how to train a poodle puppy to potty

how to train a poodle puppy to potty

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Puppies are so cute! Just the thought of a little pup romping around the room and playing with his many toys makes people smile. And puppy kisses are the best! But it takes a lot of planning and work to have a successful relationship with the new addition. Remaining with them until then helps him learn how to appropriately play and interact with others. It also teaches him bite inhibition, so that he learns not to bite down too hard on our skin. So what exactly should we expect from our 8 week old puppy? Puppy Proof Your House Puppies are curious about everything. Choose the room your puppy will be in the most and make sure that electrical cords, hazardous chemicals, medications, and small items that can be ingested are out of his reach. When you get him, try to obtain a blanket or toy with the scent of his mother and littermates if possible. That will help him feel more at ease in a new environment. The breeder of my Lhasa apso Ralphie gave us a toy with those scents to help him make the transition, as he had a familiar scent with him which I placed in his pen at home. She was born in rescue but was the last of a litter of nine to be adopted when I saw her. But she made the transition fine. These include the following: Crates and exercise pens. But make sure you buy one with a divider included so that you can adjust the size of the crate as he grows. Collar and leash. Some breeders and rescues provide these. You may also want a harness to walk him. Clean-up tools. Chew deterrent. They make chew deterrents for various surfaces, such as for cloth or for wood such as furniture or baseboards. Toys and chew items. There are so many toys on the market today. Purchase a variety of safe types—some squeak, others rattle. And safe chews like Kong toys and Nylabones are important, because the puppy will explore the world with his mouth. Food and treats. You may want to change the puppy to a food you prefer. Many breeders and rescues will provide you with starter food. Then, if you change it, do so over at least a week or two. Other Preparations In addition to puppy-proofing your home and getting the above-listed items, there are other appointments you should have lined up prior to getting your pup, if possible. Have a veterinarian appointment set for your new puppy to be checked within the first few days after you get him. So, if you can, book the appointment in advance. When you meet with the vet, ask about what vaccinations your puppy will need. Puppies who are eight-weeks old generally have already had their distemper, adenovirus II, parvovirus, and parainfluenza vaccines. Discuss with your vet the appropriate heartworm preventative and flea and tick products for your puppy. Also ask about your puppy being microchipped. A microchip is really important should your puppy get lost. If you have the time, also look into puppy kindergarten and socialization classes. Make sure that the trainer is a positive reinforcement trainer who has experience in training puppies. And the facility should be clean and well-run. All puppies admitted to any classes should also be required to have age-appropriate vaccinations. Post Arrival After your new furry bundle of joy has arrived, the fun starts! And play with him and train him. Some breeders and rescues may have already started to house train him. Scheduling Puppies need consistency. So have a schedule for his feeding, pottying, training, exercise, and socialization. At eight weeks old, he may be getting three to four feedings per day. So feed him each meal at the same time each day. And have a basic schedule for his other needs. You may need other people to help out with some of his needs, such as house training. Socialization Socialization means exposing your new puppy, in a positive manner, to all the things that he will have to face in the real world. So he should be trained to walk over various surfaces, hear everyday noises, and meet friendly people and pets. But you can still have friends and family members over to meet him. And give them tidbits of treats to give the puppy to make any encounter such as petting a positive one. Of course, first give your new puppy a few days to settle in at your home before you expose him to even more new experiences. At home, too, get him used to the sounds of water running, the dishwasher and other appliances running, and the vacuum. You get the idea. Make each a positive experience, giving him a piece of kibble or a small treat. And do this slowly not to overwhelm him. And get him used to car rides. A very young puppy will have to go to the bathroom after he eats, sleeps, and has any excitement including play. He has very little bladder control at eight weeks old. A young puppy can hold his urine about one hour more than his age. So he can hold it about three hours at two months old. You may want to have an exercise pen set up as a safe area. You can place a potty pad at one end and a bed or towel as his bed at the other end. And place a few safe toys, including a puppy Kong. I just make sure to take the puppy out at the right times. Handling Your puppy has to get used to handling and grooming. You can have him chew a safe chew or lick moist food or Kong stuffing out of a Kong to occupy his mouth and make the training exercise positive. Get him used to gently massaging his whole body, including feet and touching his nails. Get him used to gently opening his mouth. Calmly praise any calm behavior. Keep the sessions very short—a few minutes at most. You should do only a part of his body during each session or it will probably be too much for him. If he struggles, calmly wait until he settles before releasing him. Obedience Training Your new puppy is basically a blank slate. He has to learn all the commands to live with us successfully. Training also helps the puppy bond with you. Of course, give him a day or two to settle in for most commands. But you can still help him learn his identity. So, first, teach him his name. You can show him a piece of his kibble or a tiny treat and hold it near your face when you say his name. Do this a few times. Then try to just say his name, not holding the food near your face. When he looks at you, again praise and reward. Remember to never use his name in a negative manner, such as for a correction. Always start any training session without any distractions. Your puppy has to be able to focus on you to learn. One of the first commands we teach our puppies is to sit. You can hold a treat just above his nose and slowly move it back towards his forehead. Calmly praise and reward when he sits. Another command I teach puppies in the first week is to come to me. I make it a lot of fun. Some puppies adapt easily, whereas others buck against the leash. Other Normal Puppy Behaviors Puppies explore the world with their mouths. So the little land sharks will try to chew on you and whatever they can reach. This is where your safe toys and chews come in. Always redirect him to the safe items and praise when he chews them. Puppy zoomies are normal. All of a sudden, your puppy may run around the room bouncing off the furniture. This is normal. Final Thoughts New puppies are so much fun! Do you have a puppy or have you had one? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Check Price on Amazon 6. Make Commands Only Once When it comes to training, what you give is what you get. This is known as command nagging. Teach your pup to heed a command at its first mention. If an order is not executed the first time, show your Lab what you want them to do and make the command again. Repeat that until they learn to obey the first time the command is made. Discipline at the Precise Moment of the Unwanted Behavior Timing is crucial when disciplining your 8-week-old Labrador pup. Dogs will typically forget an experience in 2 minutes. However, they can recall your training commands through associative memory. Once your pup has corrected his unwanted behavior with the desired behavior, reward him with a tasty treat and lots of praise. To learn more about how to discipline your dog, check out my top article, How to Discipline a Labrador: What Not to Do! It can also cause aggression in dogs , as found in this year-long study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania. Using physical punishment such as hitting, kicking, or grabbing the jowls and shaking, is simply animal abuse. Other unacceptable methods are physically forcing the dog down onto its side or back, growling at your dog, withdrawing food, using a shock collar, or tying it for hours. Wean Your Puppy off Training Treats Your Labrador needs to learn that skills and commands are not learned or obeyed for the sole motive of a treat. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when he has repeatedly performed the behavior and completely mastered it in different locations and with various distractions. Nonetheless, your Labrador puppy is still a dog in training, and you still need to tell him that he has done the right thing. The rule of thumb is that they are trained young when it comes to dog training. You should train Labrador puppies as soon as you bring them home, typically around 8 weeks of age. The American Kennel Club AKC indicates that the first key milestone when training a Lab pup is 8 weeks, as soon as they have left their mother. It is a crucial time to lay the foundation for your Labrador puppy to integrate into the family. When you bring your Labrador Retriever puppy home at two months, it has most likely interacted with a few situations and is eager enough to learn and follow the rules of a new home. A recent study scientifically proved that 8-week-old puppies are quite capable of learning at this young age as they quickly learned to open a puzzle box baited with food and remembered the skill an hour later. Interestingly, these puppies learned the skill better from a human rather than their mother. Other studies have also proven that it is effective for future behavior to teach puppies socialization and other skills rather than adults. In this study, puppies who attended a command and socialization training class for one hour a day for six months responded better to strangers than adult dogs who attended the same classes. Are Lab Puppies Easy to Train? Lab puppies are easy to train. They are a working breed that enjoys physical and mental stimulation and have many positive traits. They are intelligent, devoted, friendly, highly social, and love to please. They are often used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, or search and rescue due to their easy trainability. Apart from the age factor, other breed-specific reasons make training a Labrador puppy easy. Here are three examples: Labradors are among the most intelligent dog breeds. In his book, The Intelligence of Dogs, canine psychologist Stanley Coren lists Labradors in the top tier of the smartest dogs. So, even at just two months, your puppy has it in his blood to learn and carry out commands. To perform their original working job of retrieving fish that came off the trawl, Labradors had to be watchful and enthusiastic. These are essential learning characteristics. As game and waterfowl retrievers for hunters, Labradors have to be obedient. Another core training requirement makes your Lab puppy easy to train. With these ten principles on exactly how to train an 8-week-old Labrador, you can now apply them to the key areas your young puppy needs to be trained in. Labrador Puppy Training: Key Areas There are five critical areas in which you must appropriately train your 8-week-old Lab puppy. In the next section, I will tell you what the training entails. How to Socialize a Labrador They say humans are social beings, but that is also true about dogs. Socialization begins with the breeder and continues with you. To socialize a Labrador, expose him to many different places and situations. Include sounds, smells, other adults, children, animals, cars, objects, etc. Dogs who are well socialized in the first 12 weeks will be set up for life. Socializing and training your puppy young plays a significant role in the development of adult dogs, as evidenced in this important study. Here are two key findings: Dogs that are well socialized as pups will behave more positively with humans and are less likely to display unwanted behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. Socialized dogs are more likely to engage in positive social behaviors with humans. They also learn better how to play games with humans, helping them establish a true bond with their owners. As a puppy, you can teach your Labrador social skills and confidence through intentional training moments in the family. Once he has completed his vaccinations, take him to public places such as parks or puppy socialization classes. Put him outside hourly and learn to anticipate when he needs to go. Reward and praise him when he does go outside. Usually, puppies will need to relieve themselves early in the morning and after meals. Use their natural rhythm for daily pee or poop walks. Dogs hate messing in the area they sleep in and usually hold it. Nonetheless, very young puppies might be unable to do so. Walk your Labrador after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to allow him to do his thing. Repeat the same in the evening. Puppies will need to be allowed to relieve themselves every hour, and for vaccinated dogs, a short walk every hours is an ideal routine to prevent them from peeing around the house. If you crate your puppy because you need to go out, get someone to help you stick to the routine. Repeating this routine for the first few days will give your new furry friend a good idea of his expectations. Check out my guide to Labrador potty training here. To crate train an 8-week-old Labrador puppy, start as soon as you bring him home. Slowly introduce him to the crate by throwing a treat inside and let him explore the crate voluntarily. When you first leave him with the door closed, make sure he is tired as he will sleep and not be afraid. Check out my Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens recommendations, including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. Here are six key things you should practice when crate-training your Labrador: Keep your puppy in the crate at night. Initiate crate training from the very first day you bring your puppy home. It will be harder to succeed in crate training if your puppy gets used to other sleeping arrangements. My puppy cried during the first night, but she was just fine after that. Lab puppies can be left alone in a crate for 1 hour for each month of age for up to 4 hours. Keep your dog in the crate when you are out of the house. This is also for his safety, such as when you are cooking. Do not let your Lab out of the cage when barking or giving you those puppy eyes. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate, i. He will quickly learn that being quiet leads to nice things. He will quickly learn that this special place is just for him. Various toys and bedding will offer some comfort for your Labrador. When purchasing a crate for your puppy, the best ones will give your Lab enough room to stand, sit, turn, and lie down comfortably on his side with paws outstretched. Instead, buy a crate with an adjustable divider that allows him to grow into and choose a standard metal model with either a single or double door. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel , also from Amazon, are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog. This one is even airline adaptable and meets most airline cargo specifications. Older dogs may refrain from biting because they have been trained not to hurt as they have learned their bite inhibition. This simply means that the dog has learned to control the strength of his bite. This sends the message that the bite hurts. Persist by leaving your hand in his mouth until he lets go, then use lots of praise. All puppies need to master this technique that they initially learned from their mother and littermates. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Training your Lab puppy to soft bite must be done in puppyhood as an adolescent dog will not know how to adjust the force of his jaws when he has adult teeth and adult jaw muscles. This can be devastating for you both, should your Labrador go on to bite someone! Have realistic expectations — as it can take your puppy weeks to learn his soft bite. How to Train a Labrador Puppy to Walk on a Leash Walking on a leash is not a natural skill in dogs — they need to learn it! Teach a leash cue, then introduce the pup to very short walks. If the dog pulls, stand fast and wait for him to return to you before continuing. Do this by letting him wear them for short periods inside the house and yard. I find the best no-pull harness to be those that are not rear-attached, such as the Walk Your Dog With Love harness. They give you more control and are ideal for medium-large breeds. Give a treat when the command is obeyed. Introduce your Lab to short walks outside on a leash. When it appears he is about to lunge toward another dog or object, quickly distract him with a treat. Timing is crucial. Reward him every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of leash walking is perfected. You can start steps 1 and 2 when the puppy is young, but you can only commence step 3 once the dog has been vaccinated. Final Thoughts Eight weeks old is the perfect time to train a Labrador puppy in key areas such as socialization, crate training, potty training, not biting, and leash training. To successfully train your Lab puppy in these areas, you must follow good training principles such as using reward-based training, being consistent in your commands, and disciplining at the precise moment of poor behavior. Begin with basic commands before introducing more complex or trick commands. Related Posts You May Like:. Fourth meal 5 pm You should follow this type of feeding schedule until your Lab puppy is 14 weeks old, after which you can adopt a two meal per day plan. However, keep in mind that Labs are especially prone to overeating and obesity, so if you use treats, ensure you give them sparingly. In fact, a study in the UK listed Labrador Retrievers among the eight breeds most prone to being overweight. So your food-loving Lab puppy requires a bit of control. One way to keep them from overeating treats is to portion out their food for the day and use that as their reward. In most cases, the puppy will respond just as enthusiastically to kibble. Place a bowl of water in a location accessible to your puppy and supervise him to ensure he drinks enough but not too much. Puppies at this age should drink between half and one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. So if your eight-week-old Lab is 12 lbs 5. This is an essential part of puppy care. As mentioned, if you get your puppy from a reliable breeder which should always be the case , the pup should have already started with his vaccinations, and the breeder should provide the vaccination records. Then, make an appointment with the vet for any vaccination follow-up. Also, ensure your pup stays on worm preventative medication as puppies are more prone than adult dogs to worm infection. Sometimes puppies are also born with certain types of worms from an infected mother, especially roundworms and hookworms, where mother-to-puppy transmission is a significant mode of spreading. Be especially sure that your Lab puppy gets the heartworm vaccination. Heartworm is a dangerous and potentially fatal disease, and once your dog is infected, the cure is expensive and extremely harsh on your dog. A trained dog will learn how to behave in and outside the home and around other humans and pets. I have a full beginner guide on how to train an 8 week old Labrador puppy , but in a nutshell, there are three training areas you should focus on in terms of pet training: housebreaking, obedience, and socialization. Housebreak Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Housebreaking means training your puppy to eliminate outdoors or at a designated location inside the home instead of doing it anywhere and at any time. Puppies need frequent bathroom breaks because their system is not yet mature enough to hold it for long. Luckily you can take advantage of that to teach your dog to always use the same spot. Pay attention to the signs your puppy gives when they need to ease themselves, like circling, whining, or sniffing their groin. Puppies naturally need to eliminate at these times: First thing after waking up in the morning. Last thing before retiring at night. After every meal. After drinking plenty of water. Upon waking up from a nap. During or after play or exercise. When they wake up during the night. Their brain, at this point, is like a sponge that will easily absorb new info. Also, teaching these commands early will make living with you easier for your dog as he will know what is expected of him. Teach your Lab puppy to sit, lay down, stay, leave, and other basic commands that are foundational for more advanced training later. Remember to use only positive reinforcement training approaches and reward your puppy with verbal praise, positive gesture cues, and treats. Exposure to these realities will help your Lab puppy adjust fast and nurture proper social behavior. In addition, exposure will preempt signs of poor puppy socialization, like aggression and fear around people and other animals. In general, your eight-week-old Labrador puppy should have two minute sessions of exercise daily. In addition, keep the following in mind: Keep exercise sessions short in the beginning and allow your puppy to adapt gradually. Playtime counts as exercise, so be careful not to over-exercise your Lab puppy. This is the harness I use. Allow your pup spontaneous rest moments between play. When exercising your puppy , avoid taking him for walks during the coldest or hottest times of the day. There are several ways to ensure your eight-week-old Labrador puppy is always safe, including ample supervision and choosing the right kind of toy. They might also try to get away on an exploratory walk if the door is left open. To avoid these dangers, puppy-proofing your home before getting your eight-week-old Lab puppy is vital. Read more here, What Foods are Poisonous to Labradors? Unplug power cords and put them away when not in use, as your puppy could try chewing on them. Remember that your puppy is young and still learning. It is also a legal requirement in some countries, such as the UK, and it may be required when traveling. While name tags are an excellent way to identify a dog, they can be easily removed or get lost, which means you are better off microchipping your Lab puppy, or even better, do both. Choose Safe Play Toys for Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Like us, eight-week-old puppies still have their baby teeth which they gradually lose to make room for their adult teeth. So, expect a lot of chewing and nipping during this time. Like humans, teething can be uncomfortable, and chewing is their only way to relieve some of that pain. To that end, ensure your Lab puppy has the right chewing toys to avoid damaging teeth or accidentally swallowing toy pieces. This toy is great for teething pups, doubles as a fetch toy, and is also a treat-dispensing toy where you can stuff it with peanut butter or other goodies. If proper toys are not provided, your Lab puppy will chew any available object in the house, such as table legs, shoes, remotes, or your hands. As such, they need proper resources for resting and sleeping. That includes the time to do so and a place where they will feel safe in. This synthetic dog bed has an ultra-soft feel and provides maximum comfort for your Lab. You can use it in the crate or as a stand-alone bed, and it comes in a few different styles and sizes. I like this bed due to its 3. Ensure the bed is in a location with no draft and where your puppy does not get any disturbance when resting. If you put your puppy straight into the crate without helping them adjust, it may react poorly. When buying a kennel, the best approach is to buy one that your pup can use as an adult dog, which for a Lab would be around 42 inches .Just be sure to get a crate with dividers so you can make the space smaller for your puppy. An 8-week-old Lab puppy can only walk for approximately minutes at a time. In most cases, young puppies will not walk but rather jump around and play. Still, keep in mind that they do not need long exercise sessions. Instead, keep playtimes short and allow for lots of rest. Remember that puppies should only walk about five minutes for every month of age, twice a day. At three months, you can stretch it to 15 minutes. Overwalking your Lab puppy can cause joint and bone issues and should be avoided. As such, a dog from a larger breed will need more food as a puppy than a smaller breed. An 8-week-old Lab puppy should be fed three to four meals of no more than cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy will depend on his size and weight. For example, if your puppy is