how much should i feed golden retriever puppy

As a result, white spotting is becoming less uncommon among purebred Golden Retrievers. Since Golden Retrievers are descendants of the St. But Goldens carry other genes that dominate their golden coat colors. The St. These markings were carried down through the generations of the first Labrador Retrievers. While white chest markings or tufts of white still happen occasionally, it does not mean that your dog is not purebred. An exception is the whitening or greying of the face or body due to senior years. I was kind of upset to see them go because I thought they were rather cute. The white tips of the paws will usually disappear as the pup grows, similar to white markings on the chest. The white paws will be barely noticeable if your Golden is a light cream shade. If you are looking to put your dog in the conformation ring, he would be classed as a fault and unsuitable for showing. Purebred Golden Retrievers can have white spots or sporadic markings. But Goldens have dominant coat color genes and are usually seen in different shades of gold only. Purebred Golden Retrievers can have white markings, but it is not as common an occurrence as it used to be a few decades ago as it has been gradually bred out of the lines. Purebred Golden Retrievers can have some white in the extremities, such as the tip of the tail, muzzle, chest, and tip of the paws. The most common region for white markings among Goldens is the chest which is why even the AKC accepts a little white in the chest area. This condition is known as residual white and is occasionally brought on by a slight sickness in the mother. So what is a mismarked Golden Retriever? A mismarked Golden Retriever is one with colors outside the accepted standard golden coat, but these are rare. They do not mean that your pup has mixed ancestry. Mismarks are more common in Labradors; you can see some examples from this breeder here. Breeders often sell mismarked puppies for a lower price than their unicolored siblings, and they are just as friendly, intelligent, and loving as any other Golden Retriever. On the contrary, some breeders will refer to any mismarking as extremely rare and try to charge more. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. White markings on these dogs was more common in the past. Over the years, breeders have done their best to create all-golden coloured retriever dogs. It can be difficult to do that though, as breeders have little control over whether the white markings will show up, and may not even be seen when the dogs are puppies. Your golden retriever dog will not be susceptible to diseases just because they have a slightly different coloured coat. The genes for diseases are not tied in with coat colours on a dog. And a few markings will make your dog unique and easily identifiable. All they care about is spending time with you, and being happy and healthy. White markings on a golden retriever are normal, and are not any indication that your puppy is a mixed breed. Your golden retriever may even have other colours and markings mixed in too! About fifty years ago, Golden Retriever dogs had many markings on their coats. Over the years, breeders have done their best to create fully golden dogs. Even two purebred parents can create puppies that have white markings on them. There is a myth that if Golden Retrievers have white markings on their coats that they have been bred with a Collie. Most of the time this is simply not true. In fact, if these two dogs are bred together, they are going to create puppies that are of a darker colour, sometimes even black. These collie retriever mixes are completely different. There are actually three different types of golden retriever dogs. These are based on region and are called American, Canadian, and English. Each of these types will still has mainly gold in their coats, but they can still each look different too. You should also be aware that puppies may have different colours in their coats that change as they grow and get older. Or, you may want to wait and adopt an adult dog instead, as you can then see their wide range of golden coats with white markings. If you have your heart set on a golden retriever with white markings, then no, not all golden retrievers will have them. It is rare but they do occur. Your chances are higher if you adopt a dog from Canada or the USA though. The white markings will generally be within their fur and on any part of their bodies. This often happens during the winter, when it gets colder. This breed makes a great companion for the entire family. You may be surprised to learn that they can have different markings on their golden coats which is totally normal, much like a tabby cat has different patterns too. More 50 shades of Golden.

It also contains salmon meal, which is a high-quality variety of fish meal. Like other Wellness offerings, this food is made in the USA without artificial preservatives or meat by-products. He loves it and I like the fact it is vet recommended and has both pre and probiotics. It contains all the essential vitamins and minerals your dog needs: vitamins B6, B12, and D3, to name a few. Our only complaint is that the first ingredient is chicken by-product meal. Our first pick would be a real meat of higher quality. However, the nutrients and substantial protein level make this a great food for a growing Bernedoodle puppy. Royal Canin does studies and tests to make sure their food supplies all the nutrition needed. The first ingredient in this Purina food is real lamb. There are plenty of nutrients here, including DHA, vitamins, and live probiotics for gut health. It even has a small amount of garlic oil which helps lower cholesterol and prevent blood clots. I am very happy with it. Real chicken is the first ingredient in this one. The amount of fat, carbs, calcium and phosphorous has been carefully planned by nutritional experts, so you can feel confident knowing your dog is getting just the right amount of nutrients for his size and age. We also love to see sufficient levels of DHA here that will help your pup with brain development. I was only interested in a small bag and found exactly what I needed. Fair price and rapid delivery! One huge benefit of this Solid Gold formula is the number of superfoods packed into it: veggies like broccoli and carrots, and fruits such as blueberries and cranberries. It even has pumpkin and kelp! This is sure to deliver the vitamins and antioxidants your little Bernedoodle is craving. If your dog is prone to food allergies, you might be in luck here. No wheat, corn or soy are used in this food. Very happy we switched to this. The list goes on from there, including eggs, chicken liver, and herring. Like other Orijen formulas, this kibble is freeze-dried coated for extra flavor. The ingredients are so good, your little pup should dive right into this one. He is healthy, has tons of energy, a beautiful coat and no digestive issues. Check with your veterinarian if you have concerns about food restrictions. Salmon is the first ingredient. In fact, this product contains no beef or chicken, so it will also work well for pups who have allergies to those ingredients. The omega fatty acids should also help maintain a shiny coat. She has a soft and shiny coat! She loves it! Check the feeding instructions on the package for more detailed information. How long should a Bernedoodle eat puppy food? You should feed your Bernedoodle puppy food until he is no longer growing. This will typically occur between 6 and 18 months. After you have confirmed with your veterinarian that your Bernedoodle has reached full size, you can switch to an adult kibble formula. What are Bernedoodles allergic to? Like many breeds, bernedoodles are prone to food allergies. Your puppy may be allergic to beef, chicken, wheat, dairy, eggs, or other ingredients. Whenever you switch to a new food, you should monitor his behavior and appearance and take note of any allergic reaction. Check with your vet if you have any questions. Conclusion We know you want the absolute best food for your precious Bernedoodle puppy! Now is the best time to consider his nutritional needs since he is still growing and needs plenty of protein, vitamins and minerals. For now, we hope this article helps you select a great dog food for your pup. Post navigation. It even seems to go down a treat with fussy pups who otherwise turn their nose up at kibble. Pet parents comment that the ingredients are high quality, and one even goes as far as to say the food almost smells good enough for people to eat! Pros Given that this food is specifically formulated with puppies in mind, it has everything a growing dog needs to keep them happy and healthy. Cons Two concerns mentioned by reviewers are the price — which some say is a little high although many say the food is worth it and the fact that the bag is not resealable. You might have to transfer this food to another container to keep it fresh. It can also be the most expensive if you prepare food each day rather than in batches to freeze. Now filler ingredients are the number one enemy of pet owners looking to grab their dog some tasty, healthy nosh at a reasonable price. Many companies make use of such ingredients because they are cheap, easy, and sadly there are no rules against using them — yet. Look for foods that list the fillers low on the list so that you know your dog is not getting an unhealthy amount of fillers. The Long Debate Bernedoodle Feeding Guide A feeding schedule is essential to ensure your pup receives the right amount of food at the right time of day. Under four months, you can let your puppy graze. However, after this age, their mealtimes need to be a little more regulated to stop them from putting on too much weight too quickly. Smaller Bernies should be fed little and often, whereas larger ones should be given four small meals a day. At six months, your dog can switch over to an adult feeding schedule and formula. Mealtimes should be reduced to either twice or three times daily, and this routine will remain in place for their adult lives unless there are any changes in their health. Bernies are, generally speaking, happy, healthy hounds. For this reason, any high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food, prepared for their size and life stage, should do the trick. All of the foods on our list come highly recommended by pet owners and are well suited to a Bernies needs. Is chicken bad for Bernedoodles? While some dogs may be sensitive to chicken and chicken by-products, this is an occasional rather than frequent allergy. However, it can develop later in life. If you are feeding your pup food with chicken as the main ingredient, keep an eye out for any signs of sensitivity, such as changes in bowel movements or itchy skin. Are Bernedoodles picky eaters? Bernedoodles are generally not picky eaters; in fact, quite the reverse. Bernedoodles are fun, fab, lively hounds, and they make excellent pets. However, as is the case with any pet, we need to take care of them to the very best of our ability. A major part of this is giving them food that will keep them happy, healthy, and just as full of life as they naturally are. It is not intended to be a substitute for qualified professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. Bernedoodles require a well-balanced diet that is high in protein and low in grains and fillers. Look for dog food brands that use high-quality ingredients, such as meat as the first ingredient and no artificial preservatives or fillers. Understanding Bernedoodles Bernedoodles come in different sizes, including toy, mini, and standard, and can weigh anywhere from 10 to 90 pounds. These dogs have a thick, curly coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Bernedoodles are also prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. Therefore, it is essential to provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and well-being. When it comes to feeding Bernedoodles, it is crucial to consider their size, age, and activity level. Toy and mini Bernedoodles require smaller portions of food than standard Bernedoodles. Additionally, puppies and young dogs need more calories and nutrients to support their growth and development. It is recommended to feed Bernedoodles high-quality dog food that contains real meat, whole grains, and vegetables. Avoid dog food that contains artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. It is also essential to provide your Bernedoodle with fresh water at all times and to monitor their weight to prevent obesity. Nutritional Needs of Bernedoodles The nutritional needs of Bernedoodles vary depending on their age, size, and activity level. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you ensure that your furry friend gets the right nutrients in the right amounts. Protein Protein is an essential nutrient for Bernedoodles as it helps to build and repair muscles, tissues, and organs. Fat Fat is another crucial nutrient for Bernedoodles as it provides energy and helps to maintain healthy skin and coat. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are a good source of energy for Bernedoodles, but they should not be the primary source of nutrition. A well-balanced diet for Bernedoodles should contain complex carbohydrates such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, and whole grains. Vitamins and Minerals Bernedoodles require vitamins and minerals to maintain their overall health and well-being. A well-balanced diet should contain essential vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E, as well as minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. Water Water is an essential nutrient for Bernedoodles as it helps to regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, and remove waste from the body. It is important to ensure that your furry friend has access to clean and fresh water at all times. American Journey American Journey is a popular dog food brand that offers high-quality dog food formulas for different dog breeds, including Bernedoodles. Their dog food formula contains real lamb as the first ingredient, omega fatty acids, and antioxidant-rich wholesome vegetables, making it an excellent choice for Bernedoodles. Rachael Ray Nutrish Rachael Ray Nutrish is another top dog food brand that offers a variety of dog food formulas that are suitable for Bernedoodles. Blue Buffalo Blue Buffalo is a well-known dog food brand that offers a wide range of dog food formulas that are specially formulated for different dog breeds and sizes. Their Freedom Grain-Free Adult Dog Food is a great option for Bernedoodles as it contains high-quality protein, healthy carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. Royal Canin Royal Canin is a premium dog food brand that offers a variety of dog food formulas that are tailored to meet the nutritional needs of different dog breeds. Their Medium Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for Bernedoodles as it contains high-quality protein, whole grains, and essential vitamins and minerals. Purina Pro Plan Purina Pro Plan is a trusted dog food brand that offers a variety of dog food formulas that are designed to meet the nutritional needs of different dog breeds and sizes. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dog food brand and formula for your furry friend. Ingredients to Look for in Dog Food Choosing the best dog food for your Bernedoodle can be a daunting task, but one of the most important things to consider is the ingredients. The right ingredients can provide your dog with the necessary nutrients to maintain a healthy and happy life. Here are some key ingredients to look for when selecting a dog food for your Bernedoodle: High-Quality Protein Protein is an essential nutrient for dogs, and it should make up a significant portion of their diet. Look for dog foods that have high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, fish, or lamb. Whole Grains Whole grains, such as brown rice, oats, and barley, are excellent sources of carbohydrates and fiber. They provide your dog with energy and help keep their digestive system healthy. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which can cause allergies and digestive problems in some dogs. Fruits and Vegetables Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Look for dog foods that include ingredients like sweet potatoes, carrots, blueberries, and spinach. Look for dog foods that contain sources of these fatty acids, such as fish oil, flaxseed, and chicken fat. Probiotics are live bacteria that help promote healthy gut bacteria, while prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed the good bacteria. Look for dog foods that contain ingredients like chicory root, inulin, and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Ingredients to Avoid in Dog Food As a Bernedoodle owner, it is important to be aware of the ingredients that are harmful to your furry friend. Here are some of the ingredients you should avoid in dog food: Artificial Preservatives Artificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are commonly used in dog food to extend their shelf life. However, these preservatives have been linked to cancer and other health problems in dogs. It is best to choose dog food brands that use natural preservatives such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C. Artificial Colors Artificial colors such as Blue 2, Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 are added to dog food to make it more appealing to pet owners. However, these colors have been linked to hyperactivity, allergies, and cancer in dogs. It is best to choose dog food brands that do not use artificial colors. Meat By-Products Meat by-products are the leftover parts of animals after the meat has been removed. These parts can include organs, bones, and other parts that are not fit for human consumption. Corn, Wheat, and Soy Corn, wheat, and soy are commonly used as fillers in dog food. However, these ingredients can be difficult for dogs to digest and can cause allergies and other health problems. It is best to choose dog food brands that use high-quality, easily digestible carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, peas, and brown rice. Avoid overfeeding your puppy, as this can lead to obesity and health problems later in life. Provide plenty of fresh water at all times. Adult Stage Once your Bernedoodle reaches adulthood, their nutritional needs will change. Senior Stage As your Bernedoodle enters their senior years, their nutritional needs will change once again. By following these general feeding guidelines, you can help ensure that your Bernedoodle receives a well-balanced diet that promotes their overall health and well-being. Abruptly changing their food can upset their stomach and cause digestive issues. If they experience any vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, slow down the transition by adding more of the old food to their diet. When selecting a new food for your Bernedoodle, make sure to choose one that meets their nutritional needs. Look for a food that contains high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Conclusion The best dog food for your Bernedoodle is crucial for their overall health and well-being. This formula contains high-quality real lamb as the first ingredient, omega fatty acids, and wholesome vegetables. It is also free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Both of these options provide a balanced and nutritious diet for your Bernedoodle. Overall, providing your Bernedoodle with a high-quality and nutritious diet is essential for their long-term health and happiness. Frequently Asked Questions What should you feed a Bernedoodle? When it comes to feeding your Bernedoodle, it is essential to provide a balanced and complete diet. You can choose dry or wet food, but make sure to read the label and check the ingredients before buying. Is Royal Canin good for Bernedoodles? Royal Canin is a popular brand of dog food that manufactures breed-specific formulas. While some Bernedoodle owners may find it suitable for their dogs, it is important to note that not all dogs have the same nutritional needs. It is best to consult with your veterinarian before deciding on a specific brand of dog food. What can Bernedoodles not eat? Bernedoodles should not eat foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, caffeine, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and avocados. How long should Bernedoodles be on puppy food? Bernedoodles should be on puppy food until they are around one year old. After that, you can switch them to adult dog food. Is chicken bad for Bernedoodles? Chicken is not bad for Bernedoodles as long as it is cooked and served without any bones. Cooked chicken is an excellent source of protein for dogs, but it should not be the only source of protein in their diet. What should I feed my Bernedoodle? You can feed your Bernedoodle a high-quality dry or wet dog food that is specifically formulated for their size and age. Additionally, you can supplement their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, cooked meats, and other healthy foods. It is best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet for your dog. Share this:. A diet that meets these life-stage needs is essential for proper development and health maintenance. Bernedoodle puppies. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for Bernedoodle puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial developmental stage. Adult Bernedoodles. Require a diet that is moderate in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. You must slowly transition your dog to an adult recipe at one year old. Senior Bernedoodles. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. At around 8 or 9, you should slowly transition your Bernedoodle to senior food. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are important to boost their weakening immune system. High-quality, nutrient-dense food fuels Bernedoodles for their naturally energetic and playful behavior. Proteins are vital for muscle development and repair, while fats provide an efficient energy source. Carbohydrates, particularly complex ones, offer sustained energy. However, overfeeding or feeding a nutrient-deficient diet can lead to obesity or other health issues. Portion control and ensuring a balanced diet aligned with their exercise regimen are essential for maintaining optimal health and activity levels. Similarly, periods of high activity may require increased caloric intake, while less active periods may necessitate a reduction in food portion sizes. Although certain health issues that Bernedoodles may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by Bernedoodles include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Bernedoodles. Food allergies in Bernedoodles may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, unlike allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Hip and elbow dysplasia. These genetic conditions affect the joints in large dog breeds like Bernedoodles. Both can lead to discomfort, pain, and lameness. Eye conditions. Like their parent breed, the Bernese Mountain Dog, Bernedoodles are prone to certain hereditary eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy PRA and cataracts. Both conditions can lead to vision loss if not diagnosed and treated early. It can lead to prolonged bleeding following injury or surgery. It can result in weakness, vomiting, and weight loss. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV. Immediate veterinary intervention is necessary. Sebaceous adenitis. This is a skin condition where the sebaceous glands become inflamed and can eventually be destroyed. It can lead to hair loss, scaling, and secondary skin infections. A disorder that causes insufficient thyroid hormones. Here are the key qualities to look for in dog food for Bernedoodles. Avoid common allergies. Because Bernedoodles can develop allergies or food intolerances, we highly recommend conducting an at-home dog allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Bernedoodles can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Bernedoodles can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food or homemade dog food for Bernedoodles. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. Joint health support. For mitigating the effects of hip and elbow dysplasia, look for dog food that includes ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health. To counteract eye conditions like PRA and cataracts, choose food packed with antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C, and E, which can help protect eye health. For hypothyroidism, look for food with ingredients high in iodine, like fish, as it aids thyroid function. Always consult a vet, though, as your pet may need additional supplementation. Suitable for skin health. For sebaceous adenitis, a diet rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids will be beneficial as they can help maintain skin health. Vitamin K. Balanced electrolytes. A diet that is not excessively high in potassium would be beneficial. Chapter 2: The Reviews. Bernedoodles are known to be voracious eaters, so they tend to gain weight easily, especially if their daily exercise needs are not met. Fortunately, you can help keep their weight stable with this food. Antioxidants also help control the premature aging of cells and support a healthy immune system. However, this option is quite expensive, and some dogs may not like the smell and texture. How much to feed your dog? You should use the portions listed on the package with a scale or measuring cup. That said, remember that these amounts are usually appropriate for a dog with an average activity level. So, if your Bernepoo is active, it is normal for them to eat more. If they are more sedentary, watch their portions or the fat level of their food. Bernedoodles can suffer from obesity if they eat too much and do not exercise enough. That said, it depends on the behavior of your pet. Some dogs have the habit of barely finishing their food even if their bowl is only filled once a day. But if you have an overeater at home, there are toys designed to make it more difficult for dogs to access their food in order to limit this habit and even enable them to recognize signals of satiety. What about treats? Not only is your Bernepoo at risk of becoming overweight if they eat too much, but treats are also not formulated to be balanced like their staple food. If your dog is having trouble with their teeth, you can find large kibbles that will force them to chew more, which will help reduce tartar. When choosing dog food , try it for a month and observe your pet throughout that time. Pay attention to their general condition: the luster of their coat, the condition of their eyes and muzzle, etc. Are they energetic, and playful? If not, this food may not be right for them. Nulo Freestyle may also be perfect for them, although this option is rather expensive. Her deep love for capuchin monkeys, pumas, and kangaroos has taken her worldwide to work and volunteer for several wildlife rehabilitation centers in Bolivia, Guatemala, Canada, and Australia. As a Canadian expat, Genevieve now lives in Argentina, where she wakes up every morning to horses and cows saying hello from the vast plain next to her home office window. She is the proud mom of three rescued dogs, Lemmy, Nala, and Pochi, and a frisky kitten, Furiosa. Having the privilege of sharing her knowledge and passion for animals of all kinds is what makes her fulfilled and happy.Read more Advertisement.

