off chewing. You can try spraying it on your table legs and so on. Bitter apple spray is a popular one , and it does work, for some dogs. Sadly not for all. Some puppies and young dogs seem indifferent to the taste and will happily carry on chewing your furniture or baseboards, even when liberally coated in unpleasant substances! A more effective solution, and one that is particularly suitable for puppies that are not yet fully house trained, is physical exclusion. Upstairs for example.