between lbs 4. These measurements can vary with each dog food product, as different manufacturers have varying ingredients, so ensure you check the packaging first. Eight week old Lab puppies sleep for approximately 18 to 20 hours a day. An 8 week old Lab should pee as soon as they wake up, after eating and drinking, after waking up from a nap, during or after a session of play or exercise, just before going to bed at night, and when they awake during the night. Commencing Marker Training your chocolate labrador pup Start Marker Training at 8 weeks of age When you take your 8 week old labrador pup to their new home, you should commence their obedience training immediately. Just repetitively say yes and give your pup a treat immediately. Then familiarise your labrador pup with a leash. Clip the leash to their collar and allow the pup to roam a little. This way they will adjust to its weight and the sensation around their neck. If you try to walk your pup straight away, they will simply resist. Don't pull and command, but rather cultivate a positive experience with a leash. Secondly, I recommend that you feed your new labrador pup with a leash attached until they learn to sit. This will establish you as the master and immediately teach the pup restraint. Do not give the food bowl to your dog without firstly bringing him under your control. Even with my mature dogs, I will not let them feed except on command. Feeding should never be random. Hold the leash close to the labrador pup's neck and push their rear end down to the seated position. When they are sitting, enthusiastically praise your pup and, only then, reward their obedience with food. Remember, food should always represent a reward for good behaviour. They hear tones and frequencies. When we train them, we are conditioning them to associate a particular sound with a response so that it means something to them. Labrador puppies like all dogs learn contextually and by consistent repetition. In this way, a labrador pup learns to associate sounds with responses and rewards. This is why you should reward your pup immediately when they have performed a command correctly, even if they did not intend to do so. In the early stages, I prefer to teach a dog to 'sit,' then move on to 'staying' before teaching them to 'come'. This is especially so while they are still a puppy. Remember that a 12 month old dog is still a pup. They are regularly hyperactive and overstimulated. The goal is to get your labrador puppy into a calm and submissive state as often as you can. Ensure you are demonstrating a calm and composed, yet assertive demeanor. When you are in charge, your labrador pup will willingly sit and look to you for direction. Exercise patience and be repetitive but don't overdo it. Remember that the time you put in now will help you bond with your young dog, even if they do not appear to be advancing quickly. It will be a very worthwhile investment in a long term relationship for years to come. Of these three basic commands, the 'stay' command will take more time to teach. When this is mastered and entrenched in your dog's obedience, it can save your dog from danger. You are teaching them associations, not English words. Sit Teaching your new labrador pup to sit should begin immediately when you take it home. Begin by feeding them on a leash. Hold the leash close to the pup's neck. Give the pup the 'sit' command, but don't reward them with food until they are sitting. In this way you have begun to condition the pup to the 'sit' command. This requires patience at meal time. Remember that a labrador pup requires 4 feeds a day for the first phase of their life. This gives you ample opportunity for repetition and reward. When the dog sits, reward them with a treat and a lot of enthusiastic praise. Each time they repeat the behaviour, reward them with a treat again. You can train your labrador pup for short intervals at any time. Carry a few small pieces of food. Call your pup, then reward them with lots of affirmation and a piece of food when they comply. Teach them to sit by offering a small treat. Say 'sit', then let them smell the food as you move your hand over their head. A labrador pup will automatically lift the nose in the air to follow the food. As the head moves up and back, the pup will tend to sit. Give lots of praise and gradually increase repetition as they associate the word 'sit' with the food. Stay Your Labrador pup will need to understand the 'sit' command before you advance to 'stay'. Before you give the 'stay' command, make sure that the dog is seated. To keep the dog in the sitting position, you will use your hand with the fingers pointing up and the palm in front of their face. To begin with, position yourself about half a metre away from your pup's face. Direct the 'stay' command calmly, with your hand up. Slowly take half a step back and remain there for 3 seconds to begin with. Then step back towards to the dog. Wait for another 3 sec and then reward your dog with a treat. Repeat this 5 times. Reward them at the end of each 'stay' routine by praising them enthusiastically and giving them a treat. Don't praise or reward the dog until they have remained seated in front of you for a minimum of 3 seconds when you return. Your puppy should not move a millimetre until you give the reward. If your dog breaks early, you have gone too far. Simply return to your dog, reset them in the seated position and begin the routine again. Come It is important to make sure your Labrador understands the 'stay' command before you begin the recall or 'come' command. Make sure you pup is seated before you give the 'come' command. As your walk away from your pup, maintain eye contact. Don't back away too far too soon. If the pup breaks early, give the 'come' command to establish association. When you call your dog to 'come', do not let them jump up on you. If the dog wants to stand on its back legs and reach up, place the palm of your hand on their head and hold it away from you. I suggest that you don't say 'no! The down command should be used as a more constructive training command. If your pup jumps up, make your disapproval known by using a 'dog' sound; 'Ahhh! If you find yourself becoming frustrated, then put the pup away and start again tomorrow. Don't take it personally and don't blame the dog. Corrections are necessary, but not out of frustration or anger. If it's not working, then look at your consistency and your communication. If the training is a positive experience then you will strengthen the bonding and learning process. Develop consistent communication and trust with your dog in the process of the training. Labrador pups love to please and they will be very proud of themselves when they accomplish the command and gain your approval. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Crate training , potty training , and learning to settle at night and will all begin in earnest at 8 weeks. Is your 8 week old puppy driving you crazy? Puppies, like babies, can be hard work. Not to mention annoying, and frustrating! But hang on in there. Chances are, you are sleep deprived, and your life has been turned upside down too. Many of the problems that arise with a new baby puppy, are easily resolved with just a little help. And looking after your puppy with diarrhea is no fun. Which he will, because Labrador puppies are always hungry! You have to ration out his food for him. You need to know how much your puppy needs to eat in a 24 hour period, and then divide that amount between at least 4 meals. First night with puppy Your 8 week old puppy should not sleep in or on your bed. Bed sharing with new puppies is too dangerous. He might fall off, and is likely to leave little puddles on your mattress and carpet. Later on you can bed share with your dog if you want to, but not right now, at least not unless you puppy proof the room and sleep on the floor. Your 8 week old puppy should not be free to roam the house at night. There is so much potential for harm. Even if you only sleep for six hours or so, there is a great deal of mischief your puppy can get up to in that time. So, the three main options that work well for 8 week old puppies are described next First night options for an 8 week old puppy Here are those three alternative sleeping arrangement for the first few nights Safe sleeping area Sturdy box or crate next to your bed 1 The puppy safe sleeping area Just before you go to bed and after taking your outside to empty himself, you can put the puppy to bed in a puppy proof room with a washable floor. Or you can put his bed inside a large puppy playpen. Put plenty of newspaper or puppy pads down to cover most of the floor. On the other hand you WILL have to get up in the night. Which option is best? It may also result in vomiting and diarrhea for your pup, and a lot of clearing up for you. It might seem irrational to you, but there are good reasons for your puppy to be scared. If asked to sleep alone on the first night in their new home, they usually cry. For a surprisingly long time. Unless you live in a mansion, you will be able to hear him. And so will your neighbors. The best way around this, is to have the puppy sleep next to you for the first few nights as described in Option 3 above. New puppies learn very quickly. Whilst initial crying is the result of fear or loneliness, puppies they soon discover that crying gets them attention. How much do puppies sleep? Your 8 week old puppy will spend around 18 to 20 hours asleep out of every .But dogs continue to sleep for long periods throughout their lives. Sleeping often and deeply is normal for an 8 week old puppy. This is nothing to worry about if your puppy is energetic and playful when awake, eating and growing well, and seems healthy in every other respect Potty training your 8 week old puppy. Potty training your 8 week old Labrador puppy can start on the very first day. A few new puppies can last six or seven hours at night without a wee. But many cannot do this until they are around ten weeks old. If you crate your puppy at night, expect to get up in the middle night and take your puppy outside for a wee, for up to two weeks. If you opt to leave your puppy at night with puppy pads or newspaper, expect it to take a little longer than this before you come down to a nice clean floor each morning. Getting up earlier for a while is a given with an 8 week old puppy. Puppies pee much more frequently often the day. Some new puppies can last an hour or so between wees, but again, many cannot. If you are going back to work, or want to leave your puppy for three to four hours before he is five or six months old, and you want to crate train, you need to arrange for someone else to take care of him during the day. Even for this short period of time. An 8 week old puppy should not be left in a crate for hours at a time during the day. The secret to success in crate training a new puppy lies in getting good habits established from the start. And this means getting that puppy outside to his toilet area, whenever his little bladder is getting full. Your puppy will quickly become comfortable with you disappearing for a few minutes if you reliably return. But too much isolation is a common cause of noisy or destructive behavior. Puppies need company. Older puppies may cope happily with being left for up to four hours, but even an adult Labrador may become distressed or destructive if left alone for a full working day on a regular basis. Labradors are very sociable dogs and they need to have people around them. No matter how many walks he gets at the weekend. Puppies biting Most people know that puppies nip when teething. Despite learning early bite inhibition from their mother and littermates, puppies continue this spikey behavior when you bring them home. Destructive puppy behavior Your 8 week old puppy will chew, gnaw and dig around the home. It can be quite a shock to discover just how destructive a Labrador can be, both indoors and out, especially if left unsupervised for long periods of time. Expect your puppy to destroy anything he can get in his mouth. Indoors and out. Some even chew the skirting boards, rip plaster from the walls, and tear up carpets in their homes. Supervision, playpens and puppy crates will help keep your home in tact during the destructive phase. Puppies running off 8 week old puppies need time off leash. Tiny puppies have an automatic response with means that they follow people around. This response disappears by the time the puppy is around four or five months old. Labradors are retrieving dogs. They love to hunt and follow scent trails. Expect that an older puppy will want to explore away from you and get that off lead recall established well before he is six months old. Expect that an older puppy will stray further and further away on walks if you are too predictable and just traipse along behind him. Teach him to follow you and not the other way around. What we expect from an 8 week old puppy We expect an awful lot from our tiny puppies. Both when they are still very small, and then as they grow bigger. Some of our expectations are simply not in line with the way puppies think and behave. Cuddles We expect that puppies will enjoy being cuddled. Sometimes they do, mostly they are just being polite. TIP: Wait for your puppy to stop wriggling before you place him on the floor or he will wriggle harder next time! A fun friend for children We expect that our children will be able to play with a new puppy, but small puppies often bite and wriggle too much for little ones to enjoy them. Those pleasures tend to come later TIP: Use baby gates to give toddlers and puppies space apart from one another Success and quick results We expect that the efforts we put in to housetraining will be rewarded, that the puppy will listen to what we say. But potty training and obedience training take time. Your 8 week old puppy will have accidents in the house to begin with and needs your help to understand what you want him to do next. As he grows, we expect our puppy to return our love and affection, to respect us, be loyal, and obedient. And he will be, in time. Nor had we anticipated just how depressing it would be to clear up puppy pee and poop every time we get up in the morning, or return home from a quick shopping trip. But they are common reasons for people to become disenchanted with their furry companion. One of our aims here on The Labrador Site is to help close this gap between expectations and reality. So that puppies go into their new homes, and stay there for the rest of their lives. And most of the problems described above can be avoided or passed through without too much pain, if you have the right information! And a little preparation. You can do this if you are ready. Much puppy naughtiness is linked to over-excitement. Focus on being calm around your puppy, and read up on how to train your puppy effectively. The considered and appropriate use of a crate and baby gates, is a great way to prevent conflict between puppies and their families. Confinement is not a substitute for companionship and training though, and of course it is very important to be sure you have enough time in your life for a Labrador, before going ahead and getting that lovely puppy. Do check out our article: are you ready for a Labrador , before you take the plunge.

Moreover, in case your Labradoodle has any sensitivity, weight, allergy, or other health issues, the Purina Pro Plan product range has got you covered. So, if your Labradoodle is struggling with a food allergy, you might not have to switch to another brand altogether. Instead, you can switch the chicken formula for lamb or fish, for example. The same goes for grains. This makes it perfect for all Labradoodles weighing more than 70 pounds. Although the list is not short and has some rather tricky names listed, it does contain a lot of vitamins and minerals, and even added glucosamine, which is great for Labradoodles who are at a risk of developing joint problems like hip dysplasia. Labradoodle owners know how important a beautiful coat is! Dicalcium phosphate DCP has been linked to kidney stones and the calcification of soft tissue Contains soy, which may be difficult to digest, cause bloat and gas, and trigger allergies 2. Fromm Fromm has formulas for all stages of life, large and small breeds, for weight management, and offers grain-free and grain-inclusive variations. The main sources of protein are beef, chicken, turkey, duck, pork, salmon, tuna, lamb, goose, pheasant, quail, venison, rabbit, and whitefish. Chicken is listed as the first ingredient, but it also includes fish meal, duck, lamb, and chicken liver. This formula is grain-inclusive and uses whole grains like oat groats and barley. Likewise, other natural ingredients like flaxseed, alfalfa meal, and inulin provide additional fiber. Not only are the most important vitamins and minerals included, this dry dog food is formulated with prebiotics and probiotics. PawTree formulas are made from real ingredients and they offer a variety of different formulas, specializing in grain-free recipes, and formulas that are free from certain ingredients to minimize allergic reactions. Allergies and food sensitivities are a common concern for many Labradoodles, especially when it comes to certain proteins or even grains. Other highlights in this formula include apples, blueberries, coconut oil, salmon oil, and flaxseed. In addition to quality animal proteins and plants, this dry kibble also contains added vitamins, minerals, and even prebiotics for good tummy health. In fact, this recipe has been designed for reduced stool volume and also to keep those smelly farts at bay. Pros First ingredient listed is real duck. Packed with nutritious ingredients that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Perfect for Labradoodles who are allergic to chicken and fish. Ideal for overweight Doods. Supports good skin and coat health. Naturally occurring glucosamine helps support the joints. Designed to be easily digestible. No corn, wheat, soy, poultry by-products, or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Cons None! Victor Victor Pet Food has formulas suitable for all life stages. Additionally, they offer special formulas for joint health, weight management and performance, and grain-free and high-protein formulas. For some Labradoodles, the food sensitivity, digestion, weight management, and joint support formulas might be beneficial. Royal Canin Royal Canin offers formulas that many Labradoodle owners might find useful like special food for large breeds, formulas for food sensitivities, weight management, and digestive health. All of which Labradoodles are at risk of. However, as Labradoodles tend to inherit the health issues of both Labs and Poodles, this option might work well for your Labradoodle. Diamond As with other brands, Diamond offers a variety of dog food options for different needs. Labradoodle owners might find their formulas for weight management or sensitivity issues helpful. It contains a decent amount of fiber that helps with proper digestion, as do added probiotics. The key ingredients in raw dog food diets are: muscle meats, organ meats like liver, kidney, spleen, brain, sweetbreads, whole, powdered or meaty bones, raw eggs, dog-friendly fruit and vegetables, and sometimes dairy, like yogurt. Kirkland Kirkland is another popular dog food brand that Labradoodle parents love. It offers formulas for all life stages, weight management, and also grain-free and organic options. However, they do have other formulas with different protein sources Ingredients To Avoid In Labradoodle Dog Food You already might know that there are ingredients your Labradoodle should never eat. Naturally, responsible dog food brands do not include these ingredients, anyway. Related Content. Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids Labradoodle puppies, those younger than 12 to 18 months, generally require higher levels of protein and fat to accommodate their growth. Senior dogs also need high-protein foods to help fuel muscle. Other factors to consider include size and activity level. Understanding the different kinds of food available and the respective pros and cons will help you make the best decision for your dog. It requires minimal effort to prepare, but commercial brands offer clear instructions on which dog breeds benefit from their food. Most brands also provide different foods for different ages and sizes, which helps dog owners easily transition from puppy food to adult food. Thus, commercial dog food brands are a fairly popular option when it comes to feeding pets. The tools you need to evaluate a dog food brand are typically available right on the packaging. The most important thing to check when purchasing kibble is the first ingredient listed on the packaging. In high-quality food, you can expect meat to be the primary ingredient. Conversely, lower-quality foods contain high amounts of meat by-products, such as chicken meal. They also often contain cornmeal, soy and other unhealthy ingredients that can promote health problems. This label sets high standards for U. In general, AAFCO-recommended brands should be selected over ones that have not received their stamp of approval. Finally, dog owners need to choose between dry dog food and wet canned food. Dry kibble is usually the recommended option as it has higher protein levels and is better for digestion. Dry food also encourages dental health and helps maintain good breath. Wet food is typically easier to digest and can help with hydration, so many dog owners choose to mix it in with dry dog foods every now and then. Raw Diet A raw food diet is one of the most controversial dog food options out there. Advocates of this diet argue that it promotes overall canine health, but disbelievers claim the bacteria found in raw materials can be dangerous. Most raw food advocates follow the BARF Biologically Appropriate Raw Food diet, which consists of good-quality meat, vegetables and healthy carbs like sweet potatoes or brown rice. It typically also includes organs such as liver, kidney or spleen , as well as some extra ingredients to optimize a balanced nutrition and flavor such as herbs or fish oil. While there are subscription services available for raw diets, many dog owners choose to make the food themselves. Fresh Diet Dog owners who want the benefits of raw diets without the risks may opt to feed their dog a fresh food diet. Like raw diets, these foods are all-natural and include a healthy combination of proteins, carbohydrates, vegetables and organs. However, unlike raw diets, a fresh diet ensures all meats are cooked thoroughly. While these diets require more effort and tend to be on the pricier side, they let dog owners monitor ingredients without having to worry about unhealthy bacteria. Another food option involves combining different types of diets. Many dog owners give their dogs a steady combination of dry, hard kibble with fresh veggies and meats, simultaneously reaping the benefits of dry and fresh dog food. You can consult your vet for recommendations on health supplements. Some Labradoodles may have food allergies that affect the type of diet they can consume. If you notice any food allergy symptoms, such as rashes or reddened skin, you should try to identify the culprit as quickly as possible. A good way to test for allergies is to conduct an elimination diet. This requires getting rid of certain foods and then slowly reintroducing them one by one to see if your dog has some type of reaction. Common canine allergies include: Beef. Fruits and vegetables Labradoodles can eat Dairy If your Labradoodle is not lactose intolerant, he can eat some dairy foods in moderation. Dairy foods provide protein, calcium, vitamin D, A, B12, zinc, magnesium, and selenium. They build strong bones, reduce the risk of diabetes, and may improve heart health. Experimenting with small amounts of dairy foods is best to see what your dog can handle. Some dogs have trouble digesting milk but can enjoy small pieces of cheese or a blob or two of plain yogurt. My dog loves small chunks of cheese but cannot tolerate even a small spoonful of heavy cream — although she is okay with some milk. World of Dogz Commercial Dog Food Aside from the foods listed above, you can also feed your Labradoodle commercial dog food. Labradoodles can eat dry, wet, semi-dry food technically wet, too , raw, dehydrated, or freeze-dried food. However, you must be careful not to select a food package for a different breed with macro nutritional requirements other than Labradoodles. The most remarkable thing about commercial dog food is that it is far less expensive than homemade dog food and takes much less time to prepare, store, and feed. Labradoodles cannot eat chocolate, macadamia nuts, black walnuts, onion, garlic, grapes, or avocado. Standard market-packed sardines are the safest fish for dogs. Even onion powder in a broth can have this effect. Garlic Garlic can also make your dog anemic. Make sure any food you prepare contains no garlic flavor. Chocolate Theobromine and caffeine in chocolate and chocolate-adjacent products are toxic to dogs. Ensure you choose an organic brand. Nuts Some nuts can lead