Lifespan Sociability With these dogs being steeped in such history, they are a popular family pet. If you have an active family with a large and spacious backyard, have the time and patience for training, and are up the challenge of taking on such a powerful animal, they are not a difficult puppy to find. They are frequently bred with each other as opposed to being first-generation mixes, which makes them a healthy and robust breed with few genetic health issues. Catahoula Leopard Dogs were originally bred to hunt pigs. This somewhat unflattering name was bestowed upon them by their original breeders due to their original purpose of hunting wild pigs. The story goes that when the first settlers came to what is now known as Louisiana, it was overrun by wild hogs. The Catahoula Leopard Dog must have done its job well, as the dogs were so revered that they were named the official state dog of Louisiana in .American Bulldogs also have a history of pig-hunting, and so if hunting is your thing, Catahoula Bulldogs may just be an ideal choice! There are different breed lines. These massive dogs can weigh in at up to pounds. The McMillin line in particular is known for stunning glass-blue eyes. These three lines have mixed back and forth over the years and caused a massive variation in the size and coloring of the Leopard Dog breed as it is today. American Bulldogs were almost extinct at the end of World War II, and re-establishing the breed posed a challenge due to the wide array of different functions that the American Bulldogs were typically used for. American Bulldogs have large litters of puppies With most medium-sized dogs, you can expect a litter size of around five or six puppies, eight at the most. But American Bulldog females are known to routinely have nine or 10 puppies per litter and in some cases, up to 16! An American Bulldog crossbreed clinched the Guinness World Record for the largest litter of puppies ever , giving birth to an incredible 21 puppies. Despite these intimidating looks and somewhat wild temperament, these dogs are rarely aggressive. They are gentle and sweet animals that are wary of strangers and are known to be fairly sensitive pooches. They are also highly intelligent dogs, which is what makes them such valued working and hunting dogs. In general, they are a loyal and playful breed that is often misunderstood due to their spotted coats and association with Pitbulls. They are highly attentive and alert dogs that are not easily distracted from their given directives. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are gentle and sweet dogs that love children and are rarely, if ever, aggressive toward them. These are dogs that you can count on — loyal protectors of the family that will stay cool and calm unless absolutely necessary. Both the Catahoula Leopard Dog and the American Bulldog have traits that will translate well into family life, so you can be sure that this hybrid descendant will be a firm favorite in the family. They do have a strong prey drive due to their hunting heritage and may see smaller dogs and family pets as prey. But the right training is sure to keep this instinct at bay, as these dogs are highly intelligent and obedient. 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 Catahoula Bulldog Highlights Catahoula Bulldogs are mixed breed dogs. Catahoula Bulldogs come in a range of colors. They can be all white or all dark, or they can come in a mix that also includes gray and brown. These dogs posses short, dense, and straight coats that are often described as looking glossy. Weekly brushings will suffice for the breed. Shedding is very low, too. Catahoula Bulldogs are some of the most loyal dogs around. This is not a a dog that will do well living in an apartment—and destructive behavior might occur due to boredom and restlessness. The breed has a record of being a very popular dog in the southern states of the USA, mainly due to their ability to hunt down and catch bears and hogs and herd cattle. Although, as is always the case with newer dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 75 to pounds and range in height from 24 to 26 inches. It goes without saying that such a powerful and energetic dog needs to be socialized properly from a young age. While the breed can form strong bonds with children, correct training is key. Catahoula Bulldog Health Catahoula Bulldogs are generally considered to be healthy dogs—although the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Catahoula Dog and American Bulldog face. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Catahoula Bulldogs require lots of exercise—as with any dog, obesity can become an issue if suitably satisfying walks are not maintained. If you have access to very large, open outdoor spaces, this dog will enjoy running alongside you. Catahoula Bulldog Feeding An ideal Catahoula Bulldog diet should be formulated for a medium to large breed with high energy. Catahoula Bulldogs posses short, dense, and straight coats that are often described as looking glossy. Weekly brushings will suffice for the breed—the likelihood of developing mats is exceptionally low. Thankfully, for a dog who loves to spend so much time engaging in energetic pursuits outside, the Catahoula Bulldog rarely suffers from any odor issues. If you live in a place with harsh winters, the Catahoula Bulldog is not likely to appreciate the environment. Also, make sure to teach your children how to properly act around the dog. This might not be the best dog to bring into a house already ruled over by a couple of cats. As with all dogs, early socialization pays off—so make sure to reward your Catahoula Bulldog for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when you bring them home. Catahoula Bulldog Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Catahoula Bulldogs because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Catahoula Leopard Dog or American Bulldog breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. She has one blue and one brown eye. She's the best dog I've ever had, great personality, good calm easy going dog. LOVES tennis balls but easy to calm down. Great house dog, great around livestock, amazing with kids. Everyone wants to steal her from me, lol. She's 55 lbs of amazing. He is a 9-month-old Catahoula Bulldog. He loves to play.He is really laid back, especially for a male puppy! He does great around the kids and our other dogs, even the neighborhood dogs! She was from our last litter and she is a doll! He is a Catahoula Bulldog with the most unique colors I have seen in them. He can play in the yard and be very watchful of my daughters at the same time, but friendly to "invited" guests as well. He is also a very aggressive hog hunter who gets down and dirty as one of the best catch dogs I know, that can also trail the hog. Puppies can come in a wide range of coloring from merle to white with eyes being brown, green, ice blue, gold, or a combination of these. Not only are these dogs excellent all-around dogs, but they are truly beautiful to look at with their rainbow of coloring. This is Wilson's Shugah. She is a wonderful dog, full of fun! She loves kids and playing with other dogs. She especially loves puppies. She is very motherly, and will clean the puppies and take care of them, even though they are not hers! She is the Bomb! Less - The Catahoula Bulldog is not a purebred dog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. The Catahoula Bulldog has tight skin and a very short, smooth coat. In most cases the Catahoula does not have an undercoat but may develop one if it is living in a seasonal or colder climate. Ears come in rose type or button over and are sometimes cropped for a noble look. Eye color can come in brown, ice blue, gold, emerald green or a combination of all of these. Coats come in a wide variety of colors from merle to pure white. Though utilized as a hunting, working, and guard dog , Catahoula bulldogs are often companion animals. They are said to be loyal and devoted to their people and to have strong protective instincts; they are generally calm though also alert to their surroundings. History Less - Catahoula bulldogs have been around for over years, for the most part in the southern United States. It is reported that ranchers wanted a dual-purpose dog for herding and catching hogs as well as for hunting bears. While the Catahoula Leopard Dog was very skilled at luring a hog to a pen then escaping over the back of the pen, it was not large or rugged enough by itself to catch a hog. The American Bulldog had the extra size, weight, and strong jaw as well as being an excellent catch dog, while the Catahoula Leopard had the intelligence, speed, endurance and the instincts of hunting and herding. Catahoula bulldogs are one example among many of niche working crossbreeds as opposed to "designer dogs" crossbred for appearance that are in development. Others often with pseudo-archaic names have been dubbed the Olde English Bulldogge recognized as a breed by UKC and Perro de Presa Mallorquin "saved" from extinction by extensive crossbreeding , among more experimental crosses. Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both parent breeds, a Catahoula Bulldog tends to be a loyal, loving, and hard-working dog that can take on a variety of jobs and still fit right in at home with their family. The American Kennel Club does not currently recognize the Catahoula Bulldog, but other notable dog organizations do. Catahoula Bulldogs tend to have a calm demeanor and sweet disposition when they are at home with the family and are focused and determined while working a job. They tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. They also have a high prey drive, which means they need extra socialization and training when it comes to smaller pets in the household. They are fiercely loyal to their families and are protective of them, which makes them naturally suspicious and wary of strangers. Socialization and training early and often are even more important with this dog breed because of their protective instinct. A Catahoula Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their larger size and high energy level make them a better fit for homes with a fenced-in yard where they can run. But, they can adapt to apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Their thin coat can also make them sensitive to cold. So, they may need to dress up with some winter dog products to stay warm when the temperatures drop. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Also, because they tend to have a high prey drive, they also have an urge to chase and follow interesting smells. Even if they are well-trained off-leash, they may still ignore your recall commands when faced with an interesting smell or chase. They can inherit none of the health conditions common to their parent breeds or they could inherit a combination of them or even all of them. With a Catahoula Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of include hip dysplasia, eye conditions, thyroid issues, and kidney disease. Deafness in one or both ears and blindness can also be common in older dogs of this breed. You can also ask to see the results or clearances from any health tests that have been done. The Catahoula Bulldog is highly intelligent and eager to please. This means they are generally obedient and pick up on things quickly. But, they can be stubborn at times and are intelligent enough to get away with things if you let them. These classes offer a bunch of benefits, including opportunities to socialize a puppy , so they tend to be a good idea regardless of your experience with dogs. Catahoula Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that can come in a myriad of colors and color combinations. They shed a little year-round. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath as needed is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Plus, if anything is happening, you can catch it early and get to the vet. You also want to practice good dental care for dogs to help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste daily is ideal. Catahoula Bulldogs are high-energy dogs. They are also working dogs, so they need a job to do to be happy. Daily walks plus plenty of playtime, time to run, and other activities will keep this dog happy and healthy. They are a powerful and athletic dog breed, so once puppies finish growing , you can try a bunch of different activities with your Catahoula Bulldog. Playing frisbee, hiking, swimming, training for dog sports, and more can all be fun things to try with your dog. You could end up finding a new favorite activity! A fully-grown Catahoula Bulldog tends to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. A Catahoula Bulldog generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Catahoula Bulldog puppies available, but we can alert you when new Catahoula Bulldog puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We are a small, hobby breeder that raises highly socialized, health tested, in-home quality puppies. We are a retired couple and live on a beautiful hobby farm in Pennsylvania near Pittsburgh. We are not a puppy mill, and average 4 litters a year. Our daughter lives in Silver Spring, MD and we visit often. We can usually hand-deliver to your area, which makes it convenient for our families. Our daughter is a a breeder too, so occasionally has her own litters right in your back yard. We often sell to Maryland and DC buyers, so we make it easy and convenient for you because we know the process. We've become a trusted breeder for your area. We only offer our Golden puppies for sale to homes where we can screen the buyers ahead of time and make sure it's a great forever match. We usually take deposits ahead of time on our beautiful puppies and form a relationship with great relationship with you. There's always a level of trust formed between breeder and families, and we do our best to gain and maintain your trust throughout the process. It is also good for us to get to know our puppy families. It ensures that the puppies we care so carefully for are placed very responsibly into homes. English Cream Puppy Process What is our deposit? We lock your price in for your golden retriever puppy when you place your deposit, so if the price goes up, yours does not. We take deposits via email invoice with cards, so it is convenient for you. We have a real "business" so we do things professionally. How do you pick your puppy? We temperament test our puppies and observe them since birth. We are professionals at matching puppies with families lifestyles, but the choice is ultimately yours, which puppy you get. Our Golden Retriever puppy pick-outs are at around 6 weeks. We allow you to choose out of a group of puppies depending on your pick spot. Our out-of-state buyers usually use Facetime or Facebook to pick their puppies out with live video. You'll see weekly videos and pictures of the puppies as they grow, so you it will be an informed decision for you to choose when it's your turn. We will share with you their temperaments, sizes and builds, so you get a great match. You are also welcome to visit the farm and pick your puppy out in person. Most of our buyers reserved to visit once when they pick their puppy up at 8 weeks. Life Companions We know that your puppy will be your family member for life. The greatest part of our job is the magical moments that you first get to hold your English Golden Retriever puppy. It often brings tears to everyone's eyes. If you are interested in one of our beautiful puppies, please fill out our form on our home page or available puppies page at no obligation. We will be in touch with you within a few days and will have your preferences saved. We are diligent to follow up with every inquiry. We look forward to hearing from you. We had professional careers until we retired, putting all of our extra time and money into our hobby farm. We have a horse barn with our beautiful work horses and several retired English riding horses. It is a peaceful yet adventurous place for our beloved English Golden Retrievers. They get to explore the top part of our acre farm with us every day. Message sent. All rights reserved. Share 0 Shares Possibly the most important thing to consider when choosing a Golden Retriever breeder is that they focus on the health, longevity, and temperament of their dogs. This means that they do not just care about what their dog looks like, but that they are also healthy and have a solid personality. In order to do this, all reputable Golden Retriever breeders will health test their dogs to ensure that their lines will be as genetically healthy as possible. According to the Golden Retriever Club of America, these health tests should at least include screening for hip and elbow problems and screening for a variety of eye conditions. Similarly, reputable Golden Retriever breeders will socialize their puppies from a young age to give them a good start in life and set them up for having a good temperament. Here are the top 7 Golden Retriever breeders in Maryland. Additionally, this breeder is also a proud member of the Golden Retriever Club of America. The main goal of these breeders is to bring healthy, happy, and good-natured Golden Retriever puppies into loving homes. To ensure that their dogs are genetically healthy, this breeder clears all of her dogs through health testing. Puppies are also kept up to date on their vaccinations and deworming, and they are also seen by a vet before going to their new homes. Puppies receive an extensive amount of socialization from an early age to ensure that they are ready to go to their new homes as well. Please note that this breeder requests that you fill out their puppy application form before making inquiries about puppies or putting a deposit down. From here you will need to wait for approval from the breeder and wait for the next steps. Name of Owner. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. So cute! White-golden-retriver-in-md Country is a phenomenal example of the blocky European style head and frame that is sought after in the English cream goldens. English-cream-golden-retriever-puppy Destiny is a beautiful English cream puppy, new to the family but already a huge part of who we are! We have been specializing in Goldens for over 25 years and we have puppies to visit that will be ready to go to their new families just in time Christmas!! Please check our puppy page for updated information and don't hesitate to ask any further questions or request a visit.What is a "white golden" English Cream Golden Retriever? That is a great question, and one we get pretty often, visit our learn about Golden's page here, to learn more about the breed and how to care for your English cream Golden Retriever. About us! Welcome to Wonderkind White Gold! Our white gold English cream puppies are born and raised in a family setting on a private mini-ranch in Fallston, Maryland. On our site you can get more information about us, our puppies, our outstanding nutrition program to insure their proper growth from the start! Our family would love to meet yours! If you want us to drop the cuties off along the way just ask! Why Choose Garrett County Goldens? Loyal Friends They say dogs are man's best friend - we couldn't agree more. Golden Retrievers are noted for their gentle dispositions and desire to please. They bond quickly, making them excellent, loyal companions for families with children. Raised With Kids All of our puppies are raised on our farm as part of the family, and are well socialized with children and other dogs. We spend one-on-one time with them daily, raising them as our own until they go to their forever home. AKC Registered Our Golden Retriever puppies are AKC registered, receive all applicable shots, and are thoroughly vet-checked before leaving for their forever homes, at approximately eight weeks. See the Terms page for more. Our Client Testimonials Absolutely Wonderful Joanna was absolutely wonderful during the whole process and I highly recommend her as a breeder. You can tell how much love and energy goes into preparing these puppies for their future homes. Chelsea Lima Our new baby Joanna was so wonderful in helping us with our new fur baby. Very compassionate and professional and I highly recommend her as a breeder. Thank you so much. We got a female puppy about a year ago, who we named Bunny. Since bringing her home she has been the absolute best dog. She is easily the happiest, goofiest, most loving girl. Located on a farm in beautiful Swanton, Maryland, our puppies get to run and explore the place every day with our kids and other puppies. Our mission is to provide you with happy, healthy puppies that grow up to be your faithful companions for their lifetime!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military. Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Wish your golden retriever puppy would stop biting so much? Puppy nipping is one of the most frustrating things about raising a new puppy—their teeth are razor-sharp, it hurts when they bite, and they can ruin your clothes! But why do puppies bite so much? Puppies bite to learn acquired bite inhibition, or ABI. What exactly is ABI? He might leap up and bite you because you hurt him and scared him. But the important thing is this: how hard will they bite? This is where ABI comes in. So ABI is really important. Now the question is, how do they learn it? The only way for puppies to learn ABI is to bite, and bite often. The best teachers are other dogs. Next time they bite a little less hard and playtime continues. This is how they learn ABI. Obviously, it takes a lot of repetition of this scenario to happen for a puppy to learn not to bite so hard, but this is essentially how it works out. Yes, you will need to help teach your puppy ABI. You can do this two ways: Set up puppy playdates and take them to puppy kindergarten so other puppies can teach them ABI. You actually want them to bite a little bit and learn to control how hard they bite. That being said, letting them go on a biting rampage is not helping the situation, so here are five tips to help you stop your puppy from biting so much: 1. Socialize your puppy Other dogs are the best teachers of ABI so make sure to get your puppy in kindergarten and set up playdates with dogs that you know are vaccinated. Remove yourself from the situation Puppies can often be over-stimulated or over-tired. One thing we did with our puppy, Oliver, when he got in these moods was to go sit at our high-top table in the kitchen and ignore him until he calmed down or distracted himself with a chew toy. Exercise your puppy A tired puppy is a good puppy. Young puppies have weak jaws, so if they had dull teeth, a bite from them would be no big deal. Most adult golden retrievers bite out of fear and a professional can help you properly handle it. Puppy Biting vs. Chewing Puppy biting or nipping is when a dog purposefully bites you. As we already talked about, they need to do this to learn ABI. Puppy chewing, on the other hand, is when puppies chew on things to relieve the pressure in their mouths from their adult teeth coming in. Since puppies bite and chew for different reasons, you need to handle these problems differently. Mentally wear them by out by training them, going for long walks and letting them sniff around, and giving them puzzle toys or frozen kongs. Remember that a tired puppy is a good puppy. A: It can take up to six weeks or more for your puppy to learn ABI and what is appropriate to bite or not. If it takes longer than six weeks, just remember to be consistent with the steps to stop it and have faith that it will slow down soon. Q: Is puppy biting an act of aggression? A: Most puppy biting is a form of play. It helps them learn ABI. If you think your puppy is biting out of aggression, then you should talk to a professional. Q: Why are puppy teeth so sharp? Q: What is ABI? A: ABI is acquired bite inhibition, or the natural ability for a dog to not bite so hard. Q: Do all puppies bite? A: Yes! Instead, they need to learn to control their bite force, then learn to bite less. Have any questions about puppy biting? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. You are bound to want to know when your biting puppy will grow out of this phase and how you can speed that process up. Biting, as you will have discovered is usually accompanied by lots of noise! Why do puppies bite? So why do puppies bite? My puppy is biting hard Puppies do bite hard and it does hurt. But I want to reassure you that even at 8 weeks old, your puppy has learned to moderate his bite in play. Puppies have powerful jaws designed to tear through flesh and crush bones. Those of you who feed your puppy a raw diet will know that even an 8 week old puppy from a medium sized breed can crush bones the size of your little finger. He is deliberately attempting to be gentle. Puppy Biting — Bite inhibition This ability, that your puppy has, to moderate the power of his jaws in play, is called bite inhibition. It is something that his mother started to teach him when he was just a few weeks old. And now it is your turn to take over and complete the training process. Growling and Puppy biting One thing that often worries people who have a new puppy in the family, is the growling that accompanies puppy biting. It sounds horrific. Great snarls and snaps accompany the biting and the puppy can appear quite demonic as he grabs onto your skin, or clothes. Tugging away with all the strength he can muster. Ninety nine times out of a hundred this is completely normal play biting. Is my puppy biting aggressive? You cannot determine whether or not a puppy is biting aggressively by how hard he bites or by the volume of the noise he makes. Play biting puppies bite hard and growl fiercely. Some puppies do occasionally draw blood. But these are not normally savage or crushing bites and the puppy is clearly enjoying himself. Fierce but fun! The play biting puppy will launch himself at the target of his bite. Whether it is your slippers or your fingers, with equal tail-wagging enthusiasm, hanging on grimly and grabbing repeatedly when the item is removed from him. All this, shocking though it may seem, is normal, and is not a sign that your puppy is going to be an aggressive dog! In fact some of the gentlest and most amiable breeds the labrador for example are the worst and fiercest play biters. The puppy that is a cause for concern is the puppy that is frightened. Because although puppies rarely bite through aggression, the nervous puppy may become aggressive as he matures Is my puppy afraid? A scared puppy may bite and scared puppies can grow into scared adult dogs so this is something you need to address quickly. You will know that your puppy is scared because he will try to avoid whatever it is he is scared of. A really frightened puppy will sometimes give off a distinctive musky smell. This hiding, and retreating, and the scared smell are warning signs that you have scared your puppy badly, or purchased a poorly socialised puppy. In this situation you need to get specialist help right away. Your vet should be able to advise you. For the vast majority of puppy owners then, biting is normal puppy behavior. Will my puppy biting stop naturally? To some extent biting is a phase caused by natural puppy playfulness and teething. Some puppies do stop biting with very little input from their family. Which is great. You may feel he should have grown out of it by now. We can physically prevent puppies from biting and we can train puppies not to bite. Both of these are good strategies. Or when children are getting upset, or visitors are winding your puppy up. Prevention usually involves interrupting the biting behavior, then redirecting the puppy into an alternative and more acceptable behavior, such as chewing on a toy. Or, it may involve temporarily separating him from his playmates. Interrupting the puppy biting In mild cases you may simply be able to put a toy in your biting puppy's mouth and get him tugging on that instead of on your fingers. If you are on the floor with the puppy stand up. And if you are standing up, turn and walk away from the puppy. This is where dog gates come in very handy with small puppies. A standard baby gate works fine for most breeds of dog. Managing the puppy You may have to pick up your biting puppy to remove him from the scene if he is biting your children for example, rather than you If he bites your hands and clothes as you try to restrain him, put him on the other side of a barrier or in his crate or puppy playpen for a short while. Although the puppy does learn from them, these are useful management techniques to enable you to control the situation. They help you to keep your puppy calm, and prevent the biting escalating through over excitement. Over-excited puppies Puppy play biting is directly linked to excitement. The more excited your puppy gets, the more and the harder he will bite. And the harder it will be to interrupt and distract him. Rough play excites puppies and noisy play does too. Children tend to squeal when they play and get very physical with puppies. One of the first rules they need to learn when playing with dogs, especially big dogs, is to stand up and stand still when the game gets too much. Limit such play and call a halt to it if your puppy is biting. With medium to large breed dogs, physical rough and tumble play is not a great idea. It can lead to dogs bowling people over or humping them, neither of which is very pleasant. Stopping play when it gets rough is a good management strategy and it is a form of training too. Over time, your puppy learns that biting and rough play loses him his playmates and that people simply leave if he is being mean. When do puppies stop biting? Many puppies have stopped biting completely by six months of age and biting is usually subsiding by the time that the puppy is heading towards five months old. This is if the puppy has been managed appropriately If people have been exciting him, or rewarding him for attention seeking behavior then biting can persist And it can be much more of a problem in bigger stronger puppies than in little ones. Training Puppies Not To Bite The idea of this exercise is to teach a puppy to accept being stroked and handled in any way, without touching us with his teeth. The event marker is a distinctive sound. Even around his mouth, without him making any attempt to bite you. You can also make it easier for him by starting this training when he is calm and not distracted. But for now, keep things simple. It can be a good way of getting the training started so that you have chance to say YES and give the puppy the opportunity to learn what you want him to do. Over the next few sessions, you can work on getting your hand closer and closer to the puppy. Until you are brushing the sides of his face without him making any attempt to mouth or bite at you Progress to touching and holding his collar, stroking his ears, grooming him, examining his paws and so on, all the time rewarding him for the correct behavior. Anytime the mouthing returns, back up to a point where he can succeed and move forward more slowly again Bite Inhibition Training Some experts feel that puppies should be allowed to mouth and even bite gently for a week or two before being prevented from biting altogether. Simply follow the instructions for managing your puppy above when he bites hard. But allow him to mouth you when he bites gently without much pressure. This is a great way to teach a dog excellent control over his mouth. After a couple of weeks of this, you can progress to the training exercise I outlined in the previous section. Older puppies that bite in play have often learned that this gets them a lot of attention. They have discovered that people squeal and shout and get quite cross. Sometimes these people push and shove the dog around which young dogs quite enjoy when they are playing. For these dogs it is important that you stop all physical play, with all family members If a puppy is biting hard at your hands when you try to interrupt his game. Or an older puppy is getting out of hand biting at clothing, you need to put your puppy on a harness and house-line a short trailing leash. This will enable you to control your puppy, and take him to a calming place, without handling him. You can just pick up the end of the line and lead him away. Older biting puppies are often bright and bored. And the best approach to avoiding future episodes of bad behavior is a structured programme of training and interesting activities. A professional dog trainer using modern positive training methods will be able to help you with these. Summary So now you know some tips on how to stop your puppy from biting. The first few weeks can be tough with a determined biter in the house, but you will get through this and come out the other side. A few months from now, this difficult period will be a distant memory In the meantime, focus on keeping your biting puppy calm, avoiding too much rough play, and redirecting his biting onto appropriate toys and activities. Spend some time on the training exercise set out above. Are you a proud new golden retriever puppy parent or considering getting a furry friend? While puppies are adorable and full of energy, they can also be a handful, especially when it comes to biting. This article will cover practical strategies to manage puppy biting and help you and your pup develop a solid and loving relationship. Thus biting is natural. Their bites will become softer as they practice and learn to manage their bite strength. They will eventually stop biting entirely. While biting is a natural part of the learning process, it is essential to train your puppy not to bite excessively. Here are a few tips to get you started: Providing Chew Toys for Redirecting Biting Behavior Providing chew toys is an excellent approach to help your puppy stop biting. When your puppy begins to bite you, remove your hand or foot and replace it with a chew toy. This teaches them that biting is acceptable, but only when done with toys, not people. It is essential to keep an eye on your puppy when they play with chew toys to ensure they do not consume anything toxic. By exposing your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments in a controlled and positive manner, you can help them develop proper social skills and reduce biting tendencies. Socialization helps puppies learn appropriate bite inhibition and establishes boundaries for acceptable behavior during interactions. Through well-planned socialization experiences, you can guide your puppy towards becoming a well-behaved and gentle companion. Employing the Time-Out Strategy for Persistent Biting Use the time-out strategy when other methods fail to stop your puppy from biting. If your puppy continues to bite, place him on a time-out for 30 seconds before allowing him to return to play. This teaches your puppy that biting is unacceptable and will result in a loss of playtime or attention. Again, use a gentle tone and avoid shouting or scolding your puppy. When your puppy plays gently with their toys instead of biting you, shower them with praise and perhaps even a tasty gift! This teaches your puppy that good behavior leads to beautiful things. Instead, concentrate on encouraging appropriate behavior and redirecting any inappropriate biting. Your puppy will learn to control their biting and play in a friendly and safe manner with time, patience, and positive reinforcement. This entails repeating the same commands, techniques, and rewards each time you train. When you do this, your puppy learns what is expected of them and how to get rewarded. On the other hand, if you are inconsistent, your puppy may get confused and unsure of what they need to do to please you. This can make training more difficult and frustrating for you and your puppy. So, strive to be consistent in your training. However, they can get nippy during their fun exploration of the world around them. The good news is that this is a natural habit for pups, and there are ways to deal with it. Puppies prefer to bite to initiate play, learn more about their surroundings, and adjust their bite pressure, especially when they are teething. These actions are part of how they play, interact, and learn about their environment. First, however, puppies must be taught how to control their biting pressure and redirect their biting to appropriate toys and chew objects, which we will discuss later. Puppy bites, for example, can become more painful and even harmful as they increase in size. Additionally, it might lead to destructive chewing if you do not divert their biting habit to appropriate chew items. As a result, it is critical to address this habit early on through regular teaching and positive reinforcement. Understand what motivates them and what makes them more likely to engage in biting. Adjust your training methods: Not all puppies respond to the same training techniques. Some may respond better to positive reinforcement, while others may require more redirection and distraction. Consider their energy levels: Golden Retrievers are known for their energy and enthusiasm. Be patient and consistent: Training takes time, and each puppy learns at their own pace. Be patient with your puppy and provide consistent guidance. Remember, every Golden Retriever puppy is an individual, and what works for one may not work for another. With a customized approach, you can effectively address biting behavior and set your unique puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and happy companion. So, most puppies begin to bite and mouth less frequently when they are 8 to 10 months old. However, this varies greatly depending on the individual pup. Some may stop sooner, while others may take a little longer. Golden retrievers, for example, love using their tongues. At the same time, herding dogs such as border collies or corgis may continue to nip at ankles as they age. Just keep working with your pet and providing the guidance they require to create positive habits! Conclusion As you begin the joyful road of raising your Golden Retriever puppy, keep in mind that training and socialization are essential for producing a happy and well-behaved dog. You can teach your puppy what is expected of them and create healthy behaviors that will last a lifetime using consistent and positive reinforcement techniques. Remember that each puppy is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. You will be rewarded with a devoted and well-behaved companion if you are patient and committed to the training process. Remember to give your puppy enough exercise and mental stimulation and to continuously reward positive behavior. You can help your puppy grow into a happy and healthy adult dog who will provide you happiness for many years by doing so. By the time your puppy reaches around three months of age, they should start to develop bite inhibition and learn to control the force of their bites during play. As you continue to interact and train with your puppy, you can gradually increase your sensitivity to the level of bites you find acceptable. By the age of four or five months, their play bites should no longer exert any force. Can I use physical punishment to stop my puppy from biting? Certainly not! To stop a puppy from biting, never use physical punishment. It is not only ineffective, but it can also be harmful and cause long-term behavioral issues. Instead, train your puppy using positive reinforcement techniques, including redirection, time-outs, and excellent rewarding behavior. What can I do? Puppies frequently nip and bite while playing with other dogs, but teaching them to control their bite force is essential. My puppy is teething. What can I do to stop them from biting? Teething is a normal developmental stage for puppies , and they naturally want to chew and bite things. Similar to what we discussed earlier. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They Are Naturally Mouthy Golden Retrievers are a mouthy breed, to begin with, they are naturally inclined to pick up and hold anything and everything in their mouths. While it may seem like there is something wrong with your puppy to cause him or her to bite so much, rest assured, all puppies bite, not just Golden Retriever puppies. Play Behaviour When you see a litter of pups play together, they often nip and bite at one another. It is their way of socializing and initiating play. Your puppy will bite and nip at you during playtime with you because it is a natural behaviour to them. They Are Teething Many people associate puppy biting with teething, however when a puppy is teething they will resort to chewing and mouthing in order to relieve their pain. They may chew or mouth on your hands and fingers, but teething is not the cause of biting that every puppy owner experiences. Puppy biting is most often just play. To summarize, puppy biting is normal and should be expected as a puppy owner. In general, biting will naturally subside in Golden Retriever puppies around the age of months. This is around the time that their adult teeth have come in. Puppies at this age usually already know how to moderate their bite, and will not bite or nip at you as much as they did when they were younger. While biting anything and everything is normal behaviour to your puppy, it is not something that you want your puppy to continue to do. It is up to you to teach your puppy not to bite humans, especially children. Take a look at the common mistakes puppy owners often make, and learn to avoid them. Puppies who are excited bite more. Children often fall victim to the most puppy bites because they get very excited around puppies and this just gets the puppy going which results in biting. Any attention that you give your puppy after they bite you will seem like a reward to your puppy, and the biting will just continue. Yelling at your puppy, pushing them away, talking to your puppy, or even looking at them is giving them the attention that they want. Bite inhibition is when your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite. Puppies learn this skill when they are with their littermates, which is why they need to stay with them and their mother until they are 8 weeks old. Playing with their littermates teaches puppies that biting too hard hurts and will end playtime. The puppy then learns to bite softer. When your puppy comes home with you, it is up to you to teach your puppy how to control the force of their bite. Biting down on the thick fur coat of his mother or littermates is a lot different than biting down on human skin. By not teaching your puppy bite inhibition, you will risk your puppy turning into a dangerous adult. Puppy bites are a lot different than adult dog bites. Once your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite, eventually the bites become gentler, and in time, your puppy will learn to stop biting altogether. This is part of teaching your puppy bite inhibition. This is a way to mimic how puppies play together, when one puppy bites another puppy too hard, that puppy yelps in pain, and will walk away. In some cases, puppies could get even more worked up by the noise and keep on biting. This is when you need to walk away. When your puppy has calmed down, you can resume playing with your puppy. When your puppy bites you again, repeat the steps of yelping and walking away. Eventually, your puppy will learn to soften his bite, because biting too hard ends playtime. The following video discusses why puppies bite, how to teach bite inhibition and how to survive puppy biting. It is a good idea to have a few chew toys on hand to offer up as a distraction from your skin. Check out this list of the best teething toys for puppies. This will get your puppy to stop and focus on being obedient. A great way to solve boredom is by going for a walk with your puppy. How much exercise should you give your Golden Retriever puppy? A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise for every month that your puppy is alive. So a 3-month-old puppy should get 15 minutes of exercise a day, a 5-month-old puppy should get 25 minutes per day, and so on. This is in addition to and not instead of playtime. Bitter Apple Spray can also be used to prevent your puppy from nipping and biting at you. Before you interact with your puppy, spray it on your arms, legs, pant legs, or sleeves, anywhere that your puppy likes to nip at you. Once your puppy bites at you, he will get a bad taste in his mouth and will stop. Bitter Apple Spray may not work on all puppies, some may actually develop a taste for it. I know that when my Golden Retriever Ellie was a pup this stuff worked amazingly well, but as she got older she developed a taste for bitter things such as crab apples which are extremely sour and she once sucked on a vinegar packet that was lying on the ground! Reward Good Behaviour Every time your puppy stops biting and nipping at you, you need to see this as positive behaviour. Good behaviour should be rewarded so that your puppy learns that he did something good. Rewarding good behaviour with affection and praise is great, you can also use treats, or toys, sometimes the best reward for your puppy is just spending time with them. Be Patient and Consistent Owning a puppy requires a lot of patience! It is so easy to lose your patience at times, but you need to know that your puppy is learning what is right and wrong, and that takes time. It might not happen overnight, but as long as you remain consistent and patient, your pup will learn good behaviour. If your puppy is nipping at your pant legs or sleeves, chances are he is loving the tugging feeling and is actually already playing tug-of-war. Instead of using your clothing, redirect his attention to a rope toy. One thing to be careful of is being too rough with tug-of-war, especially when your puppy is going through his teething phase. A game of fetch offers your pup a distraction from biting, and Golden Retriever puppies naturally love to retrieve things. This is a great way to also teach your puppy to drop it, by offering a treat when your puppy drops the ball or rope toy. A well-socialized puppy will be less likely to exhibit any unwanted behaviours later on. Enrolling your pup in puppy kindergarten or arranging some play dates with other dogs who are friendly and vaccinated is a great way for your pup to learn social skills. Other dogs are sometimes the best teachers for a puppy because they will let your puppy know what is okay for play and what is not okay, in terms of biting and nipping. Always supervise your puppy while playing with other dogs. Yelling at your puppy will only make your puppy scared and confused as well as lose trust and respect for you. Common mistakes people make when their puppy is biting are pushing them away, clamping down on their mouths or spraying them in the face with water. All of these are a bad idea! Your puppy could see this behaviour as a form of play and continue biting and nipping at you even harder. If you remain calm and use a firm voice not yelling , your pup will see you as in charge. Puppies and dogs often exhibit the same behaviour as we do, if you get upset and start yelling, your puppy will just get even more excited. As unpleasant as puppy biting is, it is normal behaviour. Your puppy biting and nipping at you with a mouth full of shark teeth may seem aggressive, but it is most often just out of curiosity and play behaviour. Golden Retrievers are known for their calm and gentle demeanour, but there are rare instances where you may have an aggressive puppy on your hands. Puppies who have been taken away from their litter earlier than weeks, bad breeding, being abused, a chemical imbalance, and not being socialized are all reasons for aggression in puppies. Signs of an aggressive puppy include barking, growling, lunging at you or another dog, a stiff posture, and showing teeth. If you think your puppy is aggressive, it is important to work with a professional dog trainer or behaviourist in order to find out the reasons for aggression and work on correcting the behaviour before it gets worse. It is important to keep your calm and work with your puppy to teach him the important skill of bite inhibition, and to redirect his biting to more appropriate behaviour. Socializing your puppy, as well as rewarding good behaviour will all help to turn your puppy into a well-behaved dog. Have you tried any of the tips mentioned above? Do you have any other tips to stop Golden Retriever puppy biting? Share your thoughts and comments below, as well as any questions you may have. I would love to hear from you. Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. Read the full disclosure here. Tasty finger! Your golden retriever puppy is as friendly as can be — great with kids, respectful of other dogs, and not overly attentive to your cat. Yes, golden retrievers are known for their good-natured demeanor, but they are still dogs — not so very far removed from their wild cousins, and they can be unpredictable when faced with stressful, disturbing, or frightening situations. One of our jobs as responsible dog owners, of course, is to keep our dogs safe, but we may not always be able to protect them, and we may not always be able to prevent them from biting through fear or when in pain. What is Bite Inhibition? Puppies begin learning this from their mother and siblings as soon as they start to tumble around with each other in play. If they bite too hard, they are scolded by their mother or alerted with a yelp from their siblings. Eventually, they learn how hard is too hard, and they use their teeth more gently in play. Human Sensitive or Advanced Bite Inhibition By the time your puppy moves into your home, they will have been using their bite inhibition skills for weeks. Your puppy needs to learn that human beings are fragile and should be treated with care. There are many professional trainers who recommend that you simply train your puppy not to bite. This seems like a practical course of action, and it does work — in the short term. Teaching a puppy not to bite will give you quick results, but it may mean they never learn how much force is safe to use on people when they are forced to bite in an emergency. So if they do eventually bite, they will know to hold back the pressure safely and will not cause anywhere near as much pain or damage as they otherwise might. Why is Bite Inhibition Important? Believe it or not, even the most gentle dog that has been trained from a young age never to bite, can react to certain triggers. Those triggers are fear and pain. Consider these situations: Your dog has been suffering from chronic ear infections and hates to have his ears handled. The neighbor stops by with her toddler, who immediately runs to your dog and fondles his sensitive ears roughly. What will he do? You and your dog are walking down the road like you do every morning when out of nowhere comes a huge dog who attacks your dog without thinking twice. You manage to pull your dog away, but in the process, your frightened dog bites your arm. Your sweet golden retriever has gotten themself tangled in some barbed wire while hiking. As you loosen the wire from her skin and fur, she snaps at you, biting your hand. You may never experience any of these situations. By teaching bite inhibition while your puppy is young, you will be far safer and ready for any of these situations should they occur. Teaching Advanced Bite Inhibition Following is a general guide to the bite inhibition skills your puppy learns and when, as well as where you should aim for their skills to be at certain ages. She will start the puppies off by teaching them how rough is too rough during nursing and play. These lessons begin when the puppies start nursing day 1 and continue until the day you pick your puppy up from the breeder. This works for some puppies, but for others, it just seems to arouse the pup and make matters worse. You will have to experiment to find out what works for you and your pup. You should withdraw all of your attention from your puppy for very hard bites. Do not over-correct your puppy so they become afraid of biting. After your puppy has calmed down, use a chew toy as a reward and let them chew it in your lap or lying by your side. This teaches you puppy that there are other ways to keep their mouths and teeth busy. By four or five months, all force behind play bites should be eliminated. Kids tend to play rough with puppies, and puppies will get rough right back. Your puppy needs to know that every human being is sensitive to their bites, not just you. It is a process that sometimes lasts months, depending on your puppy. Be prepared for this, and remember that long-term results in your adult dog are more important than curtailing puppy bites as painful as they may be. Supervise your puppy around children — If you have young children at home, you will have to think carefully about how you will protect them and your puppy. Little puppy teeth can cause a lot of pain, especially when your pup is still learning to control those urges. Young children can also cause a lot of pain to small puppies. Always supervise very carefully when your pup and children are together. A tired puppy is a happy puppy — It will be much easier to teach bite inhibition if your puppy is not bouncing off the walls. Make sure they get enough exercise every day. Not only will this help with training, but it will also help prevent all kinds of other destructive behavior. Conclusion Teaching bite inhibition to your golden retriever puppy is a gift you give to your pup that will last forever.

I am now accepting applications and deposits found here, puppy-application. Updates and Quick Tips Visits by appointment only!! Link for puppy food is TLC Pet Food is a complete and balanced diet, made for a lifetime of superior-quality nutrition. Mini Bernedoodles can be found here Mini Double Doodles and Goldendoodles can be found here Petite Cavadoodles and yorki poos can be found here the link to the puppy food these pups eat is below With their soft coats, curious energy, and loving eyes, puppies are one of the most incredible animals you could welcome into your home. More importantly though, with the right love and care they will grow to become lifelong companions that bring incomparable joy to you and your family. The Goldendoodle, Australian Labradoodle, and Bernedoodle are all beloved crossbreeds sought in high demand by families around the world. These puppies are intelligent, loving, and playful. They tend to become fast friends with children and other animals, making them an ideal family pet. Bernedoodle Puppies GoldenBelle Kennels has worked hard to produce healthy Bernedoodle puppies for you to welcome into your family. Bernedoodles are a cross between the well-natured Bernese Mountain dog and poodle. They tend to be easygoing pets who enjoy relaxing at home with their humans just as much as they do being active. They are an energetic, intelligent, and friendly breed that will fit right into any household. These dogs love to play and usually get along well with other pets. What We Offer as a Reputable Goldendoodle Breeder in Ontario As a premium breeder dedicated to raising top-quality pups, GoldenBelle Kennels takes the time to make sure our Goldendoodles and other puppies for sale are in excellent health and have outstanding temperaments and warm hearts. Each of our puppies comes with a four-year health warranty. They are also micro-chipped upon request , vaccinated, dewormed, and receive their first application of Advantage Multi or a revolution for heartworm and flea prevention before they leave. Our puppies receive a high-quality NuVet immune booster supplement daily. Your dogs will love the taste, and you will love the results! To order NuVet, please call them at or visit their site here. This is the food we recommend you give your dog for a lifetime. With their soft coats, curious energy, and loving eyes, puppies are among the most incredible animals you could welcome into your home. More importantly, though, with the proper love and care, they will grow to become lifelong companions that bring incomparable joy to you and your family. At six weeks old, we begin crate training, potty training, and teaching them basic commands. Everything we do for our pups ensures they grow up to be well-socialized and confident and can transition into your home seamlessly. Our puppies are bred in Standard, Petite , and Mini sizes. The dogs in our breeding program are chosen for their exceptional pedigree, desirable qualities, and exquisite health records. They get plenty of exercise, love, and training, just like their puppies. Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale Goldendoodles are an adorable mix of a golden retriever and a poodle. They tend to become fast friends with children and other animals, making them ideal family pets. Bernedoodles are a cross between the well-natured Bernese Mountain dog and a poodle. Updates and Quick Tips We finally have some availability!!! Please visit our available puppy page to check them out. Mini Bernedoodles can be found here Mini and Petite Doodles can be found here Our puppies receive a high-quality NuVet immune booster supplement daily. Maybe this is your first time or maybe you are adding to your crew, either way, we are so excited for you. We want to make sure that you are prepared to be the very best puppy parent you can be and offer you an amazing resource. Being a responsible dog owner ensures that you provide a plan to train your canine companion to be the calm, well-mannered and the best behaved doggie that you could ever want. A trained dog is less stressful, not only in the beginning, but for life. Proper socialization and manners will give you the dog you are envisioning. But you have to do the work and stay committed. They deserve it! Start training them the day they come home and do it from the comfort of your own house. Online training is one thing, but an entire lifetime membership is a whole new adventure for you and your pup. Please get started today, before you pick up your new fur baby, and make a plan to set you both up for success! Make sure to download the app!! So, how do you do that? Visit www. Below is the link to the dog food we feed and recommend you give your dog for a lifetime. Showing 1 - 13 of 13 resultsPage 1 - 13 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. We are currently accepting deposits so that you can hold the pup of your choice.See all F1B mini Goldendoodles ready for their new home! Burlington There are 5 males and 2 females available for adoption! They were born July 20th and have their first set of shots with dewormer All pups were raised around other animals and children. They have.Hypoallergenic and non shedding! Mom is mini Goldendoodle, dad is Mini poodle. Both parents, mom gentle Mini Goldendoodle 24lb , and dad an adorable mini poodle 9lb, Introducing Curly Coated Cockapoo Puppies! Are you ready to add a bundle of joy to your family? Look no further than.He is 8 weeks old, having been born on July 16, .He has received one set of shots. He also has been microchipped and his.Non-Shedding, lbs. Please Contact Puppies Goldendoodle F1B Richmond Hill Our puppies are raised in a loving home environment, which ensures they are well socialized and ready to become valuable members of your family. Thanks to their hypoallergenic wool, they are the.Some search tips we've found useful: Try a different or more general keyword Expand search location. Fred is the most amazing dog we could have asked for. He is so smart and so funny. His temperament is amazing. He runs so fast at the off-leash dog park and then just chills at home. He has given us so much more than we could ever give back. From the moment we got Gracie out of her crate at the airport we were all in love. She was born happy and I would like to think that we have had a lot to do with that too as she approaches her second birthday. She loves to play tug…especially with Elliott, and have balls thrown at her to chase, but never understood giving the ball back. She loves belly rubs from Elliott times a day. As we are both home a lot she is very secure and lives by a schedule. Everyone who meets her loves her…to the extent that older women come out to hug her and thank her for her kisses. Gracie loves little kids and rolls over for belly rubs from them. She loves to roll on fake grass, even cement, to scratch her back. Gracie is fascinated by cats — she just watches them. If they arch their backs, she turns away. She is very respectful of older people too. At night, Gracie snuggles between us…and wakes an hour after Elliott, who is up at , then goes out with him and comes back to bed. If she had it her way, she would graze breakfast late and often I have to coax her. She loves the Vet! Well…she loves everyone and gets so excited when she knows she is going to daycare. Perhaps if one of us had gone, she would have been fine, but it illustrates how much she loves us and depends on us. We never leave her for more than four hours so she knows we always come home to her and never leave her very long. She loves to snuggle and is the very best girl, which of course we tell her all the time. Gracie is very smart. I have a white electric BMW 3I car. Elliott was walking Gracie one evening and I was out. She saw a version of my car and stood on her back legs whining for me, thinking it was my car. She knows a lot of English and always tells us if she needs to go out, especially when it is off schedule. I recommend you, Sherry, all the time. Our neighbor got a Mini Labradoodle from another breeder and it is already neurotic at 10 weeks. If Gracie wants to play and the phone rings, and we need to take the call, she respectfully goes behind the chair, sometimes dreaming with little noises or small snores until we are available. She is so easy to train and so good to please people. She is always ready to play and she is an excellent traveler in the car. We are really in love with our dog. No shedding at all! There is no problem with some dog allergies we had a few years ago with our previous dog. She is the perfect dog. Thank you again for this extraordinary match. Neither my husband nor I ever had pets growing up, so we were hoping for an easy pup — we got her! It was love at first sight. None of us will forget the day we picked her up from the airport, she was very affectionate, and CUTE! She is now 23 lbs. She is gentle, hilarious and very friendly. We never went through the nippy phase with her, and crate and potty training went extremely well. She will do anything for freeze-dried chicken! She is on her third puppy training class, and is smart as a whip! And everywhere we go people want to know her breed and where she came from! She loves tug-a-war, and running around in the snow. Miss Fifi loves to play with other dogs and is never shy about mixing it up with big dogs. She is full of personality and rarely ever barks. Not so long ago my 7 year old, Charlotte, used to scream at the sight of a dog, now she will sit with Miss Fifi on her lap and cuddle her, and hand feed her. Now our girls do not go to sleep at night without a kiss from their puppy, she was worth every minute of the wait! We all absolutely love her to bits, we cannot thank you enough! Anyone with questions for us, feel free to email me, [email protected]. He became quite attached to that cone and had a hard time giving it up. He realized that he could flick the snow up with it and chase it. With all the extra snow in the cone it was an added bonus because he could have a drink too! When we went to throw the cone out you could tell that he still wanted it. He stuck his neck out for us to put it back on him and when we did he went tearing around the house, he was so excited, he would flick his toys in the air and carry on like a maniac. He certainly is a great companion and we are enjoying him a lot. He also loves to pick the girls up from school. He enjoys the kids crowding around him. He kisses them all and loves for them to pet him but never jumps on them which really impresses me. However, as soon as he sees my girls coming towards him he goes nuts and tugs at his leash until he greets them…or I should say, until he licks them to death and gives them big hugs. We took him to a leash-free dog park that we have in the city. He met a lot of new friends! He and two other pups enjoyed rolling around with each other in the snow, having the occasional game of chase and playing together. That is a major treat for him to go there! We met another doodle there that came from you. Small world. We get lots of compliments on him. We have lots of people who have volunteered to watch him if we ever need a babysitter. The only time I find hair is after I brush him and the hair is usually on me! Thanks again, Sherry, for matching us with Dexter! She is now a southern girl living in Nashville, TN. She has been the most wonderful addition to our family. She loves to chase butterflies, play in the yard, play with our children, and guard our front door! She loves to stay on the front porch and watch people walk through our neighborhood. Everywhere she goes she gets lots of attention and compliments. She loves to be with us everywhere we go. She was very easy to train and is very, very smart. She adores our son and we cannot wait until she is old enough to sleep with him at night. Thank you so much for matching her with our family. She is a very good match and we love her. She is doing very well in her puppy classes, I would have to say she is one of the best, if not the best student. She is very smart and a real quick learner. You did a fabulous job of matching her up with us. She is perfect for our family. I love the way she loves to cuddle and always wants to be near us. She is very affectionate. I guess you can tell I adore her, well I am not the only one, the whole family does. The only problem I have is I think she may be a little too attached to me. She is such a doll! Sherry, you were right when you said that he would always want to be with us. He is so inquisitive and always eager to be at our side no matter what we are doing. He is a wonderful traveler who really loves going for rides in the car. I think the thing I love best about Oliver is his temperament. He always seems to be such a happy little dog…who hardly ever barks. I must tell you that I believe Winter is his favorite time of year…. We call him our little polar bear. We have a really large backyard and Oliver shows the true retriever side of his breeding…. He can retrieve anything and especially loves to catch a well-thrown frisbee…. Oliver is a Superstar! Oliver is just the perfect size for us weighing in at 36 lbs. We are often stopped during walks or when we go to the leash-free parks by people who wonder what breed he is. When we say he is a Goldendoodle, many are surprised at his size but comment on how perfect it is. Everyone falls in love with him as soon as they meet him. They tell me all of the time what a good baby girl I am and how proud they are of me. I am only 4 months old and I can sit on command, retrieve my stuffed Toad and ball, and of course find my bone when asked to. My parents take me on big walks in the trails behind our house and I love it — I run and smell everything I can! This is Kirby who was born from Andrex and Eddie on October .We are extremely happy that we purchased our puppy through you and have been through one puppy kindergarten class and will be starting one more next week. Thank you again. She is a very gentle and lovey dog and so kind with us and our children. We are going to a puppy playgroup and Shiraz likes this very much to play with other puppies. Shiraz likes to play with everybody. The reactions of other people to Shiraz are unbelievable. The veterinarian and the playgroup teachers praise her character and also the breed from Shiraz. Thank you, Sherry, for this wonderful dog. She was shipped from Toronto to Switzerland and came out of this little case and started immediately to play with us, eat and drink something and came with us in the car as if she knew us already a long time. We got from Sherry all the paperwork, so that the customs clearance and veterinary inspection at the airport went without any problems. She is so great!! We just love her! Then she sits quietly and patiently until we take her out. We are so happy we have her. Thanks for all of your help in picking out the perfect dog for us. She was very quick to house train, and has only had a few minor accidents in the early going. She does not like her kennel, because she is so sociable and wants to be around us all the time. We are persevering, but it is hard at times — we know in the long run it will all turn out for the best, but when she looks up at you with those dark black eyes, your heart melts. My wife, who was reluctant to bring a dog into the house, is in love, head over heels, with her. The folks at my office all want one, and are always asking about her. I have 3 neighbors who have tried to smuggle her away — and I learned all this in the first 2 weeks after we brought her home. He knows he can wrestle like mad with Mike, but is instantly calm when a toddler wants to hug him. His lovely, kind personality is priceless in a place where a lot of people have never had contact with a dog before. He really is a perfect little ambassador. People have literally stopped their cars in traffic to meet him. He loves to play ball and recently started rollerblading with me. He loves the exercise and behaves very well. I was almost sad to have it cut to help him with the heat. He is a loving and lively puppy that adjusted to his new family without any problems. When outside, he is a fur ball of energy and he can easily relax in his crate just as well. Only 10 weeks old, he already understands his name and knows to sit for a treat. Thank you so much, Sherry, for choosing such a perfect dog for our family. He is all that we had hoped for and more. Thank you also for being so open to follow-up questions and comments, you obviously care a great deal about breeding high quality dogs and for their well-being.