to weakness, vomiting, and tremors. Macadamia and black walnuts are the worst at this. Other varieties are also too high in fat. Avocado The avocado skin can result in vomiting and diarrhea, so your Labradoodle should be kept away from this fruit. Your dog can OD on alcohol. Sugar Dogs love sweet treats, but if you feed a sugar-rich diet, they will get fat. Yeast Dough If you bake bread at home, keep your dog away from unbaked dough. It can ferment in the stomach causing alcohol toxicosis, and the yeast can rise in the gut, causing a severe blockage. The first is to sit down and curate a Labradoodle diet that dodges the above. The second is to simply opt for packaged dog food. Specific fruits can be toxic to your Labradoodle — especially grapes and starfruit. You can feed your dog veggies — yet garlic and onion can be problematic. You can provide your dog fish — but not if it is completely raw. However, organic food is healthier than extruded kibble cooked at high temperatures which reduces its nutritional value. On the other hand, packaged dog food is easy to get, feed, and store. Wet Dog Food If your Labradoodle turns his nose up at dry kibble, you can try wet dog food as it contains much higher moisture content than dry food. Some larger dogs like it, whereas others prefer a bit of crunch. Take note, though, that canned wet food can be expensive for dogs the size of Labradoodles, as you will need to provide much more. Ensure you check the protein content, as wet food contains a lot of water. Dry and Wet Mix This is one of the most widely preferred Labradoodle food types, and you get the best of both worlds. Most Doodles who dislike dry or wet food like a wet and dry mix. Adding a few scoops of wet food to dry food changes the texture and palatability of the food, making it enticing to your dog. You can also add water to dry dog food making it easier to digest and more appetizing, especially if you have a fussy eater or a dog with general appetite loss due to illness. This gives your dog added variety — but remember to adjust the calories accordingly. You may also consider semi-moist dog food. You can use one of countless dog chow recipes to produce homemade dog food. Some dog owners enjoy home cooking for their dogs as it gives them complete control of what they feed them. However, preparing a homemade diet can also be expensive and is very time-consuming. Check out the directory of certified vet nutritionists from the American College of Veterinary Nutrition to help you find one in your area. Raw Dog Food Of course, if you grasp the idea of feeding chow made from leftover meat, you can always get your Labradoodle a prime Wagyu steak. A raw food diet consists of raw meat and organs mixed in — and raw bones. This method of feeding your dog has grown in popularity in recent years. You can prepare a raw diet at home, similar to a home-cooked meal except raw , or buy pre-prepared complete and balanced raw food, which is more convenient. While weighing up your options, you might want to consider the price of feeding a raw diet. Dehydrated Dog Food Dehydrated dog food also known as air-dried is often confused with dry dog food because it is technically dry. However, you must add water to get the food into the shape it is intended to be served. A dehydrated doggy diet is a healthy and minimally processed feeding option as it uses a low-heat and gentle drying method. It combines the convenience of dry food with the nutritional benefits of raw. It is easier to store and far more portable, but it can be costly. Freeze-Dried Dog Food Freeze-dried dog food is prepared at the factory and brought into its wet form, then freeze-dried into solids that dissolve in the water. It is dehydrated at a lower temperature. Once the food is put in a sealed package, it can take years to degrade because there is no moisture for microorganisms to survive. When you buy freeze-dried dog food, it is still raw. For example, a Labrador mixed with a Standard Poodle will need far more food than a much smaller Lab mixed with a Toy Poodle. A smaller adult female needs 1. A Labradoodle puppy needs 12 — 16 ounces of food per day divided into 3 meals initially and then 2 meals at 6 months old. Labradoodles tend to control their weight pretty well. However, some dogs may be food-motivated and greedy, especially if they carry the POMC mutated gene , which is responsible for an increased appetite in Labradors. Labradoodle Feeding Schedule You should consider the energy your dog expends during the day when creating a healthy feeding schedule for them. Mini Labradoodles, for example, will burn off energy more quickly than the standard variety. However, it is advised to offer one cup of dry dog food or its equivalent and then wait eight hours before feeding another cup to avoid canine bloat. When your Labradoodle is a puppy, you must split his intake into 3 or 4 meals. Feeding your pup can be slightly complicated because of your, and not his, schedule. Labradoodle Puppy Meal Plan Puppies need feeding more often, as they need extra calories for growth and to satisfy their energy requirements. Labradoodle puppies should be fed 4 meals a day up to 3 months of age, 3 meals a day up to 6 months of age, and 2 meals a day from 6 months to adulthood. Age of Labradoodle. There is so much to decide on, starting with the quantities! The Labradoodle is a hybrid dog cross with a Labrador retriever and a poodle. But since Poodles are bred in three sizes and can weigh anywhere from 4 to 70 pounds. So you may not be sure yet how big your little Labradoodle puppy will eventually grow. Labradoodle Puppy Feeding Timeline For young puppies under 6 months old, we recommend four daily feedings spaced at equal intervals throughout the day. After this you can move to three feedings around a year old. Protein sources should occupy the first few ingredients. Organic ingredients are a plus. Avoid fillers, by-products, artificial ingredients or sweeteners. You may also want to talk with your veterinarian about starting your puppy on a grain-free diet with one of these high-quality and popular puppy foods. Added antioxidants, DHA, superfoods and probiotics nourish your growing puppy. This food is free from known allergens such as grain and corn. It also has plenty of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, including DHA for overall healthy development. This food is free from artificial ingredients, fillers and preservatives. Best Wet Puppy Food for Labradoodles The best puppy food for Labradoodles will often be a dry kibble, but it can be a good idea to keep a high-quality wet puppy food on hand as well. It is more hydrating and can be more palatable too. It is a chunk stew that is completely wheat-free. So, it makes our list of best puppy food for Labradoodles. It can also be used as as a kibble topper or treat supplement with extra DHA, vitamins and minerals. Best Dog Food for Labradoodle Puppy If you are concerned about transitioning your Labradoodle puppy to adult dog food, you may find that the best puppy food for Labradoodles is one where the manufacturer also makes an adult food. This can make transitions much easier. One of these options may be the best puppy food for Labradoodle dogs at your home. Is kibble, cans, raw or homemade food better? Swapping Puppy Food Brands Moving into his or her new home is a challenging and exciting time for your Labradoodle puppy. Keep feeding what your pup is used to for at least two weeks. Then, slowly start mixing in the new food you have chosen for your pup. Labradoodle Puppy Diets Puppies have lots of growing to do. This means that they need more of certain minerals and nutrients for example calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. Your labradoodle pup will also need a higher amount of good quality protein. This is definitely not the case, though. This—among other things—can cause joint problems, such as hip dysplasia. Labradoodles are a cross between two breeds that are both already at high risk of developing hip dysplasia. The most important thing of all is to avoid overfeeding a Labradoodle puppy, as we will see later in this article. This is called hypoglycemia. Generally, a feeding schedule for your Labradoodle pup can look like this: 2 — 4 months: 4 meals daily 4 — 6 months: 3 meals daily 6 — 8 months: 2 — 3 meals daily Older than 8 months: 2 meals daily. Just make sure to divide the total daily amount onto multiple feedings. You can make slight adjustments to these amounts if your pup is looking a little slim or chunky. The number of calories your pup needs will also change as he or she gets older and heavier. There are a couple of different options out there. Commercial dog foods offer complete and balanced nutrition for your growing pup — this means that they have all the right nutrients in all the right amounts and ratios. If a puppy is fed an inappropriate diet, this could lead to long-lasting growth defects or other malnutrition diseases. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy Kibble Kibble is the most popular type of dog food out there. There are only two things you need to pay attention to when choosing kibble: It should be designed specifically for puppies, and it should be high-quality. Research shows that higher-priced dog foods tend to have higher nutrient digestibility than lower-priced kibble — so it might be worth spending a bit more. Choose a kibble that contains a meat protein source as the first ingredient, and steer clear of ingredients like corn, soy, and cereals. Due to its high water content, the aromas and taste of the meat unfold better, making wet food the most palatable food there is. This comes at a bit of a cost, though: Wet food tends to be more expensive than kibble, and of course it spoils more easily. To get the best of both worlds of commercial dog foods, you can combine or alternate between kibble and wet food. The BARF diet consists of lots of raw meat and bones, as well as some veg and fruit. Supporters of raw feeding think that it will make your dog healthier, although there is no solid evidence for this yet. Raw meats are often contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter. These bacteria could potentially cause diseases in your pup. However, this is extremely rare, as the digestive tract most dogs can handle these bugs just fine. This means that there is a lot less danger of bacterial infections from raw meats. Keep in mind that cooking for a dog is not the same as cooking for yourself. Avoid spices, onions, garlic, cooking oils, and too much salt. These are dogs that will always want more food and are prone to obesity. It can help to space out meals or add one or two feedings a day if your dog is constantly hungry. Another option is to make your dog work for small amounts of food throughout the day — be it with puppy training, food balls, or puzzles. The possibilities are endless. Within a few weeks you should be able to tell if they would be content with changing to 2 meals per day. Some dogs will be happy with 1 meal per day from about the age of one year onwards. However this is a decision that should be made on a pup-to-pup basis. Your puppy will need to have access to plenty of fresh water. Our Labradoodles enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables. These include blueberries, apples, bananas, strawberries, pumpkin, beans, peas, and carrots. They also thoroughly enjoy eggs cooked or raw , tuna, sardines, and the occasional dollop of yoghurt. Our dogs enjoy a balanced and grain-free dog food, coupled with good quality fresh meats. If choosing to feed dry food, there are fantastic quality brands available. It is very easy to make food yourself for your dog when feeding your Labradoodle puppy. This enables you to give your dog a good variety of nutrients. You can search for recipes on the internet that would suit your dog, or ask your vet. Be aware of the additives that some pet foods may have in them. These can often have a negative effect on their long-term health. Raw bones are also fantastic for Labradoodles, including ribs and chicken necks. Ask your local butcher for a nicely cut dog bone suitable for the size of your pup. Your puppy will love a good bone to chew on, they are often obsessed with chewing anything and everything at this age! Bones are a great source of calcium, as well as acting as a fantastic tooth brush for dogs! We avoid feeding our dogs high-lactose forms of dairy, such as milk and cream, as these can cause gastrointestinal issues of varying severity. We also abstain from giving our pups lactose-free puppy milk. This is nutritionally redundant in the presence of a balanced diet. Our dogs do, however, thoroughly enjoy a treat of cheese or the occasional splash of yoghurt. Hypro Premium Australian made, ensuring freshness is a great option for your puppy. It is nutritionally balanced and high quality. Your puppy will be used to this already, having eaten it at our home. Another firm favourite is Vets All Natural, a rehydratable and biologically appropriate option that is mixed through raw meat. Labradoodles by nature are not greedy or voracious eaters, and will only eat if they are hungry. You can weigh your puppy regularly to keep a track of their growth. These include chocolate, grapes, raisins, avocados, onion, garlic, and all cooked bones this list is not exhaustive. Never feed your dog cooked bones as this can be fatal due to the bones splintering within the dogs intestinal system. For further questions, or for ongoing support after taking a Bluefields pup home, please contact us. About The Breed Lomond Hills Kitchen Over the years we have tried just about every dog food available so we have learned exactly what our doodles like and dislike! We raise our puppies on this food to give them the best start possible so we are very pleased that we can now make it available to the public. You can view recipes and place an order online by going to the top right corner of our website and clicking on the orange box named 'DOG FOOD' How often should I feed my labradoodle puppy? When Lomond Hills puppies leave for their new homes, they eat 4 meals per day. The first is usually given at 8am, the second at .Obviously, you need to feed him at times which suit your schedule, but try your best to have similar time gaps between meals. If you choose to feed your puppy on another brand then make sure you look at meat content, fresh meat content, fillers and bulking agents as well as nutritional additives. We believe that a dry kibble diet is best as wet food tends to cling to the teeth which then results in constant teeth cleaning. We suggest that you feed him in his crate with the door closed so that he makes a positive association between the food and crate. We also suggest that you simultaneously train him to sit. Bring the food bowl and your puppy over to the crate, pop him inside and say 'sit' in a clear and firm voice, whilst using one hand to signal the command usually a pointed finger and the other hand the plant his bottom firmly on the ground. Keep that hand firmly on his bottom and use the other hand to put the bowl of food in front of him. Let go of his bottom and close the crate door. As time goes on, you will find you won't need to push his bottom down and he will respond to the voice and hand signal. This is a great time to achieve 'sit', because the food acts as the reward. A typical meal size would be grams in dry weight for an 8 week old puppy, but this does vary a little dependent on the size of your puppy. When your puppy has finished his meal, you will find that his tummy is noticeably bigger - this is normal. By the time the next mealtime comes around, his tummy should be back to normal size if it is not, you fed him too much on the previous meal. As he gets older, you can reduce the number of meals in the day, but increase the portion size. By 12 weeks old, you could have him down to three meals and by 6 months old that could be reduced to two meals. We feed all of our adult dogs twice per day - 8am and 5pm. This table provides a guideline for how much to feed your puppy as he grows, but there is no exact formula as there are other factors to consider such as activity levels and physical condition. Ideally, you want your puppy to be at a weight where you can feel his ribs, but his top line and hip bones are nicely covered. Australian Labradoodles do not tend to be greedy dogs, but maintaining a healthy weight is very important.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Columbus OH? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Columbus OH? Bulldogs for sale in Columbus can only breed with the help of veterinarians as they have to go through artificial insemination due to their very narrow hips. The pups then need to be delivered by C-section. This can raise their price compared to other breeds. What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Columbus? Are you strict with Bulldog breeders? We look at their facilities, the way they treat their pups, and the health care they give to them. Why is Uptown Puppies one of the best puppy-finder websites? We do this by helping families like yours connect with the best Columbus Bulldog breeders and businesses around. We check these breeders and businesses through and through to make sure they offer you the best pups! What is a Columbus puppy mill like? Bulldogs Columbus puppy mills are like factories where female dogs are forced to breed litter after litter of Bulldog puppies for sale Columbus. Once you bring home your new pup you may find that your new best friend may need many trips to the vet due to health problems. They can also suffer with behavioral problems, and pass away at a young age. I want a Bulldog puppy now. Is it possible? Since Bulldogs for sale Columbus are so popular in the US, the odds are really high that a gorgeous Bulldog Columbus is already wagging its tail, ready to find its new home with you. Start your search with Uptown Puppies today and get the Bulldog pup of your dreams before someone else does! Why were Bulldogs originally bred? This was a bloodsport that thankfully ended. Today Columbus Bulldogs for sale are sweet-natured and their ferocity has been bred out of them. What different sizes are Bulldogs? What are Bulldog personalities like? The Columbus Bulldog for sale is not like the Poodle. Bulldogs are medium in size, and are very heavy with bodies that are low, chests that are broad, and limbs that are very thick. They have very sweet personalities, adore and crave affection, and love being part of a family. Which movies have Bulldogs starred in? The Bulldog for sale in Columbus is quite a famous dog in Hollywood. Are Bulldogs happy in apartments? The Bulldog for sale Columbus can be happy in apartments as long as they get a lot of fresh and cool air, and exercise every day. Gus came to us after being surrendered to a shelter with a female Bulldog. Unfortunately, the female was too sick and even after an emergency surgery, she did not make it. Gus was in a little better shape so we addressed his medical concerns one at a time! The results came back positive for cancer. Fortunately, this type of cancer is generally taken care of once it is removed. However due to this, Gus will need closely monitored for the remainder of his life. He loves attention and being with his people. He loves a good nap on the couch and prefers a pillow so he can elevate his head. He has not been kid tested, but due to his overwhelmingly sweet personality we do not anticipate there would be any issues. Gus does prefer to be the only dog though and would do best in a home without other pets. He is crate trained and doing better with leash walking and house breaking! He is looking for a family to love him, spoil him and to let him take it easy for the remainder of his golden years. Donations can be made via our PayPal account - info prodogsohio. You must be willing to commute to the location that the pet is being fostered in order to be eligible to adopt. We do not ship our pets. We also require that you personally bring the pet back to us should the adoption not work out. All money goes to support our rescue operation. We require your current dog s to be current on vaccines and heartworm prevention. Due to the volume of apps and inquiries, we may not be able to respond to everyone. September 13, , pm.

Meet Uncle Jesse! This stunningly handsome German Shepherd found himself in an overcrowded shelter in TX, through no fault of his own. Uncle Jesse is a senior boy, who should never have been dumped at all, let alone for being older. And he only has one eye, why do you need two anyway?!! Who wants an old guy with one eye, right?!! So of course, he was put on the euthanasia list.We could not let that happen to him. Our rescue saved this senior boy minutes from being euthanised in order to free up kennel space. With a shortage of fosters, due to the immense overcrowding in southern shelters, we had to put him in temporary boarding to save his life. He is in a loving foster home just now but it's a busy house, with too many people, kids, dogs etc, he isn't getting the peace, quiet, and attention he really needs. This precious guy just needs to live in a warm, loving home, with grass to romp around in from time to time, to feel the sun on his face and watch all nature around him. And of course, in true GSD style, to be with his people. Uncle Jesse is fine with other dogs but we feel at this time in his life, he deserves to have all the attention in a home. Unless there's another older quiet pup whom he could snuggle with if he so desires. If you are interested in loving this precious boy or the rest of his days, please contact Shannon immediately on .Urgent Dogs Max - Coventry This lovely young man is looking for an experienced home where they can continue his training and give him more confidence. Max was bought as a 5 month pup from a flat where it would appear not much socialisation or exercise was given. The current owners have worked through some of Max's issues such as constant chewing and his jumping up, still work in progress regards lead training and further obedience work, however Max is an angel off lead and as long as he has his ball is totally focussed and happy to play for hours. Max is good with other dogs family friend has a young bitch he plays with. Max hasn't lived with children and isn't known around cats. Max is now at the stage where he is becoming wary of strangers and more protective of the home, during our assessment it took Max about 10 minutes to settle and ignore the stranger in the room. Max is a lovely energetic boy who is doing nothing more than being a shep - he just needs an owner who can show him the ropes and maintain calm. Max is vaccinated and microchipped. More information. December 11, at a. But what would you expect when Vice President-elect Joseph Biden goes shopping for a puppy? It seems the Obama children were not the only ones promised a dog after the presidential election. Barack Obama, won the election. Jill Biden had taped pictures of different dogs on the back of the seat in front of Biden on his campaign plane to inspire the candidate as he crisscrossed the country in the final sprint to election day, according to published reports during the campaign. The vice president-elect wanted a family dog that was social and obedient, said Tobin, who will pick up the puppy next week and start on six weeks of initial training including housebreaking. Tobin will deliver the puppy to the Bidens after the inauguration in January. That way, he said, the stress of the move to Washington, D. Tobin said he met Biden after Obama named the Delaware senator as his running mate. At that time, security stepped up for Biden and the Secret Service brought in Tobin and his canine team to do explosive sweeps of the Biden residence. After that, Tobin said Biden asked for his help selecting a puppy and with its training. Originally, Brown said she was to bring two puppies to Biden, but Biden called and said he wanted to see all the dogs. I told them to follow me. One is still missing. Courtesy photo Vermont State Police responded to a call Monday afternoon reporting that three puppies had been stolen in Coventry, and a Newport Center resident has been charged with larceny in the case. According to a police press release, Daniel Rich, 48, and Jennifer Rhodes, 52, both of Coventry, notified authorities that three six-week-old puppies were stolen on July 25 from an outside enclosure at a residence on Nebelski Road. As a result of the investigation, police charged Tamieka Demo, 20, of Newport Center with larceny in connection with the case. Demo is due to appear in Orleans County court on Sept. Over 1 million people came to VTDigger for flood updates in July. Not all of them are in the position to help sustain our newsroom with a contribution. If you are, please consider a one-time gift or monthly contribution during our fall member drive. Donate now One puppy remains missing, and police are encouraging anyone with information to call the Vermont State Police barracks in Derby. Rich and Rhodes could not be reached for comment. Vermont State Police spokesperson Adam Silverman said he did not have additional details on the case.