Only interact with dogs that are safe and you know for sure will have positive reactions to your new German Shepherd. Forcing them will only make them develop stress and anxiety in new situations and with animals. Think quality, not quantity, when socializing your German Shepherd. There are tons of new things your dog needs to get comfortable with. Use treats and positive encouragement when they investigate a new situation with confidence. Train daily. Make it fun. Punishment will only cause your dog to fear you and increase anxiety. Crouch down to offer them a gentle scratch and pet. This connects their name to paying attention to you and marks you as a positive leader, which is important for obedience training and living with their new family. Always work on rewarding good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. The goal is to build trust in the first few weeks and months that you have your new dog to create a bond. And dogs are actually happier when they are trained rspca. Keep the sessions short, but have multiple training sessions throughout the day. Never end training on a bad note. For example, give them a command they know for sure so they finish with success. Read this guide to learn all about the basics of proper German Shepherd obedience training , including a helpful training schedule and the foundation commands. Be prepared for chewing by offering the right options. Biting and chewing are natural instincts for dogs and puppies. These actions provide them with opportunities to investigate the different amounts of pressure to use in relation to the purpose of their biting. Your job as their new owner is to help your pup understand and educate them on what is appropriate to bite, nip, and chew. This teaches them your signal and cue. They should let go or look a bit startled. Follow their release with praise or a tasty treat when your dog stops the unwanted behavior. Do NOT physically punish your dog! Instead, redirect them to a proper chew toy. Sometimes puppies teethe and their gums are sore and need something to chew. Other times adult German Shepherds have a desire and natural urge to bite for relaxation and to reduce anxiety. Only use safe, non-toxic chew toys, which are found listed here, in the best strong chew toys for German Shepherds to avoid boredom. Avoid accidents by managing the home environment. Create a set routine and schedule and stick to it to avoid accidents and train your puppy faster. Say hello to your new sloppy family member… They not only shed everywhere but also dump water out when drinking, spill their food, and… Have total disrespect for your carpets! You must have them in a secure area or watch them all the time to avoid any accidents. No matter what you will clean up some kind of bodily function when owning a German Shepherd. So, do yourself a favor and stock up on pet stain and odor remover! Use food-dispensing toys and slow feeders to keep them at a healthy weight. This is a food toy called a Kong Wobbler. Keep to a schedule so that you can control their food intake and watch their weight. Instead, use rubber toys in which you place part of their food to help control their voracious eating. I like to use a Kong Wobbler for both puppies and adults. Even better? Puppies are more responsive to the Ignore method of training. As a new German Shepherd owner, you might think you need to appease your dog all the time or give in to their excessive attention-seeking. In my experience, this is one of the most effective training methods that you can use when owning a German Shepherd. Put simply, here are the basics to use the Ignore method of training: You ignore the behavior that you want to stop or reduce. On the flip side, you give attention to the behavior you want to encourage. The hard bit is ignoring a very intelligent German Shepherd who is persistent! Give your German Shepherd a job at home so they stay entertained. This represents big challenges as a German Shepherd owner. You must be smarter than your dog! But the jobs can be as easy or difficult as you have the time and energy to train. This is not a mentally lazy dog, but a breed with extremely high intelligence and a huge breadth of application for that intelligence. This can easily be accomplished by investing in a crate or exercise pen. This also provides a safe place for your puppy to sleep and helps with potty training. But another great way to keep your eyes on your puppy, which can also help during potty training, is to keep your pup leashed or tethered to you in the house. Leashing your dog inside will reinforce your bond, keep your puppy safe, and alert you when they start sniffing around to go potty. Durable, nontoxic plastic and rubber toys and treat puzzles can help keep your busy puppy occupied and out of trouble. An interactive toy such as this Kong Wobbler is a great example of a safe puppy toy. Begin training young Training begins the day you bring your puppy home. Puppies can easily start their basic commands such as sit, stay, place, off, etc. Even as puppies, they love to please their owners and enjoy learning new things. However, they require consistency and leadership to become confident, well behaved dogs. Exercise is mandatory This breed is very active and even as young puppies require some form of exercise or they become destructive. The younger the puppy the less exercise they need but owners should be prepared to spend time exercising their dog, every day, throughout their lifetime. Fortunately, exercise can come in many forms such as playing in the yard and going for walks. Line up your vet and other providers If you already have a vet and service providers, this is not as important. German shepherds do best on high quality, large breed puppy food that is easy to digest. Flying Saucer Puppy Food Dishes help prevent young puppies from walking in their food. Consistent rules and schedule When training your puppy, they need consistency and an understanding of what the house rules are. Decide early on what they will and will not be allowed to do and incorporate those boundaries into training. For example, if the puppy is not allowed on the couch, they should never be allowed on the couch. If you want them to sit before going outside, they should always sit before going outside. Keeping to a schedule, such as feeding them at the same time each day, also helps with potty training. Consistency helps them grow into confident, well-adjusted dogs while inconsistently can cause anxiety and confusion. In other words, set your puppy up for success. Please share these tips with all your friends. A general rule of thumb is that a puppy can hold her bladder for approximately one hour for every month old they are. Most puppies find their way to a new home at months old, so they should go for a toilet break every hours to start. How often should my puppy poop a day? Typically, most pups will go once or twice a day — although some may go four or more times! How many hours should a German Shepherd puppy sleep? On average, a German Shepherd puppy will sleep for 18 hours a day. Some pups sleep longer than others but they usually sleep between 15 and 20 hours in a hour period. As puppies get older, they sleep less. The average 4-month-old puppy sleeps a little over 11 hours a day. Should I sleep with my German Shepherd puppy? You should not sleep with your German Shepherd puppy during the first few months home. Yet you can let your pup sleep beside you in a crate or a dog bed. Until they are completely up, they flop around, go up and down. You can help your puppy to strengthen her ear muscle by whistling and making funny noises that perk up her ears. When do German Shepherds start teething? Starting at 4 months old, German Shepherds will begin to lose their puppy teeth. But some puppies start losing their teeth earlier or later. You may discover a discarded tooth on the floor. Or you may see a few drops of blood on her chew toy. And it is not uncommon for a puppy to swallow her tooth, which is perfectly normal. When do German Shepherds get all their adult teeth? An adult German Shepherd should have 42 adult teeth. The small incisors in front usually come in first, followed by the big canines, the premolars and the molars. All adult teeth should be in place around months old. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is very common. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is 6 months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. German Shepherds grew into their full size between 18 months to 2 years old. But they are not considered adult dogs until they reach the age of 3 years old. If your pup is still young, one of the most effective ways to calm her down is to give her regular mental and physical exercise. The rule of thumb is that you should give a puppy 5 minutes of exercise for every month old they are. For example, a 4-month-old puppy would need 20 minutes of exercise. When do German Shepherds get their full coat? She will start the coat change on her face first. Then her fluffy puppy coat will be replaced by the smoother adult coat down her back, towards to trail and gradually down her sides. When do German Shepherds start shedding? While their shedding is especially intense during the spring and fall, they lose their undercoat during the rest of the year. Other Than Vacuuming When should I bring my puppy for the first vet visit? You should bring your new puppy to see a veterinarian no later than 2 days after coming home. Some breeders require this within 48 hours as included in their sales contract. It is very important for your vet to examine your puppy to look for signs of disease. When should a German Shepherd puppy get her vaccination? Your German Shepherd puppy is recommended to get her first vaccination distemper and parvovirus between weeks of age. Here are the recommended vaccinations from AKC for your reference: Some dogs do not need every vaccine. You should always discuss it with your vet. When should my German Shepherd puppy be wormed? A German Shepherd puppy should be wormed for the first time at 2 weeks of age, then at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks old fortnightly until 12 weeks of age. After this, they can be wormed monthly until they are 12 months old. When do female German Shepherds go into the first heat? Female German Shepherds started their first heat as early as 7 months old, but this may vary from dog to dog. During that time, they may begin mounting other dogs or could become touchy or grumpy. There will be discharge and many owners use feminine pads and a diaper-type arrangement to keep the house clean. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior AVSAB recommends that pet guardians begin taking puppies on walks and public outings as early as one week after their first round of vaccinations, at about 7 weeks old. Instead of going for a marathon for the first time, it is advised to build up the distance with your GSD with time. Remember dogs cannot sweat like humans to reduce their body temperature. When can I walk my German Shepherd without a leash? Never let your dog go off-leash where there might be traffic or where he could injure himself. PART V German Shepherd puppy socialization guide Socialization helps them learn what to expect from the world around them and gives them the tools they need to navigate it as they get older. This includes new people, dogs, and animals, learning how to interact with new environments, and being exposed to a wide variety of sounds, smells, and sights. Socialization is especially important in German Shepherds starting from as early as 8 weeks old. This is because this breed is hard-wired to be protective of their owners as well as their property. Failing to socialize can make the dog become aloof to strangers. Other common signs of unsocialized in dogs include: Fearfulness or skittishness around unfamiliar people or animals Aggression towards other dogs or people Lack of confidence in new or unfamiliar situations Difficulty with basic training commands Inability to handle being handled or touched Puppies that are well-socialized are more likely to be healthy, obedient pets that make great additions to any household. They are intelligent dogs that can be challenging to train for first-time owners. However, with the right mindset, you can train your German Shepherd to become an obedient and well-behaved canine citizen in no time. At what age should I begin training my puppy? What should I teach my puppy first? Is it ok to crate my pup overnight? What are the basic commands every puppy must learn? How to motivate my puppy? Last but not least, we have compiled an easy-to-follow training guide. This training guide is our best effort in compiling a collection of training resources for any new GSD owner to kick-start training a new puppy — without wasting your time searching forever online. Each part is only one page long with at least one video for a demonstration. German Shepherds are powerful guard dogs that make great pets. However, raising a German shepherd puppy is not an easy task. Make sure you purchase more than enough food a few days before your puppy arrives and create a space for storing them in your home. Puppy-Proof Your Home German Shepherd puppies are curious creatures that love putting their nose in everything around the house. So, the first thing you should do to keep your pup safe is puppy-proof your home. Puppy proofing your home can help you keep your new pet out of certain rooms in the house. You can use baby gates to keep your dog confined in a particular part of the house. You can also cover or replace all the electrical cords in the home. Puppy proofing the house can make it easy for you to train your new pup. Build a Feeding Stand Dogs are possessive creatures; therefore, your new pup cannot feed or drink water using just any bowl in the house. So, make sure you get some high-quality bowls for the new addition to your family. The bowls should be big enough to feed your dog for several years. And instead of putting the bowls on the floor, you can even build a feeding stand for your new pup. A food stand can help you prevent food spillage and save you some cash in the end. It can even stress it out. Make sure you pick a place in the house with less traffic; after all, no pet loves eating in a high traffic place. Create More Space in Your Home for the Dog Adopting a pet means creating room for an extra member of your family in the house. Finding it when your pup is itching for its walk can be quite tedious. So, find out which house plants and flowers can affect your German Shepherd pup. And if the ones in your home are poisonous, you can replace them before your new pup arrives. One of the best ways to keep them from danger is by ensuring your backyard has a high fence. A high fence can help you keep your pet out of danger by keeping it from wandering out of your compound. If you plan on giving your pet free reign, then make sure your fence is high enough. Most pet parents already have other animals in their home. Therefore, you should prepare a safe space for introducing your current pets to the new addition to your home. After all, cats are territorial creatures that need their own space. Create a Dog Potty Area A dog potty area can come in handy, especially when potty training your new pup. Look for a nice place in your compound with less traffic and build a potty area for your new dog. It can be a particular corner in your backyard. A pet door can allow your dog to enter and leave the house at any time. Plus, if the potty region is in your backyard, a pet door can help you prevent your pup from soiling itself in the house. Conclusion Other than protecting us, a German Shepherd pup can bring joy into your life. Make sure you pet-proof your home and create space for your new pup in the house before it arrives. Preparing your home before the pup arrives can make it easy for it to adjust to its new home. Guest Post by:. Or looking to add a German Shepherd puppy to your family and want to know what you might need? Things will definitely go more smoothly if you have everything ready and in place before your German Shepherd puppy comes home. Crate- Crate training is important for your puppy's safety and education. It makes potty training your GSD much easier, too. There are two types of crates: wire or plastic. We prefer the wire ones in most cases. Get the size your puppy can grow into and will fit as an adult, this is usually the 48 version. Wire crates typically come with dividers so you can make it smaller when they're a baby and allow more room as they grow up. Cheaper is not always better. Invest in a quality name brand crate for the safety of your puppy. Dog Collar- start with a nylon adjustable collar. Leash- a six foot non-retractable leash is an essential. I prefer lightweight leather, there are many types of nylon ones that are also good. Retractable leashes such as the flexi-leash are unsafe and detrimental to training, we do not recommend these at all. They run delivery routes all through Texas and other places. They also offer shipping. You can find them online and order through their website. They're also less chewable than plastic. A lot of these pups do like to play in water, and their dishes are no exception. In this case, if your pup is one of those individuals, it's sometimes best to keep the water outside. Toys- Puppies love and need to chew. Nylabone toys are excellent for this and are a great thing to keep in their crate to help them stay calm and busy in there. Skip the puppy varieties, these pups can go straight to the heavy duty adult ones. The varieties that have raised bumps on them seem to be the favorites around here. Kong toys are also good, and can be stuffed with their ground raw food, organic plain full fat yogurt, or other tasty treats, then frozen to make a nice pacifier to keep them occupied. And soft toys or rope type toys should be used only under supervision as it's easy for a puppy to destroy and ingest pieces of these. We don't recommend rawhides for the same reason, also many rawhides are somewhat toxic. Bedding- puppies go through definite chewing phases, so an expensive fluffy bed is generally not a great investment in the beginning. In addition, there will likely be accidents as your pup transitions to their new home with you. So a towel or soft small blanket that's easily washable in the crate works well until your pup is mature enough to handle something nicer. Just be careful they aren't tearing up or ingesting the towel or blanket either. This is a good list of the basics to have upon arrival of your German Shepherd puppy. We are always available if you're shopping and have any questions about the suitability of something you may be looking at. We are happy to help you and your puppy get off to the best start possible so feel free to contact us today! 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Though they may get into trouble at times, Pugs tend to be good-natured dogs. Pugs are usually not aggressive dogs. However, if your Pug is not properly socialized and trained, they can easily develop aggressive tendencies such as nipping, barking or growling due to their headstrong and stubborn temperaments. According to Hills Pet , Pugs are cheerful, laid back dogs and we tend agree with them. But despite their playful attitude, they can be serious dogs. My pug sun bathes outside for hours every day. Pug owner As easy-going as these dogs are, expect them to lounge around and nap for many hours throughout the day. In fact, Pugs are infamously known for their mischievous side. In addition, Pugs can be a little headstrong at times with the occasional stubborn streak. If you have already have a dog, cat or other animal, we have good news for you! Pugs get along great with other dogs. These dogs are all about devotion to the pack. However, there is a caveat. Without proper socialization, Pugs may be aggressive towards the unfamiliar. My pug hates other dogs but tolerates and protects her little Siberian Husky sister only. This may mean meeting on neutral grounds first, such as a dog park or even in the front yard. One thing to keep in mind is that you should never introduce the puppy to your dog while holding the pup in your arms. This can make them feel vulnerable. Instead, let them do their thing, such as sniffing, licking or whatever they decide to do to get to know each other. Can Pugs be Aggressive Towards Humans? Like with other animals, Pugs are not usually aggressive towards other people, including seniors and kids. However, some Pugs do show aggression towards kids by nipping their feet, lunging towards them or just barking at them. Even so, these behaviors are rarely malicious. But it really depends on how they were raised and socialized as a puppy. Planes flying overhead. Neighbors taking out the trash. As a result, there can be a lot of scary things in this world, at least to them. Although this may sound silly, it happens more often than you think. Ever hear of the small dog syndrome? Everyone else is a stranger and potentially a threat. Otis our pug got used to the baby and is now super protective. The possessive nature is not unique to Pugs. Many dogs of all kinds can develop this type of behavior. However, there are many other potential reasons why your dog may be acting out. Pugs are no exception. These signs can be snapping, growling or outright biting. Whether from a medical condition or not, pain can also elicit this type of unnatural behavior from your Pug. Many times the pain comes from injuries while playing too hard, as Pugs tend to do. Other times, pain or discomfort can come from tumors, arthritis, fractures or whatever internal injuries. Never give your Pug medication without the consent of your vet. A mistake most owners make is trying to take matters into their own hands. Please, leave it to the professionals. Not only can it happen with other dogs, but also with humans. Dogs that suffer from this internal desire to become the alpha of the pack can show aggression in the form of growling, biting, snapping and lunging. Of course, not all Pugs even want to be the alpha of the pack. In my 11 years of raising my pug with my other dogs, I have never had this problem with my pug. For example, this Pug owner describes her dominant Pug, saying: My pug thinks she is the alpha. She pulls pillows off the couch and uses them as her toys. She constantly stands at my top of the couch and looks out the window and barks. An owner told me that her female dog will hump her leg and toys all the time. This is a clear sign of a dog establishing dominance over the owner. The best way to combat this is for you to establish yourself as the clear-cut leader of the pack. There should be no struggle for the alpha spot. Food Aggression in Pugs Food aggression can vary quite a bit among individual dogs within a breed. And according to the AKC, Pugs are one of the 10 dog breeds that love to eat the most. But food aggression has three tiers to it: The dog can just growl, which is the first tier. The next level would be the dog snapping at a person or animal when they get too close. Of course, the final tier is biting. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with this. Still, she was protective of the snacks. Socializing the Pug One of, if not, the most important things you can do is to socialize your Pug. The best window of learning for a puppy starts around week 3 and closes sometime between week 16 and .Fortunately, there are many options for socializing a dog. The best and my recommended option is the dog park. If you have time, take your Pug to the dog park after work where there will be plenty of kids, adults and dogs. Dog parks are really the perfect place to socialize a dog. The Pug will be able to interact with all different breeds of dogs and the humans that take care of them! Having an obedient Pug means that you may be able to control aggressive behaviors better. Because Pugs are food-driven dogs, it can help a lot with obedience training since you already know what their main motivator is. However, I want to warn that Pugs are prone to obesity, especially with their lazy and relaxed temperaments. Do you own an aggressive Pug? What have you done that works? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. By Charlotte Oliver Pugs are cool dogs, but the question here is that people do ask are Pugs aggressive which is exactly what this post is all about. We will be discussing the most common things that trigger aggression in Pugs since Pugs are a non-aggressive breed of dog. We will also discuss some ways to control, prevent or fix aggression in Pugs and a lot more. Before we proceed, let me answer your question are Pugs aggressive in a way you can understand it. Pug aggression takes the form of bullying behavior, barking, lunging, and nipping in order to gain attention or assert ownership over his domain. A pug may have gotten his fill of unwelcome attention or just does not want anyone near his preferred area. Aggression can also be a reaction to being alone, with your pug acting aggressively to express his feelings. Causes Of Aggression In Pugs Here are several reasons why your pug could be aggressive toward other dogs or humans, as well as possible solutions to the problem: 1. Pains or injuries This is an excellent reason why your Pug is aggressive: if your dog is in pain, you may expect him to be hostile toward you or other pets. Anxiety in Pugs is triggered by pain, which can be caused by sickness or injury, so if your Pug is acting aggressively, check to see if it is injured or unwell. Pugs that are in pain may exhibit unusual behaviors such as barking, biting, whining, snarling, and so forth. Discomfort may reduce their tolerance in a variety of situations, resulting in aggression in some cases. Pain is not only uncomfortable for a pug, but it can also be highly stressful. Illnesses A condition or stage of a disease that affects the body or mind of a dog is referred to as a canine ailment. This can be caused by ingesting contaminated food or germs, as well as injuries, insect bites, and parasite infections. When your pug is sick and you neglect him most of the time, he becomes hostile against you, your family, and other dogs. As a result of its condition, a sick Pug is always angry and will attack other dogs of any size. Disease in dogs can be caused by parasites, fungus, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, to name a few. This can be brought on by the environment or by eating certain foods, both of which can be prevented by maintaining excellent hygiene. So keep an eye out for symptoms of disease in your pug and take him to the vet for treatment or routine exams. Traumatic experience According to Vetmed rescue dogs suffer from anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD as a result of previous trauma. This is a true occurrence, and it is a primary source of dog aggression. Any dog that has been exposed to trauma in the past is at risk of developing behavioral problems. It might be a one-time occurrence or the result of years of abuse. Pugs that have been exposed to aggressive or abusive family life are more likely to develop emotional disorders. As a conditioned self-protective reaction, they become afraid, and hostility develops. Fear The majority of Pugs only become violent when they perceive they are in danger, are unable to flee, and feel compelled to protect themselves. Approach Pugs with caution to prevent encouraging aggressive behavior, or better yet, let them approach you. When dogs are threatened at any time of day or night, they become violent against other humans or animals in the area. Pugs are companion dogs who are easily scared and annoyed by loud noises and frequent changes in routine. Pugs that are frustrated are more inclined to do unexpected things, so make sure your Pug is pleased all of the time. To solve the problem of Pugs being frustrated, you must first identify the source of the problem and eradicate it as quickly as possible. When the Pugs want your attention, try not to ignore them. Paying less attention than usual is not a good idea. A Pug that is kept in your yard and taught without being taken on walks or mingling with other dogs, pets, or even humans is considered unsocialized. One of the most common reasons for aggressiveness in Pugs is a lack of sufficient socialization. Poor Behavior Training This is the most thorough solution to your question about why do my pug become aggressive against other dogs. Therefore, in order to lessen or remove animosity against other dogs or humans, you must provide your Pug with adequate training. Regardless of the fact that proper training lowers aggression, most dog owners assume that training is just another way to feed their pug. Separation anxiety Separation anxiety in Pugs is a condition in which a dog becomes worried and exhibits behavioral problems after being separated from its owner for a long period. Most smaller breeds, such as Pugs, can develop separation anxiety and begin barking ceaselessly within minutes of their owners leaving. This is one of the most prevalent issues faced by Pug owners, and it is usually caused by a lack of fundamental training. Separation anxiety causes pugs to become aggressive and bark excessively, and they require assistance. Lack of care or abuse Aggression in Pugs is caused by a lack of attention. To properly care for your Pug, there are a few things you should do. Instead of yelling at your Pug when he does anything wrong, correct him. Ensure that your dog is eating high-quality food. How To Solve Pugs Aggression Since aggression in Pugs is triggered by different things, here are some common ways to resolve, prevent or control aggression in Pugs: 1. Counter-Conditioning and desensitization Desensitization includes training in a calm, controlled setting with a very weak version of the issue stimulus. To reduce the impact of reactivity to other dogs, increase the distance between the dogs. This is crucial in order to create settings in which your pug may learn to be calm and relaxed in the presence of other dogs. Seek advice from a skilled dog owner This is crucial when attempting to handle the question of how to prevent your dogs from becoming violent. As a dog owner, long-term dog training will offer you a wealth of knowledge. You should never compare yourself to a professional dog owner; thus, if your Pug becomes too aggressive, seek the advice of a knowledgeable dog owner. Make their lives easier by avoiding the problem if at all feasible. While not all aggressive Pug triggers can be avoided, there are some that can. Toys that are both interesting and interactive should be provided The playthings you buy for your dogs will have a significant influence on their aggressiveness. Dogs can play with a variety of toys, and you may buy up to five different ones and let your dog choose. Keep an eye on your dog to see which play toys he is like or wants to play with more. When dogs play with toys, they appear to be happier, as seen by their bouncing up and down. Keep your pug occupied at all times This may appear paradoxical, but it works; all you need is a nutritious diet. Make a strategy for yourself and follow through with it. Dogs, like humans, have feelings. Start obedience Training Although obedience training may appear to be a burden, trust me when I say it is well worth it. Simple instructions and behavior training are used in obedience training. Finally, this offers a safer environment for dog owners, canines, and the general public who will come into contact with the dog on a daily basis. Types of aggression in Pugs Protective Aggression. Are Pugs Aggressive Dogs? Are Pugs aggressive dogs? Although Pugs have a friendly temperament, they can become aggressive when not properly socialized and trained. Pugs can show aggression by barking, growling, lunging or nipping. The AKC describes Pugs as an even-tempered dog in the official breed standards. Pugs have a loving disposition. Due to their playful and loving nature and being bred as companion dogs, Pugs are not prone to barking , digging or chewing some of the most common dog behaviour problems. Pugs are not usually aggressive towards other people, including seniors and kids, or pets. Dogs can become aggressive when not properly socialized or trained. We will get into the causes further down, but aggression in Pugs is often the result of a fear response. Pugs can show aggression by barking, lunging, nipping, or growling. For instance, a Pug can be aggressive towards a kid by nipping their feet, lunging towards them or just barking at them. Are Male Pugs Aggressive? Some male Pugs will react to other males if competing for a female; something that you can experience in the park. On the other hand, sometimes female Pugs will confront each other for leadership in between the two; a scenario you can come across if you own two female Pugs. Are Pugs Aggressive to Other Dogs? Pugs have a sociable temperament and tend to get along with other dogs and cats. For those reasons, Pugs are friendly not only towards other Pugs but also towards other breeds. A Pug will react adversely when he comes into contact with other dogs and animals due to his own anxiety and fear. For your Pug to tolerate and not react to other dogs, he will need to be introduced to as many dogs as possible. This includes dogs from different breeds, ages and gender. This will help him to communicate in a non-fearful or aggressive manner with others. Let your pets interact whilst you are present, i. Are Pugs Food Aggressive? Pugs love to eat! According to the AKC, Pugs are one of the 10 dog breeds that love to eat the most. Knowing this, you might believe that they can be food aggressive dogs. However, it varies among individual dogs within this breed. Rather than being possessive of their food, a dog that shows food aggression in just guarding a resource. This scenario is more common with rescue dogs that had a traumatic past, which I experienced with a foster Jack Russel Terrier cross. Ideally, you are building a relationship set in trust. If you are having trouble with food aggression, continue reading to find ways to deal with it. Causes of Aggression in Pugs Why is your Pug suddenly aggressive? This unwanted behaviour can be changed. But first, you need to identify the cause or the trigger. Before addressing aggressive behaviour, take your dog to a veterinarian for a complete physical examination since and illness could be the cause. The causes of aggression in Pugs can vary greatly between dogs due to: Genetics: If one of the parents has an aggressive temperament, the pups can inherit the trait. Socialization: When a Pug is not properly socialized i. Environment: Pugs that have been abused or frequently exposed to high-stress, traumatic situations may also develop aggressive behaviours. Experiences: A dog remembers his prior negative experiences and develops a fear response to it. For example, when a puppy is introduced to another dog and gets bitten, that puppy can develop a negative response towards meeting other dogs in the future because he remembers his prior negative experience. Here are the different types of aggression to look for: Illness: Sometimes chemical imbalances such as low thyroid hormone levels or abnormalities of the liver can trigger aggression in dogs. Fear: Defensive aggression is due to fear or anxiety. The main cause of aggression in dogs is fear. Their body-language is submissive they avoid direct eye contact, lower their head and body, tail between their legs, and ears back. But they may snap or bite if cornered. Possessiveness: Pugs can become jealous and possessive. For instance, your Pug is guarding resources. This behaviour comes from anxiety, fear or loss, and a desire to protect important resources such as food, toys, and sometimes even their human owner! Dominance: This is when male Pugs behave excessively confident in front of another male dog. They may try and make themselves look big, even a bit unfriendly. There are things that you, as an owner, can do to encourage your Pug to be friendly and confident when facing unknown situations, people and animals. Just like children, puppies are not born with social skills. And also being able to communicate effectively within his social group. This means your Pug puppy is comfortable around new people, pets and animals, and various places because you have exposed him to these experiences in a positive manner. One of the leading causes of aggression in dogs is fear. Obedience training requires patience, consistency and repetition — but in time you will get your Pug to follow your command and learn the house rules. Training helps your dog to learn what to do and what not to do. Positive reinforcement training or reward-based training should be positive and motivational. The big takeaway of this method is that it encourages your dog to repeat good behaviour. If dogs are not rewarded i. Insider Tip: Dogs interpret any attention eye-contact, yelling or getting angry as a reinforcement of behaviour. A positive reinforcement training approach will help with: Teaching your dog good manners. Socialization, and how to continue to being sociable as they grow. You can also get this here. Happy training! Playing] October 27, by Susan Do you have a Pug puppy who is aggressive? You may be wondering why your puppy is so aggressive or if they are playing. Aggressive behaviors in puppies can be confusing, but there are ways to tell the difference. This article will teach you how to tell if your dog is playing or showing signs of aggression and what to do about it. If your Pug puppy is showing signs of aggression, it may have to do with the following: They have learned the aggressive behavior helps them get what they want. Have been punished incorrectly or too harshly. That said, every puppy or dog can be pushed into aggressive behavior depending on their circumstances, environment, upbringing, etc. Some people, especially first-time dog owners have a hard time differentiating play vs aggression. Playing Vs. Aggression Puppies in general are very active and hyper. They are constantly on the move and you can see them exploring their environment. Their goal is to learn more about everything around them, mostly through play. Puppies love to wrestle with each other or chase toys for fun because they enjoy moving fast while playing. They may even growl or nip at you when you try taking their toys away. Playful behavior in Pug puppies is different from aggressive behavior. Learned Behavior Pugs may learn to act aggressively by watching you act aggressively towards them or others, or you may discipline them with aggressive actions shouting, growling, pushing. A Pug owner needs to maintain an even temper and avoid using any sort of forceful or violent punishment so you do not teach your pup to act aggressively. Think of it as having a child. Punished too Harshly Punishing a puppy too harshly can cause aggression. This article will show you how to discipline your Pug puppy using positive reinforcement , which works best. You can avoid this by finding a way to spend more time with your pup. Pugs love being around their humans and too much neglect can cause behavioral problems. A puppy raised in a household with other animals is more likely to be well-adjusted than one who lives in an apartment or house where he or she is the only pet. A puppy that grows up with children that are not taught how to handle, play, or interact with a puppy can cause aggression. It will cause the puppy to become aggressive as a way to defend itself from the children. Lack of Socialization We hear about the importance of socializing our children with others their age. Doing so teaches them how to interact, behave, and play with others. Puppies, like our human children, need to be exposed to other canines so they can learn appropriate behavior. Puppies learn about aggression and playfulness by playing with other dogs. They will learn how they should behave in these situations by observing you as you react during these situations. Hormonal Changes Puppies experience a dramatic change in hormone levels at the time of puberty. Such as you see with teenagers in your home, these changes can lead to physical and behavioral problems. The hormonal change can cause aggression in both dogs and humans at this time. During adolescence, many dogs may bark more often, or show sudden signs of aggression. Aggressive Pug Puppy Warning Signs Now that you know what can cause aggression in any breed, how do you spot the signs early? After all, the sooner you spot the signs, the easier it will stop the behavior before it escalates. Early signs of aggression in puppies include being possessive over food and toys. Is your Pup protective over their food bowl? Does he or she growl, snarl, or snap at you when you walk by as they eat? Do they get mad or try to bite you when you reach for their bowl or pet them as they eat? Now that you know the signs, you may be asking how to deal with the aggressive behavior? Depending on the severity of the problem, you may want to consult with a professional dog trainer. Reinforcement training works best for aggressive dogs, especially, if you have rescued your dog from a bad living situation. Many online books and dog training courses will show you how to properly use treats to reward good behavior. Final Word Pugs are not known for being aggressive, but you should still be able to identify the difference between playful and aggressive behavior. After all, any dog regardless of breed can develop signs of aggression. Like children, need stability and discipline in their life. The best way of teaching your Pug puppy how to behave is through positive reinforcement training methods that avoid punishment. This will ensure you teach them what you want without making it worse by adding on extra aggression problems. August 15, Fact Checked When looking to add a dog to your family, one of the first factors you must take into consideration is which breed best fits your lifestyle, personality, and interests. Each dog breed has breed specific characteristics that govern their overall temperament, needs, and potential health issues. With this in mind, each dog has their own unique personality and temperament within the overall breed and finding the right fit for you will leave you with a dog that brings you joy and lightens your life If you are considering a Pug as the right breed for you, you may be asking yourself, are Pugs aggressive? Pug aggression can arise and may be brought on by a variety of external variables, and knowing the inner workings of potential Pug aggression will help you make an educated choice about whether or not a Pug is the right furry friend for you. Pug Temperament When analyzing whether or not Pugs can be aggressive, it is important to establish a baseline of typical Pug traits and characteristics. Pugs are known for being extremely loyal and loving to their owners, and possess a silly streak that has earned them a reputation for being the clowns of the canine world. Pugs are often intelligent, which can lead to them being mischievous and headstrong when attempting to train them. Pugs are small in stature and were originally bred to be a lap dog, which results in many Pugs being very affectionate with their owners and wanting to be as close to them as possible. Aggression in Pugs Though Pugs can be very friendly and loving, they can become aggressive when not properly socialized. Aggression in Pugs is often manifested in barking, lunging, nipping, or growling. Pugs may be trying to establish dominance within a space that they feel is their territory through this behavior. Often, aggression in Pugs is also the result of a fear response. When a Pug is not properly socialized with other dogs , people, children, and noises, Pugs will react adversely when it comes into contact with these people, animals, or sounds due to their own anxiety and fear. Pugs may also only exhibit aggression within a certain context, known as a trigger, which is a unique situation that brings out a certain behavior in the Pug. Triggers vary widely between dogs depending on the breed, individual personality, and socialization as a puppy. Pugs may also demonstrate aggressive behavior in response to being left alone in an attempt to make their unhappiness known. Causes of Aggression in Pugs The causes of aggression in Pugs can vary greatly between dogs due to their genetics, socialization, training, and environment. If a Pug has one parent that is aggressive in nature, that may be passed down and may be a reaction exhibited by the puppy as well. In addition, if a puppy grows up around a parent that frequently shows aggressive behavior, they will begin to mimic this behavior as they become an adult. Another frequent cause of aggression in Pugs is a lack of proper training and socialization. Having a dog is a tremendous commitment and requires an owner willing to dedicate the time and resources necessary to show their dog the world and teach them how to properly respond to it. In addition, Pugs that have been abused or frequently exposed to high-stress, traumatic situations may also develop aggressive behaviors. Another possible cause of aggression in Pugs is a negative developmental experience that has left a lasting impression. One example is if a Pug puppy is introduced to another dog that tries to bite your dog or is overly rough with him, then your pup may respond negatively in the future when meeting a different dog because it remembers his prior negative experience and has developed a fear response. Preventing Aggression in Pugs Though Pugs can develop aggressive behaviors, they do not always exhibit aggression and innate aggressive behaviors can be remedied through training and dedication. One of the most important things you can do to help prevent aggression in your Pug is to properly train and socialize him for the entirety of his life. As owners, you teach your dog how to see and respond to the world around them. It is important to put your Pug in a variety of situations with different people, dogs, children, sounds, objects, so that if any aggressive behavior arises, you can correct it and teach your dog to respond differently in the future. How to prevent Pugs behaving aggressively Pugs are an ancient toy breed — they have graced the laps of rulers and aristocrats for hundreds of years. They are popular for their loyal and affectionate disposition, and human-like facial expressions. But unfortunately, the demand for dogs with increasingly flat faces has created enormous problems with brachycephalic diseases in the Pug breed. The steep cost of treating these problems often leads to Pugs being surrendered at dog shelters. Once there, they may have difficulty being rehomed. Partly due to needing ongoing medical care, and partly due to adopter anxiety about the risk of aggression in dogs with unknown histories. So what are the odds of a Pug behaving aggressively? What Makes Pugs Aggressive? All dogs are capable of acting aggressively. Their wild ancestors would have relied on it in order to survive. There are a few risk factors which are known to make some dogs more likely to behave aggressively than others. Several studies have reported that male dogs across many breeds are more likely to use aggression than female dogs. This is likely to be because male dogs are programmed to roam more widely in search of mates, and thus encounter more threats. Older dogs are also more likely to reach aggressively than younger dogs. This can be a result of pain due to health problems linked to old age. Or due to panic and confusion caused by cognitive degeneration dementia. Lack of general obedience training, and using punishment for aggressive behavior also increases the likelihood of dogs behaving aggressively. But more than anything, aggression in dogs is a learned response to threatening experiences in their past. Which means Pugs are more likely to react aggressively towards very specific triggers, rather than towards everything generally. Aggression between Pugs who live together is uncommon, but it has been documented. Lots of dogs become reactive towards other dogs if they have an unpleasant experience which creates a fear response in them next time. This kind of reactivity is sometimes very particular, and directed only at other dogs of the same breed, shape or color. Specificity means aggression towards other dogs is not a good predictor of aggression towards people. Or vice versa. Pugs can also form aggressive relationships with other dogs they live with. The most common type of aggression between cohabiting dogs is possessive aggression resource guarding. When this happens, it is usually the newest member of the household, or the younger dog of a pair who acts aggressively towards the other. Are Pugs Aggressive To Strangers? All dogs are more likely to behave aggressively towards strangers than people they already know. Smaller dogs, including Pugs, are also more likely to display stranger-directed aggressiveness than larger breeds. But good socialisation before 12 weeks old reduces the probability of Pugs being aggressive towards strangers. Puppy classes are a good way to achieve this, and there is an observable decrease in aggression towards strangers among dogs who attend them. Socialisation works by creating a positive association with meeting new people for your dog. Dogs who are confident that meeting a new person is going to be a happy and rewarding experience are less likely to react with fearful aggression. Pugs are famous for being sweet and affectionate to their human families. They can learn to react aggressively if their family use physical punishments on them though. Surprisingly, one study found that dogs generally, not just Pugs who attended obedience classes were also more likely to be aggressive towards their family. Additionally, rescue dogs are also more likely to be aggressive towards their families. This could be due to their new family unwittingly triggering fear responses which were created before they came home. An experienced behaviorist can help pinpoint the reasons for family-directed aggression, and plan a strategy for overcoming it. Are Pugs Safe With Children? Dogs which bite children often have an underlying health condition causing them pain, or an anxiety disorder. All dogs should always be supervised with all children. No matter how peaceful, trustworthy or reliable you think either one might be. How To Stop A Pug From Biting Aggression in Pugs is usually a learned response to past experiences — typically upsetting ones which make Pugs fearful next time, and like they need to defend themselves. These steps will help prevent aggressive behavior in Pugs: Socialize them widely as puppies. Start obedience training from puppyhood. Use positive reinforcement techniques — punishing aggression will make it worse! Introduce new dogs to the household in a careful and controlled fashion. With one exception — this study found that male dogs neutered or spayed between 7 and 12 months old are significantly more likely to behave aggressively to strangers. Puppy biting A quick note on Pug puppy biting. Many puppies go through a relentless biting stage. During this period, it can often feel like the biting is so bad, that there must be something wrong with your puppy. Maybe they have a built in character flaw which is going to make them aggressive for their whole life? Are Pugs Aggressive? So there you have it. Pugs are not typically considered an aggressive breed, but they are capable of aggression. Usually they will only react aggressively to specific triggers, and behaving aggressively in one situation is not a reliable predictor of aggression in other situations. Fortunately there are lots of things Pug parents can do to prevent aggressive behavior altogether. You probably have an aggressive pug. Again, it completely depends on the circumstance. But this is possible from any dog, not just pugs. If they were brought up in a loving, safe environment and frequently socialized with other dogs, other kinds of pets, and humans of all ages, they are more likely to be a laid-back, well-mannered adult. If they never spent time around humans or other dogs, they might grow up to be suspicious, fearful, or — you guessed it — aggressive with other animals and people. Your pug is no different. Food aggression and resource guarding are relatively common among our canine friends. If your pug had to closely guard their food in the past, perhaps in a kennel or shelter situation, they may be wary of other pets or human family members trying to steal their food now. Fear Response Just like humans, a dog that was exposed to trauma in the past can experience behavior problems because of it, even years later. If your dog was abused in the past, it could lead to aggression in the present. This is especially common in rescue dogs who have come from traumatic backgrounds. Socialization Socializing your pup properly — ideally from puppyhood — is the best way to prevent aggressive behavior. Raise your dog in a comfortable, calm, safe environment. Interact with them frequently, touching and handling them on a daily basis. If you can, expose your dog to all sorts of people — men and women, young children and older folks — as well as other animals if you can do so safely. Just make sure to keep your dog on-leash and watch them closely. Obedience Training Of course, you might adopt a pug well after the puppyhood stage. It just takes proper training. Obedience training involves training your dog to respond to basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. There is also leash training and other areas of obedience training that may be helpful. One key technique in obedience training is positive reinforcement, in which you reward good behaviors in order to discourage bad ones. This might involve giving your pug a treat when they behave well around other dogs or children, for example. Dogs with severe cases of PTSD, or those who display food aggression to the point of biting other animals or humans, will need the help of a professional animal behaviorist or expert dog trainer. Anything from an infection to a physical injury could be causing pain and discomfort, resulting in aggression. So, Are Pugs Aggressive? Are pugs aggressive? No, not any more than other dog breed. It has much more to do with the individual dog than it does with the breed. Proper socialization — ideally from a young age — and obedience training are the primary ways to deal with an aggressive pug. You can go at it alone or seek the help of a professional dog trainer. Read more. Lunging Bossiness If you notice any of these behaviors, it could be a sign that your pet is starting to feel aggressive. This is your Pug telling you to back off. Give them some space and de-escalate the situation to prevent any more dangerous behaviors. What Causes Pug Aggression? In fact, they have been bred as docile companion animals for thousands of years. Pugs are loving companions but each has a unique temperament, history, and set of circumstances. Lack of socialization This is a biggie. They need to be socialized from puppyhood. Insufficient socialization is one of the best ways to encourage poor behavior in your dog. Pups need to be hand-reared with love and care from birth. This gets them used to human touch, smells, and sounds. It also replaces any aggressive instincts, replacing them with desired social behaviors. If their new owner is hostile or neglectful, that pup is going to protect itself as best it can. This is a real phenomenon and a major cause of aggressive behavior in dogs. Any dog that is exposed to trauma in their past is vulnerable to behavioral change. It could be an isolated event or the culmination of abuse over time. Typically Pugs develop these emotional problems after being exposed to violent or abusive home lives. They become fearful, and aggression develops as a learned self-protection response. Aggression is one possible symptom. And Pugs are just the same. If your Pug starts to demonstrate aggressive behaviors out of the blue, contact your vet immediately. They may be in significant pain or discomfort. The best way to avoid this is to nip it in the bud before it even becomes a problem. Food Did you fight over food with your brothers and sisters growing up? If you did, I bet it got pretty intense from time to time. Nobody wants to give up that last slice of oh-so-delicious chocolate cake. We all get snarky over our favorite foods from time to time. And our Pugs are no different. They are big foodies. Food aggression is a well-known phenomenon in the dog world. Dogs are genetically programmed to protect this precious resource. Think of it that way and, actually, we could say that their behavior is more justified than ours. So there we have it. The best way to treat Pug aggression is to prevent Pug aggression. That means training, training, training. With proper training, exercise, and lots of TLC your Pug will have no need to use unwanted behaviors around you or your family. So what exactly should we be doing? Obedience training is based on simple commands and behavior training. At the end of the day, this creates a safer environment for owners, canines, and the general public who will encounter the dog on a daily basis. So, what are some obedience training techniques? Positive reinforcement To prevent aggressive behaviors from developing in an otherwise, well-behaved, animal, use positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. Since Pugs are so food-motivated, using a favorite treat as a reward is sure to go down well. Distraction Food can also be used as a distraction method. Distract your Pug from undesirable behaviors with a firm command. Let your Pug reflect then redirect their attention with a treat. It works wonders for Pugs too. Your pooch will soon learn that aggression leads to serious boredom. Without socialization training, a Pug is at greater risk of developing unwanted, or aggressive behaviors. They may fear humans, resulting in defensiveness. Likewise, when pups are removed from the litter prematurely they miss important developmental milestones. When we break it down, socialization is just common sense. Socializing a litter involves: Raising pups in a comfortable, clean, warm environment Giving pups healthy food and access to clean water Keeping pups with mom Pug and litter for no less than 8 weeks Playing with, talking to, and bonding with the pups Keeping pups in a calm, stress-free environment Exposing pups to other animals and people Ideally, Pug pups should be socialized by the breeder. If despite your best efforts, nothing seems to be working and your Pug still acts in an aggressive way for no apparent reason, we would always recommend making an appointment to see your vet. It could be that your Pug is suffering from a medical condition that you simply cannot see. If your Pug is in pain, then treating this pain should eradicate any aggressive behaviors. Keeping Pugs Aggression At Bay With the proper care and training, there is absolutely no reason why your Pug should develop aggressive traits. Being aware of the early warning signs is the best prevention. Are Pugs aggressive? By nature, no. But, just like us, life can take its toll on them. A pug that is in pain, or struggling with trauma is more likely to resort to aggression. Pugs come primarily in three colors : silver, black, and apricot-fawn. They have a big round head with large sparkling eyes and are considered an ideal house dog. The Pug has always been popular among the aristocrats over the centuries. Pug Behavior Pugs tend to be loving, charming, and mild with an even temper. Because of these attributes, Pugs are perfect contenders for house and family dogs. They are easy-going with children, mildly sensitive, and relatively friendly to strangers. Sometimes they can be stubborn and slightly tricky to train. Are Pugs Aggressive? A Pug is a perfect family dog due to its personality and temperament. Generally, Pugs are not aggressive. But when not socialized effectively when young, they can be stubborn. Coming across an aggressive Pug is an infrequent occurrence since they take to food-based training easily and socialize fast, especially at a young age. What are the Causes of Aggression in Pugs? Several factors can contribute to aggressive behavior in Pugs, including lack of attention, being left alone for long periods, and neglect from its caregivers. Aggressive Pugs exhibit this trait through being bossy, barking, dominance, rushing, and pecking. Such aggression can be heredity, where parents pass these attributes to their litter. Other aggression causes include ill-treatment, and shouting, more so from handlers. Regardless, you can correct this concern through adequate training and socialization of the Pug when young. Having an aggressive Pug can be problematic, and as the owner, you need to curb this behavior to ensure the dog is friendly, gentle, and family-oriented. Training is necessary when your Pug is young since, at this time, pups are relatively easier to train as compared to older dogs. The training window is typically best at 3 to 16 weeks, but ideally before the 20th week. We recommend enrolling in a puppy training course, such as Pupford Academy , so you can be guided by experts. Training mostly involves behavioral training and socialization with the involvement of both humans and other dogs. These activities teach guide your Pug on how to perceive the world around them and how to respond to it. Socialization can be as simple as taking your Pug out for a walk, generally in a place with both dogs and humans such as a park. Behavioral training involves obedience training, where you teach your Pug basic commands. Training is the best way to prevent aggression. Pug puppies, just like most puppies, tend to be hyperactive. So, what contributes to this hyperactive Pug behavior? Among the leading factors include curiosity, separation anxiety, excitement and playfulness. Hyperactive pugs are likely to demolish things, bark for attention, bite and nip, chase things, and get little sleep. Hyperactive Pugs can be stressful for the owner because they demand attention all the time. But as your Pug puppy comes of age, it calms down. This change usually happens at around one and a half to two years. Occasionally, they will have these sudden bursts just like other dog breeds. These zoomies will only manifest when you expose your Pug to specific triggers such as bath time, which may call for restraining. Are Pugs Emotional? Pugs are emotional creatures. They have an affectionate side and a serious side. This trait is due to the secretion of a hormone called oxytocin, also present in humans, that makes them feel caring and loving to others. These basic emotions will include, joy, love, fear, disgust, and anger. Even so, they can also get depressed and anxious, especially when you leave them on their own for relatively long periods. Do Pugs Have Behavioral Problems? Though most Pugs are typically loyal, obedient, and disciplined, some may have behavioral problems depending on their personality. Common behavioral issues include barking, growling, nipping, whining, dominance, separation anxiety, and stubbornness. These issues differ with different Pugs, and not all Pug owners will encounter them. Final verdict Pugs are great family dogs, and with proper training can be emotional supporters. They are loving, loyal, emotional, and playful, great with children and easy to groom. Because of these attributes, Pugs are an ideal choice for many people. Pugs are sweet. Many call them their babies. Phrases like aggressive Pugs or Pug fighting seems like oxymoron. Pugs are so friendly, and the most lovable, easy-going dog on the