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Looking for a Maltese puppy in Chattanooga, Tennessee? Adopt yours from our reputable breeders at Premier Pups. Poodle puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from trusted …. Belgian Malinois Location Age Any. They are part of our family and each one of our puppies is raised in home with the. All our pups are health-tested, pampered, and raised with love. Chattanooga, TN view our pets ruth trooperstreasures. Find your puppy for sale in Chattanooga, TN. Post free pet classified ads on LSN. MAC believes in creating a culture of compassionate care, community engagement and advocacy for animals by providing programs and education that support people and companion animals throughout our communities. German Shepherd Breeders in Chattanooga Tennessee. Search for a Thai Ridgeback puppy or dog. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find. At Premier Pups, we are a family of four-legged dog lovers that raises happy and healthy Maltese puppies. 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Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Thai Ridgeback puppies and adult Thai Ridgeback in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Doberman Pinschers for Sale in Chattanooga. Very sweet and loving! He is looking for his forever home Great with other dogs! He has been around large breed dogs as well. Dachshunds for Sale in Chattanooga. Teacup Puppies for Sale in Chattanooga, Tennessee. We do offer a 6 month genetic disorder guarantee. All at the tips of your fingers! Puppies for sale. Adopt a Presa Canario near you in Chattanooga, Tennessee We don't see any Presa Canarios available for adoption right now, but new adoptable pets are added every day. Poodle puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from trusted breeders. We are proud of our dogs and pups. Adopt a pet from McKamey Animal Center today! Donate Your donation makes a difference. Learn more about how Purina and Petfinder are making a difference together. Poodle puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from trusted. Try a different search below! Search Now These pups are in Chattanooga, Tennessee too! Below are our newest added Presa Canarios available for adoption in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Border Collie, Tennessee » Chattanooga. Vision: a community in which each pet has a home where they are respected and cherished. Inquire us today! Pomeranian puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from trusted breeders. Maltese puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from trusted …. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Mission: provide a safe haven for homeless, abused and neglected animals in our community and advocate on their behalf. I'm Lily, a beautiful English Springer Spaniel, and I can't wait to meet you and be part of your family! Will be ready to go home June 24th. We have many years of experience raising this sweet breed. Find your puppy for sale in Chattanooga, TN Puppies. Maltese puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from trusted breeders. 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They will go home with 1st vaccinations, dewormed, puppy pack, and puppy papers Please no emails… more. Search for a Presa Canario puppy or dog. Belgian Malinois puppies and dogs in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Chattanooga Area. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Presa Canario puppies and adult Presa Canario in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She is very playful, smart and super sweet. We specialize in top quality German Shepherd Puppies for sale as well as Belgian Malinois cross puppies for sale. Beagle puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from trusted breeders. Easy Financing! Maltese Puppies for Sale in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Find Pomeranian puppies for sale Near Chattanooga, TN Descendent of large sled dogs, the Pomeranian is a sociable dog with a lush coat of hair. If you are unable to find your puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Dogs for Adoption. She is loving and likes to cuddle and play. Save this search and we'll notify you when. We are also a Belgian Malinois cross Breeder. Originally bred as mini-bulldogs in England, then. AKC Border Collie puppies for sale. If you are unable to find your. Download our Petland App today for information on. Great Dane Puppies For Sale. Miniature Schnauzers for Sale in Chattanooga. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Cocker Spaniels for Sale in Chattanooga. We enjoy showing our dogs and occasionally offer puppies from our high-quality dogs. Morning Glory Doodles — We love our Doodles, and we think you. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy German Shepherd Dog puppies from. Our German Shepherd kennel is located near Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Tennessee from trusted. Some factors that affect price include the breeder's location, reputation, and lines of descent. High drive and family friendly. We take pride in all of our puppies. German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Tennessee German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Welcome to the Dog Owners' Blog! Our specialist team regularly shares articles, reviews, and guides that will be useful for all dog owners. White German Shepherd Puppies. The cost of a GSD will depend on many factors. This health exam provided by PawFax has 20 criteria and must be signed off by a certified and licensed veterinarian. Amazing Family Dogs! Breeding for Excellence! The best multi-purpose German Shepherds and Shepinois in southeast Tennessee are available from Camelot German Shepherds, from intelligent, obedient home guards to therapy dogs and elite competitive working dogs! The crosses shepinois are normally only bred in two litters per year. Mother and father on site no papers. The parents and puppies are provided the best care including a premium diet and plenty of exercise. Chattanooga Tn German Shepherds in Tennessee. It is a medium to large-sized dog very well known for its strength, trainability, and intelligence. Up to date on shots and deworming. Our German Shepherds have excellent bloodlines that come from European. We are also close to the military base near Clarksville, Tennessee. German Shepherd Breeder in Tennessee. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. There are 4 female and one male left. It was clear within moments of our visit that our daughter's new companion would be a German Shepherd. All of our dogs are AKC registered as well. German Shepherd Dogs are the perfect dog to own. Meet the pack of currently adoptable dogs, and learn more about our application process below. All of our dogs are part of the family. Their impeccable training allows them to be not only a superb guard or protection dog but also the perfect addition to any family. My only discouragement was not having made this commitment sooner! Tennessee .Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. Feel free to contact us to schedule a visit or discuss any of our fine dogs. We are so eager to see the new puppies and start our training adventure. Adopt a rescue dog through PetCurious. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson, TN from trusted breeders. Up to date on shots and dewormed. Camelot German Shepherds. Of course, if you want us to publish on a topic, contact us! We'd love your feedback. Christians Guardian Shepherds. Situated in the rolling hills of Nashville, Tennessee, Hillview Kennels German Shepherd Breeders provides the ultimate location for breeding the highest quality German. We advocate advance health and well-being for all canines, and work to promote responsible dog ownership. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale in Tennessee. AKC German Shepherds of. German Shepherd Breeders in Chattanooga Tennessee. Mengerhaus Kennels The breeders are a family that works as a team to raise the most competent and dependable breeds of German Shepherds. Our German Shepherds have excellent bloodlines that come from European breeders that focus on excellent temperaments for pet, show, Schutzhund, protection, police work, PTSD and many other varieties. We hope you find resources supporting your everyday life as a dog owner and your pups' well-being. The state of Tennessee is blessed with a lot of top German Shepherd breeders with a decent reputation and great puppies. With the right approach, your German Shepherd for sale in Tennessee will soon learn basic obedience, as well as more complex commands and tricks. We promote obedience,agility, and lots of love as a family member. It's a great breed for active households. Below are our currently available German Shepherd puppies. Adoptable Dogs. We specialize in breeding quality German Shepherds and raising German Shepherd puppies with working backgrounds -- excellent for family pets, personal protection, and working situations. Coldwater German Shepherds Janette Oglesby jmogsd coldwater-german-shepherds. Search for german shepherd dog rescue dogs for adoption near Knoxville, Tennessee. At 16 weeks old, he already weighs in at a whopping 45 lbs! He's going to be a hefty dude! Been checked by a veterinarian and had two of her puppy shots a more. Rosehall German Shepherds. We have puppies for sale all over Tennessee and the surrounding areas within our Preferable Pups family of breeders. The intelligence and protective nature of the makes it a good choice for families with children, and they make ideal family watchdogs. Our goal is to be able to offer your family the opportunity to welcome into your home your new best friend and family protector. Welcome to Christians Guardian Shepherds! Christian's Guardian Shepherds is a family owned and operated German Shepherd breeder located in beautiful Spring City. Every German Shepherd puppy that they newly produce is raised in Joelton, Tennessee, which is located next to Nashville, Tennessee. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Full blooded German shepherd puppies. There, they are exposed to deep family love as they are interacted with and handled by people of varying age groups. Do you have German Shepherd puppies for sale near me in Tennessee? Preferable Pups is always adding new fully screened and healthy German Shepherd puppies. He's going to be a hefty dude! German Shepherd Breeders Nashville Tennessee. Puppies are raised following many of the methods of Puppy Culture. We are also a Belgian Malinois cross Breeder. Most litters we have are sable or bicolor puppies, but from time to time we also offer all black as well as black and tan puppies. German Shepherd mix Excellent. They have handled German Shepherds for their lives and are not about to stop soon. German Shepherd. They will be approx when full grown. With proper training and socialization, German Shepherds for sale in Tennessee make loving and loyal family members. We specialize in top quality German Shepherd Puppies for sale as well as Belgian Malinois cross puppies for sale. Middle Tennessee German Shepherd Rescue is a c 3 charitable organization dedicated to the mission of providing medical care, temperament evaluation, Cost of a German Shepherd Puppy in TN From some basic research on the web it seems that the average price of a good quality German Shepherd puppy in the state of Arizona. These puppies ar… more 1 week ago on PuppyFinder. The 10 German Shepherd breeders listed above have shown good breeding programs and a deep love for the German Shepherd breed, as a result, they deserve to be on the list. Our dogs are all fed a combination of top quality grain-free kibble, home cooked food, high quality moist food, and fresh bones. After you have been approved for a German Shepherd puppy in Tennessee and you have selected the perfect puppy, the puppy will undergo an industry-leading health examination. German Shepherd puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Acclimated to goats, chickens and other dogs. German Shepherd mix Excellent homestead guardian. For more information on some of our pups that will soon be available check out our Upcoming Litters page as well as our young adults page, or available adults page for other prospects. Health, hips, and elbows guaranteed. Socialized with adults and children. Von Warfenburg German Shepherds. Males stand about inches at the shoulder and weigh pounds. We provide ample ground to roam along with pools to swim and exercise in. Litter of 8: 6 girls and 2 males. We only have a couple of litters a year and strive to make sure these will be the best match possible. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy German Shepherd Dog puppies from the best breeders. German Shepherd Breeder Nashville. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Jackson, TN German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Salazars German Shepherds. We often use imported lines Schutzhund. Click to browse available German Shepherd puppies from 5 Star Breeders. Presley German Shepherds. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Tennessee. Middle Tennessee German Shepherd Rescue. Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Chattanooga location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Dog Training Elite Chattanooga recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training. Dog Training Elite Chattanooga has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Chattanooga offers both puppy and adult dog group classes. Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need. Dog Training Elite Chattanooga has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite Chattanooga training method. All Sizes. All Ages. The Dog Training Elite Difference Dog Training Elite Chattanooga uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Chattanooga never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out. The Dog Training Elite Chattanooga training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today! We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call! Dog Training Elite has been training my son's dog to be a service dog since we got her when she was 2 months old. Rod is so patient with our dog, very kind and communicates with you all of the time. He is very interested in how well your dog is doing with the training on days we do not meet. He is a very professional dog trainer, the best of the best. You won't regret using him. We are VERY thankful for the work and time he gives to us for our dog.

Conclusion Understanding Dog Dandruff Dogs will normally shed dead skin cells, but it becomes a problem when there is an excessive production of the dead skin cells in the haircoat. This is often accompanied by an increased production of sebum, or oils in the skin, or the opposite where the skin is really dry. It can also be a combination of excessive oils and dry skin. When your Golden Retriever has dandruff, you will find varying amounts of small white flakes in the fur. Sometimes called Seborrhea, these flakes can cause itchiness in your dog, often getting bad enough to cause inflammation, redness, or irritation. Simply put, dandruff is a collection of extra dead skin cells in the haircoat. There are primary and secondary causes of dandruff in dogs. Primary causes are rare, inherited conditions. There is a long list of common secondary causes. Primary Dandruff Primary dandruff, or primary seborrhea, is an inherited condition that causes an increased production of dead skin cells or oils in the skin. It is usually seen in dogs under one year of age. Golden Retrievers can get a primary dandruff condition called Ichthyosis. This is a genetic mutation that causes scaly, flakey skin, most commonly in puppies, but also seen in adults. Secondary Dandruff Secondary dandruff, or secondary seborrhea, is dandruff that develops due to another skin disorder. Secondary dandruff can be cured by treating the underlying skin condition once it is identified. Here are some disorders that can cause secondary dandruff. Below are a few of the common culprits. Fleas are visible with the naked eye and easily treated with various flea preventative products. Scabies Sarcoptic mange, or scabies, causes severe itchiness and skin irritation leading to dandruff. Demodex mites cause hair loss and dandruff. Cheyletiellosis Cheyletiellosis is caused by a mite and is known as walking dandruff since the mites move under the skin flakes. Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose these conditions through various skin tests and will treat your dog for mite infections with topical and oral medications. Allergies Allergies are most often environmental or food-related, but can also be caused by contact irritants or topical parasites such as fleas. Sometimes allergies are specific to a certain season, whether it is a cold and dry environment, a hot and humid environment, or the various pollens found during the season. Allergies cause extreme itchiness which leads to skin irritation, inflammation, redness, dandruff, and even skin infections. Treating allergies requires a multi-modal approach. The keys are to find and treat the cause of the allergy, stop the itching, treat any secondary infections, and support the skin with moisturizing supplements. Food allergies are treated with a special diet change depending on the protein causing the allergy. Contact allergies are treated by removing the source causing the irritation. Flea allergies are treated by treating and removing the fleas. You will find dandruff in many dogs with allergies because there is a disruption in their skin barrier due to the allergy and they are licking, chewing, or scratching at their skin. Skin Infection Dogs can get skin infections caused by bacteria or fungus, most commonly yeast. These skin infections are usually brought on after the skin barrier has been disrupted by excessive itching. Sometimes, dogs can get bacteria or fungus on their skin after swimming, if they have a dirty or matted haircoat, wounds, or allergies. Skin infections are treated with various topical and oral antibacterial and antifungal medications. Ringworm is a common type of topical skin fungus that can cause skin flaking. Patients with these diseases are often found to have dry, flakey skin and sometimes a thin haircoat with associated hair loss. These diseases are diagnosed through various blood tests, and treatment in these cases starts with treating the underlying disease. However, if you are feeding your dog a low-quality food, it may be lacking in important ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin E. Make sure you are feeding your dog high quality foods. Purina Pro Plan dog foods are a great start, and they make some for about every type of dog. Immune-Mediated Diseases There are several immune-mediated diseases where the body destroys normal skin cells or sebaceous glands, causing abnormalities such as dandruff, too much or too little oil in the skin, disruption of the layers of skin, wounds, and sores. These diseases are diagnosed through blood tests and skin biopsies and are treating with various medications and supplements. Treatments For Dandruff Since most cases of dandruff are secondary to another disorder, the first step is treating the underlying skin condition. This will often include various topical and oral medications. Bathing: Use a mild and unscented aloe or oatmeal soothing shampoo with lukewarm water. Make sure to lather up your dog well and rinse the shampoo thoroughly. It is also important to make sure their hair dries properly. Omega-3 fatty acids: These oral fatty acid supplements have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and are key in keeping the skin and haircoat healthy. Good quality diet: As previously mentioned, ensuring your dog is eating a well-balanced and nutrient rich diet can help prevent and solve many skin issues. Conclusion Overall, dandruff is a manageable condition once the underlying disease or disorder is identified and treated. Amanda Jondle Dr. Amanda Jondle is a veterinarian who practices small animal medicine and surgery. She enjoys helping pets and educating clients not only at her hospital, but also through writing and editing blog posts to inform pet owners on how to best care for their pets. Recent Posts. Greasy feel to the coat Scabs Scaliness Cracked skin These signs may be present in only one area—such as on the paws or at the base of the tail—or affect multiple areas. As a rule, changes in the skin do indicate a problem that needs to be addressed— but many of them have simple fixes once properly diagnosed. Skin changes can also be seen in puppies. The causes of these skin changes vary widely, from allergies to parasites. A skin infection will also present with similar signs. Some environmental issues—such as extremely dry air conditions or overly frequent bathing—can damage the skin and coat. Additionally, dogs that are not able to groom properly due to obesity or arthritis can develop skin disease. What To Do if Your Dog Has Dry Skin Due to the many underlying causes that can lead to skin disease, call your veterinarian as soon as you notice a change in skin or coat. Although in almost all cases this will not be considered an emergency, book an appointment as soon as possible. They may have different recommendations as to how soon your pet needs to be seen, or may even suggest you visit the emergency clinic. You can also bathe your dog in an oatmeal shampoo to help relieve the itching temporarily. In the meantime, you can try to relieve some of the discomfort your pet is experiencing. How Vets Find the Cause of Dry, Flaky Skin in Dogs In all cases of skin disease, your veterinarian will likely have several questions—including when the problem started and how the symptoms have changed over time. If you have photos of the condition, these may also be helpful for your veterinarian to see. Your veterinarian will likely do a full physical examination, looking for other subtle changes that may be related, such as redness between the toes or in the ears. Most dogs will also need testing, including a skin scrap, to look for microscopic parasites, yeast, bacteria, and fungi. The veterinarian may also want to flea-comb your pet. More serious cases may require bloodwork or a skin biopsy to get to the bottom of the problem. A good goal is to bathe once every two to four weeks , using something like a mild oatmeal shampoo. Your veterinarian might recommend something medicated at a different frequency, but for most dogs, a maintenance bath is probably all they need. Environment Does your dog spend a lot of time in a dry environment, or sleep near a heat source? The dry air might be part of the problem. Adding a humidifier to the area where they spend time might help. Diet Everyone chooses food for their dog with different thought processes: Perhaps cost is a huge factor, or your dog is a picky eater. Work with your vet to determine if a diet change is needed. They might be able to help you choose an over-the-counter food or they may recommend a prescription diet, depending on what your pup needs. Many dogs seem to need more fatty acids than are present in commercial dog foods, and will see dramatic improvements in their skin and coats when given a fatty acid supplement. But start these cautiously, as they can cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting , diarrhea , and pancreatitis. Flea and Tick Prevention Perhaps most importantly, use flea and tick prevention every month, year-round, no matter where you live. These products often address more parasites than just fleas and ticks, and go a long way toward keeping your pet healthy. Ask your veterinarian which products they recommend for your dog. Many readily available foods from major manufacturers are affordable and good-quality. Every dog is different, and the trick is to find out what works for your dog—not what the guy down the street or the person on Facebook swears by. Use veterinarian-recommended flea and tick products year-round. Some of these products also prevent diseases that can be contagious to people, so using them helps keep your entire family healthy. Brush loose fur off your dog several times a week, trim their nails weekly, and bathe them in a mild shampoo every two to four weeks. Doing these things will help condition the skin; keep the skin and coat healthy; and help you notice potential problems at their onset. Skin problems are no fun for dogs or their parents. Fortunately, when found early and diagnosed properly, most are quick and straightforward to treat. Since graduation, she has worked in many fields.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? The vet Getting them checked sooner rather than later will always be a good idea. Honestly, the sooner you take them to the vet the better. However, the first thing you can do is search for any swelling, redness, itching, or fleas. Hydration Sometimes the dry skin can appear because of a shortage of water, and the perfect solution is to keep them hydrated all the time. I keep my dogs hydrated with the help of a pet fountain like this one on Amazon. High-quality diet If they are allergic to some foods, avoid leaving that food around them. There are some ingredients you should avoid feeding them to your dogs such as corn, soy, wheat, and dairy. Bath Bathing your dog regularly will prevent most causes from happening such as parasites, infection, some allergies, for example, dust, grain, lice, and fleas. You can learn everything about bathing your golden retriever here. A good shampoo will be necessary if you are going to wash them once a week. You can check my recommended shampoos here. Check it out here on Amazon. Start with grooming after every time you wash them and up till grooming them every day to prevent any parasites, fleas, lice, and infection. Control the symptoms If the dog is allergic or suffering from an infection, other symptoms such as itching, biting, or licking can cause dry skin. Limit their exposure If your dog is allergic to something like the grass, dust, grains, or feathers, then you should try your best to limit your exposure to them. The vet can run some tests to figure out what they are allergic to. Related Questions How do you treat ichthyosis in golden retrievers? To treat ichthyosis you will need anti-seborrheic shampoos and ask your vet for a good moisturizing rinse. What is ichthyosis in golden retrievers? It is an autosomal recessive genetic mutation, it affects the skin and prevents the outer layer from forming in the right way which leads to thickened, flaked, and darkened skin, the disease is mostly detected when they are still puppies and symptoms take more than one year to develop. Skin inflammation Watery eyes A runny nose, If left untreated, can result in infections so if you suspect your Golden has an environmental allergy, it is important to consult your vet. Something you can do at home is to wipe your Golden Retriever with a damp cloth after they go out in order to remove allergens from their coat and skin. That thick coat is beautiful — but is also vulnerable to skin irritations. That thick coat is beautiful — but is also vulnerable to skin irriations Food Allergies Another common issue for Golden Retrievers is food allergies. The most common food allergens for dogs are animal protein sources such as chicken, beef, and dairy. A recent study revealed that animal-based ingredients beef, dairy, chicken, lamb, egg, pork, fish, and rabbit were responsible for over 3 times the amount of food allergy cases in dogs than plant-based ingredients. Beyond causing skin issues, food allergies can also cause other problems such as upset stomach and other gastrointestinal issues. Learn how Wild Earth can help your dog live longer and visit the vet less. Food allergies can develop at any age so even if their food has not been changed, it may still be the cause of their allergies. Hot Spots Hot spots are red inflamed skin lesions that ooze. They tend to appear quickly and may even contain pus. They develop as a result of scratching an initial itch. In Golden Retrievers, common causes of the initial itch are allergies and the hot, humid environment near the skin created by their thick undercoat. Once a dog begins licking the sore spot, they irritate the superficial nerve endings in the skin, which only further stimulates them to lick, causing more self trauma. In order to stop the self trauma cycle, the first step is to stop the trauma. This can often be accomplished by placing an Elizabethan collar on your dog. Remember that this does not address the cause of the itch, and so it is recommended you consult your vet. For severe cases, immediate veterinarian attention is recommended. Parasites Fleas are one of the most common culprits behind Golden Retriever skin issues. Much like allergies, they will cause your dog to itch a lot. They can infest your home too, spreading to other pets and living in soft furnishings. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In order to keep your fur baby parasite free, it is best to give your dog a monthly flea and tick preventative year-round. Speak to your veterinarian to determine which is best for your pup. Prescription preventatives are usually recommended as many over the counter preventatives are not very effective. Now you know about some common Golden Retriever skin issues, and more importantly, you know what to look out for. Thick undercoats make golden retrievers very vulnerable to skin issues, especially if they remain wet. Trapped moisture and a natural disposition for skin issues can be a problem. Since graduation, she has worked in general practice, on telehealth platforms, and in animal rehabilitation. She has worked tirelessly to gain expertise in the field of canine nutrition through numerous certifications and coursework, and plans to pursue her Masters in Animal Nutrition. In this article:. Soy Corn By putting on your allergy detective hat, you can solve the case and help your golden retriever live a much happier life. Some potential parasites your golden retriever may encounter that could affect their skin health include: Fleas Ticks Mites Treatment for parasites varies by the type of bug, but can include topical treatments, oral treatments, or a combination of both. Reducing uncomfortable symptoms caused by the hot spots helps your pet feel better, which in turn can help them stop scratching and biting the area. This gives the spot a chance to heal instead of devolving into a potential bacterial infection. It can help protect areas of your dogs skin suffering from rashes, sores, burns, or moist canine atopic dermatitis. In addition to helping your pet heal and feel better, antimicrobial hydrogel can also help prevent future hot spots. Medicated Shampoo — Medicated shampoo can help treat various skin conditions, including hot spots and itchiness. At Vetericyn , we combine science and innovation with our passion for helping animals to create products used and recommended by veterinarians across the world. Safe for animals at all stages of life, our products avoid ingredients like antibiotics, steroids, iodine, and tea tree oil. Instead, we focus on quality ingredients that help heal your pet, without creating unwanted side effects like stinging, burning, or harming healthy tissue. You can find Vetericyn products at Amazon , Chewy , and Petco. Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian Dan Richardson has been a practicing veterinarian for over 10 years. He specializes in surgery and orthopedics. Dan is originally from rural western Nevada and attended the University of Idaho for undergraduate study and Oregon State University for Veterinary School. The Richardson Family enjoys camping and spending time on the water fishing, paddle boarding, or digging their feet in the sand somewhere warm. Sources: Golden Retriever Society. Canine atopic dermatitis: detailed guidelines for diagnosis and allergen identification. View Larger Image Ichthyosis in golden retrievers Excessive scale or dandruff flakes Several breeds of dog, notably the Golden Retriever, Jack Russell Terrier and Bulldog, can be affected by excessive flaking of the skin. This is present from birth, but may be very mild, so is not noticed until later in life. The belly may also have darkly pigmented, dry skin. It does not tend to be itchy unless there is also infection present with bacteria and yeast. The changes in the skin make it easier for infections to take hold. Owners typically notice large flakes of skin present in the fur when brushing their dog, or on the floor in areas where they spend time. Golden Retrievers typically have a very mild form of this disease, whereas other breeds can be more badly affected. How do dogs get Ichthyosis? This disease is inherited and multiple puppies in a litter may have the disease. It has what is called a recessive mode of inheritance, which means that both parents must carry the gene for the puppies to show signs. The parents may have two disease genes and so are scaly themselves or one normal gene and one diseased gene, so they look normal. If the puppies in the litter get one disease gene from each of their parents they will be affected with the scaling disease, which can be seen when you look at them. Alternatively, if they just get one diseased gene and one normal gene, they will look normal but will be at risk of passing the disease on if they have puppies in future. Testing for Ichthyosis? There are many other causes of scaling in dogs, so these should be ruled out by a veterinarian before a diagnosis of ichthyosis is made. In Golden Retrievers there is a genetic test available, which is recommended if you are planning to breed your dog. This will tell you if your dog is a carrier of the disease, even if they look normal. By responsible testing and breeding, this disease can be avoided in future generations of puppies. Results are normally back in weeks. Treatment for Ichthyosis? Treatment is tailored to the needs of each individual dog. The scaling cannot be cured, but in many mild cases can be managed by conscientious bathing and moisturising. In more severe cases oral medication may be needed which can help but not cure the problem. Related Posts.

Cattlemen believed them to be dependable working dogs that were utilized primarily for livestock herding. Because of their similar appearance, Malinois can be mistaken for German Shepherds, although they are leggier and finer-boned than German Shepherds. Since , the Malinois has been recognized by the AKC as an official breed. The military and the police rely on them as reliable K-9 units in addition to being great herders. Even in the early days of this breed, it was a popular pet and was known for being strong and loyal. Modern Boxers are direct descendants of two fighting breeds that were developed in Germany in the late s. Compared to the breed of today, the second version is taller and much more athletic. There has been a long history of working dogs in the Boxer breed. To finish the kill, the hunters used it to grapple bears, wild boars, deer, and bison until they arrived. Known for its hard constitution, strong impulse to fight, and total insensitivity to pain, the Bullenbeisser was defined less by its appearance than by its character traits. A sleeker, more elegant creature was created by crossing the German Bullenbeisser with the Bulldog imported from England by the late nineteenth century. As of today, this is the first of the Boxer line. Boxers are believed to have acquired their white color from Bulldog blood. Temperament To get an idea of how a hybrid will behave, you need to look at its parents. It would obviously result in a very strong and powerful breed with a high prey drive and a lot of energy. The parent breeds are both very energetic and have strong instincts for prey and drive. They make great guard dogs and watchdogs due to their temperament. Their temperament makes them ideal for military, police, and service work. Working herding roots give them the skills of intelligence, cooperation, protection, defense, and confidence. The athletic build and energetic nature of these dogs make them wonderful companions, but they can be a lot to handle. It is best for them to live in an adult-only home where they can be given plenty of attention and their working and herding instincts can be controlled. The breed is easy to train, so it is not likely to exhibit bad behaviors like chewing, digging, or making noise. When it comes to dogs they know, they are generally good, but they can be wary of stranger dogs. Known for their loyalty, affection, and strength, Boxers have a strong temperament. Original breeds were bred for hunting, but these medium-sized, athletic dogs quickly gained popularity as guard dogs, military dogs, and companion dogs. The purpose of this article is to examine whether these smart, active breed characteristics make Boxer dogs a good choice for pet homes as well. Known for its loyalty, fun-loving, and energetic nature, the Boxer is a very active dog. It is pretty easy for them to learn new things since they are intelligent dogs. As well as being extremely outgoing and friendly, these dogs are extremely loyal. It is important to channel the outgoing and energetic nature of this breed through early socialization and puppy training classes. If properly socialized and exposed, Malinoids and Boxers mix well with other animals. It is possible for them to function independently or to spend time alone when the house is noisy or full. Positive reinforcement is effective with them, as it is with all dogs. It is expected they will be very affectionate toward you and enjoy spending time with you. It will not be a good idea to leave your companions alone for an extended period of time, as they will not do well alone. Health Problems Genetic health problems can develop in any breed of dog, as some breeds are more susceptible than others. You will, however, be able to avoid this to the best of your ability if you get a puppy. Puppies should always be backed by a health guarantee from the breeder. Do not consider a breeder if they are unwilling to do this. When it comes to health problems in the breed and the incidence of those problems, a reputable breeder will be honest and open with the consumer. In order to obtain a health clearance for your dog, it must have been tested for and cleared of a specific condition. There are a variety of potential health problems associated with Boxers and Belgian Malinois mixes: cancer, heart problems, hypothyroidism, bloating, hearing loss, eye problems, and patellar luxation. Boxer Health Problems Boxers are prone to acne. In most cases, dogs will develop pimples during puberty and may become chronic during this time. The infection can become more serious if proper care is not taken. As well as scarring, there may be an aesthetic element involved. Arthritis and osteoarthritis are words that we hear so much that we start to accept them as normal and acceptable conditions of aging. In spite of this, it is possible to have this health issue even in young dogs. You can make your dog more comfortable by treating this in many different ways. For a Boxer dog owner to live a long and happy life with their Boxer, they should be aware of the signs, diagnosis methods, and treatments for this illness. Boxer dogs are most likely to suffer from cancer as their 1 health issue. All breeds are susceptible to cancer, but owners should be on the lookout for early signs. The chances of survival are greatly increased if you catch this early, just as with humans. There is a higher risk of mast cell tumors, lymphomas, and brain tumors in Boxers dogs. Despite their clear eyes, their eyes appear cloudy in the picture below. Others have difficulty with losing their vision, depending on their pup. Some adapt well to this change and others struggle. It is also possible to have your cataracts removed surgically and have your vision restored fully or partially. Dogs with elbow dysplasia develop the disease unilaterally or bilaterally as they grow and affect their elbow joint. It is characterized by altered bone tissue that does not develop properly due to dysplasia. Hips are also affected by this condition. It may be a sign of future health issues if your Malinois becomes stiff at the elbow as it matures with age. In the same way that elbow dysplasia can be inherited, hip dysplasia can be as well. Joints develop incorrectly as a result of this, leading to arthritis. A joint becomes inflamed first as a result of arthritis. A result of this wear and tear is osteoarthritis, which gradually destroys the structure of the joint and the bone tissue surrounding it. For the sake of comfort for your pup, it is best to treat arthritis by veterinarians as soon as possible. There may be difficulties getting up and laying down for your pup if they start having trouble with their mobility. A surgical procedure may be an option in the same way as other health concerns. In addition to cancer and heart disease, Boxers and Belgian Malinois can be prone to deafness, eye problems, and patellar luxation. Weekly brushing is recommended. Keep your floors clean by investing in a good vacuum! It is inhumane and unfair to tie up your dog outside. Training There will be some challenges in training an intelligent dog like this. A firm, strong hand will be needed to remind them of their place since they will want to take the alpha position. Keeping their attention span high is best achieved by breaking up the sessions into shorter daily sessions. While it might have a high prey drive and be prone to chasing and running after small prey, it can be managed if handled appropriately. Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to motivate dogs. If you notice that your Malinois Boxer mix is doing well, give them praise. Their intelligence and love of physical challenges make them an intelligent dog. Additionally, they will be easier to train if she gets more exercise. All puppies and dogs need proper socialization to give them as much exposure to people and dogs as possible. Try taking your Belgian Boxer mix to the park and doggy daycare. A crossbreed will dilute the genes of a purebred dog. So, you may be able to get a Belgian Malinois with all the best traits of a Belgian Malinois but with a temperament or even appearance more suited to you. Choosing the right mixed breed can be difficult, so how can you determine which one is right for you? To choose the best mix for your family and home, research the needs and care requirements of different mixes to ensure you can provide the best home for the pet you choose. You will also like:. Height: inches at the shoulder Weight: lb. Lifespan: years Boxer Belgian Malinois Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could obviously make for a very powerful and strong breed that will have a lot of energy and a high prey drive. Both of these parent breeds have higher energy and a very strong prey and drive instincts. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Boxer mixed with the Belgian Malinois might be prone to Cancer, heart problems, hypothyroidism, bloat, deafness, eye problems, patellar luxation, Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. Both of these dogs have rather shorter hair and should be pretty easy to groom. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. Sponsor Meet Letty Letty is very smart and loves to be curious. She has lots of energy and likes to be busy. She loves to play and her favorite toys are balls, rope, and any squeaker toy. She loves to challenge herself each time on how fast she can get the squeaker out. Her favorite treat is a kong with peanut butter in it. She loves her outside play time and her cuddle time on the couch equally. She is also very good alone in her kennel when you leave your house. Letty is currently in a home with dogs, 2 cats, children above the age of 8 and chickens. Letty will clean and bath the cats until the cats let her know its enough. Letty also goes to adoption events and does play with her sisters. She is starting to venture out to other events. She does need medications for long car rides as she can get sick. Letty was 1 of 3 sisters surrendered to Pup and Cat at 4 months old. She is an almost 1 year old Belgian Malinois Mix. Being so young, she isn't always aware of her size and loves to climb on you for cuddles or kisses. She loves kids, to play and needs stimulation and someone who will continue to work and train her. She is the mama bear of the sisters and will do well with other dogs. She can be vocal which is good for potty. Letty must have at least a 6 ft privacy fence. We receive many emails per day with questions about our pups. Please put in an application at www. Thank you!!! We do not have a shelter facility and our pets are housed in foster homes, vet clinics and local boarding facilities. Many of our adoptable pets attend adoption events each Saturday at Mall of Georgia Petsmart in Buford, Georgia from pm Please check with us to find out if a particular pet will be available. Dogs going to adoption event are typically posted on our Facebook page the day prior. Details about our adoption procedures can be seen at www. Considering Letty for adoption? Belgian Malinois are intelligent, protective, playful, and energetic. They tend to make great family pets. Should a Belgian Malinois Mix take after this parent, you should be able to expect something similar. A Belgian Malinois is known for their intelligence and prized for their hardworking nature and protective instinct. Their high energy and playful personality means they tend to retain a puppy-like demeanor until they are about three years old. They get along well with children as well as other dogs and pets in the household as long as they are socialized with them. Because of their protective instinct, socialization and training early and often are particularly important. The other parent breed could introduce some potential traits that could affect temperament. So, you do want to ask the other breeder about them. You can also meet the mother dog in person to see what sort of temperament she is modeling for her pups. Belgian Malinois are moderately adaptable dogs. Their high energy tends to make them a better fit for homes with securely fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as sufficient time is dedicated to giving them the exercise and training they need. As long as the other parent breed has similar adaptability traits, you should be able to expect the same in a Belgian Malinois Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? A mixed-breed dog can sometimes win the genetic lottery and inherit none of the potential health conditions common to either parent breed. At the same time, they could inherit potential conditions common to one parent or both parent breeds. From the Belgian Malinois side, potential health concerns include hip dysplasia, thyroid disease , and progressive retinal atrophy. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing issues on to puppies. Although the Belgian Malinois is highly intelligent and picks up on things easily, they are also high-energy dogs with an independent nature and a strong will. This means they are generally not a good fit for first-time dog owners. Puppy training classes are recommended, even for an experienced owner, as these classes often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. A Belgian Malinois Mix can inherit a coat similar to one parent breed or a coat that is a blend of both, so grooming requirements will be different depending on coat type. Should they inherit a Belgian Malinois coat, they will shed moderately year-round and heavier when seasons change. A weekly brushing and the occasional bath are usually sufficient for this coat. And, you will want to brush them more often during seasonal changes. When checking ears, you are making sure they are clean, dry, and free of debris or pests. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. But, many dog owners skip or overlook this, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. The Belgian Malinois is a high-energy, athletic dog breed. They need daily walks, playtime, and extra activity every day to stay happy and healthy. They also need a job to do and are good candidates for dog sports like flyball, agility, and more. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Belgian Malinois Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. But, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A Belgian Malinois tends to be inches tall and pounds once fully-grown. The other parent breed could affect this, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about it. You also want to pay attention to which breed is the mother as this will also affect the size of the puppies, especially in a mixed-breed dog. Belgian Malinois tend to live for years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you can likely expect a similar life span in a Belgian Malinois Mix. Featured Belgian Malinois Mix Article. Brush them at least once a week Energy Levels: High Exercise Needs: At least 90 to minutes of exercise every day is required two to three walks a day for a minimum of 30 minutes for each walk Tolerance to being left alone: Should not be left alone for more than 4 to 6 hours Feeding and Diet: 2. Click Here to solve all dog problems the kind and gentle way. The History of the Boxer Belgian Malinois Mix To better understand the Belgian Boxer and what to expect from this mix, you should learn more about each parent breed. He might either inherit equal traits from each parent, or he might inherit most traits from just one breed. Until you have a full grown dog, no one can tell for sure what your puppy will be like. Although they were originally developed to be shepherd dogs, they have a strong work ethic and have helped in areas such as police work, security, and emotional guidance. The Boxer The Boxer hails from Germany and was bred to be a family-oriented version of the German Bulldog also known as the Bullenbeisser. The Bullenbeisser is an extinct breed cherished for its strength and alertness. They were used for hunting bison, bears, and wild boar many centuries ago. They are energetic, smart, and entertaining. Fortunately, they retain the brave nature of the Bullenbeisser and they also make good guard dogs. Thanks to their friendly nature and bouncy energy, Boxers are crossbred with many other breeds to produce designer dogs like the Belgian Malinois Boxer Mix. The Belgian Malinois Boxer Mix appearance can vary from one puppy to another. The disparity mainly occurs in their face. But all puppies should inherit the floppy ears of the Boxer parent. They usually have a serious look with strong jaws and a large, wide muzzle. Their body should be lean with a lot of muscle. For the Belgian Malinois Boxer Mix size, males and females are typically close in height and weight, but males are slightly taller. They weigh around 45 to 80 pounds and stand between 22 and 26 inches high at maturity. Coat and Coat Colors The Belgian Malinois has a double coat with short, straight hair and comes in colors such as red, mahogany, fawn, and fawn sable. Meanwhile, the Boxer has a sleek, short coat and typically comes in two colors: brindle and fawn, with or without markings. Your Belgian Malinois Boxer Mix is going to inherit any combination of these features. That means this mix will be a very strong and powerful dog with tons of energy and a strong prey drive. This is because the Boxer and the Belgian Malinois have high energy levels and the Boxer parent has strong prey drive instincts. They are okay with people and larger animals if introduced and socialized well. They can be independent and stubborn , so they respond best to positive reinforcement. Being independent, they might prefer some alone time if the house is full or noisy. They should be affectionate and willing to please. They love spending time with their owners. Another important thing to remember is that if not properly trained and socialized, the Belgian Boxer can be a bit aggressive. This is even more important because these dogs have strong jaws. Discover how to train your Dog by playing games : 21 games to play with your Dog that will make them smarter and better behaved! This makes them good watchdogs and guard dogs. However, make sure to provide them with proper socialization and training during their puppyhood. This will help curb any territorial tendencies. Since Boxers are very child-friendly, the Belgian Boxer should get along well with kids if exposed to each other as early as possible. However, this mix is more suitable for active families with older kids and they do need to be watched around smaller kids. Belgian Malinois Boxers can be aggressive toward cats and other pets unless they have been socialized or bought up together from an early age. If you want your Belgian Malinois Boxer to live harmoniously with dogs and other animals, you should start training early and use positive reinforcement. The Belgian Malinois Boxer Mix might not be ideal for first time owners because both the Boxer and the Belgian Malinois are high energy dogs. This dog is ideal for active families or experienced owners who can give them plenty of physical activities. This is a large, powerful dog who needs to play and run around to maintain their muscle strength. Consider taking your dog on long walks each day , so this dog would be perfect for active families with older children. These dogs have a lot of energy that they need to burn off. Without sufficient amounts of exercise, these dogs can develop destructive habits. The Belgian Malinois Boxer mix needs at least 90 minutes or more of exercise each day to remain happy and healthy. The Belgian Boxer also needs interactive dog toys to help keep his mind stimulated. The last thing you want is a bored dog that will destroy your belongings. Well, early training is imperative. Early housetraining is recommended. Clickers work well with these dogs, too. Early socialization is also imperative for this mix. Otherwise, your dog may end up being aggressive. The Belgian Malinois dog is a constant shedder and they shed heavily twice a year while Boxers are moderate shedders. Therefore, your Belgian Boxer should shed a moderate amount. Grooming A Belgian Boxer Mix will require weekly grooming and brushing to remove tangles and keep their coat shiny and healthy. As mentioned above, the Belgian Boxer sheds moderately, so invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner to get rid of any hair that accumulates on your carpets or sofa. You can also use the following grooming tools:.