planet, the idea of them fighting or being aggressive just seems absurd! Pugs do fight more than we want to admit. Fortunately, underneath that bad behavior is still a sweet Pug baby. So, the success rate of getting them to stop them fighting is high. And they will go back to being your sweet, lovable Pugs as were meant to be. Pug puppies and even Pug dogs can get pretty rough and tumble. Some say Pug puppies can be aggressive. When they are very, very young, they spend most of the time that they are awake, wrestling with their littermates. Playing like this at a young age is a good thing, and part of their social development. Mom and their littermates teach them to not to be aggressive Pugs. Front end down and back end up in the air. Sometimes your Pug baby will slap her front legs on the floor repeatedly. There are no winners or losers. One minute Mimi is chasing Lulu, and the next minute, Lulu has turned around and is after Mimi. They are not being aggressive Pugs. The larger or stronger dog may self-handicap. He may put himself at a disadvantage like lying down, rolling over, or letting the Pug puppy walk on him. Play-growling can sound very serious. Growling is loud and exaggerated, but not aggressive. Their mouths may be wide open while attempting to growl, but no one is clamping down on the other one. This is not aggressive Pug behavior. They keep going back for more. They have a wide-open mouth and a big goofy grin. There is no bouncing; no taking turns, just one Pug going in to make the strike. The hackles stand up on her back. Her body is stiff. Has your Pug ever turned into pure muscle? She may be on the verge of becoming an aggressive Pug. There are no big funny smiles or bouncing up and down. One Pug dog has disengaged and trying to get away from the other. Pugs with flat back ears and curled lips tell you they are not playing. They are being aggressive Pugs. Why You May have an Aggressive Pug Lack of Socialization and Training Although socialization and training are two entirely different things, I believe they go hand in hand or paw in paw. Socializing your Pug or Pug puppy dog at the dog park may or may not be the best thing for her. It is best to socialize your Pug in a dog training class. Generally speaking, everyone has their entire focus on their dogs. The dogs are well-behaved or at least kept in check until they become well-behaved. There is no room for aggressive Pugs in dog training classes. It is best to talk to some dog trainers to see if they incorporate proper socialization into their lessons, such as owners taking turns walking up to other owners while both dogs remain on leash. It is a good way for all dogs to get close to each other while respecting boundaries. Taking your Pug dog or puppy to the dog park has a lot of variables that you cannot control. If your Pug dog is the lone Pug at home and never been around other dogs, it may be overwhelming for him to go to the dog park on a busy Saturday. Bullying at the Dog Park Bullying can take place, and other owners may not understand how traumatizing it can be for a small Pug. The first time I took Mimi to a dog park, she was very young and also the lone Pug in the house at that time. There was a Pug meetup at the dog park, so I thought this would be a great time to introduce her to other dogs. Only friendly Pugs were going to be there. Mimi was timid with the other dogs, and the other Pugs quickly picked up on this. Before I knew it, about 5 to 6 Pugs were chasing Mimi around. She was scared, with her ears pulled back. Some of the owners half-heartedly called their aggressive Pugs away, although the Pug dogs did not comply. Immediately, I picked Mimi up and got her to settle down in my arms. I attempted to put her back down on the ground, but I could see she was scared, and that was it for her that day. Fortunately, we did go to this group when she was older, and there were no long-lasting adverse effects. But there can be. A Pug can become traumatized and always be afraid of other dogs. It has affected their nervous system and, once triggered, can not talk themselves out of the emotional reactions. The same goes for our Pug dogs. Taking them back to the dog park after an event like that is okay sometimes. Sometimes not. If your Pug has been traumatized by aggressive Pugs or other dogs, they may be triggered by being there. Helping your Pug dog work through trauma can be a long process that requires a lot of patience on your part. Later I got Mimi and Lulu involved in training that built their confidence around other dogs, and no bullying was allowed. The message is that this rough behavior is a standard way to act with other dogs. Likewise, your Pug starts giving harsh treatment to other dogs. Raise your standards and keep your Pug safe and sweet. Otherwise, your Pug may think this is normal and act this way with other dogs. Or your Pug may be traumatized and out of their fear response, become aggressive with other dogs. Their fear may push them into a place where they think all dogs are aggressive. When Pugs or any dogs get overly excited, they may forget the social rules and fights starts. Another time of increased excitement is territorial barking. When two dogs see something on the other side of their fence or the mailman comes to the door, they may redirect the Pug aggression onto the other. These situations can trigger even the sweetest Pug to bite. It is crucial if there is something on the other side of the fence that is causing your Pug dogs distress to bring him inside. Bring your Pug inside if this happens. Firstly, our Pugs can not tolerate that type of heavy breathing for long periods. And it is not good for our Pugs or anyone to be left in a high distress situation for long periods of time. As already mentioned, dog parks can offer a lot of excitement in the environment. Also, other dogs may be protective of their ball or owner. He may aggressively approach your Pug dog or puppy. Uncrowded dog parks are better times to take your Pug, whether he is territorial and possessive or a sweet Baby Pug. Family vacations are a lot of fun. Family, friends, and their dogs that you and your Pug have not seen in a while can be stressful for your Pug. Make sure your Pug and all the dogs are safe, and no one needs a break. Be certain no dogs are showing beginning signs of aggression. You may be navigating your relationships, getting reacquainted with relatives and friends. The dogs may be figuring out their relationships with a lot of instincts about territory and protecting their owners. This could result in aggressive Pugs. Their fear response can result in their own aggression. Their fear response can look like barking, growling, lunging, and nipping. Given the opportunity to reach that other dog, they may become aggressive. Change in Routine We all like routine, even our Pug dogs. It tells us the world is a safe place, and we can expect what is going to occur next. This give build stress. We all like routine, even our Pug dogs. The stress has built up over time. You get that taken care of, get to work, and spill coffee on yourself before the meeting. There is too much going on at work, so we skip lunch. And it goes on like this until we get home and our child asks us to help him with his homework. This is how it can go with our Pug dogs also. Their owner skips their morning walk because she is in a hurry to get to work. The Fed-Ex person drops off a package and knocks on the door. That night there is a thunderstorm, and your Pug dog hides behind the couch. She ends up growling at you and backs up. She is exhibiting aggressive behavior. You conclude that your Pug dog is afraid of the thunderstorm, which is true. But throughout the day, many events increased her stress level, which you are not aware of. Pug Dogs Love Food, Bones, Toys, Sleeping Areas Dogs live in social groups, and if you have multiple dogs in the home, this hierarchy does exist and can change throughout the day or situation. This is my bone! Not exactly what you might call an aggressive move, but she is letting her know, using the least amount of energy that she can, that it is her toy. Here are some resources that your Pug dog may feel he or she needs to protect: Food Although Mimi and Lulu never had any fights over food, I put Lulu in her playpen when they eat. Before Lulu ate in her playpen, I would put both food bowls down on opposite sides of the room. They would start eating, and Mimi would run over towards Lulu to get her food. About halfway over, I believe Mimi realized that she just left her own bowl unattended and would go back. That seemed like a rather stressful meal for Mimi, so I began putting Lulu in her playpen. Now there are no running back and forth problems. Toys Toys are also a limited resource. Sometimes I buy a new toy, and it becomes the prized item. Both will do anything to get their teeth on that toy. Pug dogs may just play back and forth with the toy, but you never know. Watch for aggression. Bed Sleeping areas can be a problem. Sometimes there is a favorite bed or blanket that is the coveted position. Generally speaking, I go to bed about 20 minutes before the time I actually want to go to sleep. It is the same routine. Everyone has to get settled in. However, I feel like it is more than just getting comfortable. It has to do with who gets the prime spot with Mom that night. There is a lot of walking around, walking on top of me, and switching positions. Finally, everyone is settled in and feels content with their spot. Bones Bones are considered a high-value resource. I am speaking about the high-value bully stick or deer antler. Even dogs that get along great may show some signs of aggression when these are around. Attention Attention from Mom or Dad can feel like something a Pug needs to protect and get more of. Coming home from work can be a time to look for aggressive behavior. Do your Pugs greet you equally, or is one always pushing the other out of the way? Does one stare at the other Pug baby when you are giving her attention? Believe it or not, this is aggressive Pug behavior. We have an unusual situation in our house. When I give Mimi attention and kisses, if Lulu is nearby, she can not enjoy it. Comment below if this happens in your house. Changes in the Grumble Your Pug grumble has a ranking order, although it may be more challenging to see with Pugs as compared to Pitbulls. The higher-ranking Pug tolerates the lower-ranking members. That action reinforces that the higher-ranking Pug dog is at the top. When a higher-ranking Pug starts to become old and weak, a younger dog may step in. There are displays the younger-ranking dog will engage in to get the older higher-ranking dog to back down. It may be a form of mild aggression. The older Pug dog may get hurt as she is now weaker, may have medical issues. And those aches and pains of the older dog may lead her to be more aggressive. Sometimes dogs will strike out early in an attempt to get other dogs away. Getting romped on by Pug puppies or younger Pugs can be painful to an older Pug with stiff joints. However, the older dog may want to give up her top position and automatically defer. A mid-day afternoon nap followed by a cocktail sound much more pleasant. New Pug to the Grumble A new Pug added to the grumble makes changes in the social group. In such a scenario, the dogs will require some adjustments. The new Pug must find his place in the social hierarchy of the Pug grumble. Or he may be a Pug puppy without a care in the world, jumping all over everyone, oblivious to the signs the other Pug dogs are giving to respect their boundaries. If the new Pug is too assertive or the new Pug puppy is too carefree, there could be scuffles until everyone understands their place. Humans Owners can inadvertently fuel the fire of Pug problems. The owner may give too much attention to the new Pug baby in the grumble, making others jealous. The owner may intervene by trying to protect a lower-ranking dog. The Pug needs to learn to back off. If the owner intervenes by defending the lower-ranking Pug and correcting the higher-ranking Pug, this could escalate problems to aggressive Pug behaviors. We all do this type of behavior. You have school tomorrow. Same-Sex Pug Aggression Some breeds are more likely to engage in same-sex aggression than others. If you own two female or two male dogs, fighting is not unusual at all. Protective behavior or aggressiveness are not standard Pug traits. Therefore, there is a decreased likeliness for behavioral conflicts, but any breed may have this problem In nature, back in the day when wild Pugs roamed the land in grumbles, foraging for kibbles on their own, two males or two females of the same age would not be in the same social group. Once they matured, they leave the group to form groups of their own. Also, in the Pug pack, there were two separate hierarchies; one for males and one for females. It is also vital as hormonal changes in males and females can lead to same-sex Pug aggression or fighting. Dogs become socially mature between the ages of 12 to 36 months. Hormonal changes during heat cycles and pregnancy can increase the likelihood of fights, even between sweet Pug. However, when two females are close in age, there is a lot of competition. These fights occur, especially if the owner is around. Fights may occur over who gets in or out of the door first. I have to be very aware when I let my two females inside. There have been numerous times when I have had to tell everyone to calm down, going through the door. There can be squabbles over toys, food, treats, or the primo sleep location in bed. How to Prevent a Fight with Aggressive Pugs It is always better to prevent a fight, rather than try to break one up. Even two Pug babies can get pretty out of control. You must be willing to dedicate time and money to show your Pug baby the world and teach them how to live in it peacefully. Many people get Pugs because they are so easy going and lovable. However, our Pug dogs still need to learn to socialize with others. As I pointed out earlier in this article, a training arena may be the best place for that. If your Pug does not have problems with aggression, a proper training group will keep him safe while learning to navigate the world of dog socialization. And on the off chance your Pug dog is aggressive, regardless of the reason, we need to step in with socialization and proper training. Your Pug needs to be involved with different people, dogs, children, noises, other things, so if any problem arises, you can teach your Pug dog how to respond to it differently if she is aggressive or timid. Basic obedience training will help your Pug to listen to you better. Therefore, if your Pug is in a potentially volatile situation, you will be able to call him out of the situation or change his focus. Recognize Signals of Possible Fights One of the best ways to prevent fights is to pay attention and recognize subtle signs of conflict. Being watchful gives you an early on chance to separate the Pug dogs quickly and calm everyone down. Pay extra attention while at dog parks and other events where there are numerous dogs and people. Look for signals if there is a high-value item, such as a favorite toy or chew bone. Treats can lead to aggressiveness in Pugs. Watch for signals when they are having their extra rambunctious playtime. Also, if it has ever turned into a real fight, what happened just before it occurred. Look for the signs such as flat back ears, hackles standing up, and uneven winner and loser outcomes. If one Pug is always running and trying to get away, it is time to intervene. Intervene in a way that catches their attention, but is not aggressive. Yelling just adds to the arousal level and may increase the probability they will fight. That spit second lets me redirect them or call them to come to me. I also use a spray bottle. I used to use a long stream of water and spray it directly on them. Somewhere along the line, Lulu chewed on the end, and it only shoots a mist. So, I walk over and either just shake the bottle or shoot the mist. They stop and shake off. If your Pugs are outside and running back and forth with the dog on the other side of the fence, they may turn to their Pug pal on their side and direct their hostility on him. Give your Pugs some alone time is a family gathering or party with a lot of activity. If kids are rambunctiously running around, keep an eye on your Pugs. They may become overly excited, and a switch may flip that the kids are fighting, not playing. This in turn could create aggressiveness in your Pugs. You may notice that dogs rarely fight when then is no human in the room or area. Avoid dog parks if you have a dog that has a possessive demeanor. Not every dog is right for the dog park. Unfortunately, not everyone at a dog park has the same consideration, and even a docile dog can become involved in a fight. Even with this combination, they should be a few years apart. Like I said before, rarely are two dogs around the same age in a pack in the wild. Their wiring is for packs where males and females of different ages coexist. If you do have two females, the situation is not impossible. I think you have a better chance of creating natural harmony with Pugs as our Pugs are breed to be companion, loving dogs, as opposed to hunters, guardians, or aggressive types. Intervene if something looks like more than a minor squabble. You may need to spend more time in training sessions in a group setting. If you own two females or males and they are prone to fighting, never leave them alone together. They should be in separate rooms or crated. In our family, when I leave for work or the store, Lulu goes to her playpen. When I come out of my bedroom, dressed in work clothes, she runs into her playpen area. She has water, some toys, and a blanket. Separate will stop any aggressiveness with Pugs. As always, spaying and neutering your Pug dogs for other reasons is still a good idea. Same for Pugs. It could be their favorite toy, chew bones, high-value bones, like bully bones, treats, or their food bowl. They are more likely to be hyper-alert just as you are when some little kid tries to grab a handful of your Godiva chocolates. Feed your Pugs separately. I think this is always a good idea with Pugs. Most pugs, not all, are chowhounds. They love their dinner and breakfast. They love their food and are going to be more possessive than other dogs. Having two Pugs around food can lead to aggressive Pugs. Once finished, pick up their food bowls, clean them, and put them away. The sight of the other getting near their food bowl can be a trigger to defend what is rightfully theirs. Most dogs will hoard and become extremely possessive of bones and chew toys. If you need to take a bone away and are concerned your Pug dog is so possessive, he may nip you, distract him with something else and then remove it. Do not attempt to separate the aggressive Pugs by grabbing them. I have never known a Pug baby to bite anyone, but it could happen. Usually, I can get away with just shaking my water bottle near my Pugs, and they stop immediately. Overall, they are lovers, not aggressive fighters, so something like this should break them up. If more is needed, grab a baby gate or broom and put it between them. Make sure your loud noise is not you yelling. Your excitement can add to their excitement, escalating the entire situation, and make them more aggressive. The loud noise could be an air horn, door slam, or hitting a spoon on a pan lid. Generally, one loud, startling noise. Not a lot of yelling that is stimulating. I generally knock on the door or wall as if somone is coming over. They stop and look at the door. Once separated, put your Pug dogs in separate rooms. They will assess and evaluate what triggers the fights, who starts the fights, assesses their environment, and much more. These are not trainers. They are concerned with animals who are having behavior problems and set up programs to address and correct the issues. If this does not work, you will want to talk to your CAAB about dividing your home so your dogs can live separately or re-homing your Pug dog. If the dogs still live in a constant state of arousal even though they are separated, re-homing might be the best solution for the Pug dog, although heartbreaking for you. I have never heard of a Pug being re-homed due to aggressiveness. Work with your Veterinary and your Behaviorist to find the right option for your Pug. Hopefully, you will never have to take this route as Pugs are such a gentle breed, but if it does happen, you want to be sure to do what is in the best interest of your Pug dog. Although you can be hopeful, this does not mean it will be easy. Most likely, you will need to involve your Pug dog in group training and keep a watchful eye on their behaviors. Often they will exhibit a signal, sometimes slight, that they are getting annoyed or possessive and are about to lash out on another dog. Get your Pug dog spayed or neutered. Bringing another Pug into the grumble can take some thought on your part regarding sex and age of the new member. These are all life skills we teach our Pugs that do last a lifetime, and as an added bonus, we get to spend more time with our Pugs when training! Post navigation.