My body is yelling at me and I am now paying attention. New shoulder, new knee, new wrist thumb joint, and a few others. What this means is that I will be reducing the prices on ALL of the puppies that are here after they turn 8 weeks of age and can go home. Every few days I will randomly pick one or more puppies and take several hundred dollars off the price of those puppies. Cast or no, surgery or no, sling, whatever. So, check back often to see the new price on YOUR puppy. Only ONE left! Ritzy is not for sale at this time. Check back soon! Richard Wheeler, has examined each puppy and found them to be very healthy. Ritzy is a very sweet, shy and non-brave at all puppy. She is not outgoing as were her siblings and therefore — still here. I have discouraged many people from taking this puppy because they liked the color of the puppy a lot — and who can blame them? Ritzy needs a quieter home with or without children if children present they would need to be very gentle, quieter, kids. Another, sweet. There are too many things going on here and too many dogs for to focus on instead of people so being in a less chaotic environment should help us unlock the needs and interests of this very beautiful and sweet dog. So — Ritzy is not for sale at this time but I will keep her up here until she is sold. They will make wonderful low-key and undemanding companions to any family wanting a less-active, quiet and easy family dog. Kids, especially quieter kids, will be just fine. All of these puppies present as being very tolerant and toddler-friendly. They have all turned 8 weeks-old on August 1st. Maturing up to 70 pounds or so for the largest puppies, these are big, sturdy companions that will be easy to live with and train because of their super-chill personalities. Let Terry know if you are interested in bringing one of these very sweet puppies into your life. You will not be sorry! Puppy Born April 8th. She is dark apricot with white markings. Call Terry at if interested in one of these beautiful and willing standard poodle puppies. They can go home now as they turned 8 weeks old on Sunday, June 4th. Read their Personality Profiles, below. Jelly Bean Female. Well, consider that your search just came to an end. We have just the perfect Teacup, Mini, Toy Poodle puppies for you with a health guarantee and all papers. Our puppies are part of our family and are raised in the home, so the mother and puppies can be cared for around the clock. We strive for well-adjusted, socialized puppies with good temperaments. We raise all our Teacup, Min, Toy Poodle puppies with the highest breed standards and provide them with all the attention and love they need before being delivered to our customer's homes. They are well-socialized and spend time playing with other pets, family, and friends. We do this so that when the puppy sets foot in your home, they are already used to human hands and smell. All our Teacup, Min, Toy Poodle puppies are fun for children. When we entrust our puppies to their new owners, we ensure we have selected a loving home where the new owner knows and acknowledges that we will always be there for any questions or advice. We love receiving ongoing pictures and updates on how their puppy is maturing. Poodles are amazing canines, capable of high intelligence , strong loyalty and having a range of emotions. Just like people, Poodles can feel sad, depressed, excited, happy, bored, overwhelmed.The Poodle is known for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world within the top 5 with a unique temperament. Being so elegant, particularly the show dog, many people do not realize just how friendly and "people orientated" a pet Poodle is. They love human companionship, love to play and are truly a fantastic canine family member. Along with each Poodle having their own unique personality, owners find that their Poodle can also have some odd or particular habits or behaviors. Let's take a look at some of the behaviors of this breed and whether one should be concerned.Sleep Puppies - Poodle puppies up the age of 8 months can sleep anywhere from 15 to 20 hours per day! Their sleeping needs will decrease with age. With puppies, it is very normal to sleep quite a bit and to be extremely active while awake. It is normal for Poodles to take naps. Dogs that are left home alone during the day for more than 3 hours will usually take many more naps than ones that have companionship during the day. Senior Poodles - Senior dogs will sleep more often and naps will increase as the dog grows older. A Toy Poodle is considered to be a senior at the age of 10, a Miniature Poodle at the age of years and a Standard Poodle at 7 years old. It is important to allow an older dog to take naps whenever they wish and not to "push" playing or exercise on them. While daily walks are still very important to health, do allow a senior to rest when needed. Most Common Behaviors Seen There are many stages that a Poodle puppy enters during this fast time of growth and development. Some stages happen so fast, you can see your Poodle changing right before your eyes! Other behaviors can be present for the dog's entire life.Let's take a look at what is normal behavior for a Poodle puppy , adolescent and adult dog.The Hyper Poodle Puppy - This phase will last from 8 weeks to approximately 1 year. It will be normal for your puppy to have an abundance of energy! Poodle puppies will want to play from daybreak to nightfall. It is normal for a pup to run around the home, investigate every object they can get their mouths on and generally wear you out! Do keep in mind that a puppy will want to chew on everything, well before teething even begins. Be sure to puppy proof the house can use firm training if your Poodle is not listening to commands. Read more about how to help a hyper Poodle. The Clingy Poodle - Some Poodles can be rather shy and may wish to stay very close to an owners as opposed to venturing out even a bit to interact with others or to independently play. Over time, this can be wearing on owners and does not allow the dog to have a quality life that is full with exploration and self-confidence. Read more about what to do if a Poodle is clingy. This can be negative or positive. Some Poodles have Separation Anxiety, a term used when a dog has a difficult time coping with being home alone. Dogs who feel this way may become so happy when their owners return home that they loose control of their bladder. Since we can't be with our Poodles every moment although we wish we could , you may wish to read the separation anxiety section. The Chewing Machine - As mentioned above, puppies have an almost uncontrollable instinct to chew on everything that they can find. This is actually a very important stage, as it is a learning stage. An owner must keep the home "puppy proofed", however at the same time one must allow a puppy to explore their world, both inside and outside of the home. When teething begins, this can be an especially trying time. You may wish to read more about this in the teething section. Nipping - Nipping can become a bad habit, if training is not given to show a Poodle that nipping is not acceptable. This can interfere with many aspects, including having your dog behave when company comes over or when your dog is playing with children. Puppies naturally nip because this is the 1st form of play that a puppy learns. It will be the owners job to show their Poodle was is and what is not acceptable so that you do not have a nipping adult dog! You may wish to read more in the temperament section. Jumping on People - This comes from a good place, a Poodle that jumps up to say hello just has a lot of enthusiasm in their greetings. But, this can quickly become frustrating behavior. Read how to allow your Poodle to release pent up energy and learn self control when saying hello: When a Poodle Jumps on People. It's important to deal with this sort of behavior at the onset to correct things quickly. Learn more in the Poodle Growling section. Marking - Marking is different than having housebreaking accidents. With this, a Poodle will spray urine in the house to mark his or her territory. And the reasons behind this can be triggering very strong canine instincts. Fortunately, there are ways to stop a Poodle from marking , by using a combination of establishing proper hierarchy and responding to this in the right way. Coprophagia - Commonly known as eating feces , this is a disturbing behavior that is not uncommon with all varieties of Poodles. A dog may ingest his own poop, that of another dog or even cat feces from the litter box. Learn what can prompt a puppy or dog to do this and steps you can take to stop this. Begging - Dogs that have learned the art of begging can be relentless. If you find yourself giving in, these tips to stop a Poodle from begging can stop this behavior and lead to less stress for both you and your puppy or dog. Disobedience - Poodles can have independent streaks and if care is not taken to teach rules and guidelines, there can be issues with no obeying. Read how to address a Poodle that won't listen to turn things around. See also: Chewing and Licking at Paws - There are several route causes for this. Read how to limit this and at-home remedies to stop itching and possible inflammation. Poodle is humping a lot - This sort of behavior can come from Poodles of any age and even from those that are fixed. Why a dog does this and helpful advice regarding how to stop a Poodle from doing this. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Life Span Did You Know? The Poodle is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally developed in Germany to hunt waterfowl. The Poodle may have originated in Germany, but they are much-loved by the French. So much so that the Poodle is the national dog of France. The Miniature Poodle is slightly more recent. This Mini version likely originated in France. The Mini Poodle has all of the same characteristics as a Standard Poodle; they just come in a smaller package. The Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. On top of their intelligence, they are also known to have a cheerful disposition and a sensitive nature. They get along great with children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental falls that can happen with younger children. Because of this, they may be better suited to a home with older children. Younger children should be fine as long as they are taught how to properly interact with a small dog and interactions between young kids and puppies are closely supervised. Although they are considered part of the Non-Sporting Group, some facts about Miniature Poodles are that they are versatile and athletic dogs that are also quite playful. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with other dogs and tend to do well with strangers. They do tend to be protective of their home and can be suspicious of strangers coming up on the property. They are known to bark to alert you of strangers coming to the house. This makes them a good watchdog, but overall, they are more interested in making friends. This dog breed is highly adaptable. The Miniature Poodle does well in any type of home, including apartments, and fits in with just about any family type. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Mini Poodles are people-oriented, they do not like being left alone and will not handle being left alone for long periods of time very well. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level and one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are a people-oriented breed and are sensitive to moods and tones of voice. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or harsh tones as they take it personally, get their feelings hurt, and lose respect for you. A Mini Poodle tends to respond best to consistent training that is fun and focused on positive rewards. A Mini Poodle is one of the fluffiest dog breeds and will have a curly or corded coat that can come in just about any color. Although this dog breed has a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, their coat still needs a lot of grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. They should also be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy. Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise each day. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activities are usually enough for them. When puppies finish growing and developing, they often enjoy games of fetch and other activities like swimming, hiking, or jogging with their favorite human. Mini Poodles also tend to be great candidates for several dog sports, like agility, tracking, obedience, retriever hunt tests, and more. Just make sure to visit the vet and get your dog cleared for these activities before you jump in. Fully-grown Miniature Poodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Poodles generally live for years on average. The Miniature Poodle was very popular among the French nobility. Featured Miniature Poodle Article.

Plus 5 Breeding Secrets! If you are planning to breed your French bulldog, then be prepared to deal with a dog breed that can be affected by a lot of health complications. Breeding French bulldog entails a lot of patience, experience, and a significant expense during pregnancy and at birth. It is recommended to have a great deal of experience breeding other animals if planning to become a French bulldog breeder. But what day do I breed my French bulldog? A female French bulldog is receptive to breeding during her heat cycle which takes place every six months. When in heat, breeding should occur within days. Female French bulldogs can breed safely from 2 to 8 years of age. However, male French bulldogs also have to be sexually mature for breeding. So, you will have to wait until they are around 15 months old. Male French bulldogs start producing sperm at the age of 6 months but you will have to wait for them to be a little older to breed successfully. French bulldogs make wonderful companions and are very popular. Their loving, caring, and friendly personalities make them adorable animals. The history of French bulldogs has led to certain physical and sexual traits in them over the years, making their breeding quite challenging. A wide range of health problems in French bulldogs is caused by deliberate selective breeding for exaggerated traits such as the flat face, large head, short muzzle, and a stocky build. Female French bulldogs can get pregnant naturally but not that easily. Most of the French bulldogs are incapable of getting pregnant naturally. The female French bulldogs have very narrow hips making it difficult for the male to mount the female to reproduce naturally. Because of their compromised respiratory system, the exertion involved in mating can be too much of a physical strain for them. In most of the other dog breeds, natural mating is the safest and efficacious method of producing a litter of puppies, but not so much in French bulldogs. Pregnancies in French bulldogs can be very delicate. You have to time the insemination perfectly. Apart from this, certain tests have to be carried to ensure that the dog is ready, and the semen latches on. They are a brachycephalic breed and so do not give birth to a lot of puppies. It could be on an average of 2 to 3 puppies and on rare occasions, if you are lucky, you might even get five. As a responsible breeder, you must ensure that the pups are born healthy and do not inherit any health defects. This can be done by getting the male and female tested for core problems and mutations. Mating of French bulldogs is extremely challenging and difficult to take place without human assistance. Therefore, artificial insemination is typically required to attain mating and eventual conception. Top 4 Tips. But how do Female French bulldogs deliver puppies when they cannot mate on their own and have to go through artificial insemination? French bulldogs have slim hips, big heads, and shoulders. These physical traits make it extremely difficult for the female to have natural labor and delivery. This is because the puppies can get stuck in the birth canal, causing their death. Natural birth can also be dangerous for the female and can damage her birth canal. Although the anesthesia can be dangerous, a planned cesarean-section puts less stress on the mother as well as the puppies. However, there are some bulldogs with smaller or moderate heads and wide hips that can mate naturally and deliver puppies without any human assistance. Cesarean-section is performed on French bulldogs so that there is no doubt whether all the puppies were delivered or not. This helps in preventing the female from developing a uterine infection, in case she delivers a dead puppy a few days later. As a result of this fatal infection, sometimes the uterus also has to be removed. Free whelping can also cause the uterus to stretch and makes it less likely to return to normal which can cause problems in the future. A stretched uterus has thin areas that can rip open with the pressure of a larger litter and can be dangerous for the female French bulldog. But a female French bulldog should not be put through too frequent cesarean-sections as that can also be stressful for the mother. Secret 3: The Heat Cycle of a French Bulldog Being in heat means your dog is in the oestrus cycle, quite akin to when a human female gets a period. A female French bulldog can go into heat as soon as they become sexually mature which is around 6 months. However, it can take up to 2 years for a Frenchie to develop regular heat patterns. The heat cycles usually last for about 3 weeks. Initially, you will see brown or red spots and later after the first week, the female will bleed a great deal. The best breeding time is from 5 to 18 days into the cycle. These include progesterone which maintains the pregnancy and luteinizing hormone LH which stimulates the ovaries to release the eggs. Dogs ovulate when their estrogen level falls and progesterone level rises. Luteinizing hormone LH and progesterone levels are the safe and sure indicators of when ovulation will take place and when is the perfect time for breeding. They can also help determine the whelping date, and even to plan c-section. Secret 4: Signs of Pregnancy in a French Bulldog Here are some quick and easy ways to find out whether your female French bulldog is expecting puppies: Decreased appetite Acting more lethargic and lazy and not active as usual Increase in nipple size Increase in the size of the belly, this can happen as early as 2 weeks Blood test Ultrasound Blood Test Pregnancy can be detected in your Frenchie if the mating happened 5 weeks ago through a blood test. However, early pregnancy can be difficult to date and the result of the test can be negative when your dog may be pregnant. Ultrasound Scan Another way to determine if the conception and mating have worked is to have an ultrasound performed on your female French bulldog. Ultrasound procedure can be done 25 days after the last mating event. So, make sure you are there to comfort your Frenchie. The most reliable method of detecting pregnancy for your French bulldog is ultrasound. An ultrasound scan can also give an idea of how many puppies she is expecting. However, the ultrasound is not always exact especially for a larger litter. Large litters tend to hid one another fairly well, making hard to determine the actual count of puppies. It is recommended to do an X-ray after 45 days to help determine the number of puppies in the litter. It can also depend on how large the puppy skulls are and if this would pose any risk for a natural birth. A medical assessment from a professional can aide in determining whether natural birth is feasible or if cesarean-section should be done for safety reasons. A pregnant French bulldog should be cared for in the following 5 ares: Regular vet check-up. Demand for Frenchie puppies is tremendous and that has created aspirations in many first-time breeders who want to start dog breeding. But people who truly love the French Bulldog breed — breeders who are in it primarily for love and not pure profit — soon discover that successfully breeding Frenchies is an art as well as a science. In this article, learn what age you can safely breed a French Bulldog and what you need to know about the unique challenges and health concerns these flat-faced dogs can present to a breeder. As Breeding Business describes, French Bulldogs as a breed can have some very unique health issues even without adding in breeding. These dogs can be bred, however, and the earliest age when it is safe to breed is after the female dog has had at least one full heat cycle and she is at least 24 months old. Read on to learn why it is important not to breed your Frenchie when she is too young or during her first heat cycle. In the video, you will follow an adult female French Bulldog as she goes into heat and goes through the whole process of getting Artificial Insemination AI so that she can get pregnant. In the remainder of this article, we will discuss the reasons why French Bulldogs typically need this type of help to get pregnant and why this breed also needs special help to deliver their puppies. As the Northern California French Bulldog Club points out, using the word "safely" in context with French Bulldog breeding is a term that should be taken with a grain of salt. There are so many issues that can crop up, as we will talk about here next. But first, it is important to know when you can even consider safely breeding your French Bulldog. French Bulldog male stud dog For a French Bulldog stud or male dog, technically it is safe to allow them to breed as soon as they reach sexual maturity. This usually occurs around the age of six months depending on the specific dog's genetics, health, and background. French Bulldog female The French Bulldog female, however, will bear far more risk when she is bred. She will have to endure the insemination process, whether done naturally or veterinarian-assisted. And she will have to carry the puppies to term and whelp them naturally or via cesarean section surgery. So it is important to wait until your Frenchie female is older before attempting this for the first time. As the American Kennel Club AKC explains, it is now an accepted custom among experienced breeders that you never breed a female dog during her very first heat cycle. The dog needs to finish growing up first and go through a process that breeders refer to as "conditioning," which is all about ensuring your female dog has great nutrition and is in great physical shape before she gets pregnant. The general rule of thumb is to wait until the female Frenchie is at least 24 months, or two years old, before considering whether or not to breed her. Happily, the French Bulldog can easily live 12 years with excellent care, which means you can well afford to wait for the first two years to make sure your female is in the prime physical condition and will be able to carry and whelp healthy puppies. The French Bulldog has an interesting history. These dogs aren't even from France! Originally, the French Bulldog was an English Bulldog. Then breeders started breeding them down to a smaller size by cross-breeding these dogs with terriers. This is the dog that migrated with its owners to France, where breeding efforts continued until they produced the dog we know and love like the French Bulldog today. Because French Bulldogs inherited the short, squat bodies and bow legs of their English Bulldog predecessors, they have some special anatomical challenges when it comes to successfully breed. French Bulldog studs males can't mount easily The first big challenge that takes many first-time French Bulldog breeders completely by surprise is that French Bulldog studs, or intact male dogs, often cannot successfully mount a female Frenchie in heat. They are not tall enough to reach the female. Even when they do this part successfully, they usually cannot "tie" with the female for long enough to achieve breeding. French Bulldogs can't typically travel safely In many cases, a dog owner will want to co-breed their dog with a dog that lives in another city or state. Depending on how the owner of the other dog likes to handle such requests, this may require the female dog to travel to the stud male dog's location or vice versa. Unfortunately, because of the French Bulldog's short, flat face and narrow nostrils, these dogs usually are barred from airline travel. So the only option is typically to find a local stud dog or try to arrange for stud services by mail. French Bulldogs have respiratory issues The physical exertion required for a successful pairing is another huge challenge for French Bulldog breeding pairs. As Victory Bulldogs breeder points out, these dogs have short, flat faces and narrow nostrils that make them unusually prone to overheating. The physical exertion of trying to breed together naturally can cause these dogs to overheat and actually collapse in exhaustion. It is often not safe to breed a French Bulldog pair naturally because one or both dogs may be at risk of over-heating and over-exertion, either from excitement or anxiety or from overheating or both. French Bulldogs usually need a C-section delivery Another huge challenge and enormous expense that many French Bulldog breeders are not prepared for is what happens when their female dog is ready to whelp give birth to her puppies. Because these dogs are "top-heavy" — they carry most of their weight in their heads, shoulders, and chests — they have very narrow hindquarters and a narrow pelvis and birth canal. The puppies can actually get stuck in the birthing canal, which is very dangerous for both the mother dog and the puppies. The safest and most common courts of action are to have the puppies delivered by C-section cesarean section. However, this is not an entirely safe option either, as it involves sedation, and the mother dog's respiratory rate must be closely monitored. Additionally, as with any invasive incision-based surgery, there is always a risk of infection. Another challenge with an artificial C-section birth is that it can create some developmental issues in terms of whether the mother dog bonds closely with the puppies and feels motivated to care for them as newborns. A Word About the Cost of Breeding a French Bulldog Every extra step you have to add to the process of breeding any dog is likely going to add extra expense to your budget. With the French Bulldog breed, because you may need assistance from your dog's veterinarian multiple times along the way, your costs are likely to be higher from the start, even without any unanticipated health emergencies. While it is true that many people are willing to pay several thousand dollars for French Bulldog puppies today, a reputable breeder also has to consider what they will do if the new owner returns the puppy which sometimes will happen. Responsible breeders retain lifetime responsibility for each puppy they breed. And since French Bulldogs tend to come with extra health-related veterinary expenses, not every owner ends up being able to afford their care. So you will need to carefully think through how prepared you and your wallet are to take on the responsibility of breeding your French Bulldog. And while it might seem like this only applies to female Frenchies, many breeders maintain their own breeding pairs at their kennel. If this describes you, then you will have double the expense of maintaining two breeding dogs in tip-top condition as well as the expense of whelping, rearing the puppies, marketing to prospective owners, screening the owners, and more. This is why French Bulldog breeders often say they are in it for the true love of the breed and not for profit. People who love these dogs, are all in and just want to produce the healthiest puppies for the continuation of the breed itself. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. French Bulldogs need to undergo many health checks, with some not done until they are at least two years old, so being a reputable breeder only breeds your dog when breeding age. Frenchie owners often consider whether or not they should spay their dog or breed him so they can have puppies. Many owners do this professionally, but others want another French Bulldog similar to the one they already have. Breeding a male dog may sound easy, but certain responsibilities and duties are involved. There is evidence to suggest that small breeds mature faster than large ones. The male French Bulldog becomes fertile around six months of age. By the time they reach full sexual maturity, they can be 12 to 15 months old. If your male French Bulldog is in good health, they may still be sexually active and fertile as they age. In order to mate, male and female Frenchies must be medically checked. How old does a male french bulldog have to be to breed? As mentioned above, over the age of two is the best time to breed your French Bulldog. This age is seen as the optimal one for mating, even though some breeds are mature at a younger age. To produce healthy puppies, the parents must be in good health. Your vet can perform a health check to determine if your French Bulldog will be a good candidate for mating after this age. If your French Bulldog is older than eight years old, it is not recommended to breed. But as long as your Frenchie is healthy overall, it should be able to keep on going at this age. Should this not be the case, the oldest age for breeding would be only five years. French Bulldog Health Tests Preparation Your veterinarian requires a complete physical exam before your French Bulldog can be accepted as a stud. Before mating, it is necessary to rule out health problems such as hip dysplasia and joint issues. Your French Bulldog should also have their ears and eyes checked and a blood test and urinalysis. Be sure your Frenchie does not have any diseases or other disorders. It is also possible that a genetic test is required. In the case of dogs that are not fully purebred, a genetic test ensures that the offspring will not inherit diseases. In addition to a general examination, veterinarians can administer specialized fertility tests to assess if your male Frenchie is fertile. There are other things you can do in addition to having your dog tested to find out if it is fertile. Make sure he has reached puberty. Check his general health. A few health issues may affect his fertility. The movement might interfere with a successful mating session. The reproductive organs are damaged. An infection or disease that can lead to infertility. A male French Bulldog can produce multiple litters during his life. In some cases, male dogs have mated as many as five times in a single day. However, different methods must be used to ensure high-quality and consistent impregnation. Others choose to breed their studs almost every week, while some breed only a handful of times each year. Giving the dog time between sperm harvests is important if sperm is regularly collected. For this reason, sperm collection should only take place every few days so that consistently quality sperm can be retained. Despite that, a male dog can produce good quality sperm every day if not bred on a regular basis. If you have a smaller dog, it is possible to collect your pet every day for up to five days. However, the dog will soon run out of sperm, so this cannot be done for a long period. It is important to keep a few things in mind before allowing a male pet to mate. Your dog will not only be protected from prostate cancer and other testicular diseases when he is neutered, but he will also behave less aggressively and be more affectionate, as well as be at lower risk of aggression from other dogs. Having a healthier dog greatly increases its chances of living a longer and happier life. Thus, always consider the benefits of allowing your dog to mate and whether or not it is better to neuter the dog to reduce the likelihood of unnecessary mating and the risk of health issues. As mentioned before. Breeding is possible throughout the lifespan of male French Bulldogs. If a Frenchie has a healthy genetic makeup, he should be able to pass it on. Senior male French Bulldogs, especially older ones, are prone to prostate problems, so their veterinarian should regularly examine them after a certain age. The treatment of infections and the restoration of declining fertility can often be accomplished. Pain medication can also be used to treat mobility issues such as arthritis pain. With aging, French Bulldogs are more susceptible to infection and illness. It is possible for an infection to be symptomless. Sexually transmitted diseases in French Bulldogs, such as brucellosis , should be tested for before mating. Although it has no symptoms, it still has devastating effects on a litter of puppies. Miscarriages, abortions, and stillbirths can all occur as a result of this disorder. Be careful with your young stud French Bulldog. An unhappy experience during the early stages of his career can destroy his motivation for breeding for life. Mate him with more experienced and cooperative female French Bulldogs in the first season or two. Before presenting your boy to the Female Dog, be certain she is fully in estrus. French Bulldog Breeding Paperwork After completing all health tests, it is time to complete all the paperwork. A dog must possess the most prominent features of its breed to mate. Depending on the breed, some of these characteristics may be physical, while others may be behavioral. Contact a breeder club to check if your French Bulldog complies with breed standards. Registration at a Kennel Club is not mandatory, but it might let other dog owners know if your French Bulldog is a good candidate for breeding. In addition, to have your dog recognized by a Kennel Club, you will need to claim his ownership. Pin 0 Shares I am not a breeder of Frenchies. However, there are many irresponsible breeders out there including French Bulldog owners looking to make a quick buck. One of the most common questions people like this ask is how many times you can use a Frenchie for breeding. Professional and qualified breeders will tell you the following: How many times can you breed a French Bulldog? Responsible Frenchie breeders will not breed their French Bulldog any more than 3 times in a lifetime, and only once every 18 months at a minimum. Any more than that and the dog will struggle to recover physically, and possibly even mentally. Why you should not breed French Bulldogs too much The reasons for the minimum amount of times you can breed a French Bulldog are varied, but all boil down to care and love. The danger of too many C-sections The majority of French Bulldog puppies are delivered via Cesarean section. This is due to the way in which the female Frenchie has been bred herself over time. They have narrow birth canals and the pups have large heads. C-sections are the easiest and safest way for them to deliver a litter. As a French Bulldog breeder, it is totally irresponsible to put your female Frenchie through too many C-sections. The risks are as follows: Stress: the female can become stressed and possibly aggressive after a C-section. Too many procedures could have a negative effect on their mental health. Medical problems: your dog could have an adverse reaction to anaesthetic, could have blood clotting during surgery, haemorrhaging, or a wound infection. Injury to the pups: not all C-sections are successful, and there is also a risk to the puppies during the procedure. Did you know? C-sections can be very expensive. Read this guide to how much you should expect to pay your vet to deliver a Frenchie litter via Cesarean section. Bodies need time to repair themselves The birth and nursing period post-pregnancy is critical to the health of your French Bulldog. Giving birth and becoming a mother is a highly charged time both mentally and physically. As well as the scars from the C-section, your female will need to recover from feeding her litter and will also have to re-grow parts of her uterus and build her muscle tone back up. Pregnancy and motherhood can take a toll on the female. This is why you should not breed your French Bulldog too many times. During the early stages of motherhood, many females will lose muscle tone and even patches of fur. It acts as a governing body for pedigree dogs, holding the national register of all breeds. They are very explicit about how many times you can breed a French Bulldog officially, where they will be prepared to register the puppies. The Kennel Club will no longer register any further litters from any bitch which our records show has already whelped 4 litters. Where the number previously recorded is 4 or more, the application will be rejected. The mother is younger than 1 year old at the time of birth. The puppies are born due to familial inter-breeding e. The mother has already delivered 2 litters via a C-section. How old does a Female French Bulldog have to be to breed? When can French Bulldogs breed and what age should they have to be? Frenchies can safely breed from the ages of 2 and a half years up to 8 years of age. At this point they will have gone through a number of heat cycles and will be ready to breed. This beautiful little girl is not old enough to be bred yet. They can produce sperm as young as 6 months, but you need to wait until they are older to breed them successfully. How many times a year can you breed a French Bulldog? Having spoken to professional Frenchie breeders, the general consensus is that you should only breed French Bulldogs once a year — and even that frequency is probably far too much. The reason being is that the female Frenchie needs to recovery after giving birth. As I mentioned earlier, you should only really breed a French Bulldog once every 18 months to 2 years. Anything more than that could be considered cruel, and this extended healing time gives her the chance to recover, be healthy, and be happy without the stress of frequent C-sections. Nursing clinginess to their favorite toy Stage 4: Anestrus Stage The last stage is a period of inactivity, so they will not show any symptoms or behavioral changes. The Anestrus stage lasts for about 2 to 4 months. After this, the proestrus stage starts again. Dogs do not undergo menopause, so they will continue to go into heat even if they get old. Even if they go into heat, older Frenchies will not be as fertile as they were. They will go through the heat cycle symptoms twice a year unless you spay them. Spaying your female Frenchie does more than prevent heat cycles. It makes them more mellow and reduces unwanted behaviors. And it also helps to prevent the development of pyometra. It is the result of the hormonal changes when they are in heat. This infection is life-threatening and the best way to avoid this is to get your Frenchie spayed. They do not bleed during the whole heat cycle, Frenchies usually bleed for about 7 to 10 days while in heat. The flow of their bleeding will vary. But in general, smaller dogs tend to bleed less than larger ones. Male and female Frenchies vary in their ideal breeding times. For male Frenchies, the best time would be when they have reached their sexual maturity. This is when they are about 12 to 15 months old. You need to wait for more with female Frenchies because age is not the only factor in this. While they reach sexual maturity young, the best time to breed them is when they are 2 years of age. Before they reach 2 years old, they will still get bigger slowly and fill out more. And while waiting for this, you should prepare them for breeding. They should be in top condition to undergo artificial insemination. Subjecting a young Frenchie to this stressful process is usually frowned upon. Other than that, you need to make sure that they have already gone through at least one heat cycle. So you should breed them at least on their second heat. The issue here still ties with age, Frenchies will go through their first heat at about 6 to 12 months old. While they can get pregnant at this stage, they are still too young for that. This is not only a concern about her physical health. Being too young, there is a risk that your Frenchie does not have her motherly instincts yet. So they tend to reject their puppies if you let her get pregnant during her first heat. This is not something that you would want since breeding Frenchies are very costly. You should not let your Frenchies mate naturally even if they are fertile. It is too risky to breed them the usual way. Instead, they should undergo artificial insemination to diminish the risks. To help you realize the dangers of natural mating in Frenchies, here are the risks involved. It will be hard for males to reach the female Frenchie. And if he can, it will be hard for him to sustain this position. Because of this, breeding the usual way is a big obstacle for French Bulldogs. If your male Frenchie overworks themselves, that is an issue connected to the next point. Frenchies Have Breathing Problems Mating is physically stressful for males, from mounting to holding their position. For them to cope, they need to breathe. But since they have breathing issues, they cannot do this very well. With overexertion, Frenchies can overheat and even collapse due to exhaustion. Female Frenchies can overheat from mating too either from agitation or excitement. Traveling Is Dangerous There are a lot of instances where dog owners find their furry companion the perfect mate. But the issue is that their mate is in a different city or state. So either one of them would need to travel, which is a big problem. Air travel is not an option for brachycephalic breeds like Frenchies. This poses a serious threat to their respiratory issues. This is why most airlines do not allow Frenchies on their plane. And if you travel by car, it can still be stressful for them. Especially when it is a hot or cold day , your Frenchie will have body temperature issues. Even if you find your Frenchie a mate nearby, the risks of natural mating are still very high for them. All these are avoidable with artificial insemination. Your Frenchie does not need to travel or overexert themselves to exhaustion. It is expensive, but this is better than risking their lives. From the day of the breeding, it can take about 48 to 72 hours for your Frenchie to get pregnant. After 2 or 3 weeks, you should take your Frenchie to the vet to confirm if they are pregnant. This will also help you in tracking their gestation period accurately. Also at this stage, their teats will be bigger and their nipples darker. Inside the belly, her puppies will have distinct bone structures. At this stage, you should already be preparing her birth area. First Week Day 0 to 7 After mating it will take about 48 to 72 hours for successful fertilization. Your Frenchie may show signs of morning sickness and a slight pink discharge. This is normal, and you should carry on with her usual diet. Second Week Day 7 to 14 At this stage of the pregnancy, the cells begin to grow and reach the uterine horns. Like the first week, there is no need to change their routine or diet. Third Week Day 14 to 21 The embryos embed themselves in the uterine lining usually on day .During this week, the fetuses are starting to develop and are now about 0. Your Frenchie may have an increased appetite at this stage too. Fourth Week Day 21 to 28 The fetuses now have a distinct shape, with their spines and facial features now forming. At this stage, they are still quite small at 0. Your Frenchie may have swollen nipples and a clear discharge during this week. Also, this is a good time to go to the vet for an ultrasound. Fifth Week Day 28 to 35 During this week, big developments will happen. The fetuses will have eyelids, toes, claws, skeletons, coats, and whiskers. Your pregnant Frenchie will also start to gain weight and eat more food. Because of these big changes, your vet can tell you how many puppies you have in the litter by performing a scan. Sixth Week Day 35 to 42 This is when your Frenchie starts showing during her pregnancy. To keep up with her growing puppies, she will ask for more food. So keep feeding her food that will supplement her and her puppies. The puppies will now have their distinct markings at this point. Being 3 weeks away from giving birth, you should start to make preparations at this stage. Your Frenchie may want to start nesting. So provide her a cozy and quiet place where she can relax. Also around this time, their belly becomes firm and larger. Other than these, you may notice that she will start to pee more along with a significant hair loss. All these are normal and nothing to worry about. From this point on, you can switch your Frenchie back to her regular diet. But you need to feed her more of it. Of course, you should talk to your vet before making any changes in her food intake. Frenchies usually gain about 20 to 50 percent of weight during the second trimester. You should brace yourself during this week, as some Frenchies give birth this early. To help prevent an early birth, avoid any heavy physical activities for them. Make sure that she feels calm and at ease too. Ninth Week Day 57 to 65 At the last week of pregnancy, the puppies have almost completely developed. They will start positioning themselves in the birth canal to prepare for birth. This will happen during the last days of their pregnancy. Your Frenchie will start to show behavioral changes to prepare for birthing. This includes a decreased appetite. You must keep an eye on her during this week. Labor for Frenchies lasts around 4 to 24 hours, but there can be drastic variations from one dog to another. You will know that your Frenchie is in labor when she starts to pant, pace around, dig her bed nesting , and even vomit. These are signs that puppies are coming out within 12 to 24 hours. A common way to tell that she is through with labor is when she is not straining anymore. The puppies come out covered in fluid, with your Frenchie breaking it by licking. This licking also stimulates the puppies to move. But if your Frenchie is too exhausted, which is likely, they may not be able to do this. You can help break the sac using a towel and wipe their noses gently. If you think that she still has puppies inside and she is not straining, this can be a problem. This is why experts strongly recommend going through a c-section instead of natural birth. But if you have settled with natural birth, here are signs that you should call your vet immediately: Straining Too Much A Green Discharge Fetal Fluid Is Coming Out Without a Puppy So if you have decided to go the natural route, always have a vet on standby in case something bad happens. Frenchies can safely have up to 4 litters during their lifespan. The most respected breeders will limit her litters to only 3, ensuring her health and safety. While 4 may seem a small number, there is a good reason for this. Breeding your Frenchie between 2 and 8 years old is the safest, with lower risks for them. Although they experience their first heat cycle at around 6 to 9 months old it is risky for them to breed this young. And once they are 8 years of age, they should retire from breeding already. They can still go into heat when they are 8 years old and above. But at this advanced age, likely, their pregnancies will not be successful. Also, they might have developed health issues already by this time. Taking these risks into account, Frenchies have 6 years to breed within the safe age limits. You can push for her to have 4 litters, but anything more than that is cruel. Or you can play safe by limiting her to having only 3 litters. In general, it is safe for you to breed your Frenchie every 18 months. But even this can be too much for them. While they go into heat twice a year, it is irresponsible to get them pregnant that much. Some reputable breeders enforce a strict rule of 1 litter every two years for their Frenchie. Having this stern rule in place ensures the health of their female Frenchies. Pregnancies spaced far apart will give Frenchies enough time to recover; cesareans are very stressful and need a lot of healing time. Frenchies produce only a small amount of puppies, with an average of 3 puppies per litter. Some litters are smaller, with 2 puppies. While some can have 4 or 5 puppies but anything more than that is very rare. They can only produce so much because they are a small breed with narrow hips. There is no room for them to carry more puppies, unlike larger breeds which can carry 12 puppies at a time. Even in their first litter, Frenchies can have about 2 to 4 puppies. This can vary, and Frenchies can have more or less than this. But 5 or more puppies in a litter is rare and can be too much for them. Having only one puppy in a litter is rare for dogs of any breed. There is no exact reason for this, but several factors can influence a single puppy litter. A majority of Frenchies undergo artificial insemination to breed. This can cause smaller litters compared to natural impregnation. Sperm can die during the process of collection and insemination, so it can be that one sperm survives. Another factor is the average litter size of the breed. Breeds who do not have large litters are more likely to produce only one puppy in a litter. The peak breeding years for Frenchies are between 2 and 8 years old. Getting pregnant outside this range decreases the litter size that they can produce. Frenchie puppies can leave their mothers at around 8 to 9 weeks old. Some countries are strict with this, making it illegal to buy puppies younger than this. Since Frenchies are a companion breed, they are clingy towards their protectors. Even more when it comes to a puppy and their mother and littermates. Taking them away this early is bad for their health, and may even cause behavioral problems down the road. Also, you need to give them time to wean. This process is necessary to prepare them when they need to leave their mothers. A bulk of this cost goes into feeding two adult Frenchies. But the prices may vary depending on where you live, your vet, and other factors. These are only estimated to give you a better picture of the expenses. The key characteristics of Frenchies are their bat ears, square heads, and arched back. As part of the Bulldog family, they look muscular and heavy-boned but in a compact body. To get a better view of the breed standard, below are the ideal characteristics of each of their features. Weight The ideal weight for males is .Exceeding this can get your Frenchie disqualified from registering. Head and Skull Large and square, proportionate to their size. The skull should be almost flat between their ears with a rounded forehead. Muzzle Should be well defined that is clear from the side. The muzzle should be broad and deep, with well-developed cheek muscles. The stop should also be well-defined, with a hollow groove between the eyes. Their nose should be black as this color is desirable. Other colors are a disqualification. An exception to this is for cream or fawn Frenchies with no black masks, but this is not preferred. Eyes The eyes are dark, nearing black. Both eyes should match in color and are wide apart, round, and moderate in size. They should sit low in the skull and are far from the ears. Darker eyes are best, as lighter eyes are not desirable. Any hints of blue or green in the eyes are a disqualification. The whites of the eyes should not show when looking straight ahead. Ears Their bat ears should be medium-sized, with a wide base and rounded top. They should be set high and erect, with the ear opening facing front. Mouth This should be broad, deep, and square with a slight undershot. Their teeth should be regular and not visible when their mouth is closed. Their tongue must also not protrude and any other bites are serious faults. Neck Thick, moderate in length, well-arched. Their necks should have loose skin by the throat. It should have an arch, falling behind the shoulders and rising to the loin. From the top, their backs should be broader at the shoulders, narrower in the rear. Chest Broad, full, and deep with well-sprung ribs, with tucked bellies. Tail The tail should be thick at the root and tapers towards the tip. It should be straight and long enough to cover their anus. Frenchies should have short tails that carry low. Feet Their feet should be small and compact with high knuckles. Their hind feet should be longer than their forelegs. The nails should be short, thick, and black. Hindquarters Strong, muscular, and longer than forelegs so that the loin is higher than the shoulders. Forequarters Short, straight, muscular, and wide apart. Gait They should have a four-tracking foot pattern. The front track should be wider than the rear track. They should have a flowing and unrestrained movement. Temperament Intelligent, highly affectionate, and adaptable. Frenchies should be alert and playful, but not boisterous. Coat Frenchies should have short and fine coats that are smooth and brilliant. Their skin should be loose at the head and shoulders to create wrinkles. Color The acceptable colors are brindle, pied, cream, white, and fawn. Desirable traits may vary, but certain coats are a disqualification. This includes the following: Solid Black. Tweet Breeding French Bulldogs can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for any breeder. But, it is important to know when the ideal time to breed your French Bulldog is. Breeding too early or too late can cause complications for both the mother and her puppies. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about when lilac french bulldog stud should breed, why they breed, and how many times they should be bred each year. We will also provide guidance on what steps to take if you decide to have a French Bulldog baby. When should French bulldogs breed? Breeding French bulldogs is a complex process that should be done in late winter or early spring when the weather is mild, and the dog is in good health. It is recommended not to breed a French bulldog until it is at least six years old and in good physical condition. When breeding a female French bulldog, it should be with one or two other dogs of the same sex to produce healthy puppies. It is essential to keep track of the weight, size, and age of the male dog who will mate with the female dog. The father of the pup should also be closely related to the mother for genetic diversity purposes. Breeding two unrelated dogs could lead to genetic disorders in their offspring. Why do French bulldogs breed? French Bulldogs are very popular pets and one of the best breeds for families with children owing to their gentle nature. Ideally, French bulldogs should be bred between the months of November and February when it is less hot outside. However, French bulldogs can conceive at any time during their menstrual cycle, so it is essential to use proper contraception when breeding them. It is important not to breed a French bulldog if they have any health issues like hip dysplasia or a heart condition. They should be well-fed and exercised before breeding to ensure that they will have a healthy pregnancy and birth. In conclusion, responsible breeding practices must be followed when it comes to French bulldogs in order to ensure the health and happiness of both the mother and her puppies. How many French bulldogs should be bred each year? It is recommended to breed French bulldogs during their most fertile stage, which is typically in the spring or fall. It is not advisable to breed French bulldogs if they are currently pregnant, nursing, or have recently given birth. Only experienced dog breeders who understand the needs and temperament of French bulldogs should be involved in breeding. The average litter size for these dogs ranges from six to eight puppies, but it can vary depending on the quality of the breeding pair. What to do if you decide to have a French bulldog baby? If you have decided to breed your French bulldog, it is essential to consider a few things. French bulldogs should be bred when they are between years old. The ideal breeding season for these dogs is late winter or early spring. Breeders usually perform two to six litters a year. It is crucial to ensure that your French bulldog lives in an environment that is quiet, dry, and cool with ample space to run and play. Before breeding, it is recommended that French bulldogs are spayed or neutered before they reach six months of age. This will prevent any reproductive issues and help ensure the health of both the mother and the puppies. It is also advisable to consult with a veterinarian who specializes in breeding before deciding on the breeding process. Kokou Adzo Kokou Adzo is the editor and author of Startup. He is passionate about business and tech, and brings you the latest Startup news and information. He manages the editorial operations at Startup. You may like.

how to train a poodle puppy to potty - All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Puppies are so cute! Just the thought of a little pup romping around the room and playing with his many toys makes people smile. And puppy kisses are the best! But it takes a lot of planning and work to have a successful relationship with the new addition. Remaining with them until then helps him learn how to appropriately play and interact with others. It also teaches him bite inhibition, so that he learns not to bite down too hard on our skin. So what exactly should we expect from our 8 week old puppy? Puppy Proof Your House Puppies are curious about everything. Choose the room your puppy will be in the most and make sure that electrical cords, hazardous chemicals, medications, and small items that can be ingested are out of his reach. When you get him, try to obtain a blanket or toy with the scent of his mother and littermates if possible. That will help him feel more at ease in a new environment. The breeder of my Lhasa apso Ralphie gave us a toy with those scents to help him make the transition, as he had a familiar scent with him which I placed in his pen at home. She was born in rescue but was the last of a litter of nine to be adopted when I saw her. But she made the transition fine. These include the following: Crates and exercise pens. But make sure you buy one with a divider included so that you can adjust the size of the crate as he grows. Collar and leash. Some breeders and rescues provide these. You may also want a harness to walk him. Clean-up tools. Chew deterrent. They make chew deterrents for various surfaces, such as for cloth or for wood such as furniture or baseboards. Toys and chew items. There are so many toys on the market today. Purchase a variety of safe types—some squeak, others rattle. And safe chews like Kong toys and Nylabones are important, because the puppy will explore the world with his mouth. Food and treats. You may want to change the puppy to a food you prefer. Many breeders and rescues will provide you with starter food. Then, if you change it, do so over at least a week or two. Other Preparations In addition to puppy-proofing your home and getting the above-listed items, there are other appointments you should have lined up prior to getting your pup, if possible. Have a veterinarian appointment set for your new puppy to be checked within the first few days after you get him. So, if you can, book the appointment in advance. When you meet with the vet, ask about what vaccinations your puppy will need. Puppies who are eight-weeks old generally have already had their distemper, adenovirus II, parvovirus, and parainfluenza vaccines. Discuss with your vet the appropriate heartworm preventative and flea and tick products for your puppy. Also ask about your puppy being microchipped. A microchip is really important should your puppy get lost. If you have the time, also look into puppy kindergarten and socialization classes. Make sure that the trainer is a positive reinforcement trainer who has experience in training puppies. And the facility should be clean and well-run. All puppies admitted to any classes should also be required to have age-appropriate vaccinations. Post Arrival After your new furry bundle of joy has arrived, the fun starts! And play with him and train him. Some breeders and rescues may have already started to house train him. Scheduling Puppies need consistency. So have a schedule for his feeding, pottying, training, exercise, and socialization. At eight weeks old, he may be getting three to four feedings per day. So feed him each meal at the same time each day. And have a basic schedule for his other needs. You may need other people to help out with some of his needs, such as house training. Socialization Socialization means exposing your new puppy, in a positive manner, to all the things that he will have to face in the real world. So he should be trained to walk over various surfaces, hear everyday noises, and meet friendly people and pets. But you can still have friends and family members over to meet him. And give them tidbits of treats to give the puppy to make any encounter such as petting a positive one. Of course, first give your new puppy a few days to settle in at your home before you expose him to even more new experiences. At home, too, get him used to the sounds of water running, the dishwasher and other appliances running, and the vacuum. You get the idea. Make each a positive experience, giving him a piece of kibble or a small treat. And do this slowly not to overwhelm him. And get him used to car rides. A very young puppy will have to go to the bathroom after he eats, sleeps, and has any excitement including play. He has very little bladder control at eight weeks old. A young puppy can hold his urine about one hour more than his age. So he can hold it about three hours at two months old. You may want to have an exercise pen set up as a safe area. You can place a potty pad at one end and a bed or towel as his bed at the other end. And place a few safe toys, including a puppy Kong. I just make sure to take the puppy out at the right times. Handling Your puppy has to get used to handling and grooming. You can have him chew a safe chew or lick moist food or Kong stuffing out of a Kong to occupy his mouth and make the training exercise positive. Get him used to gently massaging his whole body, including feet and touching his nails. Get him used to gently opening his mouth. Calmly praise any calm behavior. Keep the sessions very short—a few minutes at most. You should do only a part of his body during each session or it will probably be too much for him. If he struggles, calmly wait until he settles before releasing him. Obedience Training Your new puppy is basically a blank slate. He has to learn all the commands to live with us successfully. Training also helps the puppy bond with you. Of course, give him a day or two to settle in for most commands. But you can still help him learn his identity. So, first, teach him his name. You can show him a piece of his kibble or a tiny treat and hold it near your face when you say his name. Do this a few times. Then try to just say his name, not holding the food near your face. When he looks at you, again praise and reward. Remember to never use his name in a negative manner, such as for a correction. Always start any training session without any distractions. Your puppy has to be able to focus on you to learn. One of the first commands we teach our puppies is to sit. You can hold a treat just above his nose and slowly move it back towards his forehead. Calmly praise and reward when he sits. Another command I teach puppies in the first week is to come to me. I make it a lot of fun. Some puppies adapt easily, whereas others buck against the leash. Other Normal Puppy Behaviors Puppies explore the world with their mouths. So the little land sharks will try to chew on you and whatever they can reach. This is where your safe toys and chews come in. Always redirect him to the safe items and praise when he chews them. Puppy zoomies are normal. All of a sudden, your puppy may run around the room bouncing off the furniture. This is normal. Final Thoughts New puppies are so much fun! Do you have a puppy or have you had one? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Fourth meal 5 pm You should follow this type of feeding schedule until your Lab puppy is 14 weeks old, after which you can adopt a two meal per day plan. However, keep in mind that Labs are especially prone to overeating and obesity, so if you use treats, ensure you give them sparingly. In fact, a study in the UK listed Labrador Retrievers among the eight breeds most prone to being overweight. So your food-loving Lab puppy requires a bit of control. One way to keep them from overeating treats is to portion out their food for the day and use that as their reward. In most cases, the puppy will respond just as enthusiastically to kibble. Place a bowl of water in a location accessible to your puppy and supervise him to ensure he drinks enough but not too much. Puppies at this age should drink between half and one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. So if your eight-week-old Lab is 12 lbs 5. This is an essential part of puppy care. As mentioned, if you get your puppy from a reliable breeder which should always be the case , the pup should have already started with his vaccinations, and the breeder should provide the vaccination records. Then, make an appointment with the vet for any vaccination follow-up. Also, ensure your pup stays on worm preventative medication as puppies are more prone than adult dogs to worm infection. Sometimes puppies are also born with certain types of worms from an infected mother, especially roundworms and hookworms, where mother-to-puppy transmission is a significant mode of spreading. Be especially sure that your Lab puppy gets the heartworm vaccination. Heartworm is a dangerous and potentially fatal disease, and once your dog is infected, the cure is expensive and extremely harsh on your dog. A trained dog will learn how to behave in and outside the home and around other humans and pets. I have a full beginner guide on how to train an 8 week old Labrador puppy , but in a nutshell, there are three training areas you should focus on in terms of pet training: housebreaking, obedience, and socialization. Housebreak Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Housebreaking means training your puppy to eliminate outdoors or at a designated location inside the home instead of doing it anywhere and at any time. Puppies need frequent bathroom breaks because their system is not yet mature enough to hold it for long. Luckily you can take advantage of that to teach your dog to always use the same spot. Pay attention to the signs your puppy gives when they need to ease themselves, like circling, whining, or sniffing their groin. Puppies naturally need to eliminate at these times: First thing after waking up in the morning. Last thing before retiring at night. After every meal. After drinking plenty of water. Upon waking up from a nap. During or after play or exercise. When they wake up during the night. Their brain, at this point, is like a sponge that will easily absorb new info. Also, teaching these commands early will make living with you easier for your dog as he will know what is expected of him. Teach your Lab puppy to sit, lay down, stay, leave, and other basic commands that are foundational for more advanced training later. Remember to use only positive reinforcement training approaches and reward your puppy with verbal praise, positive gesture cues, and treats. Exposure to these realities will help your Lab puppy adjust fast and nurture proper social behavior. In addition, exposure will preempt signs of poor puppy socialization, like aggression and fear around people and other animals. In general, your eight-week-old Labrador puppy should have two minute sessions of exercise daily. In addition, keep the following in mind: Keep exercise sessions short in the beginning and allow your puppy to adapt gradually. Playtime counts as exercise, so be careful not to over-exercise your Lab puppy. This is the harness I use. Allow your pup spontaneous rest moments between play. When exercising your puppy , avoid taking him for walks during the coldest or hottest times of the day. There are several ways to ensure your eight-week-old Labrador puppy is always safe, including ample supervision and choosing the right kind of toy. They might also try to get away on an exploratory walk if the door is left open. To avoid these dangers, puppy-proofing your home before getting your eight-week-old Lab puppy is vital. Read more here, What Foods are Poisonous to Labradors? Unplug power cords and put them away when not in use, as your puppy could try chewing on them. Remember that your puppy is young and still learning. It is also a legal requirement in some countries, such as the UK, and it may be required when traveling. While name tags are an excellent way to identify a dog, they can be easily removed or get lost, which means you are better off microchipping your Lab puppy, or even better, do both. Choose Safe Play Toys for Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Like us, eight-week-old puppies still have their baby teeth which they gradually lose to make room for their adult teeth. So, expect a lot of chewing and nipping during this time. Like humans, teething can be uncomfortable, and chewing is their only way to relieve some of that pain. To that end, ensure your Lab puppy has the right chewing toys to avoid damaging teeth or accidentally swallowing toy pieces. This toy is great for teething pups, doubles as a fetch toy, and is also a treat-dispensing toy where you can stuff it with peanut butter or other goodies. If proper toys are not provided, your Lab puppy will chew any available object in the house, such as table legs, shoes, remotes, or your hands. As such, they need proper resources for resting and sleeping. That includes the time to do so and a place where they will feel safe in. This synthetic dog bed has an ultra-soft feel and provides maximum comfort for your Lab. You can use it in the crate or as a stand-alone bed, and it comes in a few different styles and sizes. I like this bed due to its 3. Ensure the bed is in a location with no draft and where your puppy does not get any disturbance when resting. If you put your puppy straight into the crate without helping them adjust, it may react poorly. When buying a kennel, the best approach is to buy one that your pup can use as an adult dog, which for a Lab would be around 42 inches .Just be sure to get a crate with dividers so you can make the space smaller for your puppy. An 8-week-old Lab puppy can only walk for approximately minutes at a time. In most cases, young puppies will not walk but rather jump around and play. Still, keep in mind that they do not need long exercise sessions. Instead, keep playtimes short and allow for lots of rest. Remember that puppies should only walk about five minutes for every month of age, twice a day. At three months, you can stretch it to 15 minutes. Overwalking your Lab puppy can cause joint and bone issues and should be avoided. As such, a dog from a larger breed will need more food as a puppy than a smaller breed. An 8-week-old Lab puppy should be fed three to four meals of no more than cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy will depend on his size and weight. For example, if your puppy is between lbs 4. These measurements can vary with each dog food product, as different manufacturers have varying ingredients, so ensure you check the packaging first. Eight week old Lab puppies sleep for approximately 18 to 20 hours a day. An 8 week old Lab should pee as soon as they wake up, after eating and drinking, after waking up from a nap, during or after a session of play or exercise, just before going to bed at night, and when they awake during the night. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! As far as their height is concerned, most labs will reach their adult height of 22 to 25 inches 56 to .They will also reach their optimal weight of 64 to 80 pounds 29 to 36 kg by their 15th month. Labrador Retrievers are very food motivated, more so than quite a few other pups. Keeping your pup properly nourished is vital but letting your dog get fluffy is obviously ill-advised. With lots of myths and misconceptions flying around the place, many people believe that neutering or spaying your lab puppy too early will slow down its growth. There are some minor changes here and there, depending on the study, but nothing too significant. How big is the pup compared to the rest of its litter? The average time it takes for a Labrador Retriever to reach its maximum height is about 11 months or less than a year. Some puppies take a bit longer and others do it even sooner. A few weeks of variation are to be expected as long as your vet is certain your pup is healthy. As for the weight, this reaches its potential a bit later — around the 15th month. How can you tell how big a Lab puppy will get? It will also likely have a pretty dominant personality and require an experienced owner. How much do Lab puppies grow each week? In terms of weight, a 3 pound 1. From there, the growth will gradually slow down until the puppy reaches its maximum height around the month mark and its optimal weight around the 15th month. How big is an 8 week old Labrador? How big exactly is such a pup, however? The average 8 week old Labrador should be somewhere between 8 and 12 inches tall at the shoulder 20 to 30 cm with females being an inch or so shorter. As for their weight, that can vary between 10 to 14 pounds 4.


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how to train a poodle puppy to potty - Our english golden retriever puppies are raised in our home with us, their parents, aunts, cousins and sisters. We are a small family breeder with all of our dogs and puppies living in our home with a lovely large one acre, fenced-in yard just 20 minutes southwest of downtown Richmond, VA. They are socialized with us and our other dogs in our home. Absolutely NO cages, puppy pens are used occasionally to keep order in the house, but never kennels, or runs or outdoor doghouses. Although we do not use crates as a general rule ourselves, many Shadymist puppy families and friends do with great success. We agree that crate use is highly recommended for at least the first few months as it aids in house-training, prevents boredom destruction, maintains a safe environment for the puppy from curiosity mishaps, as well as a peaceful place to nap with a toy and a blanket. 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Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New York Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New York? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New York? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.